Calabash Cut

Calabash Cut at Turneffe Islands is an intermediate channel dive through a natural break in the reef where tidal water exchanges between the atoll's lagoon and the open sea. The cut creates a natural funnel effect that concentrates nutrients and marine life. Schools of permit, horse-eye jacks, and tarpon fill the channel during tidal changes, while the walls of the cut support dense growths of soft corals and sponges. Nurse sharks and large southern stingrays are frequently found resting on the sandy channel floor. Timing the tides is key for the best experience, with slack tide offering the safest entry.