Family Cruise Network
Belize City, the historical capital of Belize, serves as a perfect launching pad for exploring this fascinating country. Located on the eastern coast, Belize City offers cruisers a unique blend of colonial history, diverse ecosystems, and some of the best adventure opportunities in Central America.
Port of Call
The port facilities are well-organized for cruise passengers, facilitating easy transitions from ship to shore excursions. Upon disembarking, you’ll find yourself conveniently positioned to begin your Belizean adventure, whether it’s exploring the city itself or heading out to more remote attractions.
Cultural and Historical Exploration
- Belize City Tour: A guided tour around the city can provide insights into its colonial architecture and tumultuous history. Key sights include St. John’s Cathedral, the oldest Anglican Church in Central America, and the Belize City Swing Bridge, one of the few manually operated swing bridges left in the world.
- Museum of Belize: Housed in a former prison, the museum offers a deep dive into Belize’s history from Mayan civilization to its pirate-filled past and beyond.
Adventure and Nature
Belize is known for its extraordinary natural attractions, and many of these can be accessed easily from Belize City:
- Cave Tubing: One of our favorite experiences! This is adventure includes hiking through the rainforest and floating through ancient mayan caves.
- Altun Ha: An impressive Mayan ruin site just a short drive from the port, Altun Ha is perfect for history enthusiasts wanting to explore ancient pyramids and plazas without venturing too far into the jungle.
- The Belize Barrier Reef: Offering some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef is a must-visit for marine lovers. Tours typically include spots like the Great Blue Hole and Shark Ray Alley, renowned for their stunning underwater scenes and abundant wildlife.
Local Flavors and Shopping
- Local Cuisine: Belizean cuisine is a delicious blend of Caribbean, Mexican, and African influences. Don’t miss trying dishes like rice and beans with stewed chicken, garnaches (fried tortillas with beans and cheese), and ceviche. Try out this excursion for true foodies.
- Craft Markets: Visit the local craft markets where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs, including beautiful wood carvings and Mayan textiles, perfect for taking a piece of Belize back home with you.
Practical Tips
- Transportation: Belize City itself is compact, but for excursions outside the city we recommend organized tours as they provide reliable and convenient transportation.
- Currency: The Belize dollar is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of 2:1, making it easy for American visitors to manage transactions. US dollars are widely accepted.
- Safety and Health: While Belize City is a major tourist destination, as in any city, it’s wise to be cautious with personal belongings. Also, be sure to bring insect repellent for tours into the jungle or wetlands. Check out our list of cruise essentials to prepare for your cruise.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply in search of a new adventure, Belize and the beauty of the Caribbean await you. If your cruise stops at this incredible port, your day will be unBelizable!
Schedule a tour to make the most of your day in Belize!
