Bioluminescence is a rare phenomenon of light production by living organisms. It allows them to live in the darkness and communicate with the same species. You can experience this amazing wonder of the natural world in a few places on our Earth such as Holbox or Luminous Lagoon Jamaica.
We can distinguish bioluminescent fungi, bacteria, algae, or protozoa. Certainly, you have seen the glow-worms in the dark forest many times. However, you can admire the most beautiful light performance in the aquatic ecosystem.
An interesting fact is that you will not find bioluminescent plants anywhere in the world. Moreover, this phenomenon occurs most often in water. Microorganisms living in deep oceans and seas devoid of light sources have developed the ability to its emission.
Bioluminescence abilities have, among others, jellyfish or plankton, as well as several types of sharks such as kitefin. Various sea species use biolumumes to protect against predators, as well as to attract a potential partner.
Many legends and myths are associated with various luminescences of light such as bioluminescence or the Northern Lights. According to one of the legends, the bath in glowing waters is like a elixir of youth. There is something magical about the Luminous Lagoon in Jamaica that makes it one of the top places to visit for every traveller.
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Luminous Lagoon in Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth in Jamaica is the best place in the world to admire Bioluminescent dinoflagellates. When boats create the movement, glistening waters turn into turquoise shades.
Glowing microorganisms are not a threat, so many tourists from around the world decide to take a bath in a Luminous Lagoon. While swimming in the water, you can experience this exclusive phenomenon in one of the few places in the world such as Jamaica.
During our visit to Holbox island, unfortunately, we missed the possibility of observing this wonder of the natural world. However, Jamaica is famous for its most beautiful light show around the world. Therefore, a trip to Falmouth was an icing on the cake during our stay on the island.
It is worth adding that this is an attraction that is best to admire in the evening when the sky is dark and the neon colors are visible to the naked eye. Photos of this amazing phenomenon do not fully reflect what you can really experience in Jamaica.
The advantage of choosing Jamaica as a destination for observation of bioluminence is that trips to Falmouth take place every day. Every evening tourists have the opportunity to enjoy the glowing, turquoise waters of the Luminous Lagoon in Jamaica.
The best time to admire bioluminessence is not only evening time, but also absence of the full moon. The darker the sky is, the better the blue, neon colors in the water are visible. However, the visibility of this phenomenon is the most influenced by the movement. So, only by swimming in the water, you can see this amazing color performance.
Bioluminescence – Glistening Waters in Jamaica
Luminous lagoon in Jamaica is a water reservoir that stands out among all other places in the region. It is one of the few bays in the world in which an unusual natural phenomenon occurs: bioluminescence.
Every night, this small bay comes to life in live blue, creating a captivating neon show. This view fascinates not only tourists, but also oceanographers and biologists. In contrast to typical lights, the one from the luminous lagoon comes from the tiny marine creatures inhabiting it – dinoflagellates.
When there is a movement, the reaction is triggered, and the dinoflagellates produce a bright blue light. This type of luminescence is known as “cold light”. It does not produce heat and can only be seen during night observation, otherwise the light is too weak.
In addition to dazzling night shows and unusual beauty of nature, the surrounding waters also contain a lot of colorful fishes and other marine organisms, which makes them a popular place among divers. With its beautiful nature, the Luminous Lagoon is a great example of one of the many wonders of Jamaica.
Visitors who admired the breathtaking show of the lagoon, commented on how it is “to immerse themselves in another world” and how they were “hypnotized” with his stunning views. In short, the luminous lagoon is a place that you need to see if you want to experience unique attractions in Jamaica .
Falmouth Tours – Luminous Lagoon, Jamaica
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Those who want to experience this wonderful and unearthly view can take part in one of the many available boat tours. Most boat excursions offer the same travel plan. First a short boat trip, and then entering the water to feel and see this miracle with your own eyes.
Most of the boat’s captains encourage their guests to gently move in the water to see the magical bioluminescence after a while. When the microorganisms wake up, and the whole bay is illuminated with a blue glow. We can compare the view to thousands of small stars flickering under water.
For those who want to have an unforgettable night, the luminous lagoon provides an evening other than all. Thanks to its captivating beauty, this miracle is one of the many natural attractions of Jamaica. Those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the silence and calmness of Falmouth can do it in a magical place such as the luminous lagoon in Jamaica.
How long is the Luminous Lagoon tour?
Organized tours to the Luminous Lagoon in Jamaica last about 2-4 hours. They are not suitable to the disabled. You can book them among others on the Get Your Guide website. The excursion starts around 5:00 pm, so it’s still a bit too early to see bioluminescence.
Initially, our bus stopped by a souvenir shop, where we could try a local rum and a Jamaican cake with rum. Then we went to the large bar next to the Luminous Lagoon, where we received a welcome drink – Rum Punch.
At the bar, time flew very quickly with a DJ, playing songs such as “Who Knows” performed by a reggae singer – Protoje and many other Jamaican hits. We spent about an hour before the sky got dark and our numbers were read to go to the port. The atmosphere there was really nice, and after returning from the lagoon we could also watch a fire show.
What to take with you on a Luminous Lagoon tour?
Are you planning to visit the Luminous Lagoon in Jamaica? It is famous as one of the most beautiful experiences in the Caribbean – but what should you take with you to make this trip as pleasant as possible?
Swimsuit and towel
The most important things to take with you are a swimsuit and a towel. Then you should think about items such as travel camera. After all, the Luminous Lagoon offers a breathtaking view filled with microorganisms that shine when the water is disturbed. You will certainly want to capture the beauty of this natural phenomenon during a Falmouth excursion.
Mobile phone for taking photos
Unfortunately, waterproof cameras are not suitable for taking clear photos and recording movies in the water when it is dark. It is worth taking a phone with you that will allow you to take shots from the boat.
When going to a Luminous Lagoon with friends, ask them to take a photo when they are still on the boat. You will get the best shots by entering the water first because after a long swim, the blue shade weakens. The water mule is mixed in the lagoon by tourists, which makes the visibility of this amazing phenomenon decrease.
It is also possible to buy professional photos taken by tour organizers. However, during our visit, four boats left the port with only two photographers. So, there is no guarantee of getting photos , because each of the boats is going into a different part of the lagoon. It is worth buying a good travel camera before going to Jamaica.
Woodproof bag and mosquito repellent
Take a waterproof bag in which you can safely store your things with you. In addition, a mosquito repellent is also a good item to have. Before getting on a boat, tourists are waiting in the bar located by the lagoon, where mosquitoes may appear in the evening.
Water shoes
Finally, take a good water shoes. Although the shallow areas of the lagoon have a muddy surface and you will not be able to stand on its bottom, water shoes will ensure a comfort when descending to the water from the ladder of a boat. Visiting a luminous lagoon is an unbelievable experience, and being prepared is a good way to have the best of your time.
It is worth taking extra clothes with you, because after swimming you can change them in one of the bar toilets. The temperature in the evening is lower, but you will not need extra layers when you get out of the water.
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