Belize City Cruise Port
Belize City, Belize District
The Belize City Cruise Port connects the country’s Caribbean cayes with the mainland and the city’s urban center. Most visitors don’t linger here, with the majority of cruise ship passengers passing through on their way to inland attractions such as Mayan ruins. Belize City Cruise Port is also the main gateway for ferry traffic to islands like Ambergris Caye.
The Basics
Although Belize City is no longer the country’s capital (it moved to Belmopan in 1962, after Hurricane Hattie), it’s still the country's largest city and entry point for most visitors. Thanks to Belize’s small size, it’s possible to head deep into the rain forest or out to the barrier reef even if you’re only in port for one day.
There’s not much to see in Belize City itself, but some shore excursions include a brief city sightseeing tour before adventures like cave tubing, snorkeling, and exploring Mayan ruins at sites like Xunantunich.
Things to Know Before You Go
Many amenities at the port are only open when a cruise ship is docked.
If you plan to catch a water taxi to San Pedro or Caye Caulker, check the ferry schedules carefully to be sure you don't miss the last return boat of the day.
From Belize City, allow 45 minutes to reach Caye Caulker and 1.5 hours to reach San Pedro on Ambergris Caye.
Be wary of unofficial taxis waiting at Tourism Village; it’s best to go with a prearranged ride from a tour operator or with a licensed taxi.
How to Get to Belize City From the Belize City Cruise Port
Cruise ships anchor in the harbor and then tender passengers to Tourism Village, a bustling but relatively small transit hub. From here, it's just a short taxi ride to the center of Belize City. However, most visitors skip Belize City and head out on shore excursions which typically include round-trip transfers from the cruise port.
Port Information
English is the official language of Belize although Spanish and Kriol are also spoken. The currency is the Belize dollar. You can find ATMs in Belize City, and many shops and restaurants accept US dollars and credit cards.
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