The Belize City cruise port, often referred to simply as the Belize Cruise Port, is a tender port. This means that cruise ships anchor offshore, and passengers are transported to the mainland via smaller boats called tenders. Understanding the layout of the port area is helpful for a smooth and enjoyable visit to Belize.
Port Area Overview
Upon arrival at the Tourism Village (where the tenders dock), you’ll find a bustling area designed to cater to cruise ship passengers. Think of it as a concentrated tourist hub:
- Tourism Village: This is the heart of the cruise port experience. It’s a gated area with shops, restaurants, bars, and tour operators. Everything from souvenirs and local crafts to duty-free liquor and Belizean cuisine can be found here. Security is present throughout the Tourism Village.
- Shopping: The Tourism Village offers a wide variety of shopping options, from established international brands to local artisans selling their creations. Haggling is generally not expected, but comparing prices between vendors is always a good idea.
- Dining: Several restaurants and bars within the Tourism Village provide a taste of Belize. You can find everything from familiar American fare to traditional Belizean dishes like rice and beans, stew chicken, and seafood.
- Tour Operators: Numerous tour operators have booths or kiosks within the Tourism Village. This is a convenient place to book excursions such as cave tubing, Mayan ruins tours, snorkeling, and diving. However, it’s advisable to research and pre-book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and potentially get better deals.
- Transportation Hub: Outside the Tourism Village gates, you’ll find taxis and other transportation options to take you to destinations further afield. Be sure to negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before you begin your journey. Water taxis are available for trips to the nearby islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.
Beyond the Tourism Village
While the Tourism Village offers plenty to see and do, venturing beyond the immediate port area allows you to experience more of Belize City and the surrounding region:
- Belize City: The city itself is a short taxi ride from the cruise port. Key attractions include the Museum of Belize, the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, and the Swing Bridge. Be aware that some areas of Belize City are not considered safe for tourists, so it’s best to travel with a reputable tour guide or taxi driver.
- Excursions: The main reason visitors come to Belize is for the incredible array of excursions. Popular options include:
- Cave Tubing: Float down underground rivers through stunning cave systems.
- Mayan Ruins: Explore ancient Mayan cities like Altun Ha and Lamanai.
- Snorkeling/Diving: Discover the vibrant coral reefs and marine life along the Belize Barrier Reef.
- Jungle Adventures: Hike through the rainforest, go zip-lining, or visit a wildlife sanctuary.
Remember to factor in tender wait times, travel time to and from excursions, and the time it takes to return to the ship before it departs. Planning ahead and booking tours in advance can help you make the most of your time in Belize.
