Belize – Cruise Port Review
Belize is a true Central American treasure, packed with adventure, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty. Cruise ships anchor offshore, and you’ll be tendered into Belize City—the main jumping-off point for all the amazing excursions waiting just beyond the port.
🚢 Arriving at the Port (Belize City)
The port area itself is small but welcoming, with souvenir shops, a handful of local bars, and casual restaurants—perfect for a quick snack or picking up some handmade crafts.
That said, Belize City doesn’t offer a ton of sightseeing, so most cruisers opt to get out and explore the incredible nature and culture nearby.
🏛️ Top Excursions You Can’t Miss
Mayan Ruins:
Sites like Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Xunantunich are fascinating windows into Belize’s ancient Mayan past. Climbing the temples rewards you with breathtaking jungle views and a real sense of history.
Cave Tubing:
This is a signature Belize experience—imagine floating on an inner tube through winding underground river caves, while guides share captivating Mayan legends and stories.
Zip Lining:
Often combined with cave tubing, zip lining lets you soar above lush rainforest canopies, giving you an adrenaline rush with a side of spectacular scenery.
Barrier Reef Snorkeling:
Don’t miss snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world. The vibrant coral and tropical fish make for an unforgettable underwater adventure.
🚐 Heads Up: Long Drives & Bumpy Roads
One thing to keep in mind—most excursions involve 1–2 hour drives each way, often on rough, bumpy roads. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer short trips, this can be a bit challenging.
That said, these scenic drives give you a chance to peek into everyday Belizean village life and the beautiful jungle landscape—just be prepared for the rough terrain.
🍴 Food & Drink Highlights
Belizean Stew Chicken: A comforting local favorite, usually served with rice and beans.
Fry Jacks: Puffy fried dough, perfect for breakfast or as a savory snack.
Rum Punch: A refreshing Caribbean classic you might enjoy during excursions.
Local Beer: Belikin is the go-to Belizean brew and easy to find around town and the port.
⭐ Final Thoughts
If you’re an adventurous cruiser who loves history, culture, and nature, Belize is a fantastic choice. The Mayan ruins, cave tubing, and zip lining deliver memorable experiences, even if the long, bumpy drives can be a bit tiring. Just pack some motion sickness remedies and get ready for a day full of incredible stories, stunning landscapes, and a genuine taste of Belizean culture.