Last updated on Jun 27, 2024

Cruise port of call Belize City – popular cruise stop that is close to nearby attractions

Belize City is the largest city and a popular cruise port in Belize, a small Central American country with a rich cultural and natural heritage. Belize City is located on the east coast of Belize, facing the Caribbean Sea. Cruise ships anchor about 2 miles from the shore and use tender boats to transport passengers to the Fort Street Tourism Village, a gated area with shops, restaurants and services. From there, cruise passengers can explore Belize City’s colonial architecture and historical landmarks or take excursions to nearby attractions such as Mayan ruins, tropical forests, wildlife reserves and coral reefs. Belize City offers a variety of activities for cruise visitors, from cultural tours to adventure sports.

Top excursions of Belize City cruise port:

1. Xunantunich is a Mayan archaeological site about 80 miles west of Belize City. It features a giant pyramid, several temples and palaces, and a museum with artifacts and information about the ancient civilization.

2. Altun Ha: Another Mayan site about 30 miles north of Belize City. It was once a major trading and ceremonial center, with two main plazas and several structures and monuments. One of the most famous discoveries at Altun Ha is the jade head of the sun god Kinich Ahau, which is now displayed at the Belize Museum.

3. Lamanai: This is a third Mayan site about 60 miles north of Belize City. It is situated on the banks of the New River Lagoon and has a long history of occupation from the Preclassic to the Postclassic periods. It has over 100 buildings, including temples, palaces, stelae, and masks.

4. Belize Zoo: A wildlife sanctuary that houses over 170 animals native to Belize, such as jaguars, tapirs, monkeys, crocodiles and birds. It is about 30 miles west of Belize City and offers visitors educational and conservation programs.

5. Caye Caulker: A small island off the coast of Belize City, accessible by water taxi or flight. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, fishing and relaxing on the sandy beaches. It has a laid-back vibe and a friendly community of locals and tourists.

6. Ambergris Caye: The largest island in Belize, also reachable by water taxi or flight. It is home to San Pedro, a bustling town with shops, restaurants and nightlife. It is also the gateway to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. It offers stunning underwater scenery and marine life for divers and snorkelers.

Belize City Cruise Port is a tender port that requires passengers to take a boat ride from their ship to the shore. The tender operation usually takes about 20 minutes each way. The cruise terminal has basic facilities and amenities for passengers, such as restrooms, ATM machines, Wi-Fi access and tourist information. The local currency is the Belizean dollar, but US dollars are widely accepted. The official language is English, but Spanish and Creole are also spoken. The climate is tropical and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 86°F throughout the year.

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