A portrait of Caribbean destinations: Belize - coral reefs and magical holes

• Arrival: **
• Level of difficulty: **
• Versatility: ***
• Infrastructure: *

The area off the east coast of Central America, more precisely between Mexico and Guatemala, is a real insider tip for seasoned Caribbean connoisseurs looking for a new challenge. The cays lie protected behind a gigantic coral reef almost 250 nautical miles long. These are flat coral islands, sometimes overgrown with mangrove forest, sometimes covered with the finest sand. There is still little sailing tourism here.

However, there is hardly any infrastructure, let alone marinas. Crews should stock up on provisions before setting sail. Bars and restaurants are often only found in holiday resorts. Sailors can eat there by prior arrangement. Generally speaking, however, people travel to Belize for its lush nature. Some of the best diving and snorkelling spots in the Caribbean can be found off the coast. The underwater world is colourful and there are many seabirds. Even manatees, sea cows, live here.

Navigation is not always easy. There is a lack of good nautical charts. The local charter companies provide documentation. Careful navigation by sight using the colour of the water (eyeball navigation) is required.

Highlights

The remains of former Mayan settlements are worth seeing in Belize. Most crews visit them before or after the cruise. You should also definitely head for South Water Caye. You can dive on the reef in front of the palm island and watch sharks, groupers and rays. On land, there are beautiful sandy beaches and a resort with a restaurant. Make a snorkelling stop off Coco Plum Caye too! If you have a diving licence, you should take a day trip to one of the famous Blue Holes. In between, there are many smaller, secluded destinations such as Lark Caye, where you can anchor against a fantastic backdrop.

Charter

Crews set off from Placencia harbour on the mainland and then sail into the island world, usually with catamarans. These are ideal due to the often shallow water depths.

• The most important tips for your first Caribbean cruise

Journey

With overnight stay via USA (Houston or Miami) to Belize. From there, take a small propeller aircraft to Placencia. You need to plan almost two days, and the third flight naturally drives up the price. Belize is one of the most expensive Caribbean destinations in this respect.

A brief portrait of other Caribbean destinations:

• The British Virgin Islands - the Caribbean bestseller
• Windward Islands - the island dream
• Leeward Islands - island hopping at its best
• Bahamas - endless sea of islands
• Cuba - Caribbean as it was 50 years ago