10 Day ‘Forbidden Atolls’ Belize Itinerary (*with local skipper)

Hideaway Caye (Pelican Cayes)

Begin your Belize adventure with a scenic sail to the Pelican Cayes, a remote collection of mangrove-fringed islands known for their abundant wildlife, excellent fishing and laid-back Caribbean charm. Your first night is spent at Hideaway Caye, a unique island retreat where great food, tropical scenery and a welcoming atmosphere set the tone for the journey ahead.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr Sailing time
• 20 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy

Notes:
*Five visitor moorings are available at Hideaway Caye.
*Mooring fee applies (approximately US$20 per night).

Things to do

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

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars

Discover

The Pelican Cayes offer a beautiful introduction to Belize’s offshore islands, with calm waters, mangrove-lined channels and abundant birdlife. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding cayes, trying your luck fishing or simply relaxing on deck before heading ashore to Hideaway Caye. One of the most unique dining experiences in Belize, the restaurant is built above the mangroves and is renowned among visiting sailors for its relaxed atmosphere, fresh food and unforgettable setting. It’s the perfect place to enjoy sunset drinks and your first evening in paradise.

Southwater Caye

Sail north through Belize’s Inner Channel to Southwater Caye, a stunning island located within the Southwater Caye Marine Reserve. Surrounded by turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, this picturesque stop combines exceptional snorkeling, island dining and the relaxed atmosphere that makes Belize such a memorable sailing destination.

The Day’s Sailing

• 2 Hr 30 Min Sailing time
• 13 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring

Notes:
*Visitor moorings may be available at Southwater Caye.
*Twin Cayes offers a protected anchorage in less settled weather conditions.
*Southwater Caye and Twin Cayes are located within the Southwater Caye Marine Reserve (park fees may apply).

Things to do

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

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars

Discover

Southwater Caye is one of Belize’s premier reef destinations, offering easy access to the spectacular waters of the Southwater Caye Marine Reserve. Spend the day snorkeling at nearby Carrie Bow Caye, where vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life create unforgettable underwater experiences. Ashore, choose from several island dining options including Blue Marlin Lodge, International Zoological Expeditions and Pelican Beach Resort. If conditions are favourable, keep an eye out for manatees around nearby Twin Cayes, a sheltered anchorage that showcases another side of Belize’s remarkable marine ecosystem.

Glovers Atoll

Sail offshore to the spectacular Glover’s Atoll, one of Belize’s three coral atolls and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons, pristine reefs and abundant marine life, this remote destination offers a true escape from the everyday and some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr Sailing time
• 20 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy, Free Anchoring

Notes:
*Visitor moorings may be available in designated areas.
*Anchoring is permitted in suitable locations within the atoll, subject to local regulations and conditions.
*Marine park fees may apply.

Things to do

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

Facilities

None

Discover

Often considered one of Belize’s most breathtaking sailing destinations, Glover’s Atoll is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral formations and exceptional marine biodiversity. Spend the day snorkeling or diving among colourful reef fish, rays and other marine life, explore the sheltered lagoon by paddleboard or kayak, or simply relax and take in the untouched beauty of this remote paradise. Far removed from the crowds, Glover’s Atoll offers a truly unforgettable experience for adventurous sailors seeking world-class underwater exploration and spectacular natural scenery.

Halfmoon Cay (Lighthouse Reef)

Cross from Glovers Atoll to the spectacular Lighthouse Reef Atoll, one of Belize’s most remote and iconic offshore destinations. Home to pristine coral reefs, abundant marine life and the renowned Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, this unforgettable stop combines world-class snorkeling and diving with some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the Caribbean.

The Day’s Sailing

• 3 Hr Sailing time
• 15 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring

Notes:
*Overnight anchorage at Half Moon Caye within Lighthouse Reef Atoll.
*Access to Lighthouse Reef is only possible with a local skipper on this itinerary.

Things to do

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

Facilities

None

Discover

Half Moon Caye is one of Belize’s most treasured natural attractions and the perfect introduction to Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Spend the day exploring this protected island sanctuary, known for its colony of red-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds. The surrounding waters offer exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities, with healthy coral reefs and abundant marine life. From here, divers can also plan excursions to the legendary Great Blue Hole, one of the world’s most famous dive sites. With its untouched beaches, incredible wildlife and remote setting far from the crowds, Half Moon Caye delivers a truly unforgettable offshore sailing experience.

Long Caye (Lighthouse Reef)

Experience one of the highlights of the Forbidden Atolls itinerary as you explore the remote waters of Lighthouse Reef. Following opportunities to snorkel or dive the legendary Great Blue Hole, continue to Long Caye, a secluded island surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and some of Belize’s most spectacular marine life. Accessible only with an experienced local skipper, this offshore paradise offers a rare glimpse into one of the Caribbean’s most pristine reef systems.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 20 Min Sailing time
• 7 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring

Notes:
*Overnight anchorage at Long Caye within Lighthouse Reef Atoll.
*Full dive services are available ashore.
*Access to Lighthouse Reef and the surrounding offshore atolls is restricted to itineraries with a local skipper.

Things to do

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

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars, Dive Shop

Discover

Long Caye sits within the spectacular Lighthouse Reef Atoll, one of Belize’s most remote and sought-after marine environments. For many sailors, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore waters that are inaccessible on a standard bareboat charter. The surrounding reefs offer exceptional snorkeling and diving, with colourful coral formations, abundant marine life and easy access to the world-famous Great Blue Hole. Ashore, you’ll find a relaxed island atmosphere and dive facilities, while the surrounding turquoise lagoon provides the perfect setting to unwind and take in the beauty of Belize’s legendary offshore atolls.

Caye Bokel (Turneffe Reef)

Sail from Lighthouse Reef to the remote wilderness of Turneffe Reef, the largest and most ecologically diverse atoll in the Caribbean. Home to vast coral reefs, crystal-clear lagoons and abundant marine life, Caye Bokel offers an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path experience in one of Belize’s most pristine marine environments.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr Sailing time
• 20 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring

Notes:
*Overnight anchorage at or near Caye Bokel within Turneffe Reef.
*Accessible as part of this skipper-led offshore itinerary.

Things to do

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

Facilities

None

Discover

Turneffe Reef is widely regarded as one of Belize’s premier marine destinations and offers exceptional opportunities for snorkeling, diving and fly fishing. Spend the day exploring vibrant coral reefs, spotting rays, turtles and tropical fish, or casting a line across the famous flats that attract anglers from around the world. The surrounding waters are remarkably clear, providing incredible visibility and easy access to some of the Caribbean’s most diverse marine ecosystems. With its remote location, untouched natural beauty and abundant wildlife, Caye Bokel delivers a true expedition-style sailing experience far from the usual cruising routes.

Tobacco Caye

After exploring Belize’s remote offshore atolls, return to the Belize Barrier Reef and enjoy the laid-back charm of Tobacco Caye. This tiny Caribbean island offers a relaxed local atmosphere, easy access to vibrant coral reefs and a welcome opportunity to experience island life after several days in the Forbidden Atolls. Its location directly on the reef makes it a favourite stop for snorkelers and nature lovers alike.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr Sailing time
• 20 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring

Notes:
*Protected anchorage inside the barrier reef.
*Easy access from Tobacco Cut after re-entering the reef system.
*Restaurant ashore and popular local gathering spot, particularly on weekends.

Things to do

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

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars, Dive Shop

Discover

Tobacco Caye may be small, but it delivers an authentic Belizean island experience. Located directly on the Belize Barrier Reef, the island offers exceptional snorkeling just steps from shore, with colourful coral formations and abundant marine life nearby. After days spent visiting the remote atolls that make this itinerary so special, Tobacco Caye provides a chance to reconnect with local island culture, enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants and soak up the friendly atmosphere. Its relaxed vibe, beautiful reef setting and easy access to the surrounding marine reserve make it a memorable stop on your Forbidden Atolls adventure.

Ray Caye

After exploring Belize’s remote offshore atolls, cruise south along the outer reef to the spectacular Queen Cayes (Silk Cayes), a protected marine paradise known for crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches and incredible marine life. Continue to Ray Caye for a welcome mix of comfort, adventure and island hospitality. Surrounded by turquoise waters and vibrant reef systems, this resort island offers excellent snorkeling, dining and facilities, making it an ideal stop before the final leg of your sailing journey.

The Day’s Sailing

• 5 Hr 30 Min Sailing time
• 27 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Buoy

Notes:
*Visitor moorings are available for overnight stays.
*Protected mooring area with easy access to the island and resort facilities.

Things to do

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

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars, WIFI, Toilets & Showers, Dive Shop

Discover

One of the highlights of the Forbidden Atolls itinerary is a visit to the spectacular Queen Cayes (Silk Cayes), a remote group of tiny islands that are inaccessible on standard bareboat itineraries. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel alongside turtles, nurse sharks, rays and colourful tropical fish in some of Belize’s most pristine waters, before enjoying a stroll along powder-soft white-sand beaches.

Weather permitting, the Queen Cayes also offer an unforgettable anchorage surrounded by the Belize Barrier Reef.

Continue to Ray Caye, where you can relax with dinner and drinks at the island restaurant, make use of the resort facilities, and enjoy additional snorkeling opportunities in the surrounding reefs. Combining remote marine reserve experiences with the comfort of a resort island, this stop perfectly captures what makes the Forbidden Atolls itinerary so unique.

Laughing Bird Caye

Discover one of Belize’s most treasured marine reserves at Laughing Bird Caye, a stunning World Heritage Site renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and exceptional marine life. This idyllic island offers a final opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Belize before returning to the mainland.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 40 Min Sailing time
• 8 Nautical miles

Mooring

Free Anchoring

Notes:
*Overnight anchorage may be possible at Laughing Bird Caye, weather permitting.
*Alternative overnight anchorages include nearby Lark Caye or No Name Point.

Things to do

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

Facilities

None

Discover

Part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System UNESCO World Heritage Site, Laughing Bird Caye is a paradise for snorkelers and nature lovers. Spend the day exploring colourful coral gardens, spotting tropical fish and enjoying some of the clearest waters in Belize. The surrounding reef provides excellent opportunities to encounter turtles, rays and other marine life, while the island itself offers a peaceful setting for relaxing on the beach or taking in the spectacular scenery. As one of the most beautiful marine reserves in Belize, Laughing Bird Caye provides a fitting finale to the offshore atoll adventures of this skipper-led itinerary.

Placencia Harbor

End your Belize sailing adventure in the sheltered waters of Placencia Harbour. This vibrant coastal destination combines laid-back Caribbean charm with welcoming restaurants, bars and local shops, making it the perfect place to celebrate your final night before returning to base.

The Day’s Sailing

• 3 Hr Sailing time
• 15 Nautical miles

Mooring

Anchorage

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Exploring, Shopping, Fishing, Sunbathing, Hire a Car

Facilities

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

Discover

With its colourful waterfront, friendly atmosphere and excellent dining scene, Placencia offers a taste of authentic Belizean culture. Stroll along the village’s famous narrow main street, browse local shops and galleries, or enjoy fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore or stock up before your return, Placencia Harbour provides the perfect finale to your Belize sailing itinerary.

For those looking to end their adventure in style, local favourites such as Barefoot Beach Bar and Tipsy Tuna offer a relaxed setting for sunset drinks and live entertainment. It’s the perfect finale to a once-in-a-lifetime sailing journey through Belize.