You do have the flotation device (tube) and you are usually in a large group clumped together but.....I would look at other options that might interest you and avoid the chance of an accident that would take the fun out of your vacation.
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cave tubing is VERY safe and I would suggest using an independant tour operator that comes with good reputation and feedback.
Yes, the water can and will be deep when inside the caves, but a flotation vest is provided and you are "sitting" in an innertube thus well supported for certain.
I have been cave tubing many times with two different tour operators and have my preference, but always enjoyed my experience when visiting Belize.
Not only is cave tubing a wonderful experience,but you also will get to see the true beauty and landscape differences in your scenic drive to the cave areas and away from the tender docks which can be intimidating for some folks !
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We did cave tubing several years ago and had a great time. It's important who you book with, I think, to know that you're safe. We booked online with a gentleman who was one of the first persons to start the cave tubing craze. He was a Mayan descendant...he'd been tubing the caves his entire life...and he was very knowledgeable about the area...and he made sure that everyone stayed together and was safe. During the 45 minute hike to the caves through the forest he let us stop and eat termites from a tree, pointed out medicinal plants in the rain forest, and told us to watch out for the deadly fer de lance snake on the trail. Once in the water he and his sons kept our group together in a big floating armada by everyone hooking their feet and arms together. This was important because we saw people off our ship who had booked through the company caught in whirlpools or left off to the sides of the river to fend for themselves. Parts of the river are quite shallow (5-6 inches) other areas are pretty deep (40 ft). Just make sure you book with someone reputable and you will have a great time!
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We also enjoyed cave tubing several years ago. As it was our first cruise we booked the Carnival Excursion and were glad we did. The river was quite high during our excursion and my youngest son (13 at the time) started to float off towards a dark area and the guide quickly swam over and brought him back to the fold. For some reason (?) I was not able to move forward...I don't know why. I guess I am cave tubing challenged.... anyway, one of the guides came over, with a smile, and "towed" me through the cave. We had a wonderful time and it is one of my favorite memories. Hope you enjoy!
I dont know how to swim at all. Me and my ex did the cave tubing with Mr. Tom, actually his son did the excurtion. I felt very safe with him, he took his job very seriously. I had a blast. Wonderful experience.
We did cave tubing several years ago and had a great time. It's important who you book with, I think, to know that you're safe. We booked online with a gentleman who was one of the first persons to start the cave tubing craze. He was a Mayan descendant...he'd been tubing the caves his entire life...and he was very knowledgeable about the area...and he made sure that everyone stayed together and was safe. During the 45 minute hike to the caves through the forest he let us stop and eat termites from a tree, pointed out medicinal plants in the rain forest, and
Quote:
told us to watch out for the deadly fer de lance snake on the trail.
Once in the water he and his sons kept our group together in a big floating armada by everyone hooking their feet and arms together. This was important because we saw people off our ship who had booked through the company caught in whirlpools or left off to the sides of the river to fend for themselves. Parts of the river are quite shallow (5-6 inches) other areas are pretty deep (40 ft). Just make sure you book with someone reputable and you will have a great time!
Not a chance I will book cave tubing now! I had not thought of the possibility of snakes before. Thanks for the wake up call.
Laura
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