Spring is near and while many are looking forward to the blooming of flowers; in the Caribbean, we whale shark fans are looking forward to the arrival of the gentle giants of the sea. When we hear about sharks our first thoughts may be “danger-man’s predator”, but there is no need to fear. The Belize whale shark is not a voracious creature, on the contrary they are passive, easy-going, sea-dwellers.
Whalesharks are one of the most magnificent and mysterious creatures of the sea. It is not unusual to spot a 40-foot whale shark. These humongous creatures are known to grow up to 60 feet in length and to live for 100 years. Little is known of the great whale shark but what we do know is fascinating. It may be a scary thought to scuba dive or snorkel alongside the largest fish of the sea, but it is certainly an experience never to be forgotten and one that certainly needs to be on your bucket list as a diver.
The whale sharks are considered migratory creatures and are capable of travelling thousands of kilometers. Preferring warm waters, the Belize Barrier Reef is fortunate to host the whale sharks once a year. Just 30 miles east of Placencia is a unique and captivating area called Gladden Spit and Silk Caye Marine Reserve (GSSMR) where there are spawning aggregations of several species of snapper every year at the time of full moon in March, April, May and June.
The local Fishermen of Placencia were the first to notice the amazing whale sharks feeding at the Gladden Spit. Whale sharks may be found in other tropical areas but the Gladden Spit and Silk Caye Marine Reserve is one of the very few areas of the world where you can reasonably predict their appearance and dive with them. Marine biologist, Dr. Will Heyman of the Natural Conservancy describes Gladden Spit and Silk Caye Marine Reserve as “a place so magical, so wonderful, and intact.”
The Southern Environmental Association (SEA) in Placencia has undertaken the necessary steps to preserve Gladden Spit as a natural habitat. SEA is responsible for the development of the Whale Shark Working Group, Whale Shark Tourism Interaction Guideline, and implementation of licensed Whale Shark Guides and Boat Captains.
Patricia Ramirez, co-owner of Splash Dive Center, is an active member of the Whale Shark Working Group. Patty, as many of her friends call her, not only offers the incredible whale shark tour to the Gladden Spit and Silk Caye Marine Reserve but also offers a PADI Whale Shark Specialty Course. The PADI Whale Shark Specialty Course will enhance your Whale shark scuba diving and snorkeling experience.
The chance to experience the natural wonders of the sea alongside the most magnificent creature and a variety of fascinating schools of fish is now!
Stay tuned to find out more about my first whale shark experience and the exhilarating chance in spotting a whale shark in the Gladden Spit and Silk Caye Marine Reserve.
Experience all of Belize: Dive or snorkel the best of the Belize Barrier Reef and atolls and explore Maya Temples, jungle trips, ziplining, river and cave tubing or learn to cook Maya style.
Safety and Quality: At Splash, low dive master or snorkel guide ratios ensure your safety and high-quality diving experience. Safety and quality are our top priorities.
Award-Winning: Recognized twice as Tour Operator Of The Year by the Belize Tourism Board, highlighting our dedication to excellence in service.
Inland Adventure and Cultural Tours: Discover Belize's rich diversity beyond its waters with our exciting inland adventure and cultural tours, from jungle hikes to Mayan ruins.
Prime Dive Locations: Explore world-class diving spots on the Meso-American Barrier Reef and three atolls, for unforgettable underwater adventures.
Professional Training: As a PADI Five Star Instructor Development Center, Splash provides courses from beginner to instructor level, ensuring you receive the best training.
Largest Dive Operator: Splash is the largest dive operator in Southern Belize, providing unparalleled access and convenience for your diving activities.
Extensive Boat Fleet: With three boats ranging from 34 to 46 feet, and the ability to charter additional boats, we offer flexibility and multiple daily destinations.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: Splash provides first-class equipment, including state-of-the-art air compressors and nitrox, enhancing your diving experience.
Community Commitment: Our dedication to the community is demonstrated by the Splash Running Club, supporting local athletes and funding Belizean runners for national and international competitions.
Testimonials
Downing Bethune
This was my fourth trip to Belize in the last five years and the second straight year I went to Placencia, last time for two weeks but this time for three. My wife didn’t come since we had so many things going on at home, so I was on my… Read more “Downing Bethune”
Downing Bethune
Susan LaDue
I cannot say enough good about Splash in Placencia, Belize. First of all, when I made a reservation for a refresher course from my home in the States, I got prompt, accurate, helpful information. In our emails, I mentioned that I’m a writer who does detective fiction and one of… Read more “Susan LaDue”
Susan LaDue
Tami Evans
It was great to be back in Placencia and to be diving with the Splash Dive Family during the 2011 holiday season. I arrived on Christmas Day, and despite it being a holiday here in Canada, I was warmly greeted at the airport by Patty who informed me that there… Read more “Tami Evans”
Tami Evans
Great snorkeling experience! Great all round service!
We‘ve just spent 4 days doing activities we organized through Splash Dive Center & they were all excellent! Not only did we do the snorkel experience on the reef w lunch on Silk Caye-which was just great and run beautifully for all our varying levels of swimmers- but we also… Read more “Great snorkeling experience! Great all round service!”
Viajeros9
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