Glover’s Reef feels more remote than Belize’s better-known atolls, and that isolation is one of the main reasons to dive it. The atoll surrounds a large lagoon filled with patch reefs and coral pinnacles, while its outer edge drops into deep Caribbean water.

The diving ranges from sheltered coral gardens to dramatic walls and channels. Divers can see snappers, groupers, parrotfish, creole wrasse and horse-eye jacks around hard corals, sea fans and sponges. Turtles, spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks and Caribbean reef sharks may also pass through, with the best encounters depending on season and conditions.

Glover’s Reef is too far offshore for a casual two-tank outing from most mainland resorts. Day trips and resort-based diving are possible from selected southern locations, but a liveaboard removes the repeated long transfer and allows several days to be spent around the atoll. This also makes it easier to visit less familiar reefs and, when the itinerary permits, dive after sunset to see octopus, lobsters, crabs and hunting tarpon.

The atoll also has a long maritime history. Divers interested in this side of Belize can read about the 16th and 17th-century shipwrecks off Glover’s Reef, where scattered remains have gradually become part of the reef environment.

Conditions vary considerably. Sheltered areas can be gentle, but current can strengthen around cuts and outer walls. Your guide should select the site and depth according to the weather and the experience of the group.

Glover’s Reef forms part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System recognised by UNESCO. Because it appears on fewer itineraries than Lighthouse Reef and Turneffe, check the route carefully when comparing Belize liveaboards.