BELIZE HIGHLIGHTS Belize is a totally unspoiled getaway. Kayak along sandy islets, snorkel through translucent seas, investigate ancient civilizations and soak up the warm welcome you will receive from the locals. Belize is a small country in northern part of Central America. To the north is Mexico and to the west is Guatemala. Belize is one of the few remaining, unspoiled destinations on Earth, and due to its incredible Mesoamerican reef that stretches approximately 350 nautical miles from the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula down along the Belizean coast, it is a charter destination not to be over looked an authentic tropical paradise. If seek relaxation and an eco adventure, Belize offers some of the quietest and most beautiful surroundings on Earth. LAGOON CAY With the picturesque Belizean coast stretching out before you across the brilliant turquoise waters, sail down the easy broad reach of the Inner Channel and onto Lagoon Cay. This unique horseshoe shaped island spans 13 acres and its deep protected lagoon offers some of the best anchorage in the area. Once you re at anchor, hop into your kayak and off you go.
This scenic island offers kayakers of all levels the opportunity for some exploration. There s a vast expanse of coastline to track and plenty of things to see along the way. Weave in and out of the many inlets and mangrove habitats as you twitch for the ospreys, frigate birds, pelicans and cormorants that all call this lagoon their home. But as you re busy soaking up the views above the water don t forget to look down at the incredible coral life below. The shallow reef which forms the backbone of this island makes for some thrilling snorkeling opportunities. Watch the many tarpon displaying their gilded armor of brilliant silver scales, or the colorful shoals of parrot fish that dart past you as you swim by. And if all of that sounds like too much hard work, simply head back onboard and relax with a refreshing cocktail as you admire the panoramic views from your deck. PLACENCIA LAGOON Laying behind the long narrow sandy Placencia Peninsula you ll find Placencia Lagoon. Its a long, almost land locked estuary with rich sea grass beds and mangrove fringed forests that are home to the endangered manatees. Placencia lagoon forms the gateway to your Belizean adventure; from here you can take some land based tours to the numerous cascading waterfalls and archaeological ruins of the Mayan culture, or head up Monkey River to see howler monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas and many more exotic creatures hidden in the lush green jungle. The cave at Blue Creek is not for the faint hearted; enjoy the caves colossal beauty, as with headlights in place and lifejackets on you ll swim/hike through this mysterious underworld of the Maya. Water based activities are
plentiful from kayaking, salt water fly fishing, reef dives and whale watching trips to choose from. You re truly spoilt for choice here. The small coastal town of Placencia itself is definitely worth a visit. This charming town feels relatively undiscovered and unspoilt by tourism. There s an infectious laid back Belizean vibe and the local residents are friendly and welcoming. Explore the narrow streets, browsing at the many rustic and traditional wares for sale. You ll not be disappointed with the choices of where to dine out, as there s plenty of fine dining restaurants and bars offering fresh seafood and a host of local delicacies to choose from. After spending the day immersing yourself in the Belizean culture and lifestyle, hop back onboard and prepare to set sail towards one of the most naturally beautiful cruising grounds in the world. SOUTH WATER CAY Cruising northeast from Wippari Cay, head up the Inner Channel to the Blue Ground Range. Practice your shallow water navigation skills as you travel between patch reefs, finally reaching South Water Cay. Part of Belize s World Heritage Site, idyllic South Water Cay, is an amazing 15 acre coral island sitting right on the edge of the barrier reef. With its crystal clear waters and soft powder white sand beaches lined with majestic palms, it s easy to see why it s worth making the effort to stop on this tropical island.
The snorkeling here is not to be missed, and on the east side of the Cay the barrier reef drop off is close to the shore, creating one of the few places in Belize where you can literally swim off the beach and straight into the reef. After a morning spent exploring the amazing array of underwater life, head back ashore and take a pleasant stroll amongst the coconut trees and mangrove islets. Although part of the marine reserve, South Water Cay is also one of the largest inhabited resorts with a few bars and restaurants to dine out at. Enjoy freshly caught lobster and delicious local specialties before heading back onboard for a relaxing sundowner. WIPPARI CAY Lying northeast of Placencia is the beautiful Cay of Wippari. With its calm waters and gentle tropical breeze, it s easy to unwind and adjust to the slow rhythms of island life here. Choose yourself a mooring and spend a lazy day discovering this island pleasures. Wippari Cay is home to fishing legend Julian Cabral, owner of The Whipray Caye Lodge open air Sea Urchin Bar and Restaurant. As well as sampling some of the exquisite Belizean and American food on offer, grab yourself an ice cold beer and listen as Julian gives you the inside track on how best to catch our scaley friends down below. Just a short boat ride away you ll find some of the best fishing Belize has to offer. Land the catch of the day as you fish for tarpon, snapper and barracuda. These waters are ready stocked and waiting. If you fancy staying closer to shore, the sparkling waters to the northeast and northwest around Wippari provides for some superb snorkeling amongst its living coral reef. If you re lucky you may get to see a pod of dolphins passing by. Back on the Cay, take a few moments to admire the lush greenery of the palm fringed beach as you sit back, cocktail in one
hand, camera in the other, and wait for one of the most stunning and unforgettable sunsets you ll ever see. Mooring overnight at Wippari puts you in a great position for a sail to South Water Cay the next morning. ITINERARY DAY 1: LARU BEYA MARINA As you leave our base, you will head into the heart of the exquisitely beautiful Placencia Lagoon. This paradise is the ideal location if you re looking for an adventure, where you can enjoy kayaking through the mangroves, or hire a boat and take a trip up Monkey River where you will see Howler Monkeys, Iguanas and many more exotic creatures! DAY 2: WIPPARI CAY Head northeast to Wippari Cay, offering superb snorkeling as well as being a fantastic place for fishing too. Situated over the barrier reef, you will need to practice your shallow water navigation skills as you meander towards South Water Cay. DAY 3: SOUTH WATER CAY Part of the Belizean marine preserve, this peaceful island is also inhabited, so you will be able to find fresh food served at any of the three restaurants here after enjoying a days snorkeling off the exquisite white sandy beach. DAY 4: TOBACCO CAY Sail north just inside the barrier reef, and experience exceptional snorkeling at the beautiful Tobacco Cay. DAY 5: COCO PLUM CAY Continue cruising north, through these protected waters and stop off at the highly recommended Coco Plum Cay. This private island is the perfect retreat; all you need to do here is relax in a hammock, as you enjoy 5* service and fine food that will make you want to stay here forever. DAY 6: LAGOON CAY With the picturesque Belizean coast stretching out before you across the brilliant turquoise waters, sail onto Lagoon Cay. Once you are at anchor, relax with a refreshing cocktail, take a swim, or kayak along the cay. DAY 7: QUEEN CAY Experience outstanding snorkeling and diving along the edge of the barrier reef, when you visit Queen Cay (Silk Cay). The best beach and anchorage is off the southern cay where, nestled among the towering palm trees, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch in the shade.