Belize City, Belize Port Guide
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.
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.
Related: Watch all my Belize video content
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.
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 $75 USD for a half-day tour. The reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, offering an unforgettable underwater adventure. Viator link
Language and Currency
Unlike Cozumel, where most vendors near the port speak both Spanish and English, and US currency is almost universally accepted, that may not always be the case in Costa Maya. In my experience at the shops just outside the port terminal, many vendors spoke little or no English, and several merchants only accepted Mexican Pesos (MXN). The symbol for pesos is the same as a dollar ($), 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, 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.
Belize City Cruise Port Ship Schedule
The Belize City, Belize cruise ship schedule can be found directly on the Port of Belize City website.
Climate and What to Wear
Belize City experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C). The rainy season lasts from June to November, with the heaviest rains typically occurring in September and October.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended for comfort in the humid climate. Additionally, bringing a light rain jacket or umbrella is wise during the rainy season. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city and nearby attractions.
Related: Shop my favorite cruise styles and outfits.
Time Zone
Keeping track of time zones can get complicated when cruising, especially for itineraries with multiple time zone changes on one sailing. Your captain will make announcements during the cruise to update you on these changes, but it’s good to be aware of these differences ahead of time when planning your stop at the port, especially for excursions.
Most cruise lines operate on “ship time” set to the time of their departing port, so it’s generally good practice to keep your phone or watch set to ship time. As for the port, Mexico has four time zones, and Costa Maya operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST). Keeping track of the time is crucial, especially ensuring you stay coordinated with ship time.
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.
