Table of Contents
Yacht Charter in Belize
Host to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, Belize is an overlooked sailing destination that’s great if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure away from other crowded Caribbean hotspots. Located in Central America, bordering Mexico and Guatemala, this country offers the best of both worlds, the jungle and the sea. There’s a lot to explore in this paradise. Go fishing, snorkeling, diving, horseback riding, and visit the ancient Mayan ruins. But best of all, charter a yacht in Belize and sail the Caribbean Sea in peace and explore its pristine tropical islands.
Since it’s situated right in the Caribbean, Belize is a sailor’s dream. With warm, calm waters for most of the year, the Caribbean Sea is a paradise for sailing. The sheer number of islands that can be reached from Belize’s coast is immense, from Cuba and Jamaica’s main islands to the small caves and islands that make up the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas. With some time and determination, you can sail all over the Caribbean Sea or down to South America while you’re on a luxurious yacht of your choice. You can also follow the whole 174-mile (280 km) coast of Belize itself, taking in the unique and incredible scenery of this little tropical country.
Though sailing will be the highlight, make sure you also experience some continental fun. The nation is well visited but the least heavily populated country in Central America, which means that it has preserved its natural beauty better than other countries. From jungle walks to visit ancient ruins to scuba diving, there is an array of activities to experience while sailing the region’s crystal clear waters.
When’s the right time to visit Belize?
The best time of the year to come to Belize is between late November and mid-April, during the dry season.
Warm temperatures, clear skies, and proximity to top attractions can be enjoyed this time of year. Temperatures remain reasonably constant throughout the year with an average temperature of between 74°F (23°C) and 84°F (29°C), perfect for chartering your yacht in Belize.
What are the sailing conditions?
A Belize yacht charter holiday offers balmy easterly trade winds year round-average between 15 and 22 knots that deliver excellent cruising conditions.
Calm water is the standard when sailing within the barrier reef.
Although the passages are short and mostly line-of-view, the plotting of courses and reference charts is essential due to the many reefs. Stop Tom Owens Island because there are so many rugged reefs to navigate. If you’re sailing beyond the Glover’s Reef, Turneffe Reef, and Lighthouse Reef barrier, you’ll need a local skipper. You can find one on this page. Belize’s trade winds blow along the coastlines most of the year.
Belize’s Temperature and Water
The climate in Belize is tropical, with mild temperatures all year round. Each area varies in its environment, but the country usually experiences a wet and dry season every year. The warm air temperature and the steady current of the Caribbean, which draws water from the Equator, also keep the water temperature warm throughout the year. It is best to take advantage of the warm waters and gentle currents by scuba diving or snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef.
Although rainfall varies across Belize, the southern part of the country appears to get much more precipitation than the north and west. However, the months from January to April often may experience very little rainfall and are therefore excellent for a sailing trip to Belize. Less precipitation means calmer waters, and more tranquil waters mean a more relaxing, more manageable sailing experience.
The early part of the year is also an ideal time to visit Belize, as there is no chance of hurricane activity. While the country does not always feel the hurricane season’s impact, the storms have affected Belize and destroyed the country’s areas. It’s best to stop the risk entirely.
Belize Yacht Charter Destinations
Embark in Belize City and take advantage of two great Belize yacht charter itineraries. Sail to the famous northern island hotspots of San Pedro Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, and the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Alternatively, head for the less frequented southern island hotspots of Man-o-War Caye, Tobacco Caye, and Placencia. Whatever the itinerary you pick, or the weather determines, you are guaranteed cerulean waters for snorkeling, warm ocean breezes for water sports, and stunning sunsets.
Anchorings and Provisions
Owing to its small scale, Belize has a limited number of marinas. You can sail from the Belize Yacht Club Marina in San Pedro to Ambergris Caye. Another marina is accessible on the mainland in Belize City, Cucumber Beach Marina. There are also ports and ports, including Belize Harbour, near Belize City, and Port Honduras in southern Belize, near Payne’s Creek National Park. Besides marinas and ports, you can anchor along the Cayes and islands off the shores of Belize as well as on the beaches of the mainland. Provisioning is usually done at San Pedro or Placencia. Small provisions can be obtained at Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and North Coco Plum on Thatch Caye in Southern Belize. A few cases with restaurants, including South Water Caye, Tobacco Caye, Thatch Caye, and Isla Marisol on Southwest Caye. For automatic provisioning and dining, the locations listed above are best; other Cayes mainly plan to feed those booked at their resorts and do not have any extras for walk-ins. To replenish your boat with drinking water, Thatch Caye and South Water Caye sell fill-ups in the south. Thatch Caye also sells other items, such as mosquito repellent, toilet paper, and ice, and fishers on smaller cayennes will also sell you some of their catch so that you can make a delicious seafood meal right in the waters from which it originated.
Getting to Belize
Belize is one of the most open charter destinations in the Western Hemisphere. Still, it is also one of the most isolated and underdeveloped. Flights from several major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, New York, Denver, and Chicago, take between 4 and 5 hours and take you to Belize City’s tiny and friendly airport. To find your dream bareboat yacht, we will advise you to travel to Placencia to pick up your yacht.
The best boat holidays
are waiting for you…