AmbergrisCaye.com Home Forums Belize Life News Cruise Tourist Missing at Sea

I think the main point is that the tourist was LOST. By "lost" I don't mean dead, I mean they don't know where he went, or when or how. Yes, many people overstress themselves diving and snorkeling on vacation. Some have heart attacks, dizzy spells, asthma - things happen. That is one reason a licensed tour-guide is trained in fist aid. None of these health events is automatically fatal - not unless you drown because nobody notices you are in trouble "looses" you completely.

"The old guy" is somebody's father, brother, son and friend - I hope to high heaven that none of his relatives read some of these heartless comments.

These huge snorkel groups do not work - fish flee, people can't experience the serenity of the sea, and it's darn near impossible for any guide however well intentioned, to keep track of a hoard of people in the water.

Snorkel with a buddy, and in small groups.

I've been a cruiser on many occasions (not to Belize) and have witnessed firsthand people trying things for which they are not fit. I'm old and overfed but in reasonably decent condition to do certain things but not all. Cruisers think that if the cruise ship offers a shore excursion they surely would not put their passengers at any risk. The description of the shore excursions lists certain fitness factors that should be observed by the passenger, but many overrate themselves. Having a buddy in the water who stays close to you at all times is the first step to not experiencing such a tragic event as may have happened in this case.

<<<makes note to NEVER go anywhere with Clover>>>

Still watching- No comments on St. Barbara?

Barbara lived in the 4th century and brought up as a heathen. A tyrannical father, Dioscorus, had kept her jealously secluded in a lonely tower which he had built for that purpose. Here, in her forced solitude, she gave herself to prayer and study, and contrived to receive instruction and Baptism in secret by a Christian priest.

Barbara resisted her father's wish that she marry. Then on one occasion, during her father's absence, Barbara had three windows inserted into a bathhouse her father was constructing. Her purpose was thereby to honor the Trinity.

Dioscorus was enraged by her action and by her conversion. So he himself denounced her before the civil tribunal. She was horribly tortured, and at last was beheaded. Her own father, merciless to the last, acted as her executioner. God, however, speedily punished her persecutors. While her soul was being borne by angels to Paradise, a flash of lightning struck Dioscorus, and he was hurried before the judgment seat of God.

The life of St. Barbara is a vivid reminder that there can be much anger in our world and in our lives. Being in touch with God's presence in a very special way can do much toward relieving ourselves of our tendency to allow anger to control us. We should pray often against a sudden and unprovided death; and, above all, that we may be strengthened by the Holy Viaticum (Last Sacraments) against the dangers of our last hour.

I have no idea how that relates to this topic GRAFFICE. If you have something to say let's not be cryptic about it.

Cryptic? Heck I'm not nearly that good...I just thought she was the Patron Saint for those with problems at sea and could be looked on for some grace in this instance. Maybe I need to study more? I was hopeing this might turn out well but sure don't know at this point. DG
WATCHING

I hope this guy is just "lost"...and nothing more.

quick question: so the snorkeling tour operators do warn snorkelers of areas to steer clear of, areas that are dangerous, etc?

I've only gone snorkeling with Searious, and I really like their guides. They are careful about where they take you, they warn you of what not to do, and they point out a lot of marine life.

But, I always remind myself to pay attention -- it's so easy to be watching a fish, or swimming along with a shark, and then realize you don't know where the group is. I take frequent glances around to be sure I'm a safe distance from the guide, and close to my buddy.

I think it's very smart to go in a small group with a local guide, that way he has no trouble keeping track of everyone. The problem with the cruise ship tours is that they come with boats that probably hold fifty people and there will be several of them at one spot at the same time. You can imagine that it would be easy to lose track of someone.
Tulu has a small boat and watches out for his clients. I'm sure most guides will do the same. They also know when areas like Hol Chan or Shark Ray Alley will not be having cruise ship crowds. We have seen times when you would swear that there are more people than fish at those two stops. Go and enjoy, just be smart.