Norwegian's Belize Docking: Why Carnival Can't

Belize is a popular cruise destination, known for its blue waters, beaches, and opportunities for discovery and adventure. However, there are some key differences in how cruise lines operate in the country. Norwegian Cruise Line has invested in a dedicated facility in Harvest Caye, located about 105 miles south of Belize City, as part of a major multimillion-dollar project with the Government of Belize to bring their ships to the country. On the other hand, Carnival Cruise Line offers shore excursions and activities such as snorkelling, airboat adventures, and Mayan ruin explorations, but does not have a private island or dedicated facility in Belize. This may be a reason why Norwegian docks in Belize while Carnival doesn't, as cruise lines often have specific ports-of-call where they have developed infrastructure and partnerships.

Norwegian Cruise Line's dedicated facility in Harvest Caye

Harvest Caye is a dedicated facility in Belize that is reportedly being developed through a major multimillion-dollar project between Norwegian Cruise Line and the Government of Belize. The facility is located approximately 105 miles south of Belize City.

Harvest Caye offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors. Here is some information about Norwegian Cruise Line's dedicated facility:

Natural Attractions:

Belize is known for its natural attractions, including:

• The longest barrier reef in the hemisphere, home to the Great Blue Hole.
• Hundreds of ancient Maya sites, both excavated and jungle-covered.
• Lush tropical rainforest with a variety of bird species and exotic flora and fauna.

Excursions:

Harvest Caye and the surrounding area offer various excursions and activities for Norwegian Cruise Line guests. Some of these include:

• Cave tubing: A unique activity offered by some tour companies, which involves floating through underground caves.
• Snorkeling and scuba diving: With the second-largest barrier reef in the world, Belize offers exceptional snorkeling and diving spots, such as Turneffe Atoll and Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
• Archaeological tours: Belize has the most discovered Mayan ruins, with popular sites such as Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Xunantunich.
• Wildlife watching: Visitors can observe wildlife such as howler monkeys, green iguanas, and crocodiles on guided tours.
• ATV tours: For those seeking adventure, ATV excursions through the jungle are available.
• Horseback riding: Guests can explore the dense jungle of Belize on horseback, discovering diverse flora and fauna.

Amenities and Facilities:

Harvest Caye provides a range of amenities and facilities for Norwegian Cruise Line guests:

• Restaurants and bars: The facility offers a variety of dining and drinking options, allowing guests to experience authentic Belizean cuisine and drinks.
• Shopping: There are shops selling souvenirs, jewelry, and local crafts.
• Beach access: While there are no natural beaches on the mainland, Harvest Caye provides access to nearby private resorts and beaches, such as Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.
• Water sports: Guests can enjoy various water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and diving.

Safety and Transportation:

It is important to note that Belize City has a reputation for being unsafe for visitors. Guests are advised to stick to tourist-friendly areas and remain vigilant.

Transportation options in Belize include licensed taxis, water taxis to nearby islands, and shore excursions offered by Norwegian Cruise Line.

Overall, Norwegian Cruise Line's dedicated facility in Harvest Caye, Belize, offers a range of attractions, activities, and amenities for guests seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. The facility provides access to the natural beauty and historical sites of Belize, along with modern comforts and conveniences.

Carnival excursions in Belize

Belize is a unique combination of tropical oasis, explorer's paradise and thrill-seeker's playground. With its picturesque oceanfront, jungle terrain and exotic wildlife, it offers intrigue, relaxation and adventure.

Lamanai Mayan Ruins and River Boat Safari

Take a trip back in time on a climate-controlled bus through the original colonies of British Honduras, winding through the Belize River Valley. Then, float through the rainforest on a riverboat cruise, observing the exotic wildlife, before reaching one of the largest Mayan ceremonial sites ever discovered.

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Xunantunich Ruins offer a chance to explore one of the most complete Mayan ruin complexes. This site invites you to delve into the ancient Mayan culture with its ceremonial temples, partially excavated ball court, and massive palaces. The excursion also includes lunch in the local city of San Ignacio, providing a taste of modern Belizean culture.

Exclusive Crystal Cave Tubing and Zipline

This excursion combines spelunking, cave tubing, and ziplining through the rainforest canopy. After hiking among the Cohune Palms, you'll reach a limestone cliff that serves as the starting point for your ziplining adventure. You'll explore ancient ceremonial caves and float through mysterious tunnels and crystallized chambers used by the Mayans. The excursion concludes with an authentic Belizean lunch.

Sharks, Rays, Barrier Reef Snorkel and Island Escape

Explore the amazing Barrier Reef with a professional guide, who will lead you through the coral formations and introduce you to the diverse sea life. You'll also have the opportunity to stand among harmless nurse sharks and stingrays in their native habitat.

Snorkeling Wonders of the Barrier Reef

For those seeking a more comprehensive snorkeling experience, this excursion takes you to a private tropical island, Rendezvous Caye. Here, you'll have ample time to snorkel through the largest barrier reef in the hemisphere and encounter a vast array of coral and colourful fish. The island also offers refreshments and a relaxing beach experience.

Airboat Adventure and Belize City Tour

This excursion blends local culture and water-based thrills. It begins with a bus tour of Belize City, where you'll learn about its rich history. Then, you'll board a 450-horsepower airboat and zip across Almond Hill Lagoon, feeling the warm sea breeze. Along the way, you'll explore the mangroves, water lilies, and observe birds, turtles, and manatees.

Starfish Private Island Getaway

This family-friendly excursion takes you to a private island, where you can swim, soak up the sun, and relax to the sounds of local music. It's a flexible experience, allowing you to be as active or relaxed as you like. A Belizean buffet-style lunch and a full bar are also part of this island getaway.

Belize offers a range of excursions to cater to different interests, whether you're seeking adventure, exploration, or relaxation in this tropical paradise.

Belize's shallow waters

Despite the shallow waters, Belize is a popular cruise destination, particularly for those interested in Mayan archaeological sites, natural wonders, and wildlife. The Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest on the planet, is a stunning place for cruise passengers to snorkel, scuba dive, or fish. The Belize Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the Belize Blue Hole, one of the most iconic dive spots in the world. The Blue Hole is a large underwater cave, almost perfectly circular, with a bottom more than 400 feet below the sea's surface.

Belize City's safety concerns

Belize City, the country's largest urban centre, has a reputation for not being particularly safe for tourists to explore on their own. The US State Department advises citizens to exercise increased caution if travelling to Belize, due to a high prevalence of crime. The advisory suggests that most crimes reported in Belize are either unresolved or unprosecuted, and are gang-related. The Southside of Belize City, in particular, is noted as an area that should be avoided by visitors.

The Government of Canada also advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid non-essential travel to Southside Belize City, due to gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings. The area is said to be a battlefront for frequent inter-gang conflict. Belize has around 40 active gangs operating throughout the country, with at least eight considered very powerful and dangerous, and most concentrated in Belize City.

Public transportation in Belize City is also noted as being unsafe and unreliable. Taxis are said to be unsafe and should be avoided, and public buses are unreliable, unsafe, and lack maintenance.

However, it is important to note that tourists are not usually targeted by criminals, and most crimes occur outside of tourist areas. Basic safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking or driving at night, and not displaying signs of wealth, can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Excursion options in Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America with a growing tourism industry. The country is known for its friendly locals, beautiful beaches, rich culture, and excellent exchange rate. Here are some of the top excursion options for visitors to Belize:

• Diving and snorkelling: Belize is known for its incredible marine life, and a shore excursion to the Great Blue Hole is a must for divers and snorkelers. The Great Blue Hole is a huge marine sinkhole off the coast of Belize, where stingrays, sharks, and other animals swim alongside you. Other top snorkelling spots include Ambergris Caye, Shark Ray Alley, and Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
• Mayan ruins: Belize has the highest concentration of Mayan sites in Central America, and these ancient ruins are a sight to behold. Top sites include Altun Ha, a heavily excavated trading and ceremonial centre, and Xunantunich, located near the Guatemalan border.
• Cave tubing: Belize is famous for its cave tubing opportunities, especially in the rainy months when water levels are higher. Combine this with a zip line tour for an extra adrenaline rush.
• Belize Zoo: This 29-acre zoo is home to over 170 animals, all native to Belize, including jaguars, ocelots, howler monkeys, and kinkajous.
• Community Baboon Sanctuary: Located in Bermudian Landing, this sanctuary is home to a large number of black howler monkeys, as well as parrots, hummingbirds, and turtles.
• Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary, located a bit outside of Belize City, is a bird-watcher's paradise, with over 16,000 acres of lagoons, creeks, forests, and savannas.
• Belize City tour: Explore the rich history of Belize City, including the Museum of Belize, St. John's Cathedral, and the Government House.
• Food and drink: Sample the local cuisine at restaurants such as The Smoky Mermaid for seafood, Nerie's for Belizean fare, and Spoonaz for sandwiches and pastries.

Frequently asked questions