Ncl Cruise Docking In Belize

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) docks in Harvest Caye, a private island in Southern Belize that is a popular destination for many cruisers. The island features a range of attractions, including a large pool with a swim-up bar, a salt-water lagoon for water sports, a 7-acre beach, and shore excursions such as zip-lining and snorkelling. Harvest Caye is also known for its commitment to authenticity and sustainability, with all staff and businesses being local, and materials for the man-made port sourced locally.

NCL docks in Harvest Caye, a private island in Belize

Harvest Caye is exclusively owned by Norwegian Cruise Line and was built in partnership with the government of Belize. The cruise line partnered with the Belizean government to ensure that the cruise port remained as authentic as possible. As a result, all 400 staff members on the island are locals, and all restaurants, amenities, and shopping stores are locally owned. Even the materials used to construct the man-made port were sourced locally.

The port features a large marina with food and bar options, as well as a variety of shore excursions such as zip-lining, snorkelling, and wildlife tours. There is also an expansive shopping village featuring both popular name-brand retailers and local Belizean crafts.

The island has four bars, and the only restaurant is the Landshark Bar & Grill, which is locally owned and affiliated with Jimmy Buffet's restaurants. It is important to note that meals are not included in the cruise package, and guests must pay for their food and drinks on the island, even if they have an onboard beverage package.

Harvest Caye is a great option for those seeking comfort and safety while also offering opportunities for authentic local experiences. However, some guests may find the island too insulated and prefer to explore the mainland or other nearby islands.

Harvest Caye features a 15,000 sq. ft. swimming pool, a zip line, and a beach

Harvest Caye is a 75-acre island in Belize, owned exclusively by Norwegian Cruise Line. It features a range of facilities and activities, including a 15,000 sq. ft. swimming pool, a zip line, and a beach.

The swimming pool is one of the largest you will find on a cruise port. It is beautifully designed and features an under-the-bridge section and a swim-up bar. There are plenty of lounge chairs surrounding the pool, as well as palm trees that provide shade and a beach-like vibe. The pool area also includes private cabanas that are available for rent.

The zip line is another highlight of Harvest Caye. It is 1,300 feet long and starts from the top of a majestic lighthouse, called the Flight House. The zip line offers a bird's-eye view of the pool, port area, and the surrounding waters, including the coral reefs and Mayan mountainsides of Belize.

The beach at Harvest Caye is a 7-acre stretch of white sandy beach with 2,500 lounge chairs. The sand is made from crushed seashells, giving it a unique texture. The ocean provides warm, turquoise blue waters, and there is plenty of shade under the many palm trees. For a more private experience, clamshells are available for rent.

In addition to these main attractions, Harvest Caye also offers a range of other activities and facilities, such as a kid's splash pad, a nature park, a saltwater lagoon for water sports, and a variety of shopping and dining options.

The island also offers wildlife and nature experiences, including a butterfly sanctuary

The island of Belize offers a plethora of wildlife and nature experiences. With an estimated 700 species of butterflies, Belize is a paradise for butterfly enthusiasts. There are several butterfly farms and gardens across the island, such as the Green Hills Butterfly Farm, the Blue Morpho Butterfly Farm at Chaa Creek, and the Tropical Wings Ecocenter Butterfly Farm. These farms offer a closer look at the life cycles of these radiant creatures and provide educational experiences for all ages.

In addition to butterflies, Belize is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including jaguars, howler monkeys, toucans, and sea turtles. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to go birdwatching, with opportunities to spot keel-billed toucans, peccary, and Belize's cat species. The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is another wildlife hotspot, known for its thrilling birdlife, howler monkeys, iguanas, and crocodiles.

For those interested in marine life, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve offers snorkelling and diving opportunities to swim alongside nurse sharks and southern stingrays. The Gales Point Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to cruise alongside manatees, while the South Lagoon is ideal for spotting West Indian manatees and various bird species.

Belize truly offers a unique and immersive experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Excursions are available to mainland Belize, including Mayan sites and cave tubing

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a range of excursions to mainland Belize, including Mayan sites and cave tubing. Here are some options for those looking to explore the rich history and natural wonders of Belize:

Mayan Sites

• Nim Li Punit Mayan Ruins: Discover the ancient Mayan archaeological site of Nim Li Punit and explore the well-preserved ruins, including a museum and a welcome centre. This excursion includes a 30-minute boat ride to the mainland and a one-hour air-conditioned bus trip to the ruins.
• Xunantunich Mayan Ruins: Explore the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, situated in a tropical rainforest west of Belize City. This excursion includes a visit to one of the tallest Mayan structures in Belize, El Castillo, and the chance to see intricate sculptures and detailed Mayan drawings. It also offers stunning views of the Guatemalan Peten District, the Maya Mountains, and the Cayo District of Belize.
• Altun Ha Mayan Ruins: Visit the beautifully reconstructed temples of Altun Ha, which offer an easy climb for young children. This excursion includes transportation and a delicious Belizean lunch.
• Lamanai Mayan Ruins and New River Boat Ride: Enjoy a thrilling boat ride to Lamanai on the Belize New River and explore the rainforest, spotting howler monkeys, spider monkeys, and crocodiles.
• Cahal Pech Maya Ruins: Discover unparalleled Maya masonry construction and explore the surrounding rainforest, home to tropical birds and other wildlife. This excursion includes transportation and lunch.

Cave Tubing

• Belize Cave Tubing with X-Stream Cave Tubing Tours: This popular excursion takes you to the Sibun River Caves Branch, where you'll explore two complete cave systems and dry caves. The tour includes transportation, cave tubing gear, and a certified guide.
• Belize Cave Tubing & Zip Line Excursion: Combine cave tubing with a zip line canopy tour for an adventurous experience. This excursion includes transportation and all the necessary equipment.

These excursions offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and natural wonders of Belize, providing a memorable and educational experience for all ages.

The official language in Belize is English, and the currency is the Belizean dollar

Harvest Caye, a port on the southern coast of Belize, is a popular destination for cruise ships, including those of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). The port offers a range of attractions, including a large swimming pool, a zip line, a nature park, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Belize is a country in Central America, bordering Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. It is the only country in Central America with English as its official language, and the Belizean dollar as its currency. The country has a diverse society with various cultures and languages, including Spanish, Mayan, German, and Garifuna. The official language, English, is widely spoken, along with Belizean Creole, which is considered the most diverse language in Belize.

The Belizean dollar is the official currency of Belize and is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of $2 Belizean to $1 US. US dollars are widely accepted in the country, and most prices for accommodations and tours are listed in US dollars. ATMs are readily available in tourist destinations and larger towns.

Belize has a diverse landscape, ranging from swampy coastal plains in the north to low mountain ranges in the south. The country is known for its biodiversity and ecosystems, including extensive coral reefs, jungles, and wildlife reserves. The country has a small population of around 410,000 people, making it the least populated and least densely populated country in Central America.

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