San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize

Hol Chan Channel North

The northern entrance to the Hol Chan channel, also referred to as Hol Chan Channel North, is the lagoon-side approach to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve cut. The dive runs along the inner reef edge in 6 to 18 metres of water, parallel to the channel proper. Tidal currents through the cut sweep this approach, drawing dense fish life. The reef structure includes mountainous star coral, brain coral, sheet coral, gorgonian fans and yellow tube sponges. Resident schools of yellowtail snapper, schoolmasters, French grunts, sergeant majors, blue chromis and creole wrasse hover over the structure. Spotted moray eels, lobsters, banded coral shrimp and queen triggerfish are common. Hawksbill and green turtles, southern stingrays and the occasional permit are reliable sightings. The Hol Chan resident Goliath grouper and resident schools of permit are sometimes seen at this approach as well. Visibility 12 to 22 metres. A regular second tank for divers visiting the main Hol Chan channel.