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There are plenty of reasons why a cruise to Belize should top your travel bucket list. A tropical paradise that promises adventure, both onshore and off? You better Belize it! Crystalline rivers flow through impressive lowland jungles, home to wildlife of various stripes. (And various spots.) Silky-sand beaches, waving palms and colorful coral gardens are just part of Belize’s natural wonders. And they’re all yours to explore when you take a cruise to Belize, where surprises await around every corner, including underwater. Whether mountain biking through a lush rainforest or snorkeling with the marine life, you’ll experience things you can only imagine… that is, if you haven’t tried a Belize vacation yet.

• The Cayo District is where you’ll find an impressive system of underground rivers and caves.
• Go exploring, old-school-style, with local ancient ruins Cahal Pech, Altun Ha, or Xuananunich.
• Enjoy snorkeling on this hemisphere’s largest barrier reef.

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Belize City (Belize) Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)

Everything you must-know about Belize City cruise port including anchoring and tender boats; what's at cruise terminal; things to do, shore excursions; how to explore on your own; sightseein; dining; shopping, and more ...

By: Editor-in-Chief | Updated: May 28, 2023

The cruise port of Belize City (in the country of Belize) has a good number of world-class attractions like the Mayan archeological sites of Xunantunich , Altun Ha , or Lamanai . And there are also lots of wildlife adventures to enjoy both in the ocean and in the lush tropical forest.

Although, all these attractions are located between 33 miles (53 km) and 78 miles (126 km) from the cruise terminal, cruise passengers will not find much to see or do near the port besides exploring the cruise terminal known as Fort Street Tourism Village .

Belize City , the country's largest urban center has a few interesting landmarks and is just around the corner from the cruise terminal but is not particularly appealing (nor safe) to explore on your own.

• Where is Belize City port
• Anchoring and tender
• Shuttle bus
• To see and do in Belize
• Top highlights of Belize
• What's within walking distance
• How to explore Belize City port
• Shore excursions (Shorex)
• Discover on your own
• Sightseeing
• How to get around
• Local cuisine, drinks, and lunch
• Shops and shopping
• Must-know: tourist info, language, currency, wi-fi and more
• Safety, emergencies, and basics

The cruise port of Belize City on Fort Street Tourism Village possesses an appealing atmosphere, the area is clean and well maintained. However, Belize City itself is known for not being particularly safe.

The local population typically tends to be friendly, polite, and speak English very well. For those cruising with families, there is a lot do. Cruise passengers with disabilities or with walking difficulties may find it a bit challenging to wander around in on your own.

Where is Belize and the cruise port

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.

The cruise port is 191.67 nautical miles (354.97 km) south of Cozumel cruise port, 118.25 nautical miles (219 km) northwest of Roatan and 407.21 nautical miles (754.15 km) west of Grand Cayman.

Anchoring and tender boats in Belize City port

Cruise ships do not dock in Belize City port. Because the Caribbean Sea waters are too shallow by the port, cruise ships anchor around 2 miles from the coast and large boats operated by local authorities transfer passengers to the Fort Street Tourism Village .

The tender operation typically takes around 20 minutes. The cruise terminal is a secluded (and safe) area just a stone’s throw away from the historic center of Belize City.

Belize City cruise port map

Cruise Terminal and services

Cruise travelers will find in the terminal building all basic services and modern amenities, many typical shops found all over the Caribbean and a few restaurants.

Shuttle bus in Belize

Due to the proximity of the cruise terminal to Belize City and because there isn't much to see downtown, the port does not operate a shuttle bus.

Things to do in Belize City cruise port

The port of Belize City is a stunning port for cruise travelers interested in Mayan archeologic sites, for those who appreciate breathtaking scenic sights, magnificent natural wonders, wildlife parks, zoos, or bird watching. There are lots of attractive options for cruise visitors looking forward to relaxing on a secluded beach and genuinely enjoy watersports.

Belize offers great outdoor activities both onland and in the Ocean some of which are ideal for those cruising with families including thrilling pursuits for the most adventurous.

In the Belize City cruise port, you can also savor local flavors and cuisine and shop for duty-free jewelry and watches. Once again, it must be emphasized that Belize City is far from ideal for cruise passengers that enjoy exploring cruise ports on your own and/or on foot.

Top attractions, sights and highlights

Here are the top things to do and see in the port of Belize City for cruise passengers selected by type of specific activity.

Archeology and cultural: Mayan ruins and Belize City

• Altun Ha Mayan Temple Distance from cruise port:  32.9 miles (53 km).
• Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Distance from cruise port:  77.8 miles (125 km)..
• Lamanai Mayan Ruins Distance from cruise port:  78.1 miles (126 km).
• Belize City Distance from cruise port:  within walking distance but better on a sightseeing tour..

Wildlife encounters

cruise visitors should be aware that most of the following sites can only be visited on shore excursions either booked onboard or with online tour services.

• Belize Zoo Distance from cruise port:  29.8 miles (48 km).
• Little Guana Caye Bird Sanctuary Distance from cruise port:  41 miles (66 km) by ferry.
• Community Baboon Sanctuary Distance from cruise port:  27.2 miles (43.8 km) in Bermuda Landing village.
• Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary Distance from cruise port:  49.3 miles (101 km).
• Manatee Watching Distance from cruise port:  23 miles (37 km) around 45 minutes by water taxi.

On land outdoors activities and thrilling pursuits

Cave tubing and cave kayaking are two active pursuits that are unique to Belize. But you can also experience thrilling adventures such as horseback riding, riverboat and airboat tours, hiking, trekking, biking, buggy, and jeep tours. And, of course, ziplining.

There are a few great places to enjoy these activities, although most can only be experienced on a shore excursion. The following are some of the best close to the cruise terminal:

• Bacab Eco Park Distance from cruise port:  5.7 miles (25.3 km)
• Crystal Caves - Blue Hole National Park Distance from cruise port:  62.1 miles (100 km).
• Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Distance from cruise port:  43.4 miles (69.8 km).
• Jaguar Paw Distance from cruise port:  80.7 km).

Mesoamerica Reef Ocean adventures and activities

The Mesoamerican Reef is the second largest on the planet and a stunning place for cruise passengers to snorkel, scuba dive, or fishing. You may also have guided encounters with sharks, rays, and sea turtles. For those that enjoy secluded beaches, Belize is a stunning cruise destination.

• Ambergris Caye and San Pedro Distance from cruise port:  28.18 nautical miles (52.18 km).
• Caye Caulker Distance from cruise port:  17.8 miles nautical (32.97 km).
• Beaches and Islands Bannister Island, Starfish Island, Goff's Caye Island.
• Great Blue Hole This natural wonder is too far from the Belize City cruise port and can only be seen on a helicopter tour.

What's within walking distance and nearby

As mentioned at the beginning of this port review, Belize City is not particularly appealing to explore on your own. In reality, many cruise travelers feel intimidated when walking around the city.

This said, if you do not have such a legitimate concern, keep in mind that the tender boats dock at the Fort Street Tourism Village , which is right by Belize City downtown. However, two of the most interesting landmarks in Belize City are on distinct sides of the river and not so close to the exit gates of the cruise terminal.

• Museum of Belize Distance from cruise port:  0.9 mile (1.7 km) north bank of the river.
• St John Cathedral Distance from cruise port:  (1.8 km) south bank, across the Swing Bridge.

How to explore Belize for cruise passengers

Unless you earnestly wish to explore a couple of historic landmarks in Belize City on foot, almost all highlights and principal attractions in the cruise port require traveling between 15 and 80 miles. Therefore, the best way for cruise visitors to explore, discover, and enjoy Belize is with Shore Excursions. The only exceptions are Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker , which can be reached by water taxi. More about this in the following paragraphs.

Shore excursions (shorex)

All cruise lines offer anything between 10 and 30 shore excursions to all notable highlights of Belize cruise port. Norwegian Cruise Line doesn't call at Belize as it has invested on its own private island in Harvest Caye. But Carnival lists 18 cruise excursions .

Celebrity Cruises offer as many 14 shore explorations , and Princess has available 16 cruise excursions in Belize City cruise port cruise port.

The upper-premium cruise lines like Oceania visit Belize City cruise port cruise port on a few itineraries. Oceania Cruises organizes 9 shore excursions in Belize City cruise port.

Most luxury cruise lines include shore excursions with the cruise fare. However, Silversea is the only luxury cruise line calling at Belize City and offering 10 cruise excursions .

The large Italian fleet of MSC also calls at Belize cruise port offering 21 cruise excursions .

There are also many delightful excursions offered by reputable private online services. The following offer shore excursions in Belize:

• Shore Trips
• Shore Excursions Group
• Shore Excursioneer
• Venture Ashore
• Tours by Locals

Explore on your own

Very few sites, attractions, and highlights can be adequately explored on your own in Belize for the simple fact that public transportation is far from good. There are a few car rentals available but once you drive to sites, it is not easy to explore these without guides. More about car rentals in the following paragraphs. The only good and advisable service for cruise passengers is the San Pedro Water Taxi, which runs regular ferries between Belize City and Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.

These modern water taxis depart from a pier which is less than a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal. In 2020, the return ticket to San Pedro (on Ambergris Caye) costs $30.00 and to Caye Calker US$50.00. For updated schedule, tickets and online booking see: Belize Water Taxi

Sightseeing in Belize City cruise port

cruise visitors that enjoy sightseeing will find a couple of interesting services touring Belize City with stops in the most notable landmarks such as the Museum of Belize, the Liberty Hall, the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, or the St. John's Anglican Cathedral. These sightseeing services can be booked as a shore excursion.

• Calypso Train Tour: check the Facebook page of the Calypso Train Tour for more information.
• Horse-Drawn Carriage and Trolley: Check the Facebook page of the Horse-Drawn Carriage and Trolley for more information.

How to get around and transportation in Belize City cruise port

As mentioned already, public transportation in Belize is far from acceptable. Renting a car is really the only option to travel around the country. The following car rentals can be booked online and are within walking distance of the cruise terminal.

• Cars Belize

Local cuisine and drinks, quick bites and lunch in Belize City port

Cruise passengers that take pleasure in tasting local delicacies will be glad to discover in the Belize City port quite a few pleasant places to savor lunch, a light meal, a refreshing drink, a delicious snack, or even an ice-cream.

Cruisers may like to try regional specialties like Chicken Stew served with rice and beans and fried plantains; Bile Up (eggs, fish, cassava, plantains, yams, and sweet potatoes, boiled on a tomato sauce); Hudut (fish soup cooked on coconut milk); conch fritters, fried maize or tortillas.

In a country with a fertile tropical forest, fresh fruit is a must: passion fruit, starfruit, jackfruit, dragon fruit, guava, papaya, mango, and pineapples are out of this world.

Generally speaking, eating and drinking in Belize City cruise terminal is relatively affordable. Like most countries in the Caribbean, Belize also has some signature drinks like Belikin Beer, One Barrel Rum, used to mix with cranberry juice to get Cranbarrel, Caribbean Coconut, and Caribbean Gold Rum.

In the historical center of Belize City, within walking distance there are a few places like the Smoky Mermaid and the elegant restaurants and grills of the Radisson Fort George Hotel (St. George's, Stonegrill, Baymen's Tavern and Le Petit Café).

If you do not wish to venture outside the cruise terminal, there is a good number of restaurants, grills, and bars at the Fort Street Tourism Village where you can taste great food and drinks from Belize. The Wet Lizard is arguably the most famous but there are many others. Check Bars in Belize to learn more.

In the Fort Street Tourist Village cruise terminal you will find the following restaurants, bars and coffee shops in alphabetic order:

• Bearded Clam
• Belize Daiquiri
• Better Belize It Bar
• Caribbean Café
• Coconut Bar
• The Green Turtle

Gifts, souvenirs, best shops and shopping

cruise passengers looking for souvenirs from Belize and local gifts will find the best shops at the Fort Street Tourism Village . In fact, there isn't much of interest to buy outside the gated cruise terminal compound unless you travel to San Pedro where there is a larger and more diverse number of shops in Ambergris Caye .

What to buy

The Fort Street Tourism Village cruise terminal boasts around 30 shops selling souvenirs, tobacco, liquors, perfumes, Rum cake, regional chocolate, Caribbean clothing, exotic local crafts, and a few well-known brands like Del Sol or the ubiquitous Diamonds International.

The Jungle Gift Shop is a large store impossible to miss where cruisers find great collections of souvenirs, hats and caps, t-shirts and sweatshirts, swimwear, toys, and clothing for kids, men, and women.

The following shops, ordered alphabetically, are amongst the better known and well-rated by frequent cruisers to Belize:

• Diamonds International
• Duty-free (liquor, tobacco and perfume)
• Harley Davidson
• Moho Chocolate Factory and Gift shop
• Piarana Joe
• Tanzanite International

Must-know: tourist info, language, money, and basics

Tourist info.

The Belize Tourism Board office is located in Belize City across the Swing Bridge on Regent Street, around 0.9 miles (1.4 km) southwest of the cruise port.

English is the official language of Belize. The country only became independent of the United Kingdom in 1981, when it was known as British Honduras. Creole, an English-based dialect, is spoken by 44.6% of the population. Spanish is spoken by 56.6% and Maya by 10.5%.

The Belize dollar is the official currency of Belize and is pegged at BZ$2 = US$1 according to the Central Bank of Belize. However, US dollars are widely accepted in Belize but be aware that you may receive change in the local currency, which is worthless outside the country

There are ATMs in the Fort Street Tourism Village cruise terminal. There are also ATMs in Belize City but you need to look for the ones with the Plus or Cirrus logos. The following banks in Belize City have ATMs: Belize Bank (21 Regent Street and in the Radisson), First Caribbean Bank (21 Albert Street), Scotiabank (4 Albert Street), and Atlantic Bank (Freetown Road).

Exchange bureau

You will not find an Exchange Bureau in the terminal or in Belize City.

Credit and debit cards

Credit and Debit Cards - Visa, MasterCard, and American Express - are widely accepted in most shops and restaurants in the Fort Street Tourism Village cruise terminal and also in some touristic-related services.

Tipping and haggling in Belize

Tipping is not expected in restaurants, cafes, or bars but it is appropriate to tip around 10%. Taxi drivers do not expect tips. Tour guides expect a tip of around 10%. Haggling is not expected in shops with fixed prices (like the ones selling liquor, tobacco, and perfumes). In fact, it is considered rude to haggle if you venture outside the cruise terminal. However, on duty-free shops selling jewelry and watches like Diamonds International haggling is a must.

Keep in touch: phones, wi-fi and Post Office

Wi-fi and internet.

In the Fort Street Tourism Village cruise terminal there is an internet cafe - Click & Sip - and restaurants/bars like the Wet Lizard or the Bearded Clam offer patrons free wi-fi. T-Mobile offers unlimited data at up to 2G speeds at no extra cost.

Belize country code: 501. To call the US or Canada dial 001 prior to the number. To call other countries dial 00 + country code + area code + local number. T-Mobile offers calls at 25 cents/min. and text at no cost. Other US phone providers may work but it is advisable to check with your provider to avoid roaming charges.

Post Office

The main Post Office in Belize City is located on 150 North Front Street, around 0.4 mile (600 meters) northwest of the Fort Street Tourism Village cruise terminal. Check the Belize Postal Service website for more information.

Safety, US travel advisory, and basics

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Belize see the U.S. Department of State website page updated advisory.

Coronavirus advise for cruises to Belize City port

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Belize and the cruise port in Belize City visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in Belize . For more Traveler's Health advice to Belize see the CDC Website .

Health matters and emergencies

There is a pharmacy conveniently located in the Fort Street Tourism Village cruise terminal. In Belize City, you will also find two pharmacies less than 1/2 mile (800 meters) from the port: Popular Pharmacy , on 150 North Front Stree,t and Family Health Pharmacy, on Queen Street.

There are three private hospitals in Belize City, around 2 miles (3.2 km) from the cruise terminal providing, open 24/7 and with well-rated health services: Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (phone: +501 223 1548), Belize Medical Associates (phone: +501 223-0302), and Belize Healthcare Partners (phone: +501 223 7870 )

U.S. Embassy

There is a U.S. Embassy in Belize on Floral Park Road, Belmopan, around 45.1 miles (72.5 km) from Belize City. Emergency services are provided during normal duty hours - Monday to Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Phone from Belize (501) 822-4011. After-hours emergency number: 610-5030.

Belize City basic info at a glance

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Belize Cruise Port Guide | 6 Best Things To Do In Belize Port

Welcome to Belize cruise port!

Belize is a Caribbean country located on the northeastern coast of Central America, bordering Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. Known for its rich Mayan cultural heritage, countless little islands (cayes), and Belize Barrier Reef – the second-longest reef in the world, Belize is a popular stop in the Caribbean cruise itineraries. In this article, read about:

• Belize cruise port (Belize cruise terminal, getting around, helpful info)
• 6 things to do in the cruise port of Belize and best Belize shore excursions

Visit also our cruise guides to Falmouth , Ocho Rios , Montego Bay ,   Cozumel , Roatan

Belize Cruise Port

Belize cruise port is a tender port, which means that ships anchor off the coast of Belize and use tender boats to transfer passengers ashore. The tender ride takes about 15-20 minutes and passengers are transferred to the Fort Street Tourism Village dock , located within a short walk from Belize City – the former capital of Belize.

Once you arrive at the dock, you’ll see a shopping village in front of you with four terminal areas featuring numerous bars and eateries, tour and car rental booths, and dozens of duty-free shops.

The terminal areas are the following: Terminal Area 1 “REEF”, Terminal Area 2 “JAGUAR”, Terminal Area 3 “MAYA”, and Terminal Area 4 “PIRATE”. Make sure you remember which terminal you disembark at because this will be the terminal where you’ll wait for your tender to take you back to your ship. There may be more ships in port, so make sure you get on the right one to avoid delays and inconveniences.

The port area is safe. Upon exiting the port security gates, turn right on Fort St, and after a couple of minutes’ walk you’ll reach the Belize Welcome Sign and an iconic red and white Baron Bliss lighthouse.

However, it is not recommended to venture too far into Belize due to safety reasons. The best way to maximize your stay in Belize is to have an organized plan on what to do once you arrive in port.

Major cruise lines sailing to Belize include Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, and Viking Ocean Cruises .

Getting Around Port of Belize

• The port area is flat and wheelchair accessible.
• There is no beach within walking distance.
• Belize is the only country in Central America where English is an official language.
• The best way to get around Belize is by taxi or on a shore excursion . Licensed taxis have green license plates and they are not metered, so make sure you agree on the price before the ride. Alternatively, you can book a shore excursion with your cruise line or a reputable independent tour operator.
• Belize is not so safe to wander around on your own. The nearest attractions are located at a minimum 30-minute drive, so booking an organized trip is convenient due to the ship’s limited time in port. In addition, if you book a shore excursion that involves a boat ride, you’ll be picked up and brought back straight to the ship (no need for a ferry boat ride to the Tourism Village).
• Water taxis are another convenient transportation option for those of you who want to go to the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. Water taxis depart from a terminal that is located less than a 10-minute walk from the Tourism Village, close to Terminal 4 and Jungle Gift Shop. It takes about 1.5 hours one way to reach the resort town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, while a trip to Caye Caulker takes 45 minutes one way. The departures are not so frequent (there is one departure hourly or in two hours), so make sure you check the water taxi timetables beforehand at https://belizewatertaxi.com/
• Belize Tourism Board is located in Belize City across the Swing Bridge on Regent St, a 15-minute walk from the Belize cruise terminal.
• Fort Street Tourism Village offers the best shopping opportunities in Belize. You’ll find dozens of shops selling jewelry, local arts and crafts, souvenirs, tobacco, perfumes, clothing and more. The top-rated brands include Jungle Gift Shop, Diamonds International, Tanzanite International, Harley Davidson, Moho Chocolate Factory and Cafe, Pirana Joe, Cariloha and Del Sol.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in some restaurants and bars in the Tourism Village cruise terminal.
• The official currency in Belize is the Belize dollar (BZD). 1 USD equals 1.99 BZD. Credit cards and US dollars are accepted in the majority of shops and restaurants, but be sure to receive the change in US currency. ATMs are available in the Tourism Village and Belize City.
• In 1962, after Hurricane Hattie, the country’s capital was moved from Belize City to Belmopan. However, Belize City is the country’s largest city and the main entry point for tourists.
• Calypso Train Tour is an open-air trolley tour that goes around Belize City, past major landmarks. This tour is usually offered by cruise lines and is an interesting choice for those looking to learn about the history and culture of Belize.
• Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is located 18 km/11 miles (a 30-minute drive) northwest of the cruise port of Belize.
• The peak season in Belize lasts from late November to mid-April when the weather is dry and warm. The wet season lasts from June to November, with hurricanes impacting every three years because the country lies within the hurricane belt.
• Explore Belize tours and activities
• Check out the best Caribbean cruise deals

What To See Within Walking Distance From the Port

• Belize City’s downtown area is located within a short walking distance from the port. The cruise passengers may not feel particularly safe wandering around on their own and Belize City hasn’t got much to offer, so it’s recommended to book a guided tour. However, if you decide to stay, there are a few things you can do:
• The Swing Bridge divides the city into two and is the only swing bridge operated manually that is still in function.
• The Museum of Belize showcases artifacts tracing the history of Belize and is located only a 10-minute walk from the terminal.
• St John Anglican Cathedral is a historic place of worship dating from the 19th century and is located a 20-minute walk from the port, across the Swing Bridge.
• Government House , located near the cathedral, was built in 1812 and is nowadays a history museum.
• The Baron Bliss lighthouse and Belize Welcome Sign lie only 200 m from the terminal and offer great photo ops. 

6 Best Things to Do in Belize Cruise Port

Belize port is known for its breathtaking islands (cayes), barrier reefs, Mayan heritage sites, and tons of outdoor adventure activities such as cave tubing and kayaking, horseback riding, ziplining, snorkeling, diving and so much more!

1. Belize Cave Tubing

Cave tubing ranks among the best adventure activities you can do in Belize! The tour takes you into the rainforest outside of Belize City where you’ll float on a tube through a cave system featuring spectacular rock formations.

Cruise lines and independent tour operators offer various cave tubing excursions that take place at different locations such as Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve and Jaguar Paw (both around a 1h 10-minute drive from the port).

Cave tubing tours may include lunch or are combined with different experiences such as ziplining, kayaking, hiking, or a visit to Mayan archaeological ruins.

Upon booking a shore excursion, make sure you check the program of the tour. Also, keep in mind that there is at least a 45-minute drive each way to the rainforests and national parks where the caves are located.

Check out Belize Cave Tubing tours and activities

2. Mayan Archaeological Ruins

Belize boasts a rich Mayan heritage and there are plenty of archaeological sites scattered around the country. The most famous one is the Altun Ha Temple featuring temple pyramids out of which the Temple of the Masonry Altars is the largest one (16 meters/52 ft high). Altun Ha covers an area of 8 square km and lies 53 km/33 miles (a 1-hour drive) northwest of the Belize cruise terminal.

Another famous ruin is Xunantunich Mayan Ruins , located near the town of San Ignacio, about 126 km/78 miles (a 2h 30-minute drive each way) southwest of the cruise port of Belize. This impressive archaeological site sits atop a ridge above the Mopan River and served as the Mayan civic ceremonial center of the Belize Valley region.

The site features the remnants of ancient plazas, temples and palaces, and the imposing El Castillo temple — the second tallest in Belize. From the top of El Castillo, you can admire stunning panoramic views stretching into Guatemala.

Lamanai Archaeological Reserve lies 127 km/79 miles (a 2h 20-minute drive) northwest of Belize port and is the second-largest site in Belize that was once a major city of the Maya civilization. Mask Temple, Temple of the Jaguar and High Temple are the main ruins offering beautiful views of the New River. The site also features a museum and local arts and crafts souvenir store.

3. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The Mesoamerican Reef is the second-largest barrier reef in the world offering incredible snorkeling and scuba diving. The Belizean waters are home to vibrant coral gardens, nurse sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and fascinating marine wildlife.

One of the most popular snorkeling and scuba diving locations is Hol Chan Marine Reserve which lies just off the coast of the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. The protected reserve covers more than 18 square kilometers of coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests, and is also popular for fishing.

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.

Check out Belize snorkeling and scuba diving tours

4. Belize Beaches and Islands

Belize boasts over 150 miles of islands (cayes), the two largest ones being Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, two resort islands known for their incredible beauty and unspoiled nature.

Caye Caulker is a gorgeous, small coral island known for amazing snorkeling, scuba diving, and manatee spotting. Experience the thrill of swimming with nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley and discover the colorful world of the shallow Coral Garden, one of the best snorkeling sites for inexperienced snorkelers.

Caye Caulker is known for its relaxed island vibe, pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters great for swimming and sunbathing. A boat ride from Belize port to Caye Caulker takes about 45 minutes each way by water taxi.

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. Ambergris Caye’s coastline is protected by the 190-mile-long barrier reef and the island itself is 25 miles long and a little over a mile wide.

The island was a trading post in Mayan times and boasts a rich historical heritage that you can learn by exploring a few small ruins scattered around the island.

The major resort town is San Pedro , the only inhabited area on the island famous for a wide variety of eateries, shops, small businesses and bustling nightlife. The boat ride to Ambergris Caye takes about 1.5 hours each way by water taxi.

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. Starfish Island is small and boasts a beautiful sandy beach where you can swim and snorkel.

The facilities available include sunbed/umbrella rentals, changing rooms, a small gift shop, a cafe and a restaurant where you can taste delicious Belizean dishes. I went to Starfish Island and wrote more about it in my article 7 Private Islands to Visit on a Cruise to the Caribbean

Half Moon Caye is an island and natural monument nestled at the southeast corner of Lighthouse Reef Atoll. It is part of the Belize Barrier Reef and is known for its bird sanctuary established in 1924. Half Moon Caye boasts a magnificent white sandy beach known as a sea turtle nesting ground. T

he entire island is protected as Half Moon Caye Natural Monument and can be visited on a day trip, however, a one-way boat trip takes about 2-3 hours, so it’s not convenient for cruise passengers.

• Check out Caye Caulker tours and activities
• Explore Ambergris Caye tours and activities
• Explore San Pedro tours and activities

5. Wildlife Sanctuaries

If you are looking to get to know Belize’s native wildlife, there are plenty of options to choose from. The Belize Zoo , located 48 km/30 miles (a 50-minute drive) southwest of the cruise port, houses native, orphaned and rehabilitated animals in their natural habitat.

The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center is home to over 200 animals, including over 45 native species. Set on 29 acres (12 hectares), the zoo is a great place to learn about the native wildlife of Belize’s jungles and savannas and get up close with jaguars, toucans and red-tailed boas. Belize Zoo is wheelchair accessible. Get more info at https://www.belizezoo.org/

Alternatively, you can go bird-watching in Little Guana Caye (situated off the coast of Ambergris Caye), go manatee-watching in the waters of Caye Caulker or visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary Visitor Center and Museum (A Black Howler Monkey Sanctuary) that offers tours through the rainforest and wildlife spotting. The sanctuary is located 44 km/27 miles (a 1-hour drive) west of the port of Belize. Find more info at https://www.howlermonkey.org/

Last but not least, you can also visit Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary , a nature preserve featuring a network of lagoons, swamps, and estuaries sheltering endangered species such as the Central American River Turtle (locally known as Hicatee), Mexican Black Howler Monkey, and Yellow-headed Parrot. The sanctuary is one of the best bird-watching spots in Central America and lies 59 km/37 miles (a 1h 15-minute drive) southwest of the cruise port in Belize.

Check out Belize wildlife tours and activities

6. Taste the Local Cuisine

Belize boasts a delicious mix of different cultural influences when it comes to food. Fort Street Tourism Village has several eateries and bars where you can try local specialties such as Cochinita Pibil (Yucatán-style slow-roasted pork dish), Hudut (a fish cooked in a coconut broth, served with plantains or yams), rice and beans, stewed chicken, fry jacks (buns), and a variety of fish and seafood (lobster, red snapper, grouper, barracuda, conch fritters, or shrimps).

The restaurants you’ll find in the port area include the Wet Lizard, Baymen’s Tavern, Martha’s Cafe, and a few more bars and grills. Bird’s Isle Restaurant, located a 5-minute drive from the port, features amazing food and great sea views.

San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker also offer a variety of great restaurants and food options. Top off your day with local Belikin beer, fresh exotic fruits and desserts like Rum Fruit Cake, Milk Cake, Coconut Tart, and Sweet Potato Pudding.

Check out Belize food-tasting tours and activities

Wrapping Up

To maximize your stay in the cruise port of Belize, make sure you plan your day according to your preferences. If you love adventure, go for river tubing, horseback rides, or off-road rides. Explore the fascinating sea life on a snorkeling or diving tour, meet the native wildlife in one of the sanctuaries, or simply visit one of the cayes and enjoy some beach time.

Visit also our cruise port guides to  Costa Maya , Grand Cayman , Perfect Day at CocoCay , Labadee

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

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Belize City – Belize

Last updated on September 16th, 2023 at 08:10 am

Welcome to Belize City, home of the Belize Cruise Port. Immerse yourself in the rich blend of Mayan, Creole, and Garifuna cultures. Explore the ancient ruins of Altun Ha or Xunantunich, go snorkeling or diving in the famous Belize Barrier Reef, or take a boat tour through the lush mangroves of the Belize River. Sample traditional Belizean cuisine and experience the warmth of the local people.

Belizean Dollar, but the US Dollar is widely accepted, just make sure you get American back in change. ATMs are available at the port.

Wireless Internet:

Widely available throughout Tourism Village

Where You Dock in Belize City – Belize

The Belize cruise port itself, called “Tourism Village” is quite small, with souvenir shops and Diamonds International and restaurants offering cheap drinks and Caribbean specialties. There is a high guarded fence around Tourism Village which they don’t recommend tourists venture outside of by themselves.

Getting Around Belize City – Belize

Taxis – are easy to come by at Tourism Village. Look for the green licence plates as these are the licensed taxis. Agree on a fare before getting in the taxi as they are not metered.

Water Taxis – these leave from the Marine Terminal and travel to islands such as Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. Make sure you leave enough time to get back to the dock in order to catch a tender back to your ship. It takes about an hour and a half to reach San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and 45 minutes to Caye Caulker.

Flights – Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer flights from Belize City to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The flight to Caye Caulker takes less than 10 minutes and only 20 to Ambergris Caye but will run around $75 per person, one way to either location. Be aware that the planes are very small – 5 people – but the views are amazing.

Shopping In Belize City – Belize

At Belize Cruise Port, you’ll find the typical cruise port shopping destinations. Diamonds International, Del-Sol,  and Piranha Joe, within Tourism Village. Look for the souvenir shops offering hand-made goods such as mahogany or rosewood carvings, or baskets. Note: don’t buy items that are made from sea turtle shells, Triton’s trumpet shells or black coral.

Moho Chocolate & Cafe – stop here for some wonderful local chocolate, made in small batches. They also offer specialty hot beverages and a couple of small tables. Watch them roast the cacao beans on their front porch.

Pharmacy Express – the hot-spot for inexpensive over-the-counter medication

National Handicrafts Sales Center (2 South Park Street near Tourism Village) – artwork and crafts

Dining In Belize City – Belize

There are a few restaurants located within Tourism Village such as the Bearded Clam, or the Grill at the far end of the village or the Wet Lizard. Try Belikin, the local beer.

If you want to try some local cuisine outside of the port gates:

The Smoky Mermaid -(The Great House, 13 Cork St) great seafood with a Caribbean twist. Everything on their lunch menu is under $10 USD.

Bird’s Isle – just a short walk from the port, this restaurant gets great reviews for its authentic Belizean cuisine at great prices and with wonderful ocean views

Terry’s Caribbean Grill – Caye Caulker, on the beach by The Split – where the locals eat! Great grilled seafood and Caribbean cuisine

Things To Do in Belize City – Belize

Visit ambergris caye.

Ambergris Caye is the largest and most popular destination in Belize and is a great jumping-off point for some fabulous snorkeling on the famed Belize Barrier Reef.

San Pedro is the main town on Ambergris Caye and is easily walkable (only 3 streets wide), or golf cart or bicycle rentals are readily available. Enjoy the laid-back island feel at one of the many great restaurants or enjoy some shopping.

Another option for Ambergris Caye is to get a day pass to one of the many first-class resorts. You’ll have access to the beach, pools, restaurants and other resort amenities all for one great price. Check out the options with ResortPass!

Getting there by plane: The municipal airport is a 10 minute taxi ride from the port in Belize City and the flight to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye is only 20 minutes. Check Tropic Air for pricing.

Getting there by ferry:  There are two ferry companies – Caribbean Sprinter and San Pedro Express that go between Belize City and San Pedro and the ferry docks are a short 2 minute walk from the pier. It’s considerably cheaper to take the ferry instead of flying, but the ferry ride is about a hour and a half.

See all Belize Shore Excursions

Top tours & excursions in belize city – belize, goff caye beach break with snorkeling.

Board a powerboat to the unspoiled island of Goff Caye, which sits atop one of the best reefs in the Caribbean, perfect for snorkeling. Goff Caye is not your luxury resort experience, but is a small isle with rustic charm and basic amenities, like the Caribbean used to be....

• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Wheelchair Accessibility: test
• Tour Includes: test

Belize Cave Tubing

After you arrive at the Caves Branch River, you’ll grab your tube and take a 45 minute jungle hike to the underground cave system. You’ll get a miner’s light to see the amazing sights inside the caves as you float along with the gentle current....

• Duration: 5 hours (2 hours activity duration)

Altun-Ha & Belize City Overview

As you take the 45 drive through the Belize countryside, your guide will tell you all about the mysterious Mayans. Tour the ruins dating from 1000 BC, before heading back for a tour of Old Belize City....

• Duration: 4 hours

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Belize City, Belize

The longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere fringes Belize, which makes snorkeling and scuba diving extremely popular here. Recreational pursuits are popular, ranging from inner-tube trips down a jungle river to zip-line tours amid the treetops of a rain forest. Other excursions departing from the Central American city visit Mayan ruins, wildlife preserves and botanical gardens. Or, spend the day at a pristine beach or browsing the delights of Belize City, including its marketplace, cathedrals and restored colonial mansions.

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Belize City Belize

The port of Belize City located on the coast of Belize a little south of Mexico. This country is a proud protector of ecology. Nearly 20% of its territory, mostly covered by forests, is protected. Large reefs are also present along its coast, making it a popular spot for divers. The country also has several Mayan sites.

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Useful Information

English (official language) and Spanish

A 10% tip will be appreciated in restaurants.

BZD Belize dollar - Merchants accept credit cards or American money. On the other hand, make sure you receive the exchange for American money.

Time difference

from New York: 0h

from San Francisco: +2h

from London: -5h

Where is located the Port de Belize City Cruise Terminal

Travelling around the belize city cruise port, activities in belize city, historical sites.

This site is located an hour from the port. In the tombs, jewels and jade were found, including the jade head, 15 centimeters high, of the King of the Sun.

This archaeological site is in the middle of the forest. You will see several ruins, but also mounds that hide other monuments not yet restored. Get mosquito repellent for this visit. To get to the site, the excursion combines a boat ride in the nearby rivers where you can observe the flora and fauna.

Xunantunich

This historic site is located near the border with Guatemala. It is home to the highest Mayan structure in Belize.

Museum of Belize

This former prison built in 1857 is now a museum displaying exhibitions about the history of the city and the Mayans in addition to Mayan pottery.

Houses of Culture

This house was the home of the governors of Belize and the center of the administration. The museum now features art exhibitions and cultural events.

Maritime museum

Presents Belize’s maritime history by displaying maps, model boats and paintings.

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

This protected park allows the observation of different species of birds.

Community Baboon Sanctuary

This sanctuary created by the local population is home to black howler monkeys.

Family activities

Located near the city, this zoo has more than 125 animals.

Excursions in Belize City

• Catamaran excursions allow you to snorkel to admire the corals and then go to an island to kayak or relax on the beach.
• Belize city tour and Rum Factory
• Cave tubing adventure with Lunch
• Jungle Jeep Adventure

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Useful References

• Tourism Board - Belize !
• Belize City on Wikipedia
• Belize on Wikipedia
• Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)
• Port Website

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

Alternative:

https://www.viator.com/en-CA/Belize_City/d5094-ttd?pid=P00045706&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=morebutton

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Belize Welcomes Carnival Vista Cruise

• July 8, 2021
• Posted by: Perry Bodden
• Category: Community, Cruise, International, News

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Belize City cruise port

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7 Great Beaches Near Belize City Cruise Port

The best beaches near the Belize City cruise port include Goff’s Caye, Starfish Island and Caye Caulker.

Cruise and other visitors to Belize searching for long stretches of white sand beaches have been surprised to find that it has no such thing. Most of the coastline is covered in mangroves.

Cruise visitors to Belize City will find some decent beaches right off the coast at some small islands also known as cayes. The first three options on this list are possibilities for cruise visitors. The rest are mainly options for hotel and resort visitors.

1. Goff’s Caye

The tiny island of Goff’s Caye right off the coast is a common shore excursion for beach lovers. Belize City cruise visitors will take a 30-minute boat ride to reach it. The cost is about $55 for a four-hour excursion from national excursion operators such as Viator.

2. Starfish Island

Starfish Island, also known as Banister Caye, is another four-hour shore excursion a boat ride away from the cruise port. One cruise line recently offered the excursion for $63 including lunch. The price is subject to change at any time.

3. Caye Caulker

A smaller island that is a stopover on the way to or from the mainland and a little south of Ambergris and northwest of Belize City is the small Caye Caulker, one of the offshore islands in Belize.

Caye Caulker has a more intimate, small-town, laid-back feel. The beaches here are neither as large nor as particularly stunning as those of the more popular Caribbean destinations. But they are some of the best beaches close to Belize City.

Beyond the aesthetics are a wide range of activities available on the island. Of particular note is Caye Caulker’s popularity as a world-class snorkelling destination as the Belize barrier reef is partly located just off the coast. Beyond that, other activities include sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and of course swimming.

Water taxis are available for transportation to Caye Caulker, costing approximately BZ$35 to $40 for a round trip.

4. Ambergris Caye

Belize city and gof’s caye map.

Just off the coast of Belize City lies one of the country’s largest islands, Ambergris Caye. This particular beach island is one of the main destinations for vacationers.

The island is home to several small beaches that are among the best in the region for lounging in the sun and swimming in the clear blue Caribbean waters. The island also is home to the small city known as San Pedro. There are several options for overnight luxury accommodations. As such, visitors can have extended vacations on the island of Ambergris Caye alone.

Travellers can take boat rides from Belize City to the island either via excursion agents or hotel workers. Ambergris Caye is a tourist hot spot for diving, snorkeling (as it borders the Belize Barrier Reef) and various water sports.

5. Coco Beach Resort

Coco Beach Resort is, as its name suggests, not a beach per se, but a beach resort. It was included here for its simplistic beauty and the breath-taking beach nearby, one of the best in Belize.

Forming a part of the Ambergris Caye group of beaches, the location is just about three miles from San Pedro. Visitors can enjoy a pristine white sand beach as well as the amenities of a luxury resort.

6. Cucumber Beach, Old Belize

Cucumber Beach is not a natural beach but more of a man-made salty pool. Old Belize is a tourist spot about 5 miles from central Belize City . It is relatively easy to get there by bus for about BZ$1 each way.

It’s a nice place to relax and sunbathe, with tasty food and a bar. But the water is not as good as natural beaches. Moreover, the facility has suffered from the effects of various hurricanes and is just now putting itself back together again.

7. Placencia Peninsula

Anyone who is staying for a while in Belize may want to visit Placencia Peninsula. Unfortunately, it is 180 miles away from Belize City, so it’s a full day’s trip. It is included here due to its beauty as well as the availability of transportation from the city. It’s a fun little town that’s infused with tourists and expats as well as plenty of restaurants, hotels and shopping centres.

The 17-mile-long peninsula is home to a small unremarkable village, but tourists enjoy spending time here because of the availability of white sand and warm waters.

Popular activities here include swimming, snorkelling and simply lounging on the beach. There are also great hotel accommodations choices for those who want to spend a little extra time in the area. 

During the high season, this beach sees immense crowds, so visitors may need to plan ahead and make reservations. Placencia Peninsula is also the most common place to find actual beachfront hotels.

Belize City Cruise Port Guide

12 Best Belize Tourist Attractions

Harvest Caye Cruise Port Tips

Best and Worst Times to Visit Belize

Belize cave tubing shore excursion, belize car rentals, belize mayan ruins excursion tips, 5 carnival cruise tips to know, how to book a cruise: 10 tips, snuba cruise excursions, 1st caribbean cruise tips, caribbean cruise weather.

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Protect Your Trip »

Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

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A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

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When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

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Carnival Spirit Completes First Winter Program in Mobile

• April 20, 2024

The Carnival Spirit recently wrapped up its first winter program out of Mobile.

After completing a final sailing from its Alabama homeport earlier this month, the Carnival Cruise Line vessel deadheaded to Tampa to embark on a repositioning cruise to the West Coast.

Set to spend the upcoming cruise season in Alaska and Canada, the Spirit sailed from the Gulf Coast port on April 7, kicking off a 16-night trans-Canal voyage.

Sailing to Seattle, the one-way cruise features a full transit of the Panama Canal, in addition to visits to destinations in Grand Cayman, Colombia, Costa Rica and Mexico.

Since arriving in Mobile in October 2023, the Carnival Spirit has offered a series of six- to eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

The itineraries featured visits to several destinations in both regions, including Bimini, Nassau and Half Moon Cay – one of Carnival Corporation’s private destinations in the Bahamas.

Sailing to the Western Caribbean, the Spirit also paid visits to ports of call in Mexico, Belize and Honduras, such as Cozumel, Costa Maya, Belize City and Mahogany Bay.

The vessel is scheduled to return to Mobile in late October 2025 for a second winter season sailing out of Alabama.

The new program features six- to 12-night itineraries to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Central America and Florida, with planned visits to Aruba, Grand Turk, Jamaica, Freeport, Key West and more.

Before returning to Alabama, the ship is scheduled to offer a series of week-long cruises to Alaska that feature visits to popular ports in the region, such as Skagway, Juneau, and Victoria, in Canada.

Launched in 2001, the Carnival Spirit is the prototype ship in a series of four 2,100-guest vessels known as the Spirit Class.

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Carnival Dream Helps Rescue 17 People From Waters Off Belize

I n yet another account of heroic intervention in a crisis by a passenger cruise ship, the crew of Carnival Cruise Line ’s Carnival Dream yesterday assisted in the rescue of 17 people who had found themselves stranded in the Belize Channel after their boat capsized.

Carnival Dream was sailing on a course headed for the Mexican Caribbean resort island of Cozumel when the ship’s officers, quite fortunately, spotted the overturned boat and the group in distress

Captain Francesco Fiorentino’s officers and crew promptly alerted the Belize Coast Guard of the situation and proceeded to lower one of its shipboard tenders into the water. Working in conjunction with small boats dispatched locally from Belize, Carnival Dream was able to safely recover all 17 castaways. Each member of the rescued group was assessed as being in good condition before the ship their transfer to land was coordinated with the Belize Coast Guard.

Following the incident, Carnival Dream continued on to Cozumel as scheduled—one stop on its six-day itinerary that set sail roundtrip from its homeport in Galveston on May 14 and will return on May 20.

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Carnival Breeze

Carnival cruise lines, belize city, belize.

We warmly welcome all Carnival Breeze Cruise Ship Passengers to the Port of Belize City, Belize, Central America. We hope you enjoy your visit to Belize Mainland. The very best Belize has to offer!

Belize offers an abundance of excursions and activities to delight Carnival Breeze cruisers of all ages and activity levels. From cave tubing, snorkeling, Mayan Ruins, exploring nearby Cayes, or relaxing on the beach, Belize has it all!!!

Belize Cruise Excursions offers a variety of options for you to choose from. Our rates are direct rates from the operators, allowing you to save money while providing you with a greater selection of shore excursions.

Belize Cruise Excursions recommends excursions for Carnival Breeze passengers for your visit to Belize City based on the arrival times, departure times of your Carnival Breeze and the length of your visit out our Port. We also take into account the number of cruise ships arriving on the same day your ship comes to port. We can then provide you with options on how to avoid the busy excursions when this is appropriate.

Please have a look at our recommended Carnival Breeze and itineraries. If you don’t find what you are looking for, click on Excursions in the top navigational buttons for a full listing of excursions.

Recommended Shore Excursions:

We are diligently working to bring you the best tours available in Belize City, Belize.

Belize City, Belize, is uniquely situated in an ideal location that provides access to incredible sea and land adventures.

We specialize in unique and boutique tours in addition to our “best for less” excursions, offering excellent value for some of the most popular tours. Island Marketing Ltd offers tours and excursions for almost every budget and individual need.

Belize City, Belize Cruise Excursions are tour and excursion experts representing the best independent operators in Belize.

We provide firsthand information on every excursion we offer and recommend the best excursions for you.

That’s the Excursions International Ltd. difference!

Recommended Excursions

Sun Kissed Goff’s Caye Beach & Snorkeling – $48us

• Beach time on Beautiful Goff's Caye.
• Goff's Caye guided Snorkeling Experience! Snorkel the beautiful Belize barrier reef.
• 4.5 Hour Tour Port to Port. Snorkeling gear included.

Belize Cave Tubing with X-Stream cave tubing tours! – $60us

• All transportation, including pick up and return to Belize Tourism Village at the Belize Cruise Ship Terminal or your Hotel in Belize City
• Two Caves within the Belize Caves Branch System plus Dry Cave Exploration to admire exhilarating Stalactites/Stalagmites Formations.
• RainForest Jungle Explore.

Belize Altun Ha & Zip Line Excursion – $99us

• Double excursion, Altun Ha & Zip Line Adventure!
• Transport from the Port and delicious Belizean lunch included!!
• 5hr tour Port to Port

Howler Monkeys, Baboon Sanctuary, Belize in the wild excursion – $55us

• Discover Howlers Monkeys in their habitat up close and personal.
• All transportation, including pick up and return to Belize Tourism Village at the Belize Cruise Ship Terminal.
• A fun, thrilling and educative tour for all ages.

Belize Lamanai Mayan Ruins and New River Boat Ride Excursion – $115us

• Stunning and thrilling boat ride to Lamanai on the Belize New River.
• Belize Rainforest walk from Temple to Temple.
• Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Crocodiles..... and more!

Belize Baboon Sanctuary and Zip Line Excursion – $90us

• World Famous Belize rain forest with seven Zip Line platforms.

Belize Cave Tubing & Zip Line Excursion – $99us

• The best of both Worlds, Cave Tubing & Zip Line canopy excursion!
• 1 Cave system and full Zip Line Canopy Tour.
• All transportation (to and from Belize Tourism Village at the Belize Cruise Ship Terminal).

Belize Cahal Pech Maya Ruins – $90us

• Unparalleled Maya masonry construction.
• Rainforest, tropical birds and more!
• Transport from the Port and lunch included!

Belize Kids Cave Tubing with X-Stream! – $85us

• The excursion is designed for young children.
• Small, intimate groups.

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins Belize – $49us

• Beautifully reconstructed Temples.
• Easy climb to main Temples.
• The perfect Mayan Ruins Excursion for young children.

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Belize – $100us

• Outstanding nature, Rainforest, Howler Monkeys, giant Iguanas and more!
• 2nd tallest structure in Belize offering dramatic views.
• Belizean Lunch Included!

Belize Baboon Sanctuary and Altun Ha Excursion – $95us

• Small groups with Certified BTB & BCIA Guides.
• Beautifully reconstructed and easy to climb Temples.

Belize Zip Line Canopy Excursion – $80us

• World Famous Belize Rainforest.
• 7 Zip line Platforms.
• Outstanding Wildlife.

Belize City Tour, Museum, Rum Factory Excursion – $75us

• Belize City Historical Museum Tour.
• Belize City Tour to the Belize Cathedral, Swing Bridge, Hidden locations and more!
• World famous Travellers Rum Factory Tour and Rum Tasting.

Other Destinations

Bahamas Excursions

Barbados Excursions

Belize Excursions

Cabo San Lucas Excursions

Costa Maya Excursions

Cozumel Excursions

Grand Cayman Excusions

Jamaica Excursions

Puerto Rico Excursions

Roatan Excursions

St. Maarten Excursions

St. Thomas Excursions

We guarantee a full refund of your excursion deposit if your ship can not make it into the port of Belize City, Belize