14 Day Belize Bareboat Itinerary

Whippari (or Whipray) Caye

Begin your Belize sailing adventure with a scenic cruise from Placencia to the remote beauty of Whipray Caye, a peaceful private island surrounded by shallow turquoise waters and coral-rich reef systems. Known for its untouched natural setting and excellent snorkelling opportunities, Whipray Caye offers a true off-grid Caribbean experience with stunning sunsets, calm anchorages and abundant marine life.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 7 Nautical miles

Mooring

*Free Anchoring, Limited Mooring Buoys (private/resort managed in some areas)
Anchoring is generally in sand patches outside seagrass areas; good holding in settled conditions. Limited facilities ashore.

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Sunbathing, Fishing, Turtle Watching

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars, Trash
Facilities are extremely limited and may vary depending on resort access and season.

Discover

Enjoy excellent snorkelling directly from the yacht with vibrant coral and tropical fish nearby. The surrounding reef system offers calm paddleboarding and kayaking conditions, while sunset drinks onboard are a highlight in this secluded anchorage. Nearby reefs are known for eagle rays, turtles and colourful marine life.

Southwater Caye

Sail south along the Belize Barrier Reef to Southwater Caye, a picturesque palm-lined island located within the protected South Water Caye Marine Reserve. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral gardens and relaxed barefoot atmosphere, this is one of Belize’s premier snorkelling and diving destinations. The calm lagoon waters and pristine beaches make it an idyllic overnight stop surrounded by incredible marine biodiversity.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr 45 Mins Sailing time
• 24 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring
Limited mooring buoys may be available near resort areas. Anchoring is possible in designated sandy patches outside protected reef zones.

Things to do

Watersports, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Exploring, Sunbathing, Fishing, Turtle Watching

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, WIFI, Toilets & Showers, Dive Shop, Trash

Discover

Explore the spectacular nearby reef system with vibrant coral formations, nurse sharks, rays and sea turtles commonly spotted in the area. Enjoy lunch or sunset cocktails at one of the small island resorts, or arrange a guided dive within the marine reserve. Southwater Caye is also an excellent base for kayaking through mangrove channels and relaxing on quiet white-sand beaches.

Bluefield Range

Cruise to the remote and scenic Bluefield Range, an unspoilt section of the Belize Barrier Reef known for its exceptional marine life, vibrant coral formations and peaceful anchorages. Far removed from the busier cayes, this area offers a true wilderness experience with crystal-clear waters, excellent fishing grounds and incredible opportunities for snorkelling and diving along the reef edge.

The Day’s Sailing

• 6 Hr Sailing time
• 30 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring
Anchoring is typically in sandy areas behind the reef with good protection in settled weather. Careful navigation is recommended when approaching due to shallow coral heads.

Things to do

Watersports, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Sunbathing, Fishing, Turtle Watching

Facilities

None

Discover

Spend the day exploring pristine reef systems teeming with tropical fish, rays and turtles. Bluefield Range is particularly popular for catch-and-release fishing and drift snorkelling along the reef wall. With no major development nearby, this stop is all about enjoying Belize’s untouched natural beauty, star-filled skies and peaceful surroundings straight from the yacht.

Water Caye

Continue north to Water Caye, a tranquil tropical island surrounded by calm turquoise waters and vibrant reef systems. This relaxed anchorage is ideal for enjoying Belize’s laid-back island lifestyle, with excellent snorkelling, palm-lined beaches and easy access to nearby marine reserves. Water Caye offers a peaceful overnight stop with beautiful scenery both above and below the waterline.

The Day’s Sailing

• 2 Hr Sailing time
• 9 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring, Mooring Buoy
Anchoring is available in sandy areas with generally good holding. Limited mooring buoys may be available depending on local conditions and occupancy.

Things to do

Watersports, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Exploring, Sunbathing, Fishing

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars, Water Refill & Ice, Trash

Discover

Snorkel directly from the yacht amongst colourful coral and tropical marine life, or spend the afternoon relaxing on the island’s quiet beaches. Water Caye is a popular stop for kayaking and paddleboarding in sheltered waters, while nearby reef sites offer fantastic opportunities for diving and fishing excursions.

On route, stop for a relaxed lunch at English Caye, a small unspoilt sand caye known for its shallow turquoise waters and peaceful picnic-style anchoring. Enjoy sunset drinks onboard or at a casual beachfront bar overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Caye Caulker

Sail north to the famous laid-back island of Caye Caulker, known for its “go slow” vibe, colourful wooden houses and vibrant waterfront culture. Situated just off the Belize Barrier Reef, this lively yet relaxed island offers an ideal mix of snorkelling, social beach bars and authentic local charm. It’s a great place to experience Belize’s island lifestyle at its most iconic.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 23 Nautical miles

Mooring

Town Quay, Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring (outside reef areas)
The main visitor mooring field is busy; early arrival is recommended. Anchorage outside the reef is possible but exposed in some conditions.

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Snorkelling, Diving, Exploring, Sunbathing, Shopping, Fishing

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, WIFI, Toilets & Showers, ATM, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Laundry, Dive Shop, Trash

Discover

Wander the sandy streets lined with beach bars, seafood shacks and colourful local shops, or take a “Split” swim stop for a refreshing dip in the channel. Caye Caulker is also a gateway for snorkelling excursions to the Belize Barrier Reef and Shark Ray Alley. Enjoy fresh lobster and rum cocktails at waterfront restaurants while soaking up the island’s famously relaxed atmosphere.

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

Sail north to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, the largest and most developed island in Belize. This vibrant coastal town blends Caribbean charm with a lively atmosphere, offering colourful streets, beachfront bars and excellent access to the Belize Barrier Reef just offshore. It’s a great stop to enjoy a mix of provisioning, nightlife and world-class reef experiences all in one place.

The Day’s Sailing

• 2 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 13 Nautical miles

Mooring

Town Quay, Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring (limited/exposed outside harbour)
Marina and dock space is limited and often busy. Mooring buoys or anchoring outside the main channel are commonly used, with tender access into town.

Things to do

Swimming, Snorkelling, Diving, Exploring, Sunbathing, Fishing, Shopping, Hire a car, Biking

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Re Fuel, WIFI, Toilets & Showers, ATM, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Laundry, Dive Shop, Chandlery Shop, Trash

Discover

Explore San Pedro’s lively beachfront restaurants, beach bars and boutique shops, or take a snorkelling or diving trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley just offshore. The town is known for excellent seafood dining, sunset cocktails on the beach and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s also a key provisioning stop before heading south along the reef system.

Cucumber Beach Marina, Belize City

Sail west from Ambergris Caye toward the Belize mainland and arrive at Cucumber Beach Marina, just outside Belize City. This is a practical and comfortable stopover point, offering marina facilities, provisioning options and easy access to the capital’s services. It’s a good place to reset, refuel and prepare for the southern leg of the itinerary.

The Day’s Sailing

• 6 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 33 Nautical miles

Mooring

Town Quay, Stern-to-line, Marina Berth
Well-protected marina berths with alongside docking. Advance booking is recommended due to limited availability.

Things to do

Swimming, Exploring, Shopping, Hire a car

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Re Fuel, WIFI, Electricity, Toilets & Showers, ATM, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Laundry, Chandlery Shop, Trash

Discover

Use this stop for practical provisioning and vessel services, with access to Belize City for supermarkets, marine suppliers and essentials. If time allows, explore nearby attractions such as the Belize Museum or take a short trip into the city for local dining. This is primarily a functional stop to restock and reposition before heading back toward the southern cayes.

Coco Plum Caye

Sail south-east to Coco Plum Caye, a small private island known for its pristine beaches, calm waters and peaceful, exclusive feel. This idyllic stop offers a true “castaway” experience, surrounded by turquoise shallows and excellent snorkelling opportunities just offshore. It’s an ideal anchorage for relaxation after the busier Belize City stop.

The Day’s Sailing

• 7 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 37 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring (limited)
Mooring buoys may be available near resort areas. Anchoring is possible in sandy patches but space is limited and carefully managed due to coral.

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Exploring, Sunbathing, Fishing

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Toilets & Showers, Trash

Discover

Enjoy quiet beach walks and relaxed swimming in crystal-clear waters, or snorkel directly offshore where reef fish and coral formations are easily accessible. Coco Plum Caye is known for its peaceful atmosphere and romantic, secluded feel, making it a great contrast to busier northern stops. Enjoy sunset drinks onboard or at the small island resort bar overlooking the Caribbean.

Southwater Caye

Return to the stunning South Water Caye Marine Reserve, one of Belize’s most pristine and biodiverse reef environments. This UNESCO-protected area is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral gardens and abundant marine life. It’s a perfect second stop here to enjoy a slower pace, deeper exploration and some of the best snorkelling and diving in the country.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr Sailing time
• 5 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring
Mooring buoys are available in designated zones near the cayes. Anchoring is allowed only in approved sandy areas outside protected reef zones.

Things to do

Watersports, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Fishing, Sunbathing, Turtle Watching

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Toilets & Showers, Dive Shop, Trash

Discover

Explore different sections of the marine reserve with guided or self-led snorkelling trips over vibrant coral gardens and reef drop-offs. Expect excellent marine encounters including turtles, eagle rays and reef sharks.

During the day, stop at Tobacco Caye for a relaxed lunch break at one of the small overwater island eateries, known for simple local dishes and uninterrupted reef views. Return to South Water Caye for an afternoon of swimming, diving or unwinding onboard in calm turquoise waters.

Pelican Cayes (Northeast Caye)

Sail to the remote Pelican Cayes, a small group of pristine coral islands located along the southern Belize Barrier Reef. This secluded anchorage is known for its exceptional reef structure, clear shallow waters and untouched natural surroundings. It’s an ideal stop for those seeking quiet exploration away from the more developed cayes, with some of the best unspoilt snorkelling in the region.

The Day’s Sailing

• 2 Hr 15 Mins Sailing time
• 11 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring
Anchoring in sandy patches is typical. No formal mooring infrastructure, so careful navigation is required due to surrounding coral heads.

Things to do

Watersports, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Fishing, Sunbathing, Turtle Watching

Facilities

None

Discover

Spend the day exploring the vibrant reef systems surrounding the Pelican Cayes, with excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving among coral gardens, sponges and marine life. The area is particularly rich in fish activity and ideal for drift snorkels. Enjoy a completely off-grid experience with peaceful anchorages, uninterrupted sea views and a strong sense of isolation and natural beauty.

Long Cocoa Caye

Sail further along the southern Belize Barrier Reef to Long Cocoa Caye, a small, remote island offering a truly off-the-grid anchorage experience. Surrounded by shallow turquoise waters and vibrant coral systems, this quiet stop is ideal for slowing down and enjoying Belize’s untouched natural environment. It’s a peaceful contrast to the busier northern cayes, with excellent snorkelling straight from the yacht.

The Day’s Sailing

• 2 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 12 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring
Anchoring in sandy patches is standard. No formal mooring infrastructure is available, so careful navigation is required due to surrounding reef structures.

Things to do

Watersports, Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Fishing, Sunbathing, Turtle Watching

Facilities

None

Discover

Spend the day exploring pristine reef systems with excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving among coral gardens, tropical fish and occasional rays. Long Cocoa Caye is all about seclusion and natural beauty, with no development or facilities ashore.

En route or as a lunch stop, visit King Lewey’s Caye, a fun private island known for its overwater bar, casual beachfront dining and relaxed party-island atmosphere, offering a lively contrast to the tranquillity of Long Cocoa Caye before returning to your peaceful anchorage for the night.

Ray Caye

Sail to Ray Caye, a private island located in the heart of the southern Belize Barrier Reef. Known for its upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, this small island offers beautiful beaches, excellent snorkelling right offshore and a comfortable stop with a touch of luxury. It’s an ideal midway point in the return journey north, combining natural beauty with light resort amenities.

The Day’s Sailing

• 30 Mins Sailing time
• 2.5 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring (limited)
Mooring buoys are typically available for visiting yachts. Anchoring is possible in designated sandy areas, with reef protection zones nearby.

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Sunbathing, Fishing, Exploring

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Toilets & Showers, WIFI, Dive Shop, Trash

Discover

Enjoy easy access to vibrant reef systems directly from the island, with excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities around coral gardens and drop-offs. Ray Caye offers a beachfront restaurant and bar for relaxed dining and sunset drinks in a laid-back island setting.

On route, stop at Moho Caye for a scenic lunch break, a small unspoilt island known for its shallow turquoise waters, soft white sand and peaceful picnic-style anchoring, perfect for a relaxed midday swim and snorkel before continuing on to Ray Caye for the evening.

Ray Caye

Enjoy a second relaxed day at Ray Caye, giving time to fully unwind while exploring one of the most beautiful reef areas in southern Belize. With calm waters, excellent visibility and direct access to the surrounding reef system, this is an ideal base for snorkelling, diving or simply enjoying the island’s laid-back luxury atmosphere before the final sail south.

The Day’s Sailing

• 30 Mins Sailing time
• 2 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring (limited)
Mooring buoys are typically available for visiting yachts. Anchoring is possible in designated sandy areas with nearby reef protection zones.

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Diving, Sunbathing, Fishing, Exploring

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Toilets & Showers, WIFI, Dive Shop, Trash

Discover

Make the most of Ray Caye’s dive shop and local guide services for a tour to the Queen Cayes (Silk Cayes), located approximately 2nm ESE of Ray Caye. This protected marine area is only accessible with a licensed local guide onboard, and bareboats without a local skipper are not permitted to enter. Departing by skiff with Ray Caye’s snorkel and dive team, enjoy an unforgettable experience swimming with turtles, reef fish and nurse sharks in pristine shallow waters. Return to Ray Caye for a relaxed afternoon of beach time, snorkelling or sunset drinks after a world-class reef excursion.

Placencia Harbor

Sail north from the southern cayes back toward the mainland, returning to Placencia Harbour where your Belize sailing adventure began. Enjoy a final relaxed passage along the inside of the Belize Barrier Reef, soaking up the last views of turquoise waters, scattered cayes and abundant marine life along the way. Arriving in Placencia, you’ll check back into base, complete formalities and reflect on two unforgettable weeks exploring one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful cruising grounds.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 23 Nautical miles

Mooring

Town Quay, Marina Berth, Stern-to-line
Allocated return berth or designated marina docking at base. Follow base instructions for check-in, fuel, water and clearance procedures.

Things to do

Swimming, Exploring, Shopping

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Re Fuel, WIFI, Electricity, Toilets & Showers, ATM, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Laundry, Chandlery Shop, Trash

Discover

Enjoy a final stroll through Placencia Village, a colourful coastal town known for its laid-back charm, beach bars and local restaurants. If time allows before departure, relax on the beach or enjoy a farewell lunch overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This final stop is primarily for check-out, refuelling and disembarkation after your Belize cruising itinerary.