Sailing
Itinerary
3-Day Sailing Itinerary – Southern Belize
Whether your adventure takes you to uninhabited islands or to tropical gems, Belize’s diverse cruising grounds will ignite your imagination, transporting you back in time to when life was truly carefree. Go to where the trade winds blow, or choose one of our recommended itineraries, offering the perfect blend of solitude and native warmth.
DAY 1:
Belize City to South Water Caye
Departure: Begin in Belize City or a nearby marina (e.g., Placencia, if you are flying in from a nearby airport).
Sailing time: 3-4 hours, depending on weather and wind conditions.
Anchorages: South Water Caye is the first destination.
Sail along the inner channels of the Belize Barrier Reef with a brief stop at Middle Long Caye or Bluefield Range, famous for its wildlife and manatee spotting. Head next to the beautiful South Water Caye Marine Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on your way to South Water Caye. This idyllic island offers unobstructed views of the horizon creating the perfect vantage point to witness the days end. Find a spot on the powdery white sand beach or in a cozy corner of your deck and enjoy an evening of star-gazing.
Activities: South Water Caye is located within one of Belize’s many marine reserves. Enjoy a day of snorkeling, kayaking or paddle boarding, or lounge while sipping a tropical drink at the island’s bar and restaurant.
DAY 2:
South Water Caye to Tobacco Caye
Sailing time: 1-2 hours between South Water Caye and Tobacco Caye.
Depart South Water Caye for a mid-afternoon sail to the Tobacco Caye Range. A small, palm-fringed, 5-acre island, Tobacco Caye itself is perfect for relaxation. The shallow waters around the island are ideal for adventure, offering diverse marine life, including a variety of spotted eagle rays and green turtles. Dinghy in and walk ashore to experience the warmth of the islanders who live there. Have an ice cold Belikin at one of the island’s lodges. Book a fly-fishing charter for the nearby flats, or spend the day curled up in a hammock basking in sunlight streaming through palms.
Anchorages: There are mooring balls at Tobacco Caye that make anchoring easy. You can spend a couple of hours here snorkeling or swimming.
DAY 3:
Tobacco Caye to Sittee River
Sailing time: 2-3 hours.
Journey to the coastal village of Sittee River, which will be your final sailing destination. A day in Sittee River and Hopkins offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and relaxation for an unforgettable experience. Take a kayak up the Sittee River to spot exotic wildlife such as howler monkeys, crocodiles and tropical birds. Discover the vibrant Garifuna culture in the neighboring village of Hopkins through drumming lessons, dance performances or a traditional cooking class. Take an evening stroll on the beach, enjoying the warmth of the Caribbean Sea. As the evening ends, marvel at the glowing waters of Anderson’s Lagoon during a night bioluminescence tour or enjoy the nearby resort night life.
Activities: Explore the river and surrounding ecosystems, fish, or take a local boat tour through the mangroves.
DAY 4:
Return to Belize City
Take a 45-minute drive to the nearby town of Dangriga where you will catch a puddle jumper for your return flight to the Philip Goldson International Airport. You will need to arrive at the airport a minimum of two hours in advance of your flight.
General Travel Notes:
- Weather: Belize’s weather is typically warm and sunny, with occasional afternoon rains. Winds are moderate, making it ideal for sailing most of the year. The perfect time for cruising is between November and May of each year.
- Seas and Tides: Always monitor tides and sea conditions. While the water is relatively calm around these islands, conditions can change, especially during storms or strong winds.
- Provisioning: Most islands offer minimal to no provisions, so plan your food and water needs in advance. You will find many private islands that are cruiser friendly and will have either restaurants or bars for your meals. Bring extra water, snacks, and essentials. Larger destinations like Placencia may have more provisioning options.
- Safety: Always ensure you have a reliable GPS, VHF radio, and emergency supplies onboard.
- Marine Conservation: Respect marine life by not touching coral or disturbing wildlife. Belize’s marine reserves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are protected by local laws, and are no-take zones.
