Providencia or Bay Islands

[mjgoodman]

Hi,

I have the choice between Providencia or the Bay Islands in late Aug or early Sept. I like the big stuff and small stuff all the same. My diving is limited to Indonesia so, I know I'm spoiled but would like something that rivals Indo. Thanks

 

[parrotheaddiver]

Hi,

My diving is limited to Indonesia so, I know I'm spoiled but would like something that rivals Indo. Thanks

I don't think you will find that in the Caribbean....

 

[Doc]

What she said.

 

[mjgoodman]

That's what I thought. But between the two which is better? Or is Belize the best?

 

[parrotheaddiver]

I have dived both...and they are both great....I prefer Roatan the dive sites are easier to get to....by that I mean the sites are within a few minutes of shore by boat....in Belize the best way to see the reefs IMO is by liveaboard....a lot of the prettiest reefs are a bit of a boat ride from land....some may disagree with me...my friends go to Belize every year and think it is the best....I ask what about the long rides to the reefs...they tell me it is just part of the trip......which ever you choose I am sure you will love it....

The Blue Hole is a been there done that dive...but if you have never done it....then do it... I love the walls in Roatan the growth on them is very healthy...

 

[tadeotadeo]

I've never been to Bay Island to compare but I can tell you everything you want to know about Providencia. My guess is the reef’s are similar, There are plenty of Walls, caves and crevices around Providencia and one of the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean, according to several sources. It is a bit difficult to get to.
Ciao
Tad

 

[ncchuck]

I think someone that has done all their diving in Indonesia will probably like Roatan as long as their expectations aren't too high. They may see some different critters than they see in Indonesia but they won't see reefs that are anywhere near as healthy, prolific or diverse. I've seen several scientific journals that indicate there is more biodiversity in small areas of Indonesia than the entire caribbean. Raja Ampat is a prime example. You can't possilbly compare it to Roatan. Don't get me wrong. I love Roatan and have visited there more than any other location and even lived there for several months but it just doesn't compare to many parts of Indonesia.
I have no experience with Providencia so I won't try and compare it to Roatan. I have been to Belize several times and I like Roatan much better. The dive sites are easier to access and the diving is more diverse especially if you dive the south and north sides. The coral formations are often spectacular even when compared to much of Indonesia.
I'll be headed to Roatan in a few weeks if air line prices go down again soon.