While we know Utila in Honduras is famous for whale shark
sightings, Belize to the north is now getting into the game.
Washington-based Conservation International and Friends of
Nature, a Belizean nonprofit organization, have created a new
marine protected area in Southern Belize to safeguard what's called
the world's only predictable gathering site of whale sharks. The 3,360-
acre sanctuary surrounds Little Water Caye, a five-acre island 18 miles
off of Belize's southeastern coast. Friends of Nature will own and
manage the majority of Little Water Caye, while the minority share of
the island will remain in the hands of a private owner who has agreed
to prevent development there.
"The local communities that founded Friends of Nature were
the first to discover the rare whale sharks that congregate in the area
and became determined to do something to protect them," said
Costas Christ, Senior Director of Conservation International's
Ecotourism Program.
The Oceanic Society (www.oceanic-society.org) offers a seven-day
excursion from Belize City to Placencia (close to the preserve), with
three days of dolphin and whale shark encounters for $1,790 plus airfare
to Belize. Destinations Belize (www.destinationsbelize.com or
011-501-523-4018) will take out groups of four or more for $70 per
person, $90 each for three people, and $175 apiece for parties of two.
Placencia operations such as Rum Point Inn (www.rumpoint.com or
888-235-4031), The Inn At Roberts Grove (501-523-3565 or www.
robertsgrove.com) and Sea Horse Dive Shop (www.belizescuba.com or 800-991-1969) offer two-tank whale shark dives for around $150,
plus tax and entrance fee to the preserve (still to be set for 2004, but
probably $10-$15). Snorkeling runs about $65. (Undercurrent reviewed
a Placencia whale shark trip in June 2000, but our writer saw none.)
Boats and guides conducting whale shark interaction tours must
obtain a special license. Divers and snorkelers are required to stay at
least 10 feet away from any whale shark. Maximum depth for divers
of any certification is 80 feet, to avoid disturbing fish as well as for safety
considerations. Boats should remain at least 50 feet from any whale
shark and no less than 200 feet from each other.
During the March 1- July 31 season, dive and snorkel tours are
limited to two hours, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis by the
ranger on duty. No more than six dive and snorkel boats will be
allowed into the Whale Shark Zone at one time.