Private Hol Chan Morning or Sunset Half Day Charter
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Snorkel the famous Hol Chan Marine reserve, enjoy some fresh ceviche and drinks from our open bar. Choose either a morning cruise or a sunset cruise. Relax on comfortable cushions while enjoying the ocean, the views and the sunshine and being pampered by our crew. Hol Chan has the largest variety of species to be seen in the area and is often compared to an aquarium, while at Shark Ray Alley you get to experience a close encounter with nurse-sharks and stingrays. Watch from the boat or swim with them!
On the afternoon schedule we stop to see the sunset over the open water, then we sail back watching Ambergris Caye turn into its nocturnal shape with all the lights coming on, and hopefully also the first stars. Open bar with local rum, vodka, gin, soft drinks and juices is included. Try the specials, rum punch and "panty rippers"!
Available options
12 ppl - Private half day
12 ppl
9 ppl - Private half day
9 ppl
8 ppl - Private half day
8 ppl
10 ppl - Private half day
10 ppl
15 ppl - Private half day
15 ppl
11 ppl - Private half day
11 ppl
13 ppl - Private half day
13 ppl
6 ppl - Private half day
6 ppl
7 ppl - Private half day
7 ppl
2 ppl - Private half day
2 ppl
4 ppl - Private half day
4 ppl
5 ppl - Private half day
5 ppl
3 ppl - Private half day
3 ppl - private charter
14 ppl - Private half day
14 ppl
What's included
Use of Snorkelling equipment
We serve water from a water dispenser, to avoid single-use plastics.
Hol Chan marine reserve entrance fee
Coca Cola, Coca Cola Light, Sprite, Fanta (orange, fruit punch, ginger, grapefruit), tonic and soda water. Orange, pineapple, lime and fruit punch juices.
Fresh ceviche: Fish, shrimp/conch (seasonal), onions, sweet peppers, tomatoes and coriander marinated in lime juice and a mix of spices. This is served with locally made tortilla chips.
Restroom on board
Local rum (white, dark and coconut), local vodka and local gin all from the popular Cuello's Distillery
Detailed itinerary
1
Pick up is not included. We depart from the Palapa Bar dock, and we meet there 15 minutes before departure. Then the ride to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve takes 45 minutes, while you lay down on comfortable cushions enjoying the ocean, the views and the sunshine, accompanied by drinks and music.
2
Stop 2
Hol Chan is Mayan for "little channel" and is a natural break in the reef, which has always been a very productive fishing area with abundant marine life. It is open to the sea beyond the reef, so allows marine creatures to travel from the outside of the reef to the inside and vice versa. It became the first marine reserve in the entire country of Belize back in 1987 and this have led to the species to re-generate and the corals of growing unharmed. This snorkeling area has the greatest variety of marine life and coral, compared to being an "underwater zoo" - you have the chance to see all kinds of corals, fishes and even sea turtles! Over 160 species of fish and forty types of coral have been recorded in the area.
3
Stop 3
The story behind Shark Ray Alley is that in all times, due to its position close to the channel to go outside the protecting barrier reef for fishing, it was the point where the local fishermen came in with their catch and started cleaning it - throwing the head, etc into the water. This converted it a natural habit for the marine life such as nurse sharks and sting-rays that associate the sound of an engine to food. The water is shallow and transparent and you will see the nurse-sharks and sting-rays on the surface, meaning that even if you don't get in to the water you can enjoy it from the boat as well! The nurse-sharks and sting-rays eventually swim away, so this stop lasts max. 30 minutes.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
46 reviews
5★
46
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The Tour Duration from 4 hours includes: 45 min to reach Hol Chan. Then we snorkel for 1 hour = 1h 45 min. Takes 15 min to reach Shark Ray Alley = 2 hours Stay there 30 min = 2,5 hours Takes 1 hour back = 3,5 hours. The extra 30 min is to have additional time for guests to put their gear on, get on/off etc and to not be rushed at either of the locations – it might as well be 1 h 15 min at Hol Chan for example, but we promise min. 1 hour. On the sunset schedule we also stop for guests to get the perfect pictures.
Please note that our schedule depends on the sunset, so through the year it changes in 15-min periods within the range of starting times between 9 am/10 am and 2 pm/3.15 pm. The published times are the current ones.
Meeting point
Pick up is not included. We depart from the Palapa Bar dock, and we meet there 15 minutes before departure.
Important notes
Please provide us with your e-mail address for a booking confirmation.
About Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and a premier destination for beach lovers, divers, and those seeking a laid-back Caribbean vibe. Known for its stunning coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and charming San Pedro town, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Top Attractions
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
A protected marine area featuring stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear waters. It's a must-visit for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Nature
Half day
Moderate ($30-$50 USD for tours)
Great Blue Hole
A world-famous underwater sinkhole known for its crystal-clear waters and unique geological formations. It's a top destination for advanced divers.
Adventure
Full day (liveaboard trip)
Expensive ($200-$400 USD for liveaboard trips)
San Pedro Town
The main town on Ambergris Caye, offering a charming mix of local culture, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of dining and shopping options.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, budget to expensive for dining and shopping
Caye Caulker
A nearby island known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Beach
Full day trip
Moderate ($50-$100 USD for ferry and activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lobster
Ambergris Caye is famous for its lobster, which is often grilled, fried, or served in creamy sauces. The lobster season runs from June to February.
Dinner
Contains shellfish
Rice and Beans
A staple dish made with rice, beans, and spices, often served with fried plantains and chicken or fish.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (if made without meat)
Conch Fritters
Fried fritters made with conch meat, flour, and spices. A popular local snack and appetizer.
Appetizer
Contains seafood
Panades
Fried corn tortillas filled with spicy fish or beans. A popular street food snack.
Snack
Vegetarian (if made with beans)
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Diving
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Fishing
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. The weather is perfect for diving, snorkeling, and exploring the island.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Creole
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Belize Dollar (BZD)
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ambergris Caye is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming local community. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and exchanging money
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport • 400 km (250 miles) from Ambergris Caye
- San Pedro Airport • 1 km (0.6 miles) from San Pedro town
Getting around
Public transport
Water taxis are a popular and affordable way to travel between the mainland and Ambergris Caye. They offer frequent departures throughout the day.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Not commonly used, taxis are hailed on the street
Rentals
Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
San Pedro Town
North Ambergris Caye
South Ambergris Caye
Day trips
Caye Caulker
20 km (12 miles) • Full day
A nearby island known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. A popular day trip from Ambergris Caye.
Belize City
400 km (250 miles) • Full day
The largest city in Belize, offering a mix of history, culture, and urban attractions. A day trip to Belize City provides a glimpse into the country's past and present.
Tulum, Mexico
250 km (155 miles) • Overnight
A nearby Mexican town known for its ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. A popular destination for those interested in history and culture.
Festivals
San Pedro Lobsterfest • June to February (Lobster Season)
Belize International Film Festival • June
Belize Carnival • September
Pro tips
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
- Rent a golf cart for easy and convenient transportation around the island
- Try local dishes and support local businesses
- Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment and local community
- Be cautious when using ATMs and exchanging money, and keep valuables secure
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
