Belize sailing holidays

Are you planning a sailing tour in the Belize? Belize, a jewel nestled on the Caribbean coast of Central America, is a sailor’s paradise. The world’s second-largest barrier reef offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, diverse marine life, and fascinating Mayan culture. This article serves as a guide to the best sailing destinations in Belize, offering insights into idyllic, hidden coves, and unforgettable underwater experiences.

Here’s what the article will cover:

• What is the best month to sail Belize?
• Why Belize is good for sailing?
• How can you get to Belize from abroad?
• Where to sail in Belize? – ports and islands
• Sailing tours in Belize – itineraries

What is the best month to sail Belize?

Belize has a subtropical climate, meaning it is warm and sunny all year round.
Dry season (December to May): This is the best time to sail in Belize, with sunny skies, less rain and lower humidity. Temperatures range from 24-29°C.
Constant trade winds blow from the east or southeast at 10-20 knots, and the sea is calm, providing ideal sailing conditions, especially within the coral reef.
Wet season (June to November): Higher humidity, more rain (especially between June and August and October and November), and tropical storms can occur. The average temperature is slightly higher at around 28°C. The trade winds are usually milder and less consistent, and the waves are larger, especially during storms.

Why Belize is good for sailing?

• Belize is home to the world’s second largest barrier reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with vibrant coral and diverse marine life. The reef creates a natural barrier, providing calm waters for sailing inside, as well as incredible snorkeling and diving spots.
• Varied sailing experiences and predictable conditions: Belize has consistent trade winds year-round, especially during the dry season, making it an ideal sailing destination. You can try everything from island-hopping, open-water sailing, and river sailing.
• Rich culture and history: Explore ancient Mayan ruins and learn about the fascinating history of this civilization. Experience the unique Garifuna culture on the south coast, with its vibrant music, dance, and cuisine. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals in the various island communities.
• Belize is easily accessible by plane from major cities around the world. Belize has well-equipped ports and facilities for sailors.
• Untouched nature: Untouched rainforests are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, and exotic birds. Belize has several national parks and marine reserves that offer hiking, wildlife viewing, and kayaking opportunities.

How can you get to Belize from abroad?

The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) is the main international airport located outside Belize City. Several major airlines offer direct flights to BZE from cities in the United States, Canada, and Central America, Europe, and Australia.

Where to sail in Belize? – ports and islands

Belize is a haven for nature lovers and nature lovers.

Placencia Peninsula

Located in the southern part of Belize, Placencia offers beautiful beaches and calm waters that are perfect for beginners. The most popular spots are: Laughing Bird Caye National Park: A protected area with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Silk Cayes: Enjoy pristine beaches, swimming, and snorkeling on this idyllic island chain. Placencia Village: A charming village with a laid-back atmosphere, local shops, and delicious seafood restaurants.

Ambergris Caye

The largest island in Belize, Ambergris Caye offers a mix of bustling towns and secluded beaches. San Pedro Town: A bustling town with a vibrant nightlife and restaurants. Hol Chan Marine Sanctuary: A protected area home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish. Secret Beach: A beautiful white sand beach with calm, shallow waters.

Caye Caulker

This laid-back island offers a laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and excellent snorkeling and diving. Split: This popular island was split in two by a hurricane. Caye Caulker Marine Sanctuary: This protected area is home to diverse marine life and coral formations. Shark Ray Alley: Snorkel with nurse sharks and rays in this unique cay.

South Water Caye

This island offers a more secluded experience with pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling, and a focus on ecotourism. South Water Caye Marine Reserve: Diverse marine life, including colorful fish, coral reefs, sea turtles, and mangrove forests.

Glover’s Reef Atoll

This remote atoll offers a true escape with pristine coral reefs, abundant marine life, and a unique sailing experience. Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a diverse ecosystem. Explore the atoll’s various islands, each with its own unique character, or take advantage of the excellent fishing opportunities for species such as snapper, osprey, and barracuda.

Ports in Belize

Belize has four official ports, but several private marinas offer safe moorings and amenities for yachts.

Belize City Marina

Located on the mainland coast, it is the former capital and largest city of Belize. It has a wide range of services and is well-located for connecting to mainland destinations.

San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)

Located on the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, the largest island of Belize. It is a popular tourist destination with a lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches and quick access to the Belize Barrier Reef.

Big Creek (Placencia)

Located on the mainland coast, near the Placencia Peninsula, this marina offers good access to the southern Belize Barrier Reef and the Placencia Lagoon, known for its diverse marine life. It is less developed than other marinas, with limited services.

Punta Gorda

This port is located in southern Belize, near the Guatemalan border. It is considered the cheapest and most relaxed port, with a friendly atmosphere and access to the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve. It is open, which means it is less protected from the weather than the enclosed ports.

Sailing tours in Belize – itineraries

Belize sailing vacation

This itinerary focuses on the diverse beauty of Belize’s southern cliffs and reefs, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. It’s designed at a comfortable pace so you can fully enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere and the wonders of Belize.

Day 1: Placencia to Ranguana Caye

33 km (20 nm), sailing time: 3-4 hours
Before boarding the boat, eat at a local restaurant and head to Ranguana Caye, a picturesque island with pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Drop anchor on the sheltered cay and enjoy the tranquility.

Day 2: Placencia to Ranguana Caye

Day 3: Ranguana Caye – South Water Caye

54 km (33 nm), sailing time: 6-7 hours
In the morning, relax on white sandy beaches, swim, snorkel on vibrant coral reefs, and explore the island’s trails. Sail to South Water Caye, part of the South Water Caye Marine Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This island offers incredible biodiversity and untouched natural beauty. Snorkel or dive in vibrant coral gardens, explore mangrove forests, and kayak through crystal-clear waters.

Day 3: South Water Caye – Tobacco Caye

9 km (6 nm), sailing time: 1-1.5 hours
After breakfast, take a short sail to Tobacco Caye, a small island with a laid-back atmosphere and a unique history. Once a pirate haven, this caye is now a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Explore the island’s trails, relax on the beach, snorkel the reefs, and visit the Tobacco Caye Marine Station.

Day 4: Tobacco Caye to Glover’s Reef Atoll

32 km (20 nm), sailing time: 3.5-4 hours
Set sail for Glover’s Reef Atoll, a remote and pristine atoll with incredible marine biodiversity. It’s a true snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.

5. Day 6: Glover’s Reef Atoll – Southwest Caye

10 km (7 nm), sailing time: 1 hour
Set sail to Southwest Caye, part of Glover’s Reef Atoll, where you’ll have a unique opportunity to admire the atoll’s diverse marine life. Dive with nurse sharks, explore seagrass beds, kayak through mangroves.

Day 6: Southwest Caye – Laughing Bird Caye National Park

48 km (30 nm), sailing time: 5-6 hours
Set sail to Laughing Bird Caye National Park, a small island known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. This protected area is a haven for snorkelers and divers.

Day 7: Day 1: Laughing Bird Caye – Placencia

23 km (14 nm), sailing time: 2.5-3 hours
Enjoy your last morning in paradise before sailing back to Placencia.

Belize sailing trip

Day 1. Placencia harbour – Hideaway Caye 23,25 km (14,45 nm), Day 2. Hideaway Caye – Cocoa Plum Cay 22,61 km (14,05 nm), Day 3. Cocoa Plum Cay – Tobacco Caye 6,71 km (4,17 nm), Day 4. Tobacco Caye – South Water Caye 9,28 km (5,77 nm), Day 5. South Water Caye – Lagoon Caye 24,74 km (15,38 nm), Day 6. Lagoon Caye – Lark Caye 14,70 km (9,14 nm), Day 7. Lark Caye – Placencia harbour 13,26 km (8,24 nm)