Snorkeling is super popular in Curaçao, and one of the reasons is the diversity of the sea life here. I often hear people say “I just saw a sea snake out there.” Well, they didn’t. There actually aren’t any sea snakes in Curaçao. There are, however many types of eels.

Our Friends at Turtle&Ray Productions have again graciously provided us with some excellent info on the difference between eels and sea snakes, and provided amazing pics of some of the species you’ll see in the waters of Curaçao:

At first glance, moray eels and sea snakes might seem like close cousins in the underwater world. Their elongated bodies and stealthy movements often lead to confusion, especially among casual divers and beachgoers. But beneath the surface, these creatures are worlds apart—literally and biologically.
Eels are fish. Sea snakes are reptiles. That simple distinction opens up a cascade of differences in anatomy, behavior, and ecological roles.

Why the Confusion?
The confusion often stems from their similar body shapes and shared habitats. Both are masters of camouflage and stealth, lurking in coral reefs or rocky outcrops. But while morays rely on their powerful jaws and ambush tactics, sea snakes use venom to subdue prey. To add to this confusion, Curaçao also has some species of snake eels, which again, are eels and not snakes! This includes the Gold Spotted Eel and the Sharptail Eel (pictures below).

Can we see Sea Snakes in Curaçao?
No! Sea snakes are primarily found in the warm coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, especially in tropical regions.
In the waters around Curaçao, you can encounter a fascinating variety of eel species.
These eels are commonly spotted by divers and snorkelers exploring the island’s vibrant coral reefs. Here are some of the notable species:

• Green Moray Eel (Gymnothorax funebris)** Large and unmistakable, often seen poking out of reef crevices.
• Spotted Moray Eel (Gymnothorax moringa)** Recognizable by its white body covered in dark spots.
• Goldentail Moray Eel (Gymnothorax miliaris)** Smaller, with a golden-yellow tail and speckled body.
• Chain Moray Eel (Echidna catenata)** Features a striking chain-like pattern across its body.
• Chestnut Moray Eel (Enchelycore carychroa)** A rarer species with reddish-brown coloration. (no picture available)
• Purplemouth Moray Eel (Gymnothorax vicinus)** Named for its purplish mouth interior, often seen in deeper reefs.
• Viper Moray Eel (Enchelycore nigricans)** Sleek and dark, with sharp teeth and a more aggressive appearance. (no picture available)

Here are a couple of other great info pieces that Turtle&Ray have created for us:
C4C Fish-tionary: A Quick Guide to some of Curaçao’s Most Commonly Seen Sea Life
Taking Great Underwater Pictures with Basic Gear

Turtle & Ray Productions is Curaçao’s leading underwater media production company. Contact them to book your underwater photography course, photoshoot and more!

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