best port of call for snorkeling

[honkanen]

We are cruising to Cozumel, Bahamas, Belieze and Roatan. Out of these 4 which do you think would be the best for snorkeling?? We are looking for colorful living coral, colorful fish, and hopefully beach access. We have snorkelled in other places and saw a lot of dead coral. It was sad.

[bruce-r]

Sadly, I wouldn't put Cozumel at the top of your list, especially if you are set on snorkeling from shore.

[clackey]

We haven't done the Bahamas yet, but I must agree with Bruce. Cozumel's shallow coral was hurt badly. You would have to take a boat trip and even then you are going to see it from long distance unless you are good at diving. Some of the best corl that we have seen was in Belize, although Roatan was pretty good, also. We took a boat trip from Bannister Island in Belize that was very good and in Roatan you need to try Tabyana or Half Moon Beach for good shoresnorkeling.

[cc cruiser]

Can't say about Roatan or Belize. We just returned from Enchantment & went snorkeling in Cozumel & Grand Cayman. In Cozumel, we went with Eagle Ray Divers and were very impressed. It was our third trip with them. If you are looking for a fancy boat, their service is not for you. But if you want to snorkel with an experienced naturalist in a small group, check them out. Antonio and his wife Chellie (who is an Arkansas Razorback!) will provide a memorable excursion. Our guide this trip was Raul & he knew the names & habits of every fish we saw. We went to three different sites , stopped & had lunch at a great little resort. It was $60 each and well worth it!