If a Grace Bay snorkelling cruise out of Providenciales sounds like the perfect way to kick off your exploration of the Turks and Caicos, then you’ve come to the right place. With decades of on-island expertise to draw from, the Big Blue Collective difference will shine- and today we look at how.
Why are Providenciales snorkeling tours a can’t-miss?
The TCI chain is separated by a deep channel- the same channel that is responsible for making the area so spectacular for whale sightings during the season. This unique layout- with Grand Turk and Salt Cay clinging to the deep Turks Island Passage, and the Caicos islands nestling on a plateau with extensive barrier reefs- has led to a landscape of gorgeous reefs, sparkling ocean water, plunging walls and a varied marine terrain that’s second to none. Wherever you venture, you’ll find glowing coral and spectacular sea life unfolding before you.
With that said, there’s no doubt that Providenciales’ snorkeling tours are the most accessible and varied in the whole chain, simply because the island is so developed compared to the rest of the TCI. That’s not to say you can’t explore it all! Provo makes a fantastic base for further-flung exploration as well as local expeditions.
Provo herself has a great variety of sites to explore, with beach reefs like Smith’s reef and Bight reef if you don’t want to head offshore. However, a Grace Bay snorkeling cruise out of Providenciales herself is the perfect way to really embrace the spirit of exploration needed for a satisfying snorkeling experience.
Why are snorkeling cruises the best?
Snorkelling cruises typically deliver more dramatic results then beach snorkeling. Superior visability, as well as the larger and more defined coral formations you’ll encounter, both make for an immensely satisfying snorkel experience. Of course, there’s also the lure of the many large animals who call this corner of the world home- you are unlikely to meet them face-to-face from a beach snorkel as they don’t come into the more shallow water.
Tell me more about your Grace Bay snorkeling cruise out of Providenciales
Some of the most spectacular snorkeling sites in the TCI lie off of the Grace Bay barrier reef area. This is slightly deceptive if you’re planning on taking a swim out there, though! The reef lies half a mile off of the coast, so it is essential to either take a cruise or charter a boat to reach the best snorkeling sites in the area. Expect it to take 10-30 minutes to reach the optimum snorkeling sites. You’ll need at least ⅓ of a day to explore the area properly, although we do ½ and full day charters too if you are looking to maximise your experience. A great deal of the accommodation in Provo nestles around the Grace Bay area, so having a boat which will pick you up and drop you back on your ‘home’ beach can be incredibly convenient. Add to the romantic ambience by opting for our sunset snorkel, which will give you an entirely different take on the area.
Don’t forget to take a little time to play on Grace Beach herself. This spectacular area is often counted as one of the top 5 beaches in the world, and it’s immediately apparent why. Soft white sand awaits you, with crystal clear water lapping the fringes. While this very clarity and visibility is the reason the snorkel sites of the area lie so far out, it’s also a luxurious delight well worth experiencing on its own terms.
Many tour operators only take their patrons to the same spots they could access on their own from the beach- but that’s not the Big Blue Collective experience. We ensure you see all the sights, experiencing everything this unique corner of the world has to offer, in an eco-friendly and sustainable way. Please remember that alongside our Providenciales snorkeling tours we also offer private boat charters if you’d like to totally customise your snorkeling experience.
How can I make the most of my snorkeling experience?
Big Blue Collective boats all carry snorkeling equipment, although you’re welcome to bring your own if you are a more experienced snorkeler. The typical snorkeling rules do apply if you want to get the best from your experience:
- Look, don’t touch. Remember that coral isn’t a dead entity, but a living ‘animal’, and human touch can kill it. This includes taking a little care that your gear doesn’t knock or impact the area.
- No souvenirs! It’s very tempting to reach out and grab a little piece of the beauty all around you, but remember it has a better place in the water, thriving.
- Stay friendly: Chasing, following and trying to feed the local sea life is a one-way ticket to a spoilt experience. Rather let them do their thing, and enjoy the experience.
Lastly, we do ask that guests avoid overuse of sunscreen [and body lotion] before a dive trip. These can interfere with the vibrancy and growth of the coral, and we’d rather be safe than sorry.
Providenciales snorkeling tours are one of the best ways to kick off your exploration of the marine life teaming in this little corner of the globe. Take a Grace Bay snorkeling cruise from Providenciales herself, and experience the beauties of the phenomenal barrier reef for yourself. Spot fish and rays at play- and maybe a dolphin or two! Explore the vibrant colours of this exceptional natural habitat, and make memories that will last forever. Big Blue Collective offers you the ultimate snorkeling experience, so be sure to take advantage today.