Renting A Boat In Belize: What You Need To Know

Belize is a beautiful country in Central America, adorned with gorgeous shorelines, a beautiful jungle, ancient historic sites, and immense marine life. It offers one of the most amazing sailing environments, with consistently warm weather and the finest water action you can ever come across in this tropical haven. From classic sailboats to ultra-modern luxury boats, there is a wide variety of boats to pick from for a perfect sail.

Types of boats available to rent in Belize

There are many types of boats available to rent in Belize, catering to a variety of interests and activities. Here is a list of some of the most popular options:

Catamarans

Catamarans are a popular choice for boat rentals in Belize, offering a stable and spacious platform for leisure cruises and sailing excursions. They range from smaller vessels for intimate groups to larger, luxurious options like the Lagoon 500, which boasts innovative features, ample cabin space, and impressive speed and handling. Catamarans are also available for fishing and snorkelling trips, providing a versatile platform for various marine activities.

Power Boats

For those seeking speed and efficiency, power boats are an excellent option. A power catamaran, for instance, combines the stability of a catamaran with the added benefit of fuel efficiency. This type of vessel is well-suited for fishing, diving, and transportation to the mainland.

Skiffs

Skiffs are commonly used in Belize, with the "Mexican" or "Guatemalan" skiffs being the most prevalent. These vessels typically range from 18 to 25 feet in length, with the "Mexican" variant featuring a low bow and the "Guatemalan" skiff a high bow. Skiffs are popular among local fishermen due to their strong build and load-carrying capacity.

Yachts

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, yacht charters are available in Belize. These vessels offer a chance to explore the country's stunning waters in style and comfort. Yachts can be outfitted for various activities, including fishing, snorkelling, and leisure cruises.

Kayaks

For a more intimate and active experience, kayaks are also available for rent in Belize. This option allows adventurers to explore the country's coastline and waters at their own pace, offering a unique perspective on the marine environment.

The variety of boats available for rent in Belize caters to diverse interests and activities. Whether you're seeking leisure, adventure, or a combination of both, there is a vessel to suit your needs and preferences.

How to find and book a boat rental in Belize

Belize is a beautiful country in Central America with stunning shorelines, a vibrant jungle, rich marine life, and ancient historic sites. The country offers a fantastic sailing environment with warm, pleasant weather and the finest water activities in this tropical haven.

Where to Find Boat Rentals in Belize

There are several websites that offer boat rentals in Belize, including:

• Getmyboat.com
• Tripadvisor.com
• Borrowaboat.com
• Trip101.com
• Dreamyachtcharter.com
• Moorings.com

These websites offer a range of boat rental options, from classic sailboats to modern luxury yachts and catamarans.

How to Book a Boat Rental

The booking process may vary depending on the website and the specific boat rental company. However, here is a general overview of the steps to book a boat rental in Belize:

• Browse the listings on the website and compare different options based on your preferences, such as the type of boat, amenities, location, and price.
• Once you have found a boat that meets your requirements, check the availability for your desired dates.
• Contact the boat owner or rental company to inquire about the rental and ask any questions you may have.
• Review the rental agreement and terms, including any additional costs, such as marina fees, fuel costs, and charter fees.
• Provide the necessary information and complete the booking process, including payment.
• Coordinate the pick-up location and time with the boat owner or captain.

Things to Keep in Mind

• It is recommended to book your charter in advance to secure your preferred boat and dates.
• Some websites offer reviews from previous renters, which can help you make an informed decision.
• Be sure to carefully review the rental policies, including cancellation and refund policies.
• Depending on your sailing qualifications and the requirements in Belize, you may need to hire a professional skipper.
• Ensure you have the necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport, and any required sailing licenses or certificates.

What to do and see in Belize by boat

Belize is a beautiful country in Central America with stunning shorelines, a lush jungle, rich marine life, and ancient historic sites. It offers a fantastic sailing environment with consistently warm weather and calm waters.

Explore the Mayan Ruins

One of the first things to do when in Belize is to venture ashore and explore the ancient stone structures built by the Mayans, which date back to around 800-900 BC. Altun Ha is located just 30 miles north of Belize City. You can also visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins in the Cayo District.

Dive the Blue Hole

Certified divers won't want to miss the famous Blue Hole, an impressive 1,000ft-wide sinkhole surrounded by coral, deep caves, and ancient Mayan ruins. It is part of the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the world's second-longest unbroken barrier reef.

Visit Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

While sailing in Belize, pay a visit to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world's first jaguar sanctuary. It is also home to a diverse range of exotic flora and fauna, as well as refreshing waterfalls.

Discover the Cayo Region

The Cayo Region, along Belize's western border, is ideal for adventure seekers. It features the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave systems, subterranean waterfalls, ancient rivers, and adrenaline-inducing zip-lining experiences.

Experience the Local Culture

Belize has a rich multicultural influence, with Mexican/Jamaican fusion cuisine and punta afro-Caribbean music. The locals speak English and a dialect called Belizean Creole.

Enjoy Water Sports and Fishing

Belize offers a range of water sports and fishing opportunities. You can go snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, or try your hand at saltwater fly fishing. There are also several islands with beautiful beaches for swimming and sunbathing, such as Ambergris Caye, South Water Caye, and Half Moon Caye.

Whether you're looking for ancient ruins, natural wonders, or exciting water activities, Belize has something for everyone to enjoy by boat.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Belize

Yes, it is possible to rent a boat in Belize. The cost of renting a boat in Belize varies depending on the type of boat, the duration of the rental, and the location.

For example, Getmyboat offers boat rentals in Belize starting at $60 per hour. They have a range of boats available, including catamarans, centre consoles, and luxury yachts. The price of renting a boat can also depend on the additional services you require, such as a captain or a crewed charter.

Borrow A Boat is another company that offers boat rentals and yacht charters in Belize. While their website does not explicitly state the price, they do mention that there are additional costs to consider, such as marina fees and fuel costs. These fees can vary depending on the type of boat, the duration of the rental, and the location.

Belize Sailing Vacations is a family-run yacht charter company that offers all-inclusive sailing vacations in Belize. Their rates range from $1,570 per night to $3,130 per night, and they provide complimentary transfers from the airport to the marina, on-board five-star meals, an open bar, and snorkelling and fishing equipment.

The Corpus Christi Sailing Center offers group sailing cruises in Belize, with rates around $1,050 per person for a week's sail.

Liveaboard dive boats are also an option for those seeking a diving-focused vacation. Peter Hughes Diving and the Aggressor Fleet are two well-known operations that offer seven-day trips, including diving, food, drinks, and airport transfers. Their rates range from $1,595 to $1,695 per person.

Additionally, day trips to the islands and other water activities, such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, and parasailing, are available from local tour operators in Belize.

What licenses and documents do I need to rent a boat in Belize

To rent a boat in Belize, you will need a basic sailing license. If you don't have a license, you can still rent a boat, but it will need to be a skippered boat, where the skipper will help you to get to know the places you visit more intimately.

The skipper will also be able to assist you with any questions about the boat and the locality. It is also worth noting that there are additional costs to consider when renting a boat, such as marina fees and fuel costs, which can vary depending on the type and length of the rental.

Frequently asked questions