Providenciales Glowworm Cruises
The Turks and Caicos Islands is full of unique attractions and sights, and one such spectacle that many visitors rarely hear about is the glowworm display. Glowworms are tiny marine worms that inhabit many of the shallow and sheltered bays, channels, and mangrove wetlands around the islands. For about 20 minutes in the evening on the third, fourth, and fifth day after a full moon, these interesting bioluminescent creatures put on a beautiful and fascinating display.
For most of their lives, glowworms live on the ocean floor, yet swim up to the surface for the mating event that results in green glimmers. The phenomenon is caused when a fluorescent photoprotein is released by the female worms with their egg mass.
The easiest way for visitors to see glowworms is to take a cruise or charter led by a knowledgeable captain. There are several companies to choose from, with both public and private tours available.
When to See Glowworms
Typically, glowworm displays occur three, four, and five days after a full moon, with the best time to see them being 55 minutes after sunset on an ebbing tide. As such, glowworm charters are only offered two or three consecutive days per month.
Where to See Glowworms
Glowworms can be seen almost anywhere in the ocean around the Turks and Caicos, yet the best sightings tend to be in specific locations and conditions. Often, the best place to see them is in channel systems near wetlands and shallow banks, such as at sections of Leeward Going Through Channel adjacent to the Caicos Banks.
Another great spot can be the primary channel at Mangrove Cay, which is a very popular daytime paddleboard and kayak eco-tour destination. Although not a common activity, an evening glowworm paddle via stand-up paddleboard or clear bottom kayak can be very rewarding.
At certain locations near sheltered bays and wetlands, it may be possible to see glowworms from shore. However, sightings are not as predictable as those from a good charter. Decent locations for spotting glowworms include Heaving Down Rock, the sheltered bay at West Harbour Bluff, Old Grace Cove at Long Bay Beach, and even Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay at times.
Glowworms are not the only bioluminescent animals in the water and on the reefs in the Turks and Caicos. Night snorkeling during the right conditions can be an amazing experience, as various creatures can glow at times and an even wider collection of marine animals reflect unexpected colors when directly exposed to light.
Turks and Caicos Glowworm Cruises
Several boat charter companies on Providenciales offer glowworm excursions. There are both private charters and public excursions to choose from aboard vessels ranging from small boats and day yachts to large sailboats.
Glowworm and sunset cruises often include complimentary refreshments and snacks, usually with the quintessential rum punch, local beer, and soft drinks. Private charters typically have food and drinks catered to customers’ wishes.
It’s important to be aware that glowworm sightings are never guaranteed. Location, weather, wind, tide, and lunar conditions all play a major part in the display, and not all captains have the knowledge and experience to be at the right place at the right time.
Sunset Cruises
Glowworm displays are only possible for a few days per month, and many visitors to Turks and Caicos won’t have the opportunity to see them. A relaxing alternative is a sunset cruise or charter, and there’s a great collection of charter companies to choose from, with both private and public options and a full range of vessel types.
Glowworm Tours
