Belize

With crystal-clear waters, coral atolls, reliable trade winds, and over 450 islands and cays to explore, this small Central American country offers unmatched cruising opportunities. While the diving and snorkelling are spectacular, Belize also offers beautiful beaches, isolated tropical islets, unique offshore restaurants and bars, and mainland excursions into pristine rainforests and reserves.

From the Sunsail charter base, you can explore the inner reefs and cays in a week. Whipray Caye is one destination near incredible snorkelling and diving, featuring a nice anchorage and delightful open-air dining on shore. Head east towards Laughing Bird Caye National Park and down to Ranguana Caye at the edge of the barrier reef, where empty cays and excellent anchorages await.

To the north offshore lies the Southwater Caye Marine Reserve, home to many protected reefs and one of the top beaches in the world. Here, you might see manatees or nesting sites of the magnificent frigate bird and the brown booby. The islands and mangroves support an incredible array of wildlife. Scattered throughout the reserve are moorings for visiting yachts and a few resorts, beach bars, and restaurants.

Continuing north to Ambergris Caye, you’ll pass hundreds of wonderful stopping places. Spend weeks wandering the channels, exploring empty cays and remote islets, snorkelling and diving, or simply soaking in the beauty.

With more time and a sense of adventure, the three offshore coral atolls are a truly rewarding destination. Turneffe Atoll, Glover’s Reef, and Lighthouse Reef are far from the crowds and serve as important habitats for marine and bird life. Expect to encounter manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, crocodiles, over 500 species of fish, and 65 species of stony corals. The Blue Hole on Lighthouse Reef is a highlight of any trip to the outer reefs and is worth a paid excursion if you can’t reach it under sail.