to a well-worn speech seems fair. And so sitting on the beach with barely a few companions, I was almost shocked when I saw 23 day-cruisers "invade" my island. (I had already begun to feel protective about it, after having been there for only half an hour!) They all came off their boat, found themselves places to soak in the sun, and then disappeared into the water for the island´s main activity - snorkelling. Compared to the mainland beaches, the water on Deer Island is much clearer and calmer. The waves are more like ripples than anything else, due to the location of the beach. When I went, there was a fair amount of wind, which limited the underwater visibility, but I was told by an American couple that the visibility can be incredible, up to forty of fifty feet. On a previous visit to the island, the couple had been very fortuanate to snorkel into a group of placid stingrays; there were approximately fifty of them gliding, hovering and swooping. The serenity and peacefulness of the image of swimming amongst stingrays was powerful enough to persuade me to go snorkelling on the island. There are also many different types of fish and some coral, easily accessible towards the north section of the island, also said to be worth seeing. The afternoons on the islands are "periods of exertion," a very relative term. José enjoys his volleyball, and is adept at persuading the different people to play, encouraging them vociferously: "Come on, don´t be shy... But don't be upset if you lose!" Unsurprisingly, Jose´s volleyball is full of confidence and skill, and can make an hour in the afternoon pass very quickly. The afternoons are also visiting time. Given the proximity to the mainland beach, many people make their own way across to the island: the energetic by kayak, the more distinguished by catamaran, while the downright brave swim across. The result is an eclectic group of people, many using the island as the afternoon's breaking point to get a cold beer. All, however, enjoy the island's seclusion and tranquility, trying to escape for a moment from "regular life" in Mazatlán. The trip to Deer Island is one that comes highly recommended, albeit with a little hesitation. I can't but help feel that that the less people go, the better.My advice, therefore, would be to go now, before the island develops and has a booming commercial enterprise, such as a shop or a telephone. For now, however, the island is an isolated beach of escapism, perfect for a relaxing, secluded afternoon's snorkelling, or time spent indulging in a book. However you look at it, time spent on Deer Island is time well spent.