Discovering the glowing waters of Mosquito Bay in Puerto Rico.

What is Mosquito Bay?
The brightest bioluminescent bay in the world is none other but Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico.

The natural phenomenon was certified by the Guinness World Records in 2006. The light of the bay is caused by tiny organisms known as dinoflagellates (Pyrodinium bahamense), which glow in reaction to disturbance.

This results in a wonderful neon blue shimmer in the water, particularly visible on dark moonless nights.

Why Does It Glow?
Due to the dinoflagellates, Mosquito Bay glows noctilucus. This light is produced by single-celled organisms whenever they are disturbed, through actions like getting agitated by movement in the water.

The best condition present inside the bay, shallowness, narrow opening, and established richness of mangrove greenery all favour success for these organisms inside the bay.

How to Experience It:

Best Time: The glow is best seen during new moons or nights with little to no moonlight.

Tours: Kayak tours are available to the bay; glass-bottom kayaks are sometimes included in the tours for a unique experience.

Conservation: Swimming in the bay is generally discouraged, in order to protect this fragile ecosystem.

Critch & TC

Sources:

Experience the Magic of Mosquito Bay…The Brightest Bioluminescent Bay in the World | Vieques

Guide to Exploring Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bays