Night Dives
Night Diving in Belize
Night diving in Belize unlocks a completely different marine life experience. Our favorite night dive destination is Laughing Bird Caye National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For those Interested in exploring Belize’s underwater world after dark, night dives and night snorkeling can be arranged upon request. As these experiences are typically scheduled for smaller groups, they are not part of our regular dive and snorkeling program. We require a minimum of 8 divers and/or snorkelers for the trip to be viable.
We can also consider a two tank dive trip with the first dive before sunset and at the same dive site so that divers can clearly see the difference what is happening and who is doing what during the day and at night.
Often, one or more of our guests “sell” the idea to other guests to make up the minimum of 8 guests required for the trip to be viable. We can also promote a night dive/snorkel on social media to see if we can generate enough interest if you indicate the date you would like to do a night dive.
Trip Plan
We leave Placencia at 4:00 pm and arrive at Laughing Bird Caye 30 to 40 minutes later, unless we spot dolphins in which case, we arrive at this beautiful caye a little later. We spend about an hour on the caye to explore the beaches and enjoy the sunset. As it gets dark, we review safety and night diving procedures and how we will conduct the 45-minute dive. The arrival time back at Placencia is at about 8.00pm to 8:30 pm.
Night Diving Sites in Belize
This night diving in Belize experience starts at 15–25 feet (5–8 meters) on the sandy bottom. Then the dive follows a coral wall that slopes gradually down to about 80 feet (24 meters). However, we usually stay above 40 feet (12 meters) so we can spend more time exploring.
At night, the reef transforms completely. For example, octopus, lobsters, squid, and nudibranchs emerge from hiding to hunt for prey. Additionally, coral polyps open up for feeding, which changes the look of the reef entirely. Meanwhile, some fish stay active just like during the day — though you’ll also find sleeping parrotfish tucked into their mucous cocoons. Please don’t wake them up!
