Belize City Cruises

Discover Belize City, Belize: The Heart of the Caribbean

Belize City, the vibrant capital of Belize, offers a unique blend of cultural richness, historical sites, and breathtaking natural beauty. Visiting Belize City on a cruise is a fantastic opportunity to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and colourful culture. Fun fact: Belize City is situated near the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts!

Activities and Attractions in Belize City, Belize

When your cruise ship docks in Belize City, you can look forward to a range of exciting activities:

• Explore the Belize Museum: Delve into the history and culture of Belize at this informative museum, showcasing a collection of historical artifacts, art, and exhibits that highlight the country’s rich heritage.
• Visit the ancient ruins of Altun Ha: Take a day trip to these impressive Mayan ruins, located just a short drive from the city. Explore the temples and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient civilization.
• Go snorkeling or diving in the barrier reef: Take advantage of Belize’s stunning underwater world with a snorkeling or diving excursion right from the port. Contact local operators for guided tours to the nearby reef and enjoy the vibrant marine life.
• Discover the famous black howler monkeys at the Belize Zoo: Although a bit outside the city, a visit to the Belize Zoo is worthwhile. This unique zoo focuses on local wildlife and provides opportunities to see animals native to Belize up close.
• Relax at a local beach: Spend some time unwinding at nearby beaches, such as Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye. Enjoy the sun, sample some delicious local seafood, and soak up the Caribbean vibe.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Itinerary

As you cruise to Belize City, consider stopping by these nearby harbours:

• Cozumel, Mexico: A well-known cruise destination, Cozumel offers stunning beaches and world-class diving sites. After docking, explore the town, discover local shops, and enjoy some authentic Mexican cuisine.
• Costa Maya, Mexico: A popular port for cruise ships, Costa Maya features beautiful beaches and vibrant local culture. Take the opportunity to explore Mayan ruins or relax at one of the beach clubs.
• Roatan, Honduras: Roatan is known for its incredible coral reefs and warm waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Enjoy beautiful beaches, vibrant marine life, and local shops offering handcrafted souvenirs.
• Fort Lauderdale (Florida), United States: A major cruise hub, Fort Lauderdale is surrounded by beautiful beaches and waterways. Visitors can explore the vibrant Las Olas Boulevard before or after their cruise.
• Mahogany Bay (Roatan), Honduras: A private cruise destination, Mahogany Bay offers beautiful beaches and an array of activities including ziplining and nature trails. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere.

Regions to Explore While Visiting Belize City, Belize

A cruise journey to Belize City opens doors to various captivating regions:

• Central America: Known for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity, Central America features countries like Costa Rica and Panama, offering rich cultural experiences and incredible wildlife.
• Caribbean: The Caribbean is renowned for its idyllic islands, pristine beaches, and vibrant cultures. Explore destinations like Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico, each offering unique experiences.
• South America: This continent is filled with rich history, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant cultures. Explore popular countries such as Colombia, Brazil, and Peru, offering unforgettable adventures and experiences.
• USA West Coast: The West Coast of the United States features stunning cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, each with a unique identity and vibrant attractions ranging from beaches to urban experiences.
• Mediterranean Sea: The Mediterranean region boasts rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Explore iconic destinations like Greece, Italy, and Spain, offering diverse cultural experiences.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Belize City, Belize

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features Regal Princess and Star Princess on itineraries to Belize City, often departing from Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral. Known for their exceptional onboard experiences and comprehensive shore excursions, Princess Cruises provides cruisers with a taste of local culture and adventure.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: Operating a fleet of 27 ships, Carnival Cruise Lines includes Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle among those visiting Belize City, departing often from Galveston or Tampa. Known for their fun atmosphere and numerous onboard activities, Carnival offers a lively cruising experience for families and friends.
• Royal Caribbean: With a fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean features Rhapsody of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas on itineraries to Belize City, regularly departing from Tampa or Galveston. Royal Caribbean is renowned for its innovative ships and a wide variety of entertainment options, ensuring a memorable trip for guests.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet size of 12, Holland America Line includes Eurodam and Koningsdam on itineraries to Belize City, primarily departing from Fort Lauderdale. Famous for their immersive cultural experiences and culinary offerings, Holland America provides enriching excursions to explore the local scenes.
• Cunard: Operating a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard features Queen Elizabeth on itineraries to Belize City, with departures often from Miami. Known for their elegant onboard experience, Cunard offers a luxurious cruising experience complete with exquisite dining and refined service.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines Visiting Belize City

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania Cruises features Insignia and Allura, visiting Belize City primarily from Miami or Tampa. Oceania is celebrated for its focus on culinary excellence and destination immersion, offering unique excursions and exceptional dining experiences onboard.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet size of 2, Explora Journeys features EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II visiting Belize City, often departing from Miami or San Juan. Known for their luxurious atmosphere and tailored experiences, Explora Journeys provides an intimate cruising experience that caters to discerning travellers.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Operating a fleet of 6 ships, Regent focuses on luxury with Seven Seas Grandeur visiting Belize City, primarily departing from Miami or Civitavecchia (Rome). Known for their all-inclusive packages and exceptional service, Regent offers a premium cruising experience with gourmet dining and personalized itineraries.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11, Viking Ocean Cruises features Viking Mars, departing from Fort Lauderdale or Fuerte Amador. Viking is well-known for their culturally enriching itineraries and destination-focused experiences, aiming to provide guests with meaningful travel memories.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 13, Silversea includes Silver Moon on itineraries to Belize City, often departing from Cartagena. Offering ultra-luxury experiences tailored to each guest, Silversea focuses on personalized service and exclusive access to unique destinations.

Visiting Belize City, Belize Throughout the Year

The seasonal changes can enhance your visit to Belize City. Here’s what to expect:

• Summer (June, July, August): Temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C, with occasional rain showers. It’s a great time to enjoy beach activities and explore the nearby natural attractions.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Temperatures drop slightly to 22°C to 30°C. Early autumn can still be humid, but it’s an excellent time for outdoor excursions and fewer crowds.
• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C, making it one of the best times for pleasant weather and ideal conditions for outdoor exploration.
• Spring (March, April, May): Temperatures rise again, ranging from 22°C to 30°C. Spring is a lovely time to visit, with blooming flora and festive events taking place throughout the city.

Frequently Asked Questions about Belize City, Belize

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

Cruises to Belize City generally range from $1,200 to $2,600 for a one-week itinerary, while luxury cruises may start around $4,800 depending on accommodations and cruise line.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $15 to $50 for casual meals, while fine dining experiences may exceed $80 per person.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Belize City offers a diverse culinary scene with delicious local dishes such as rice and beans, and fresh seafood. Explore local markets for unique crafts and souvenirs, or visit restaurants for authentic Belizean cuisine.

What are transportation options?

Once docked, taxis and shuttle services are available for easy access around Belize City. Many attractions are within walking distance, and local buses can also be used for nearby destinations.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Belize dollar (BZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash for small purchases, especially at local markets, can be useful.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Belize City is generally safe for tourists; however, it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Drink bottled water and be cautious about street food hygiene.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The official language is English, but Spanish and Creole are also widely spoken. Locals are friendly and welcoming, so don’t hesitate to ask for help or directions.

Excited to explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Belize City? Book your unforgettable cruise holiday through CruiseAway today and immerse yourself in the beauty of this Caribbean gem!