Sailing To Belize: A Tropical Odyssey

Belize is a popular sailing destination, boasting the world's second-largest barrier reef, hundreds of tropical islands, and three major offshore atolls. The country's sailing conditions are generally favourable, with steady trade winds and minimal waves inside the barrier reef. The best time for sailing in Belize is between June and November, with temperatures hovering around 80ºF.

When it comes to how long it takes to sail to Belize, it depends on your starting point. For example, sailing from New Orleans to Belize in 1867 would have taken several days, and modern ferries can now make the journey in large ships. From Placencia Airport in Belize, it takes about 35 minutes to fly to Philip Goldson Airport, the country's international airport.

Sailing conditions and weather

Belize's sailing conditions and weather are ideal for a tropical paradise getaway. The country is situated on the western border of the Caribbean Sea, with a subtropical climate that keeps temperatures hovering around 80ºF (26-28°C). The best time for sailing is between June and November, with southeast trade winds blowing at an average of 10-13 knots, creating top-notch sailing conditions. Within the barrier reef, waves are minimal, providing calm waters for sailing.

The barrier reef, which is the world's second-largest, offers over 130 miles of protected waters from ocean swells. It is teeming with marine life, including fish, coral, turtles, dolphins, and a vibrant array of colourful fish. The reef also features surreal coral landscapes with sand bottom canyons, arches, and spires that offer excellent snorkelling and diving spots for all levels of experience.

Belize's mountainous interior and Mayan history add to the allure for backpackers, while the reef, atolls, islands, and cays attract water enthusiasts. The country boasts countless islands, providing a diverse range of cruising grounds. From the more developed Ambergris Caye to the untouched southern islands, Belize offers a unique sailing experience.

The sailing conditions in Belize are generally favourable, with line-of-sight navigation and minimal waves inside the reef. However, sailors should be vigilant when navigating the shallows and reefs, as charting can be less than accurate. Solid anchoring skills are essential, and a local skipper is required for sailing beyond the barrier reef or within its southernmost reaches.

While the sailing conditions are generally pleasant, hurricanes can occur but are most likely to hit in August and September. The wet season also occurs during these months, so visiting during late May and early June can help you skip the crowds and potentially avoid stormy weather.

Overall, Belize offers a tropical sailing experience with consistent trade winds, calm waters, and an abundance of natural wonders to explore.

Best sailing times

Belize is a great sailing destination all year round, with steady trade winds and pleasant temperatures. The best time for sailing in Belize is between June and November. The wet season occurs in June through November, and the southeast trade winds blow at an average of 10-13 knots, providing top-notch sailing conditions.

If you want to skip the crowds, late May and early June are good months to visit. In the absence of tropical storm systems, August and September can also be spectacular months to sail. The temperatures during this time range from the mid-70s to mid-80s F. While the season officially extends from November to May, some say the best months are March and April, after the winter northerlies pass.

Mid-August until mid-September can get a little sweaty, and hurricanes are rare but are most likely to hit in August and September. Year-round water temperatures in Belize average a perfectly pleasant 26C to 28C.

If you're looking for a unique and wonderful cruising experience, the ocean waters of Belize offer just that. With the world's second-largest barrier reef, hundreds of sun-swept tropical islands to explore, and three major offshore atolls, there's something for everyone. The barrier reef provides over 130 miles of protected waters from the ocean swell, and a reef that is teeming with fish, coral, and other creatures.

Belize has some of the most pristine, unspoiled natural beauty you will find anywhere in the world. The coral forms colourful, surreal landscapes with jutting heads, sand bottom canyons, arches and spires that offer great snorkelling and diving for both novices and the more experienced.

The bareboat cruising area, which extends from Placencia in the south to Ambergris Cay in the north, is about 140 square nautical miles. Sailing beyond the barrier reef or within it at the southernmost reaches generally requires a local skipper on board. From the deck, landmasses appear lush and low, predominantly mangrove vegetation and flat, palm-studded cays. Passages can be short or long, and navigation is line-of-sight.

The challenging part of sailing in Belize is learning to read the shallow waters and recognize coral. There are very few navigational markers, so it's important to have good light so you can see the tricky spots. Going with a crewed yacht charter or hiring a captain is your best bet to enjoy the sailing while letting someone else worry about navigating through the coral heads. Catamarans are the most popular vessels when sailing in Belize due to their shallow draft through the Belize islands.

Sailing route

Belize is a sailor's paradise, with steady trade winds, countless islands, and the world's second-largest barrier reef. The best time to sail to Belize is between June and November, with the peak season being from November to May. If you want to skip the crowds, late May and early June are good options. The wet season runs from June to November, but even during this time, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 80ºF.

The best place to start your sailing journey to Belize is at the Philip Goldson International Airport, where all international flights arrive. From there, you can take a connecting domestic flight to Placencia Airport, which takes about 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can travel to Placencia by bus or car, which takes around 3 hours. Charters to sail in Belize usually start from Robert's Grove Marina in Placencia.

The sailing conditions in Belize are top-notch, with southeast trade winds blowing at an average of 10-13 knots and minimal waves within the barrier reef. The entire barrier reef is more than 350 nautical miles long, and the Belize portion runs for over 180 nautical miles. The reef provides over 130 miles of protected waters from the ocean swell, and it is teeming with marine life, including fish, coral, turtles, and dolphins.

When sailing in Belize, you can explore the 300-kilometer-long barrier reef reserve system, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the highlights include:

• Glover's Reef Marine Reserve
• South Water Caye Marine Reserve
• The Blue Hole Natural Monument
• The three atolls: Turneffe, Glover's Reef, and Lighthouse Reef

If you want to venture beyond the barrier reef or sail within its southernmost reaches, you will need to have a local skipper on board. This is due to the less-than-accurate charting and the presence of shallow waters and coral reefs, which require a vigilant bow watch.

One recommended 7-day sailing itinerary includes the following stops:

• Robert's Grove Marina, Placencia
• Whipray Caye
• South Water Caye
• Coco Plum Caye
• Lagoon Caye
• Hatchet Caye
• Lark Caye
• Return to Robert's Grove Marina, Placencia

Belize offers a diverse sailing experience, with options for exploring uninhabited tropical islands, diving, snorkelling, fishing, and even inland adventures such as visiting Mayan temples and zip-lining through the jungle. The northern portion of Belize, including Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, offers a mix of great diving, snorkelling, and local culture. In contrast, the southern portion provides a more remote experience, with postcard-perfect islands and fewer big towns, except for Placencia.

Sailing qualifications

If you're planning to sail to Belize, you'll need to make sure you have the necessary sailing qualifications. While the specific requirements can vary depending on your location and the type of boat you'll be sailing, there are some standard certifications that are widely recognised. Here's an overview of the key sailing qualifications you should consider:

• International Certificate of Competence (ICC): This certificate is highly recommended if you plan to sail in international waters. It is recognised worldwide and confirms that you have the competence to safely handle a boat in foreign countries. The ICC is typically valid for five years and can be obtained through organisations like the American Sailing Association (ASA) or International Yacht Training (IYT).
• American Sailing Association (ASA) Certifications: The ASA offers a range of sailing certifications, including Keelboat Sailing, Small Boat Sailing, and Multihull Sailing. Their beginner courses (101-103) cover basic sailing skills and terminology, while intermediate courses (104 and above) focus on more advanced skills such as coastal cruising and navigation. ASA certifications are widely recognised and can be useful for chartering boats or sailing in local waters.
• International Yacht Training (IYT) Certifications: IYT is a newer organisation that offers sailing courses in multiple languages. They provide certifications such as the International Bareboat Skipper course, which is similar to ASA's intermediate courses. IYT also offers advanced Yachtmaster courses, including Coastal, Ocean, and Offshore specialisations.
• Country-Specific Certifications: In addition to the above international certifications, some countries or regions may have their own sailing qualification requirements. For example, to charter a yacht in Belize, you may need to obtain a temporary Certificate of Competency from the Belize Port Authority. This is required for bareboat charters and ensures you are familiar with local sailing restrictions and regulations.

It's important to note that sailing qualifications can vary depending on your intended sailing activities and location. If you plan to sail for recreational or commercial purposes, the required qualifications may differ. Additionally, some charter companies may have their own set of requirements and may ask about your sailing experience before leasing a boat to you. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check with the relevant authorities or sailing organisations in your area to ensure you have the necessary qualifications for your specific sailing plans.

Things to do in Belize

Belize is a country that beckons beachgoers, history buffs, and nature lovers. Here are some of the best things to do in Belize:

Explore the Belize Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second-largest coral reef in the world. It is home to an impressive aquatic ecosystem, including turtles, dolphins, and a variety of colourful fish. The reef is a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving, with crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life. Some of the best spots to explore along the reef include Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and the Great Blue Hole.

Visit Ancient Mayan Ruins

Belize is home to several ancient Mayan ruins, including Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai. Xunantunich, located about 15 minutes from San Ignacio Town, features six major plazas and the tallest structure, "El Castillo", which stands at 130 feet tall. Caracol is the tallest human-made structure in Belize, with its massive Caana (Sky Palace) pyramid. Lamanai, perched on the New River Lagoon in northern Belize, is the longest-occupied known Mayan site in the world, inhabited from about 1500 B.C. to A.D. 1700.

Experience the Culture

Belize has a diverse culture with influences from Creole, Mestizo, Garifuna, Mayan, European, Middle Eastern, and Asian cultures. Immerse yourself in the Garifuna culture in Hopkins, a Garifuna village on the Southern Coast. Take a Garifuna drum lesson, learn about their traditional drumming, and partake in dancing. You can also visit the San Antonio Women's Cooperative, a Mayan village that preserves Mayan culture, food, pottery making, and language.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

Belize offers plenty of outdoor activities besides snorkelling and scuba diving. You can go sailing, kayaking, fishing, or hiking. Explore nature reserves such as the Green Hills Butterfly Ranch, home to thousands of live butterflies, or the Green Iguana Conservation Project, where you can interact with green iguanas. For a more adventurous experience, journey through the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave, an ancient "underworld" used by the Mayans, which features human skeletons, ancient Mayan pottery, and sacred chambers.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Belizean cuisine is influenced by Mexican, Mayan, Spanish, and African cultures. Sample grilled lobster, a Belizean favourite, or try the local seafood dish, conch. For a taste of Mayan culture, make your own chocolate at a cacao farm, using traditional Mayan utensils and methods. Don't forget to try some local drinks, such as the Ripper, made with coconut rum and pineapple juice, or a refreshing soursop fruit juice.

Frequently asked questions