Sailing Itinerary in the Coral Reef of Belize

Just four miles northeast of Lark Caye, Whipray Caye is a fisherman's paradise. A short five-minute boat ride brings you to waters teeming with tarpon, bonefish, snapper, and grouper. The Whipray Caye Lodge offers an open-air Sea Urchin Bar and Restaurant, serving fresh local catches alongside classic American dishes. The bar is well-stocked, with some of the coldest beers for miles around. Sailing in the waters around Whipray Caye adds a memorable touch to any Belize cruise. Sailing Details: Time: ~1 hr 24 mins Distance: 7 nautical miles Mooring: Anchoring only (free) Dinghy dockage: Not available Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling Facilities: None Fishing enthusiasts will find the area around Whipray Caye particularly rewarding, making it a great spot to combine leisure and sport while exploring Belizean waters.

Part of Belize’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed barrier reef, South Water Caye sits on the northern edge of the South Water Pass. Palm-lined beaches and clear waters make it a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving, especially on the reef drop-off located close to the shore. This location is a must-visit for any Belize yacht charter. Sailing Details: Time: ~4 hr 48 mins Distance: 24 nautical miles Mooring: No moorings; anchor on sandy patches along the west side. Protected mainly from easterly winds. For overnight stays, Twin Cayes may offer safer anchorage if winds change. Dinghy dockage: Beach your dinghy almost anywhere on the west shore or near lodge docks Activities: Watersports, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, exploring, sunbathing, fishing Facilities: Restaurants & bars, Wi-Fi, dive shop The caye is rich in history and wildlife. Pelican Beach Resorts operates Pelican Pouch and Blue Marlin Lodge, both offering dining, bars, and diving facilities. The International Zoological Expeditions educational center in the middle of the island also provides meals for visiting boaters (reservations recommended) and is perfect for an afternoon stroll along the nature paths.

Located at the northern boundary of the South Water Marine Reserve, Cocoa Plum Caye is part of the Coco Plum Range. Remote and scenic, the area features pristine beaches and a resort with a restaurant and two bars. Sailing Details: Time: ~2 hr 24 mins Distance: 12 nautical miles Mooring: Two moorings on the west side and two on the east side, providing seasonal protection Dinghy dockage: Available Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, watersports, snorkeling, exploring, diving Facilities: Small marina, water, provisions, Wi-Fi, scuba air fills Take a walk along the nature paths to spot wildlife including coatis, frigate birds, brown pelicans, and iguanas. Dining and drinks at Thatch Caye Resort provide a perfect way to unwind.

Heading south from Cocoa Plum Caye, navigate between Quamino Cay and Cat Cay to enter the protected Pelican Cay Range. Anchoring or mooring here allows you to explore Hideaway Cay, one of the area’s best-kept secrets. Enjoy fresh seafood, swap sailing stories, and even arrange fresh-baked bread for breakfast. Paddleboard or kayak through sheltered waters and snorkel around interesting spots. Sailing Details: Time: ~3 hr Distance: 15 nautical miles Mooring: Five mooring buoys at US$20/night Dinghy dockage: Not available Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, restaurant & bar Facilities: Restaurant & bar This is a reliable anchorage during unsettled weather, with assistance from Hideaway Cay staff to find a safe anchoring spot.

Only 25 nautical miles off Placencia, Ray Caye offers an exclusive private-island experience. Hosting only 16 guests at a time, the island blends natural beauty, leisure, and luxury. The Ray Caye Resort offers top-tier accommodations, dining, and spa services, all with attentive staff ensuring a memorable stay. Sailing Details: Time: ~2 hr 24 mins Distance: 12 nautical miles Mooring: 11 moorings, US$25/night Dinghy dockage: Available Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, watersports, snorkeling, diving Facilities: Restaurant, Wi-Fi, dive shop, water & ice The Lionfish Grill is recommended for fine dining, while snorkeling and diving in nearby waters provide exceptional underwater experiences.

Before heading to Lark Caye, make a daytime sail to Ranguana Caye, located near Ranguana Pass on the barrier reef. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and fishing. After exploring, Lark Caye offers pristine waters ideal for diving, fishing, and paddleboarding. Sailing Details: Time: ~1 hr 36 mins Distance: 8 nautical miles Mooring: Anchoring recommended Dinghy dockage: Not available Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, watersports, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding Facilities: None Nearby Ranguana Reef Resort has a small restaurant and bar for casual meals.

Placencia is a charming coastal village with a crescent-shaped beach lined with palms. Walking along stilted houses, enjoying local flowers, and exploring the village gives a sense of traditional Belizean life. The harbour area provides anchoring in turtle grass beds, with dinghy dockage available. Sailing Details: Time: ~1 hr Distance: 5 nautical miles Mooring: Anchoring recommended Dinghy dockage: Available Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, watersports, snorkeling, exploring Facilities: Water, ice, restaurants, bars, fuel, Wi-Fi, ATMs, dive shops, trash disposal Placencia combines serene Caribbean waters with friendly locals and modern amenities, making it a perfect start or end to a Belizean yachting adventure.