Sun Dancer
The crew of the Dancer Fleet’s liveaboard dive boat Sun Dancer II welcomes you aboard for a week-long scuba diving vacation to beautiful Belize with its diverse cultures and equally diverse geography. Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, Belize is bordered on the north by Mexico, the west and south by Guatemala, and the east by the Caribbean Sea. With its approximately 180 miles (290 km) of coastline, Belize is home to the world’s second largest barrier reef and three true atolls.
The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More than 200 cayes located inside the pristine reef system are also part of Belize. The amazing marine life that populates these waters includes Spotted Groupers, Stingrays, Manta Rays, Eagle Rays, Sea Turtles, and Tarpon. Spectacular walls, drop offs, and caves make Belize a premier dive destination for both beginning and advanced scuba divers. Belize also offers tropical rainforests, Mayan temple ruins, and magnificent mountains. Both in the water and on land, there will be countless photo and video opportunities.
Belize generally has a warm climate. During the dry season from January to March the air temperatures in Belize range between 74°F and 80°F (23°-26.6°C) with water temperatures between 74°F and 78°F (23° -25.5°C). Underwater visibility is very good at upwards of 120 feet (37 m.). During the months of April to June, air temperatures are in the low- to mid-80s F (27°-29°C). Some rain is possible at this time of year, and water temperatures are between 78°F and 82°F (25.5°-27.7°C). Good diving conditions and excellent visibility present themselves during the months of July-September, when air temperatures range between 80°F and 95°F (26.6°-35°C), and water temperatures between 80°F and 84°F (26.6°-29°C). Air temperatures are somewhat cooler during the months of October-December, when they can range between 75°F and 80°F (24°-26.6°C). Water temperatures drop to a range of 80°F to 82°F (26.6°-27.7°C). Because of the number of dives you will be making each day, it is recommended that you wear a light wetsuit. Some people prefer a 3mm. suit for added thermal protection.
Sun Dancer II will take your scuba diving vacation to the atolls that lie beyond Belize’s barrier reef. Lighthouse Reef, the best-known atoll, is home to a stunning nature reserve at Half Moon Caye and the famed Blue Hole, which promises a most memorable dive. Blue Hole is considered the main diving attraction in Beliz. It is a fresh water cave system where you will encounter enormous stalactites that were formed many thousands of years ago. Descending from the ceiling, they measure approximately 1,000 feet (305 m.) in diameter and more than 400 feet (120 m.) deep. Divers can explore these majestic stalactites to depths between 110 and 130 feet (34-40 m.). Blue Hole’s shallow waters are great for both snorkeling and scuba diving. Along the wall at Half Moon Caye you will see amazing sponge formations and spot plenty of Hawksbill Turtles and Spotted Eagle Rays. Visibility at both these sites is excellent, reaching at least 120 feet (37 m.).
The largest of Belize’s three offshore atoll reefs is the Turneffe Islands, stretching 30 miles (48 km) long and 10 miles (16 km) wide. The Sun Dancer II stops at the Elbow, a famed multilevel wall drift dive site located at the southern tip of the Turneffe atoll. This dive site can be swept by strong currents, making scuba diving appropriate for more advanced, experienced divers. You will enjoy seeing large pelagics such as various types of Sharks, Marlins, Mantas, and Eagle Rays. Other marine life in these blue waters includes Snappers, Green Moray Eels, Mackerel, Jacks, and several varieties of Sea Turtles, including Green, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead. Look for huge sponges and Gorgonians at the Elbow.
The wreck of the Sayonara lies along the shallow side of a mid-reef located at the southern end of Turneffe. This 50-foot (15 m.) long wreck was formerly a wood-hulled transport vessel that was sunk in 1983. Here you will see a variety of marine life including, perhaps, the Lined Toadfish, a rare species unique to Belize. This wreck, sitting in 45-50 feet (14-14 m.) of water, provides excellent photo opportunities.
The dive site known as the Aquarium is a sheer drop with dive depths of 30-137 feet (9-42 m.). The Aquarium has long coral ridges dotted with holes and grottos, and hiding all kinds of critters. There are usually moderate to strong currents flowing across the reef at all times, while there may be no current along the wall. During the day, divers will spot orange and yellow Sea Feathers near the crest of the wall. Other common sights include deep-water Lace Coral and Black Coral extending horizontally away from the wall. The fish here are both varied and quite colorful. This reef’s inhabitants include Midnight Parrotfish, Green Morays, Caribbean Octopus, and large Black Groupers.
All dives will be made from the dive deck of the Sun Dancer II. You will be able to make up to five dives each day, including a night dive. Two dives will be offered on the last day. Before making your first dive, you must show the divemaster either your c-card or some other proof of diving certification. Underwater visibility can be in excess of 120 feet (37 m.).
The Dancer Fleet strives to provide scuba divers and vacationers with the highest quality and most innovative liveaboard experience possible. In addition to unmatched scuba diving, guests aboard the Sun Dancer II will enjoy excellent accommodations and delicious meals as part of their vacation package.
The Dancer Fleet’s dive boats afford guests both safety and comfort as they travel to the best diving locations around the world.
