PegNDerek's Snorkeling

Where intelligent life returns to the Sea              

Tabyana Beach Snorkel

Excursion out of Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras

Ship: IslandBreeze (Premier Cruises)

Sailing Date: March 28, 1999

Date of Snorkel: March 31, 1999

Equipment Availability: we have our own which we take with us, but snorkels, masks and fins (no vests) can be rented for a price at the beach.  All equipment appeared to be clean and well maintained, if a bit worn.

Water Access: Beach

A short drive (about 30 minutes) across the mountains from the ship’s pier brings you to the Tabyana Beach Resort at West Bay (name of the beach).  Described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Central America, the Tabyana facility is extensive.  There are all manner of facilities—a gift shop, large bar, restaurant and Bar-B-Que area, tables, chairs, showers, changing rooms, etc…. and all facilities are readily available to all who visit.

The beach front is extensive, but poorly shaded at the time of our visit.  They had planted a number of “trees”, but these were still immature when we were there.  We found a spot for our gear under a bush and headed for the water.

Snorkeling at Tabyana is very good, but the trick is to get into the water as early as possible before the hordes of other swimmers and nearby boats have obscured the visibility.  The reef is about 20 yards off shore and extensive.  Algae covered rocks and relatively well developed corals predominate.  The water varies in depth from shallow (3-4 feet) to deep (20-25 feet), but the water is generally clear in most areas.   Reef fish are plentiful but not highly varied—mostly Damselfish, Grunts and Wrasse with a few varieties of Parrot Fish.  We followed the deeper “gorges” in between sections of the reef, and worked our way into the shallows, zig-zagging along the reef.  The current is fairly strong, so this site is not recommended for children.

Our Bar-B-Que luncheon was delicious, and we took advantage of the fresh water showers before returning to the bus back to the ship.

WARNING: Fire ants and bugs are a problem at Tabyana.  Be sure to use bug spray on your legs, ankles and feet both before and after visiting this site!

Snorkeling Grade: B