Packing and Preparing for a Cruise
Once you book your cruise, you can generally sit back and relax until your sailing date, although there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to preparing for your cruise.
August 7, 2024
Exploring Mahogany Bay: Gems of the Roatan, Hondoras Cruise Port
Mahogany Bay Cruise Port, located on the island of Roatán in Honduras, is a popular stop for many cruise ships traveling through the Western Caribbean. Known for its convenient facilities and variety of activities, Mahogany Bay offers an enjoyable experience for all visitors. About the Mahogany Bay Cruise Port Mahogany Bay Cruise Port welcomes cruise ships from several major American lines, including Carnival, Princess Cruises, and Holland America. The port features two terminals, with the primary terminal dedicated to cruise passengers, ensuring smooth disembarkation and access to amenities. You can view a map of the cruise port and city center here. One unique aspect of Mahogany Bay is its exclusive beach area, Mahogany Beach, accessible directly from the port via a scenic chairlift or a short walk. This makes it exceptionally convenient for passengers looking to enjoy the beach without venturing far. The local cuisine is rich with seafood offerings, reflecting the island’s fishing culture. The island of Roatán has a population of around 50,000 people. An interesting fact about the port is its commitment to environmental sustainability, incorporating green practices in its operations. Visitors should note that, similar to other Caribbean destinations, wearing camouflage is prohibited for civilians. The legal drinking age here is 18 years. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. From Mahogany Bay Cruise Port to the City Center Mahogany Bay is conveniently located just about 4 miles from Coxen Hole, the largest city on the island. Getting to the city center is straightforward. You can opt for a taxi, which are regulated with set rates, costing around $10 USD for the trip. If you prefer public transportation, local minibusses are available, although less predictable, for a nominal fee. For those who enjoy walking, it’s a bit far, but an adventurous trek. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not available on the island, so planning your transportation in advance is advisable. Beaches at and Near the Mahogany Bay Cruise Port Cruisers at Mahogany Bay have direct access to Mahogany Beach, a pristine stretch of sand just steps away from the port. Here are three top beaches near the port: Mahogany Beach Located right at the cruise port, Mahogany Beach offers crystal-clear waters and plenty of amenities, making it a perfect spot for a day of sun and fun. West Bay Beach Approximately 10 miles from the port, West Bay Beach is known for its soft white sand and excellent snorkeling opportunities. It’s about a 20-minute taxi ride, costing around $25 USD each way. Sandy Bay Situated about 7 miles from Mahogany Bay, Sandy Bay is a quieter option, popular for its local vibe and diving spots. It’s a 15-minute drive, and a taxi fare is approximately $20 USD. Things to Do at the Mahogany Bay Cruise Port Mahogany Bay Cruise Port offers a variety of activities right within its vicinity. You can enjoy duty-free shopping at several stores offering local crafts and souvenirs. The port area also has a number of bars and restaurants where you can savor local dishes and refreshing drinks. For those looking for more adventure, the port provides access to excursions such as zip-lining and eco-tours. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the nearby waters. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. Top Things to Do in Mahogany Bay Gumbalimba Park Just 6 miles from the port, Gumbalimba Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This park features lush gardens, a variety of wildlife including monkeys and parrots, and historical displays. Entry costs about $30 USD, and it’s a 15-minute taxi ride. Carambola Botanical Gardens Located around 8 miles from Mahogany Bay, the Carambola Botanical Gardens offer a serene escape into nature. With well-maintained trails, you can explore the diverse plant life of Roatán. Entrance fees are about $10 USD, and it’s a 15-minute drive from the port. Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS) This marine research center, about 7 miles from the port, offers a unique opportunity to learn about the island’s marine ecosystem. Tours cost approximately $25 USD, and the center is a 20-minute drive away. Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum A bit farther at 12 miles from the port, the Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum showcases tropical flora and sustainable farming practices. The entrance fee is around $15 USD, and it’s a 30-minute drive. Mayan Jungle Canopy Zipline For thrill-seekers, the Mayan Jungle Canopy Zipline is an exciting adventure located just 5 miles from the port. The cost is about $45 USD, and it’s a 10-minute taxi ride. Related: Learn about the pros and cons (and risks) of booking independent excursions. Language and Currency Unlike Cozumel, where most vendors near the port speak both Spanish and English, and US currency is almost universally accepted, that may not always be the case in Mahogany Bay. In my experience at the shops just outside the port terminal, many vendors spoke little or no English, and several merchants only accepted Honduran Lempiras (HNL). The symbol for lempiras is L, which can become confusing, so always double-check the currency before purchasing anything. Credit cards are widely accepted, but are not universal, and in most locations, tap-to-pay or contactless payment is common. A tap-to-pay credit card, also known as a contactless card, allows users to make payments quickly and securely by simply tapping the card against a contactless-enabled payment terminal, eliminating the need to swipe or insert the card and enter a PIN. Note that in many Caribbean ports of call, while vendors generally may accept US currency, they might not accept it if the bills are overly worn, contain marks, or are in any way torn or damaged, and they may provide change back in the form of the local currency. Mahogany Bay Cruise Port Ship Schedule The Mahogany Bay, Roatán cruise ship schedule can be found directly on the Port of Mahogany Bay website. Climate and What to Wear Mahogany Bay enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 75°F and 85°F.
Exploring Beautiful Belize: Beaches, Best Things to Do, and More
Belize City is a prominent cruise port in the Caribbean, offering visitors a mix of historical landmarks, local cuisine, and easy access to natural attractions. This port is a popular stop for many cruise itineraries, providing a rich cultural experience and a variety of activities. About the Belize City Cruise Port Belize City Cruise Port is a frequent stop for several American cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line. The port features two main terminals: Belize Tourism Village and Fort Street Tourism Village, both designed to accommodate cruise passengers with a range of amenities. Belize City is a tender port, meaning ships anchor offshore and passengers are ferried to the port by smaller boats. This setup allows for scenic views of the city as you approach. The port offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and tour operators. For a map of the cruise port and city center, click here. Belize City has a population of approximately 61,000 residents. An interesting fact about the city is that it was the original capital of Belize until the government moved to Belmopan after Hurricane Hattie in 1961. In Belize, the law sets the legal drinking age at 18 and prohibits civilians from wearing camouflage. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. From Belize City Cruise Port to the City Center The Belize City Cruise Port is just 1 mile from the city center, making it easy to explore. You can walk to the city center in about 20 minutes. Taxis are available at the port with set rates, typically costing around 10 USD to the city center. While Uber is not available in Belize City, shuttle services provided by the cruise lines and public buses, costing about1 USD per ride, are also convenient options. Beaches at and Near the Belize City Cruise Port Belize City Cruise Port does not have direct beach access, but several beautiful beaches are nearby. Cucumber Beach is approximately 5 miles from the port. It offers calm waters and sandy shores, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. It’s about a 15-minute taxi ride, costing around $15 USD.Goff’s Caye is a small island about 12 miles from the port, known for its coral reefs and clear waters. Accessible by a 30-minute boat ride, tours to Goff’s Caye typically cost around $45 USD per person. Old Belize Beach is just 4 miles from the port. It provides a blend of beach and historical experience with its museum and water park. It’s a quick 10-minute taxi ride, costing around $10 USD. Things to do at the Belize City Cruise Port The Belize City Cruise Port offers a variety of activities for those who choose to stay within the port area. The port features numerous shops where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and duty-free items. Restaurants and bars offer local cuisine and beverages. For history enthusiasts, the port has informative displays about Belize’s past. Additionally, tour operators within the port provide convenient excursions to explore nearby attractions. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. Top Things to do in Belize City Exploring Belize City offers a range of activities and sights. Whether you book guided excursions directly with your cruise line or venture out independently, always consider the risks associated with independent excursions. Find more details here. Belize Zoo The Belize Zoo is located about 29 miles from the port, a 45-minute drive. Known for wildlife conservation and rehabilitation, it showcases native animals in natural habitats. Admission is 15 USD for adults and5 USD for children. Visitors can explore the zoo on guided tours or independently, learning about the diverse wildlife of Belize. Viator link Altun Ha Mayan Ruins Approximately 31 miles from the port, Altun Ha is a significant archaeological site. This ancient Mayan city offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved temples and plazas. A visit to Altun Ha typically includes a guided tour, costing around $30 USD per person. The trip from the port takes about an hour by bus or taxi. Viator link Museum of Belize Located just 1.5 miles from the cruise port, the Museum of Belize is housed in a former colonial prison and offers fascinating exhibits on the country’s history and culture. The museum is an easy 20-minute walk from the port, making it an accessible and enriching experience. Admission is $5 USD. TripAdvisor link St. John’s Cathedral St. John’s Cathedral, the oldest Anglican church in Central America, is just 1 mile from the port. Built in the early 1800s, it features historical architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. A visit to the cathedral can be easily combined with a stroll through the city center. There is no admission fee, making it a cost-effective and culturally rich experience. TripAdvisor link Belize Barrier Reef A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Belize Barrier Reef is about 20 miles from the port. Snorkeling and diving tours are popular ways to explore this natural wonder, with prices starting at $75 USD for a half-day tour. The reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, offering an unforgettable underwater adventure. Viator link Related: Learn about the pros and cons (and risks) of booking independent excursions. Language and Currency Unlike Cozumel, where most vendors near the port speak both Spanish and English, and US currency is almost universally accepted, that may not always be the case in Costa Maya. In my experience at the shops just outside the port terminal, many vendors spoke little or no English, and several merchants only accepted Mexican Pesos (MXN). The symbol for pesos is the same as a dollar ($), which can become confusing, so always double-check the currency before purchasing anything. Credit cards are widely accepted, but are not universal, and in most locations, tap-to-pay or contactless payment is common. A tap-to-pay credit card, also known as a contactless card, allows users to make payments quickly and securely by simply tapping the card against a contactless-enabled payment terminal,