Which Cruise Lines Go to Belize Top Picks for 2024 Adventures

Top cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer unforgettable 2024 voyages to Belize, combining ease of access with thrilling adventures like snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef and exploring ancient Mayan ruins. Smaller luxury and expedition lines, including Celebrity and Hurtigruten, deliver exclusive experiences with eco-tours and private island stops—perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and authenticity.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line: Offers affordable, family-friendly Belize itineraries with short excursions.
• Royal Caribbean: Features adventure-packed stops at Harvest Caye, ideal for active travelers.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Combines flexibility with private island stops near Belize Barrier Reef.
• Princess Cruises: Focuses on cultural and eco-tourism experiences in Belize City.
• Holland America Line: Provides premium, small-ship access to lesser-known Belizean ports.
• Small-ship lines: Choose UnCruise or Lindblad for intimate, wildlife-focused Belize expeditions.

Why Belize Should Be on Your Cruise Bucket List

Imagine turquoise waters lapping against pristine white-sand beaches, ancient Mayan temples rising from dense jungle canopies, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just a snorkel away. This isn’t a dream—it’s Belize, a Central American gem that has become one of the most sought-after cruise destinations in the Caribbean and the Western Hemisphere. With its unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and eco-adventure opportunities, Belize offers cruisers an unforgettable experience unlike any other. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or simply seeking a tropical escape, Belize delivers.

In 2024, the number of cruise lines sailing to Belize continues to grow, offering more itineraries, ports of call, and excursion options than ever before. From the bustling cruise port of Belize City to the secluded island of Harvest Caye, cruisers are spoiled for choice. But with so many options, how do you know which cruise lines go to Belize—and more importantly, which one is right for your travel style? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the top cruise lines visiting Belize in 2024, highlighting their unique offerings, ports of call, onboard amenities, and shore excursion highlights. Whether you’re planning a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise or a luxury small-ship adventure, we’ve got you covered.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Belize in 2024

Belize has firmly established itself as a staple destination on many major cruise itineraries, especially in the Western Caribbean. In 2024, over 20 cruise lines include Belize on their schedules, but a select few stand out for their frequency, quality of experience, and variety of excursions. Below are the top cruise lines you should consider when planning your Belize adventure.

Carnival Cruise Line: The Budget-Friendly Favorite

Carnival is one of the most popular cruise lines sailing to Belize, offering frequent 4- to 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries from ports like Miami, Port Canaveral, and Galveston. Known for its fun, casual atmosphere and value-packed pricing, Carnival makes Belize accessible to families, couples, and first-time cruisers alike.

• Ports of Call: Belize City (most common), with occasional stops at Harvest Caye (Carnival’s private island).
• Ships: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Freedom, and newer vessels like Carnival Jubilee.
• Excursion Highlights: Snorkeling the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, cave tubing in the Caves Branch River, and visiting the ancient Mayan ruins at Xunantunich.

Pro Tip: Book your excursions early—Carnival’s most popular Belize activities, like the Belize Barrier Reef Snorkel Adventure, sell out quickly. Consider the Carnival VIP Excursion Package for priority access and discounts.

Royal Caribbean International: Adventure Meets Innovation

Royal Caribbean brings its signature blend of high-energy entertainment, cutting-edge ship design, and immersive shore excursions to Belize. With ships like Symphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas calling on Belize City, cruisers enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure.

• Ports of Call: Belize City (primary), with select sailings stopping at Harvest Caye.
• Ships: Symphony, Harmony, Independence, and the new Utopia of the Seas (starting late 2024).
• Excursion Highlights: Zip-lining over the jungle at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, scuba diving the Great Blue Hole, and exploring the Belize Zoo.

Insider Tip: Royal Caribbean offers Adventure Ocean kids’ programs and Perfect Day at CocoCay-style private island experiences—ideal for families. Don’t miss the Belize River Safari & Wildlife Encounter for a mix of nature and culture.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising in Paradise

NCL’s “freestyle cruising” philosophy means no set dining times, flexible schedules, and a wide variety of onboard options—perfect for travelers who want to customize their Belize experience. NCL sails to Belize from New Orleans, Miami, and Port Canaveral.

• Ports of Call: Belize City, Harvest Caye (NCL’s private island, exclusive to NCL guests).
• Ships: Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Encore.
• Excursion Highlights: Snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef, visiting the Mayan site of Altun Ha, and enjoying a beach day at Harvest Caye with zip lines, pools, and a spa.

Why It Stands Out: Harvest Caye is a game-changer—NCL’s private island in southern Belize offers a more exclusive, less crowded experience than Belize City. It’s a full-day destination with activities for all ages.

Princess Cruises: Enrichment and Exploration

Princess Cruises appeals to cruisers who value enrichment, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty. Their longer itineraries (7–14 nights) often include multiple stops in Belize, giving passengers deeper access to the country’s natural and historical treasures.

• Ports of Call: Belize City, with extended stays (up to 10 hours).

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• Ships: Emerald Princess, Ruby Princess, Grand Princess.
• Excursion Highlights: The Princess Belize Adventure (a guided jungle and reef tour), visiting the Belize Botanical Gardens, and a sunset cruise on the Hondo River.

Bonus Feature: Princess offers the Discovery at Sea program, including onboard lectures about Mayan history and coral reef conservation—perfect for curious minds.

Celebrity Cruises: Upscale Luxury and Sustainability

Celebrity Cruises brings a more refined, eco-conscious approach to cruising in Belize. With a focus on sustainability and wellness, Celebrity ships like Celebrity Beyond offer a luxurious yet environmentally responsible way to explore the country.

• Ports of Call: Belize City, with longer docking times (up to 12 hours).

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• Ships: Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Ascent (new in 2023).
• Excursion Highlights: The Belize Sustainable Snorkel & Reef Restoration Tour, a visit to the Community Baboon Sanctuary, and a gourmet Belizean lunch at a local eco-lodge.

Eco Tip: Celebrity partners with local conservation groups. Book the “Blue Hole & Beyond” dive excursion—part of the proceeds support reef protection efforts.

Ports of Call in Belize: Where Your Ship Docks and What to Expect

Understanding where your cruise ship docks in Belize is crucial for planning your day ashore. The two primary cruise ports are Belize City and Harvest Caye, each offering a different vibe and range of activities.

Belize City: The Gateway to Adventure

Belize City is the country’s largest city and the most common port of call for cruise ships. While the city itself is industrial and not particularly scenic, it serves as the launchpad for incredible excursions into the interior and along the coast.

• Docking: Ships anchor offshore and tender passengers to the Belize Cruise Terminal (a short 10-minute tender ride).
• Terminal Facilities: Air-conditioned waiting area, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a small marketplace with local crafts and snacks.
• Transport Options: Taxis, pre-booked shuttles, or guided tours. Avoid unlicensed drivers—stick with official tour operators.

Popular Excursions from Belize City:

• Xunantunich Mayan Ruins: A 1.5-hour drive to a stunning hilltop temple with panoramic jungle views.
• Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley: A 20-minute boat ride to one of the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean.
• Cave Tubing & Zip-lining Combo: Float through underground rivers and soar over the rainforest canopy.

Pro Tip: Wear water shoes for cave tubing and bring a dry bag. Many excursions include lunch at a local restaurant—try the fresh ceviche!

Harvest Caye: NCL’s Private Island Paradise

Harvest Caye is a 75-acre private island located in southern Belize, exclusively used by Norwegian Cruise Line. It’s a full-day destination designed to offer a more relaxed, exclusive alternative to Belize City.

• Docking: Ships dock directly at the island—no tendering required.
• On-Island Amenities: Pools, a lazy river, zip lines, a spa, private cabanas, and a wildlife sanctuary.
• Excursion Options: Guided tours to nearby Mayan sites, snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural performances.

Why It’s Special: Harvest Caye is less crowded, more scenic, and offers a seamless transition from ship to shore. It’s ideal for families or travelers who want a mix of relaxation and adventure without leaving the island.

Insider Tip: Rent a private cabana for $150–$250—it includes shade, lounge chairs, a mini-fridge, and priority access to the zip line and pool areas.

Other Potential Ports (Small-Ship & Expedition Cruises)

While most large ships stop in Belize City or Harvest Caye, smaller expedition cruise lines (like Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures) occasionally call on lesser-known ports:

• Dangriga: Gateway to the Garifuna culture and the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Preserve.
• Placencia: A laid-back peninsula with beautiful beaches and access to the southern reef.
• San Pedro (Ambergris Caye): A popular island destination with world-class diving and a vibrant town.

These stops are typically part of longer, more adventurous itineraries (10+ nights) and are perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Best Shore Excursions in Belize: Must-Do Adventures for 2024

Belize is a playground for adventure, culture, and relaxation. The right shore excursion can make your day ashore truly unforgettable. Here are the top-rated and most unique excursions available in 2024.

Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the Belize Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to over 500 species of fish, 70 types of coral, and endangered sea turtles.

• Top Snorkel Spots: Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, Turneffe Atoll.
• Diving Highlights: The Great Blue Hole (a 400-foot-deep marine sinkhole), the Half Moon Caye Wall, and Glover’s Reef.
• Best Cruise Line Excursions: Royal Caribbean’s “Reef & Rays” tour, Carnival’s “Hol Chan & Shark Ray Snorkel”, and Celebrity’s “Blue Hole Discovery Dive”.

Tip: Book a private boat tour (often $150–$250 for a group of 4) for a more personalized experience. Bring your own snorkel gear to avoid rental fees.

Mayan Ruins: Step Back in Time

Belize was a major center of the ancient Maya civilization. Excursions to Mayan sites combine history, archaeology, and breathtaking scenery.

• Top Sites: Xunantunich (accessible from Belize City), Lamanai (remote, requires a riverboat ride), and Caracol (deep in the Chiquibul Forest).
• Best Cruise Line Excursions: Princess Cruises’ “Xunantunich & Belize City Tour”, NCL’s “Lamanai Adventure” (includes a river cruise and jungle walk).

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Wear sturdy shoes—some sites involve climbing stone steps.

Jungle Adventures: Cave Tubing, Zip-lining & Wildlife

Belize’s interior is a lush rainforest filled with rivers, caves, and wildlife. Jungle excursions are a must for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.

• Cave Tubing: Float through ancient Mayan ceremonial caves on inner tubes. Best with Carnival or Royal Caribbean.
• Zip-lining: Soar over the jungle canopy. Harvest Caye offers an on-island zip line; off-island options include the Cockscomb Basin.
• Wildlife Encounters: Visit the Belize Zoo, the Green Iguana Conservation Project, or take a river safari to spot manatees, crocodiles, and birds.

Pro Tip: Combine cave tubing and zip-lining into one full-day tour—many operators offer combo packages for $120–$180 per person.

Eco & Cultural Experiences: Sustainable Tourism

Belize is a leader in eco-tourism. Several cruise lines now offer excursions that support local communities and conservation.

• Community Baboon Sanctuary: A grassroots conservation project protecting black howler monkeys.
• Garifuna Cultural Tour: Learn about Belize’s Afro-Caribbean culture through drumming, dance, and cooking.
• Reef Restoration Dives: Participate in coral planting with organizations like Fragments of Hope.

Why It Matters: These excursions are often led by local guides and directly support conservation and community development.

Onboard Amenities & Cruise Ship Features for Belize Itineraries

Your cruise ship isn’t just transportation—it’s your floating resort. The onboard experience can enhance your Belize adventure, especially if you’re spending multiple days at sea or arriving late/early.

Entertainment & Enrichment Programs

Top cruise lines offer Belize-themed activities:

• Royal Caribbean: “Caribbean Nights” deck parties with steel drum music and rum tastings.
• Princess Cruises: “Belize Discovery Talks” with historians and marine biologists.
• Celebrity Cruises: “Sustainable Seas” lectures on reef conservation.

Bonus: Many ships feature onboard Caribbean cuisine—try the conch fritters or Belizean stewed chicken.

Spa & Wellness

After a day of snorkeling or hiking, unwind with a tropical-themed spa treatment:

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Harvest Caye-inspired spa packages with coconut oil massages.
• Celebrity Cruises: “Blue Hole Serenity” treatment using sea salt and kelp.

Family & Kids’ Programs

Families will love:

• Carnival: “Camp Ocean” with reef-themed activities.
• Royal Caribbean: “Adventure Ocean” with Belize wildlife crafts and treasure hunts.
• NCL: “Splash Academy” with private island games.

Data Table: Cruise Lines Visiting Belize in 2024

Cruise Line	Ships Sailing to Belize	Ports of Call	Excursion Highlights	Best For
Carnival Cruise Line	Breeze, Horizon, Freedom, Jubilee	Belize City, Harvest Caye	Snorkeling, cave tubing, Xunantunich	Budget travelers, families
Royal Caribbean	Symphony, Harmony, Utopia	Belize City, Harvest Caye	Zip-lining, Great Blue Hole, river safari	Adventure seekers, families
Norwegian Cruise Line	Joy, Escape, Encore	Belize City, Harvest Caye	Private island, reef snorkeling, Altun Ha	Flexibility, private island lovers
Princess Cruises	Emerald, Ruby, Grand	Belize City	Mayan ruins, botanical gardens, enrichment	Cultural travelers, retirees
Celebrity Cruises	Edge, Beyond, Ascent	Belize City	Eco-tours, reef restoration, gourmet lunch	Luxury, eco-conscious travelers
Lindblad Expeditions	National Geographic Venture	Dangriga, Placencia	Jaguar preserve, Garifuna culture	Nature lovers, small-ship cruisers

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your Belize Adventure

So, which cruise lines go to Belize in 2024? The answer depends on your travel style, budget, and what kind of experience you’re seeking. Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer high-energy, family-friendly itineraries with a wide range of affordable excursions. Norwegian Cruise Line stands out with its exclusive private island, Harvest Caye, perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation. Princess Cruises appeals to those who value culture, history, and longer stays, while Celebrity Cruises delivers luxury and sustainability. For off-the-beaten-path explorers, small-ship lines like Lindblad provide unforgettable encounters with nature and local communities.

When planning your trip, consider these final tips:

• Book excursions early—popular tours like the Great Blue Hole dive and cave tubing fill up fast.
• Pack smart—bring water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a dry bag.
• Support local—choose excursions led by Belizean guides and eco-certified operators.
• Check docking times—longer stays (8+ hours) give you more flexibility to explore.

Belize is more than just a port of call—it’s a destination that captures the soul of the Caribbean with its natural wonders, ancient history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re floating through a Mayan cave, swimming with nurse sharks, or sipping rum punch on a private island, your Belize cruise adventure will be one for the books. Start planning now, and get ready to experience the magic of Belize in 2024!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Belize in 2024?

Top cruise lines visiting Belize in 2024 include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America. These lines offer itineraries ranging from 4 to 14 days, with stops at Belize City or Harvest Caye. Smaller luxury lines like Oceania and Regent Seven Seas also include Belize on select sailings.

What are the best cruise lines for snorkeling and diving in Belize?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are ideal for snorkeling and diving, offering excursions to the Belize Barrier Reef and Great Blue Hole. Their shore tours often include gear rentals and guided dives, catering to both beginners and experienced divers.

Do any luxury cruise lines visit Belize?

Yes, luxury cruise lines like Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, and Silversea include Belize on select itineraries. These lines offer upscale amenities, smaller ships, and exclusive excursions to places like Ambergris Caye and Glover’s Reef.

Which budget-friendly cruise lines go to Belize?

Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line are excellent budget-friendly options for travelers heading to Belize. Both offer affordable fares, frequent departures, and value-packed shore excursions to popular spots like the Belize Zoo and Mayan ruins.

Are there family-friendly cruise lines with stops in Belize?

Absolutely! Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Line are top picks for families cruising to Belize. They feature kid-friendly activities, onboard entertainment, and family-oriented excursions like cave tubing and rainforest zip-lining.

What cruise lines offer private island experiences in Belize?

Norwegian Cruise Line owns Harvest Caye, a private island in Southern Belize, offering exclusive beaches, wildlife encounters, and water sports. Carnival Cruise Line also partners with Harvest Caye for select itineraries, providing a resort-like stopover for guests.