We enjoyed a full-on beach bonanza for our last full day in Belize today. In the morning, we headed over to Ranguana Caye, a private island decked out in palm trees, frigatebirds, and hammocks. We spent our time kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and snorkeling around this small island. Some folks just kicked off their shoes and relaxed on this little slice of paradise. In the afternoon, we repositioned to Silk Caye. Local guides took us out in boats to see the fishing fleet of Belize. Workers in the fleet live on small sailboats for weeks, and they free dive for lobster, conch, and other local seafood. We jumped into the water and were treated to sightings of eagle rays, nurse sharks, and turtles! Afterwards, we all enjoyed one last cocktail on the beach and headed back to our shipboard home for the evening. Another day in paradise here in Belize.
2/4/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Monkey River and Laughingbird Caye, Belize
The sun eased above the horizon and gently kissed the calm, mirrorlike sea, greeting National Geographic Quest as she lay at anchor just east of the mouth of Monkey River. This is the largest estuary in southern Belize, and our destination for this morning’s adventure. This winding waterway did not disappoint, as guests enjoyed great views of egrets and herons on the edges of the river, parrots and toucans overhead, while “garobos” — male green iguanas sporting their orange and black breeding colors — sunned themselves on the treetops. After returning to the ship and enjoying a delicious brunch, it was soon time to gear up for a final afternoon of snorkeling and diving off Laughing Bird Caye. Some guests snorkeled among the beautiful coral reefs that surround this small island, while others floated above the corals in kayaks. Everyone savored the tropical flavors of fruit punch and snacks from the hotel department. We finished the day with a slideshow of guest and staff photo memories from our Belize adventure.
