Destinations & Sample Yacht Charter Itineraries
Belize: Northern Itinerary
5-Night Sample Itinerary
Still relatively undiscovered as a sailing destination, Belize marries spectacular waters, hundreds of idyllic islands, the second largest barrier reef in the world with a fascinating, culturally rich heritage. The trade winds typically blow in from the east, ensuring the ultimate sailing conditions for sailing north or south.
Below are highlights of a sample north and central itinerary:
Day 1: Drowned Cayes
The Drowned Cayes consist of mangrove channels and islands that are the breeding grounds to the aquatic marine life of Belize. Pods of dolphins and manatees reside here, along with vast birdlife including herons, egrets, the occasional spoonbill, pelicans, frigates, cormorants, and many more. Due to our sheltered anchorage and the many channels and inlets, this is a perfect location to venture out kayaking or paddle boarding, getting very up close and personal with nature's goings on. The vibrant contracts of green mangroves to azure waters make the sunset all the more breathtaking.
Day 2: Gallow's Reef & St. Caye Caulker
Sail to the sleepy island of Caye Caulker, fish along the way and enjoy a swim on arrival. "Noshirt, no shoes, no problem" is the motto of this island and typifies the vibe. The white sandy beaches, ocean breezes, fresh seafood, azure waters and a fantastic barrier reef on its doorstep make it a perfect place to relax and unwind. Before anchorage enjoy a snorkel along Gallow's Reef, or try your hand at some spear fishing for lobster or snapper with your captain and guide.
Day 3: Coral Gardens & San Pedro
Sail to Coral Gardens for a morning snorkel at a spot known for its "dancing fans" corals and colourful schools of tropical fish. Sail on to San Pedro and explore the beach and town. The options are endless – Indulge in a spa treatment, sample local artisan chocolate at the chocolate boutique, shop locals arts and crafts, or indulge in an exotic libation at one of the islands over-the-water beach bars. This is also a great place to dine off the boat if you wanted to explore some of the best restaurants in Belize.
Day 4: Hol Chan, Shark Ray Alley & St George's Caye
Enjoy a morning of snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, swimming among beautiful schools of tropical fish, turtles, eagle rays, stingrays, moray eels, and grouper. Follow this with a dip at Shark Ray Alley, a site where local fishermen used to clean their catch, which attracts more carnivorous species such as big southern stingrays and nurse sharks. Sail to St George’s Caye. Steeped in history, it was the first capital of the British settlement in Belize. The island is principally home to private families, however it is possible to use this as a base for some great snorkeling or scuba diving, or walking the sandy shores.
Day 5: Goff's Caye & Bannister
Sail to Goff’s Caye – one of our favourite islands because it reminds us why postcards were invented. This 2-acre island sits right on the barrier reef so you can snorkel straight from the shore, or simply relax in the water on the sandbar with an icy cold Belikin beer. Sail up to Bannister Bogue, a mangrove collection of islands that are home to manatees, dolphins, multiple bird species and other marine life. Manatees, which are also known as "sea cows" are gentle, slow moving, plant-eating herbivores and their closest living relatives are elephants and aardvarks. They can grow over 13 feet in length and weigh up to 3,500 pounds. Despite being an endangered species, manatees are present in the waters of Belize and can be seen throughout the year. (Please note it is not possible to swim with theManatees and seeing them is not guaranteed).
Day 6: Return to the marina
Enjoy a leisurely sail back to the marina at Old Belize.
Itinerary Notes:
Please note that this sample sailing itinerary is subject to weather conditions, sailing conditions, guest preferences, and the captain's input. The itinerary is planned around an arrival time of noon. The itinerary will be subject to change for later arrivals.
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