Day two of our voyage was multifaceted. We started with an exciting hike up the foothills of the Maya Mountains to see scarlet macaws. We had a chance to take a wonderful float in an inner tube down a mountain stream. We enjoyed a lunch buffet with a plethora of local flavors. Next, we hopped on the “Hokey Pokey” water taxi to Placencia, where an art festival was in full swing. Our guests took the opportunity to appreciate artwork made by many local artisans. Finally, we danced the night away to the rhythm and beats of the Garifuna Collective.
2/4/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Monkey River and Laughingbird Caye, Belize
The sun eased above the horizon and gently kissed the calm, mirrorlike sea, greeting National Geographic Quest as she lay at anchor just east of the mouth of Monkey River. This is the largest estuary in southern Belize, and our destination for this morning’s adventure. This winding waterway did not disappoint, as guests enjoyed great views of egrets and herons on the edges of the river, parrots and toucans overhead, while “garobos” — male green iguanas sporting their orange and black breeding colors — sunned themselves on the treetops. After returning to the ship and enjoying a delicious brunch, it was soon time to gear up for a final afternoon of snorkeling and diving off Laughing Bird Caye. Some guests snorkeled among the beautiful coral reefs that surround this small island, while others floated above the corals in kayaks. Everyone savored the tropical flavors of fruit punch and snacks from the hotel department. We finished the day with a slideshow of guest and staff photo memories from our Belize adventure.
