Environmental Group Clamps Down on Cruise-Affiliated Tours to Silk Caye

The Southern Environmental Association (SEA) has clarified that recent cruise-affiliated tours to Silk Caye should not have been authorised. The organisation said the approval was granted in “error” by the Interim Executive Director, Walter Garbutt, who “accepts full responsibility for this oversight and offers sincere apologies to all relevant stakeholders for the concern, anxiety, and uncertainty this matter has caused.”

Garbutt told News 5 the approval was granted out of what he described as “ignorance” of the specific restrictions at the time. He said there was no intention to cause harm and added that he was serving in an interim capacity when the decision was made. Garbutt added that he remains proud of the work he carried out during his time with the organisation.

SEA confirmed that the operator involved has been formally notified that no further cruise-affiliated tours are permitted to any of its co-managed marine protected areas.

The organisation stated that tours to the Gladden Spit & Silk Cayes Marine Reserve and Laughing Bird Caye National Park remain “strictly prohibited, in accordance with existing agreements, management plans, and established conservation and tourism commitments.”

“All agreements governing these protected areas remain fully in effect and are being strictly enforced,” SEA added. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to “transparency, accountability, sustainable tourism practices, and the long-term protection of Belize’s nationally protected marine resources.”