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Belize Yacht Charter

A tropical paradise, the entire cruising area of Belize is housed inside the world's second-largest barrier reef, guaranteeing smooth sailing, even when it's windy.

Best time to visit

December - April

Currency

Belize Dollar

Language

English

Cruising style

Relaxed trade wind island-hopping

Charter types

Crewed, Skippered, and Bareboat

Remote Belize Yacht Charters

Yacht Charters in Belize straddle the jungle and the sea, with a scattering of Mayan ruins and a huge barrier reef.

A yachting vacation in Belize is an adventure like no other. Imagine sailing along the world's second-largest barrier reef, exploring sandy palm-studded beaches, and discovering the amazing underwater world.

Your private sailing charter will take you to some of the world's best snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and kayaking sites, embellished with tropical cocktails and 5-star private dining from the comfort of your own private floating hotel.

Belize offers fantastic opportunities for sailing, with its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and numerous cays and islands. Placencia is the primary charter base, and a fantastic place to start and finish your vacation.

All bareboat charters are required to stay inside the barrier reef.

Local skippers must be on board for any excursions outside the barrier reef.

Belize is good for:

Scuba Diving

Beach bars

Beaches

Tropical fish

Watersports

Hiking

Nightlife

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Popular yacht types in Belize

crewed

Weather and Sailing Conditions in Belize

Sub-tropical climate and warm year-round, averaging 27°C. January is the coolest month and May is the hottest, although the trade winds temper the humidity.

The best time to visit Belize is in the dry season between November and mid-April.

Southeast trade winds averaging 10-13 knots, with minimal waves inside the barrier reef.

Belize is subtropical, with a mean annual temperature of 80°F (27°C ). Waves inside the barrier reef are minimal but the breeze is fresh creating superb sailing conditions!

The dry season generally lasts from December to May; the rainy season is typically June to November. Hurricanes occur occasionally; they are most likely to hit in August and September.

Why choose Belize?

Stunning scenery

The Belize Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful places in the world. The crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning coral reefs are sure to impress.

Exciting activities

Belize offers a wide variety of activities for all ages and interests. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach.

Delicious food

Belizean cuisine is a fusion of Mayan, Caribbean, and Mexican flavors. You can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and delicious local dishes.

Welcoming people

The Belizean people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. You'll feel right at home as you explore the islands and interact with the locals.

Perfect weather

The best time to visit Belize is from November to April when the weather is dry and sunny. The trade winds provide ideal sailing conditions, with consistent breezes and calm seas

We’re here for you

If you are unsure about charter or boat selection, contact us at HELM to help you decide. We only choose boats that are in excellent condition, and we are here to help you every step of the way and to make sure the whole process is as easy as possible.

Use our Experience Builder and we will be able to suggest the yacht holiday most suited for you. There are three main categories of yachting holidays:

  • Bareboat
  • Skippered (bareboat with a professional captain)
  • Fully crewed You can see further explanation on each of these options below. If you don’t have sailing experience, then a skippered or crewed option is for you.
  • A bareboat charter is where you rent a fully equipped yacht without a skipper or crew. The yacht is yours for the duration of the charter and has everything you need on board.
  • We can help arrange for the boat to be provisioned before your arrival and any extras you require to be on board.
  • The boat is your responsibility and the itinerary is completely up to you. You will be provided with an area and boat briefing upon check-in, and will have the full support of the local base staff should you have any questions or require assistance during your charter.
  • Yachts available to bareboat charter range from 32ft right up to 60ft, and include a wide variety of monohull sailing boats, motorboats and catamarans from all major shipyards. We've highlighted some of our favourite bareboats here.
  • You will probably need a practical sailing licence, such as RYA Day Skipper, International Certificate of Competence (ICC), or ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising Certificate, along with experience on an equal size boat. In the British Virgin Islands and Thailand, you do not need a licence by law, but will be required to show a sailing resume demonstrating experience of being in charge of an equal size boat. Some charter companies in these regions may also request a formal licence. If you are not sure your licence is suitable, please check with us.
  • In Croatia a VHF (marine radio) licence is also mandatory.
  • A skippered charter means adding a professional skipper to a bareboat arrangement. This is perfect for a first sailing holiday, as you don't need any experience at all.
  • You can also add a skipper if you would just like someone on board with local knowledge and to assist with the sailing.
  • You can be as involved in the sailing of the vessel as you like, and the skipper will be happy to teach you to sail, or allow you to relax and sunbathe.
  • A skipper is hired to make your week as enjoyable as possible; they will have local experience and will be able to make recommendations on where to go and what to see.
  • Prices range from 190 to 200 EUR per day for a skipper, with food extra, and you need to make sure you allocate them a cabin.
  • A hostess can be added to any bareboat or skippered charter
  • They will keep your yacht clean, prepare drinks and snacks, breakfast and lunch, as well as helping with provisioning.
  • A hostess costs 130 – 170 EUR per day + food, depending on destination.
  • A crewed charter is a luxurious escape, akin to a 5 star hotel but with a different view every day.
  • A professional captain and crew will pamper you and provide a seamless experience throughout.
  • Your on-board chef will prepare gourmet cuisine, and the crew can assist with reservations at the best onshore restaurants.
  • You will find an amazing selection of facilities, activities and equipment.
  • The experience is uniquely tailored to all of your personal preferences.
  • To find your perfect escape, browse our Crewed Yachts.

Need some help?

If you are unsure about charter or boat selection, contact us at HELM to help you decide.

We only choose boats that are in excellent condition, and we are here to help you every step of the way and to make sure the whole process is as easy as possible.

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