Belize Yacht Charter

Lying on the east coast of Central America, with the Caribbean Sea lapping at its shore, this previously British Colony offers visitors a tropical jungle on land and an aquarium of sea life to be found in its warm waters.

Belize’s barrier reef lies just off the coast and has been declared a World Heritage Site. Running for just over 190 miles (300km), this kaleidoscope of colour is the largest reef system in the northern hemisphere and the second largest in the world, just after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It’s home to reef sharks, lobsters, turtles and hundreds of species of fish. The Great Blue Hole, a giant sinkhole, is another natural wonder that attracts snorkelers and scuba divers here from all over the world. The circular hole is 318m in diameter and 124m deep.

The many sandy cays along the reef offer a great location for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding or windsurfing. However, be sure to choose yacht’s water toys that will have minimal impact on the delicate coral.

Amongst Belize’s dense jungle hides the ruins of an ancient Mayan civilisation. Famous locations include Caracol with its towering pyramid, the lagoon-side Lamanai, one of the largest archaeological sites and Altun Ha, a veritable metropolis now only inhabited by monkeys and birds. Explore excavated tombs, try your hand at translating intricate hieroglyphs or venture deep into naturally-formed sacred caves, guests of all ages are sure to be mesmerized by the mysterious ancient wonders of the highly sophisticated Mesoamerican people.

Belize’s inland areas are carefully protected, with several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The indiginous species include tapirs, howler and spider monkeys, iguanas and jaguars. Take a horseback trek or a guided hike through one of the reserves and see the highlights of this stunning country for yourself.