Belize
From CruisersWiki
Belize
An online cruising guide for yachts sailing to Belize.
| Belize | |
 Belize | |
 Flag | |
| Capital: | Belmopan |
|---|---|
| Language: | Englis, Creole, Spanish |
| Currency: | Belize Dollar |
| More notes about the country | |
The Caribbean coast is lined with a coral reef and some 450 islets and islands known locally as cayes (pronounced "keys"), forming the approximately 200 mile (322 km) long Belize Barrier Reef, the longest in the Western Hemisphere and the second longest in the world after the Great Barrier Reef. Three of the four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere are also located off the coast of Belize. Belize is also the only Central American country without a coast on the Pacific Ocean.
The background and history of Belize is best observed on Wikipedia
Climate & Weather
The climate is tropical and generally very hot and humid. The rainy season lasts from June to November and hurricanes and floods are frequent natural hazards.
Sources of weather forecasting:
Charts
Submit details of the charts required for safe navigation of the area.
Any navigation notes here.
Local Radio Nets
Also see Cruiser's Nets
Submit details of Cruiser's Nets and VHF operating/calling channels here.
Arrival/Departure procedures
All yachts must clear in within 24 hours of arrival in Belize waters and must visit Immigration, Customs and Quarantine. After clearance to depart, yachts must leave Belize waters within 24 hours.
Immigration, Visas & Customs
Immigration
Visas are not required for most nationalities, including citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom and British Commonwealth countries, as well as most members of the E. U. Visitors from other countries need to check with their local Belize consulate or contact the Immigration Department, New Administration Building, Belmopan, Ph: 08-22611, Fax: 08-22662. Visitors are allowed a stay of up to 30 days. An extension may be applied for (for a small fee) from the Immigration Office, Government Administration Building, Mahogany Street, Belize City, Ph: 02-24620, Fax: 24056.
Customs
Private yachts are allowed to stay in Belize for up to 6 months.
Firearms and all ammunition MUST be declared on arrival and these are held in custody by Customs until your departure.
PETS: Animals must be accompanied by a certificate of freedom from infection/contagious disease by a veterinarian following examination not more than 48 hours prior to shipment; animals must also be certified as having been vaccinated against rabies not less than one month nor more than six months prior to departure. Dogs must have valid vaccination certificates against Distemper, Canine Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Leptospirosis. Further information: Embassy of Belize Website, Email.
Importation of fruit and vegetables is prohibited - all fresh produce is confiscated on arrival. The officials will request a list of ship's stores (incl. fresh produce) on arrival.
Charges & Fees
- Visa =
- Visa extension =
- Cruising permit =
- Marine Park Fee =
- Exit Fee =
Health
Prophylaxis for Malaria is highly recommended. Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Polio vaccinations are recommended. Belize has a very high Aids infection rate.
Security
?
Ports & Popular Stops
- Belize City (Port of entry)
- Big Creek (Placencia) (Port of entry)
- Cay Caulker (Port of entry)
- Punta Gorda (Port of entry)
- San Pedro (Ambergris Cay) (Port of entry)
Offshore Islands
Details?
Cruiser's Friends
Submit details/contacts of cruiser's "friends" that can be contacted in advance or on arrival - who can offer information and assistance to our cruising "family".
References & Publications
Books, Guides, etc.
Links to Forum Discussions
List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)
External Links
Submit useful website links for the region
Personal Notes
Personal experiences?
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