Snorkel cruise to the reef and cays

Snorkel boats from Grace Bay, the Bight and Turtle Cove run 10 to 30 minutes out to the barrier reef and the sites north and northeast of Provo, where visibility is better, the coral formations bigger and the chance of sharks, dolphins and eagle rays higher than at the shore reefs. Trips last three hours, half a day or a full day; the shorter ones include drinks and snacks and the full days a proper lunch.

The captain makes the day. Boats run by dive shops tend to pick the best sites, and the most marine life is south at West Caicos and on the Caicos Banks, usually on a longer or private trip. Some cruises stop only at reefs you could swim to from the beach, so ask where the boat goes. Gear is supplied, though it can be tired on the party-style cruises; bring your own mask if you have one. On windy days the reef gets choppy and murky, so if your stay allows, wait for a calm one. For a few reef fish and turtles, the free shore reefs at Smith's Reef and the Bight are enough.