Those of us aboard National Geographic Quest woke to the view of the stunning Moho Caye Island. It is one of the numerous pristine islands off the Belizean coast.

Right after breakfast, our guests disembarked for the morning activities of snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, birding, and botanical walking. Most guests opted to begin the morning snorkeling in the tranquil Caribbean Sea. Some of the sightings reported included striped and stoplight parrotfish, scrawled cowfish, yellow stingray, spotted lobster, and queen conch.

Others tried out the paddleboards and kayaks for the first time. There was ample time to explore the island’s lush terrain over a botanical walk with naturalist Maguil Cespedes. Guests learned about the island plant composition, including the Sea Moho which the island was named after. Before long, it was time to lunch and relax a bit before getting back out.

Afterward, some decided to snorkel, while others went to kayak or paddleboard around Moho Caye. Another group was interested in the local birds, so they decided to scout for various bird species. Some reported sightings ospreys, palm warbler, male yellow-throated warbler, Yucatan vireo, and northern parula.

As the day winded down, guests were pleasantly surprised with refreshments from National Geographic Quest on the Beach. Despite few wanting to leave, a lovely sunset gave us a proper farewell to Belize.