As the sun rises, National Geographic Quest anchors just a half-mile from the mouth of the Monkey River. This costal waterway stems deep in the Maya mountains and exist into the Caribbean Sea. Monkey River is home to many species of birds, reptiles and black howler monkeys. The afternoon was spent enjoying the tranquil Caribbean Sea around the island of Ranguana Caye, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking and beach lounging before our day ended with a beautiful sunset.
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.
