The Gladden Split & Silk Cayes Reserve
The Gladden Split and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve is a protected part of Belize Reef System located approximately 22 miles off the coast of the Placencia Peninsula. It covers approximately 25,980 acres. The reserve was established in 2003 and is under the authority of the government’s Fisheries Department. It is managed by the Southern Environmental Association, a community-based organization in Placencia.
The split is a promontory forming the southernmost tip of a sunken atoll. It has a short sloping shelf that drops off steeply at about 40–2000 meters in depth within 10 kilometers (6.2 mi) of the reef. This part of the reef is also called the elbow by the local fishermen in the area.
Over 25 species of reef fish lives in the habitat at The Gladden Spit. Since the 1920s, fishermen have congregated here to fishing for mutton and Cubera Snappers during their ten-day spawning aggregation that occurs around the full moon period during the months of March, April, May and June. During this time of the year whale sharks also migrate to the area to feed on the eggs of the spawning snappers.
The Silk Cayes
Located south of the Gladden Spit entrance and within Queen Caye, the three magnificent Silk Cayes – North Silk, Middle Silk, and South Silk – offer a unique natural experience. A hurricane wiped out all the vegetation from Middle Silk Caye however North Silk Caye is home to a nesting colony of terns, highlighting the area’s importance for wildlife. Furthermore, the reserve boasts some of the healthiest reef systems in Belize, thanks to its elevation and excellent water quality. Consequently, the vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life make it a premier destination for divers and snorkelers alike. Additionally, the Laughing Bird Caye National Park is included within the reserve, further enhancing its ecological and recreational value.
Diving at the Silk Cayes Reserve with the Seahorse Dive Shop
Whale Shark Diving
Some fifty years ago a local fisherman living on one of the Sapodilla Cayes off the cost of southern Belize was the first person to report sightings of these magnificent creatures. Local fishermen from Placencia out on their annual snapper spawning fishing trips at The Gladden Split also had sightings, but thought it was only one shark, they named it Sapodilla Tom in honor of the first person that reported sightings.
In the early 90’s after the introduction of scuba diving to the area, it was discovered that the sightings is actually a migration of numerous sharks. This discovery was made by Mr. Brian Young, the owner of the Sea Horse Dive Shop and the first person to dive with the sharks. Diving with the whale sharks is a popular attraction in Placencia with divers visiting from all over the world.
Divers can visit Belize during April, May or June to get an opportunity to see whale sharks up-close. The best time to dive is the days following the full moon of each month. During this time whale sharks migrate to the Gladden Split to feed on the eggs of spawning snappers.
Seahorse Dive Shop tour rates: (2 people minimum required)Silk Cayes Diving: $150 per person. Snorkeling: $100 per person. Whale Shark Diving: $265 per person