Glass-Bottom Semi-Sub & Shopping
Duration: 3 1/2 hours
Tour Code: ROA-009
Marvel at the colorful marine life just offshore from the comfort of a semi-submersible viewing vessel, then shop for handicrafts and tour the only cameo factory in the Americas.
It's a 30-minute scenic drive from the pier to the extraordinarily beautiful southwestern tip of Roatan. At the end of the boardwalk dock at West Bay Beach, you'll board a semi-submersible vessel that offers the visibility of a glass-bottom boat but with more comforts. Unlike riding in a traditional glass-bottom boat, you won't have to crane your neck to look down at the marine life. The seats in the semi-submersible's enclosed air-conditioned hull have windows about six feet below the water's surface, allowing you to look straight out into the underwater world. The sights are spectacular, as you'll be cruising over one of the world's largest coral reefs, where the water is typically crystal-clear and teeming with tropical fish.
After disembarking, enjoy nearly an hour of free time at West End Village, where you can shop and savor a complimentary cup of fresh-brewed Honduran coffee, lemonade or iced tea. While the village is known for its handicrafts, your next stop at Stone Castle Cameo offers some of the most unique merchandise on the island. It's the only cameo factory in the Americas, and its skilled artisans hand-carve each piece from double-layered conch shells or coral, using a steel burin to cut the designs. It's a highly detailed, fascinating craft, and the elegant cameos produced are truly one of a kind. After watching a demonstration of cameo making, you'll have a bit of time to shop for one of these treasures before it's time to re-board your coach and travel back to the pier.
Please note: Walking on this tour is mainly at the guests' discretion during free time. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and semi-sub, and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Light-weight, casual clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; sunscreen; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.