Belize : Profile

Facts

• Belize, formerly known as British Honduras, fronts the Western Caribbean Sea and borders on Mexico and Guatemala.

• Belize's main attraction lies offshore, a 175 mile long barrier reef, second only in size to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, and the underwater scenery is reputed to be amongst the best anywhere in the world.

• Between the reef and the coastal strip are hundreds of uninhabited islands and cays, and therein lies Belize's popularity as a cruising destination; the number of secluded anchorages, unsurpassed diving and excellent fishing will ensure Belize's attraction as an alternative to the crowded Eastern Caribbean.

• Many of the navigation lights or marks are reported to be either out of action or missing and therefore night passages should be avoided. Even in daylight the barrier reef area should be navigated with caution.

• Yachting facilities are limited in Belize: Belize City has some repair facilities, good provisioning, a limited supply of hardware but very little yachting equipment. Frequent theft from boats and lengthy formalities means however that few boats now go to Belize City if this can be avoided.

• A more convenient and safe place to leave the boat if intending to visit the interior, which is one of the main attractions of Belize, is the new marina, Cucumber Beach Marina, just south of Belize City. It has been reported that the marina is also a good place from which to visit the Mayan sites in Guatemala, such as Tikal.

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Weather

The tropical climate can be hot especially February to May, although the prevailing wind helps to keep the coast cooler. During winter months the anchorages are rather exposed to the northers which sweep down across the Gulf of Mexico. The hurricane season lasts from June to November.

Main Ports

Belize City * , Big Creek (Placencia) * , Caye Caulker * , Punta Gorda * , San Pedro (Ambergris Cay) *

*Indicates a port of entry.

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