You’ll need to take a tender boat for 15-20 minutes from your cruise ship to reach Fort Street Tourism Village in Belize City.

For other Western Caribbean Cruise destinations check out our Western Caribbean Cruise Ship Port Guide page.

The port area offers you duty-free shops, local craft stalls and traditional Belizean food stands.

Your main activity options include:

  • Exploring Mayan ruins
  • Cave tubing adventures
  • Snorkelling at the barrier reef

Transport tips:

  • Taxis are readily available
  • Walking is safe in the port area
  • US dollars are widely accepted

Book your excursions before arrival to secure your spot.

The port serves as your gateway to Belize’s top attractions, making it easy to plan your day ashore.

Map of Belize City, Belize Cruise Ship Port

Port Location and Arrival Details

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Getting to Belize City’s Cruise Port

You need to take a tender boat from your cruise ship to reach Belize City because the harbour is too shallow for large vessels. The tender journey takes 15-20 minutes and brings you to Fort Street Tourism Village.

Your arrival point is Terminal 1 on Fort Street in downtown Belize City. The terminal sits next to the historic district, making city exploration easy. You’ll step off your tender at one of three piers and go through customs inside the main building.

Key Points:

  • Ships anchor offshore
  • Tender ride: 15-20 minutes
  • Location: Fort Street Tourism Village, Terminal 1
  • Three tender piers available
  • Close to historic district
  • Customs clearance required in terminal

Top Shore Excursions and Activities

The Best Shore Activities for Your Visit

You can choose from three exceptional shore excursions at this port. Visit the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha, where you’ll explore ancient temples and discover the history of this remarkable civilisation. Take a cave tubing adventure through clear waters, where you’ll glide underneath dramatic limestone caves and learn about local geology. Snorkel at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where you’ll discover the world’s second-largest barrier reef alongside tropical fish, nurse sharks and stingrays.

Getting Around Belize City

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Transportation in Belize City

You can easily get around Belize City in several ways:

Taxis:

  • Taxis line up at the cruise port
  • Ask drivers for prices before you start your journey
  • Keep small bills ready for payment
  • Drivers often share useful local tips

Walking:

  • Perfect for the downtown historic area
  • You’ll find lots of shops
  • Local restaurants are within easy reach
  • Streets are busy with fellow tourists

Water Transport:

  • Water taxis run to nearby islands
  • Regular services to main tourist spots
  • Quick way to reach beach areas

Guided Tours:

  • Air-conditioned vans available
  • You can book at the cruise port
  • Tours include main city attractions
  • Groups share transport costs

Money tip: Always agree on prices first and carry local currency in small denominations.

See what’s on offer from the Port of Santo Tomás de Castilla, Guatemala for a different Western Caribbean Cruise destination.

Where to Shop, Eat, and Drink

Shopping and Dining in Belize City

You’ll find the best shops and restaurants around the cruise port and downtown area. The Tourism Village offers duty-free shopping and local crafts. The Commercial Center houses local vendors selling authentic Belizean goods and souvenirs.

You can taste local specialities at several spots:

  • Marie Sharp’s hot sauces from street vendors
  • Fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants
  • Traditional rice and beans at family cafes

For drinks, you can:

  • Try Belikin, the local beer
  • Enjoy tropical cocktails along Marine Parade
  • Visit the waterfront bars for sunset views

The main shopping areas include:

  • Tourism Village (duty-free shops)
  • Commercial Center (local crafts)
  • Downtown markets (fresh produce and spices)

Essential Tips for Cruise Visitors

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Getting Ready for Your Belize City Cruise Stop

You need these essentials for your day in port:

Money and Payments

  • Take US dollars with you – shops and vendors prefer cash to cards
  • Keep small bills handy for local purchases and tips

Safety and Comfort

  • Apply strong insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites
  • Use waterproof sunscreen for tropical sun protection
  • Choose sturdy trainers or walking shoes for uneven streets

Planning Your Visit

  • Book your tours before you arrive – popular activities fill quickly
  • Add 30 minutes to your schedule for tender boat transfers
  • Plan your activities near the port area for easy return to ship

Your day starts with a short boat ride from ship to shore. This tender service runs throughout your visit, letting you return to the ship when you choose.

Consider booking these popular activities:

  • Cave tubing
  • Mayan ruins tours
  • Snorkelling trips
  • City walking tours

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Cruise to Belize City?

The best time for your Belize City cruise is between November and April. You’ll experience optimal weather conditions during these months, with minimal rainfall and average temperatures between 23-29°C. The dry season makes sightseeing and outdoor activities more enjoyable, and you’ll find plenty of fellow travellers exploring the destination. Though summer months might seem appealing, they bring higher humidity and increased chances of rain.

Can I Drink Tap Water in Belize City?

Don’t drink tap water in Belize City during your visit. Buy bottled water or boil your tap water before drinking it. Skip ice in your drinks as well, because it’s often made from tap water. These simple steps will help you avoid water-related illness and keep you healthy during your stay.

What Local Festivals or Events Should I Look Out For?

Belize’s major festivals await you in autumn. Join the St. George’s Caye Day celebrations on 10th September, with street parades and live music throughout the country. Experience the Independence Day festivities on 21st September, featuring traditional dancing and local food stalls. Watch the Garifuna Settlement Day on 19th November, where you can see drummers, dancers and taste authentic Garifuna cuisine. Each festival showcases Belize’s rich cultural heritage through music, food and community gatherings.

Is There a Hospital Near the Cruise Port?

Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital is located just 5 minutes by car from the cruise port. You can reach this main medical facility quickly if you need care during your visit. The hospital serves as Belize’s primary healthcare centre and regularly treats visitors needing medical attention.

What Is the Tipping Etiquette in Belize City Restaurants?

In Belize City restaurants, you should tip between 10-15% if no service charge appears on your bill. You can check your bill for any included service charges before adding a tip. Local servers rely on tips as part of their income, and tipping helps maintain good service standards in the city’s hospitality sector.

Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Harvest Caye, Belize Cruise Ship Port.