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We will take a day trip to the Marietas Islands. These islands are a sanctuary for seabirds, turtles, dolphins, and scores of tropical fish that live among the coral reefs. The islands are composed of rocky terrain which make it a great location to explore the numerous caves and isolated beaches for nature's abundance. Be sure to bring along your camera, we will provide the snorkling gear and lunch.
Banderas Bay is one of the largest protected bays on our planet. It was formed when an ancient volcano exploded and the caldera was flooded. Mountains form a circular outline that rings the bay on three sides. The fourth side of the mountain circle is underwater. This mountain range breaks the surface of the ocean at the Marietas Islands. A volcanic reef connects the islands to the mainland, all but closing off the bay from the Pacific.
Two deep water channels connect the Pacific Ocean to the bay and both of these are patrolled by dolphins who do not allow sharks to enter the bay. Bandaras Bay is a calving ground for the dolphins, as well as, Humpback and Wrights whales – and, many other species. Thanks to the geology and the vigilance of the dolphins, Banderas Bay is virtually shark free.
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