We really enjoyed our experience on this tour. Our tour guide Grace, was very helpful and enthusiastic. She explained to us how to safely interact in our environment, so we wouldn't disturb the marine life too much. The snorkels, flippers and wet suits were provided. There were enough wetsuits to go around for us to even double up which was great, as the water was cold enough. The lunch and snacks provided were very good and filling. There was even hot drinks, like coffee and tea.
During the snorkel, we saw lots of beautiful marine life, from parrot fish, to lots of white tip sharks, a good few sea turtles and sealions. We even got to see an eagle sting ray, which our guide told us was rare. We snorkeled in two places, off Pinzon and Le Fa. First part of the snorkel was 1:30hr and the other was 45 mins. We found this to be plenty of time in the water. The boat ride out was 1hr and 45mins. Getting in and out takes up most of the time on the tour, but you get to see beautiful views of Santa Cruz island on the boat journey out. Overall, very good value for money.
I was very excited DE participate in this snorkeling trip, but unfortunately, the experience did not live up DE my expectations.
First, the departure did not take place on schedule, which from the outset gave the impression DE disorganization. Once in the water, I would have liked to take the time to observe the fish, corals and underwater landscapes quietly, but this was not possible. The guide constantly urged us to go from one point to another, without letting us really enjoy the moment. This has made hasty exploration almost forced, when this type of activity should invite contemplation.
Moreover, the attitude of the guide did not encourage a relaxed Mood: he was visibly stressed, unwarm, and gave his instructions DE a rather abrupt, almost military manner. The crew DE the boat were in the same mood: unsmiling, uncommunicative, which affected the general Mood.
Another major disappointment was that the announced programme was not respected. We were planning DE visit two islands, but we only saw one EN. DE addition, the return was supposed to be at 6pm, but we returned at 3pm, without any explanation.
Having said that, I would like to highlight DE positive points: the equipment provided was of good quality, well maintained, which is always reassuring for this type of activity. The meal served on board was also very good, which brought some DE comfort in a day overall half-hearted.
EN summary, this snorkeling trip could have been a great experience, but it suffered from a lack of organization, too tense Mood and a program not respected. Too bad, because the natural setting was beautiful.
This tour was so much fun! We saw huge tortoises, a seal swam by, some white tipped reef sharks, sting rays...just a lot of cool stuff. They caught a yellow fin tuna for lunch and cooked it while we were snorkeling. The water was COLD! Thank goodness they provided wet suits! Highly recommend!