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Here, you can relax on pristine white-sand beaches, go snorkeling or diving in the turquoise waters, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the charming streets filled with colorful shops and restaurants. Imagine floating on a tube along an underground river, surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. Cave tubing in Belize offers a one-of-a-kind mix of leisure and thrill-seeking, providing an experience you won’t easily forget. Cruise passengers can easily book this excursion through their cruise line or local tour operators at Belize City Cruise Port.
Verdant jungles, Mayan history and amazing marine life – an expert guide to Belize
Royal Caribbean makes deal with Port of Magical Belize - Amandala
Royal Caribbean makes deal with Port of Magical Belize.
Posted: Sat, 03 Dec 2022 08:00:00 GMT [source]
The Belize Cruise Port Guide offers cruise ship travelers a fantastic destination. With its clean and well-maintained port, visitors can easily access gift shops, restaurants, and tour operators in Fort Street Tourism Village. Diving enthusiasts are drawn to the iconic Great Blue Hole, a massive underwater sinkhole that offers a unique deep-sea experience. For those interested in snorkeling, the crystal-clear waters of the Belizean cayes provide numerous spots where one can easily observe an array of marine life among the shallow reefs. Both activities allow intimate encounters with vibrant sea creatures, where divers and snorkelers can float amongst exotic fish, sea turtles, and stingrays.
How to explore Belize for cruise passengers
With its prime location and numerous amenities, it sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure in this tropical paradise. The Cruise Port of Belize, officially known as the Fort Street Tourism Village, is the main gateway for cruise ship passengers visiting Belize. It is located in Belize City, the country’s largest urban center and former capital. Rent-a-car offices are available, but be aware that local roads are in poor condition. Cruise port's closest international airport is in Ladyville (approx 10 mi / 16 km away). Starfish Island (formerly known as Bannister’s Island) is often offered as a shore excursion as it’s within a 20-minute boat ride from the cruise port of Belize.
On land outdoors activities and thrilling pursuits
International flights arrive and depart from Philip Goldson International Airport, which lies 10.5 miles north-west of Belize City, just off the Philip Goldson Highway. San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi offers a professional water-taxi service to Caye Caulker and San Pedro, with handy, regular daily departures from Belize's Tourism Village. I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. If you find yourself strolling through Fort Street Tourism Village, there are several eateries offering these delicious dishes.
It's easy to while away the day at The Split, the car-free isle’s main beach, listening to reggae beats blasting from the adjacent Lazy Lizard Bar and snorkelling over dazzling rainbow-hued reefs. For all that, nothing on the mainland can match what Caye Caulker – one of the loveliest, friendliest isles in central America – has to offer. Cruise lines that call at Belize City cruise port include Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises.
Best Times to Visit Belize Cruise Port
From here, you can explore the city’s historic sites, museums, and local markets. Additionally, there are numerous tour operators available at the port, offering excursions to popular attractions across the country. Due to the shallow waters of the harbour, cruise ships drop anchor a few miles outside and passengers are taken ashore in speedy tenders in around 20 minutes. With its attractions and natural wonders, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Explore the world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities at the Mesoamerican Reef and the famous Blue Hole. Explore the stunning islands and barrier reefs surrounding the cruise port for a day filled with snorkeling and diving adventures.
Port Guide: Belize City
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed dining experience as they soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the cruise port. Belize's lush landscapes offer wildlife and nature excursions ideal for those wishing to connect with the natural environment. Eco-tours might include jungle treks, bird watching, or visits to wildlife sanctuaries where one can witness the region's diverse fauna in its natural habitat. Belize is home to several significant Mayan archaeological sites, providing fascinating tours for history buffs.
City's newest attraction is the Museum of Belize, located close to the US Embassy and housed in a former prison. You can explore the Belizean history for 362 years and the Maya legacy for 3000 years. An interesting place to visit is the small music shop where you can buy Belizean and Caribbean CDs and cassettes.
The bridge is old and it is the only swing bridge operated manually that is still in function. Another top-rated snorkeling and diving location is a 124-meter-deep Great Blue Hole, a deep blue circular sinkhole located on the Lighthouse Reef atoll. Although Belmopan is the country's capital, Belize City is the largest city with a population of around 110,000. Belize City is located in the eponymous district, on the East coast of the country bathed by the Caribbean Sea. Engaging with the local communities is another way to gain a deeper understanding of Belizean culture. Visit the small villages and towns, meet the friendly locals, and learn about their traditional crafts, like weaving traditional textiles or creating intricate baskets.
She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall. Belizeans take pride in their cultural celebrations, which are rich and joyous occasions deeply woven into the societal fabric. Celebrity Cruises visitors can expect to witness a spectrum of festivities showcasing a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. These celebrations often feature colorful parades, traditional dancing, and eclectic music, giving guests a spirited insight into the heart of Belize's culture.
Passengers will arrive at the cruise terminal and the Belize City Cruise Village, which offers the most convenient shopping and dining. Belize makes a fantastic stopover with many opportunities you shouldn’t miss, from exploring Mayan ruins to diving into a gaping hole in the ocean. But whether you choose to spend time at the beach or in a museum, Belize is sure not to disappoint. Several major cruise lines stop in Belize, and rumor has many more are planning to do so in the future. Some cruises even have private cayes for guests to enjoy the Belizean culture and beach stress-free. Restaurants and coffee shops offer local specialties, like Moho Chocolate Factory.
It is more than just a docking point for cruise ships; it’s got gift shops, restaurants, and tour operators, making it an adventure of its own. Visitors to Belize Cruise Port can embark on a variety of excursions ranging from explorations of ancient Mayan ruins to engaging in exhilarating beach and water activities. Wildlife and nature lovers have their choice of unique experiences, while those interested in culture and history can immerse themselves in the rich local heritage. Belize Cruise Port serves as a gateway to the diverse attractions and natural beauty of Central America's only English-speaking country, Belize.
The 9th of March is a national holiday in Belize and commemorates the death of Baron Bliss. There are lots of attractive options for cruise visitors looking forward to relaxing on a secluded beach and genuinely enjoy watersports. From beachcombing to thrilling water sports, Belize offers a multitude of opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean Sea. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the beaches and water sports of Belize are sure to create unforgettable moments during your visit. Belize offers a variety of transportation options tailored for all kinds of travelers.
The annual September celebrations offer an excellent opportunity to witness colorful parades, lively music, and traditional dances that celebrate Belizean culture. Throughout Belize, you’ll also find local artisans selling their handmade crafts and artwork. Look out for traditional Mayan textiles, colorful paintings, intricate wood carvings, and beaded jewelry. These unique and authentic creations make for meaningful souvenirs and reminders of your time in Belize. If you’re interested in rural handmade products, make a stop at the Orange Walk District, where you can find locally produced honey and sugarcane products.
If you arrive on a Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises or Regent Seven Seas Cruises ship, you'll head to Harvest Caye, the cruise line's private port in Belize. Harvest Caye features a pretty lagoon and large beach with loungers, cabanas and villas to rent. You also can enjoy the zipline, ropes course and four bars -- including one with a swim-up bar. When arriving by big cruise ship, you will take a tender for about 15 minutes to reach the shore at Belize's Fort Street Tourism Village, a built-up open-air mall with shops, restaurants and entertainment. If you’re looking for more detailed information about the Belize City cruise port, including terminal facilities and port regulations, visit the official website of the Port Authority of Belize. Alongside these retail spots, restaurants offer a taste of local cuisine that will excite food lovers searching for authentic experiences.
The Belize Cruise Port is strategically positioned to allow easy access to some of the country’s most popular attractions. From the port, you can embark on excursions to the stunning Belize Barrier Reef, explore ancient Mayan ruins, go cave tubing in underground rivers, or simply relax on beautiful sandy beaches. Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island and a top-rated destination renowned for its picture-perfect turquoise waters and water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing.
