Silversea Luxury Cruises To BELIZE CITY

Maya History, Organic Cacao, Traditional Chocolate making

A delicious treat awaits you on this exciting chocolate tasting tour. Considered sacred and the food of the Gods, chocolate has its ancient roots in Maya culture and traditions. Belize has a rich Maya history and is home to some of the best organic cacao farms in the world, cacao that is exported all over the world for some of the finest artisan chocolates. Made from this organic cacao, you will have hands on traditional chocolate making from the bean to the chocolate.

Maya stone tools, Maya Experience

You will participate in the grinding of the chocolate beans with traditional Maya stone tools. Learn about the fermentation process of cacao pods. Sample chocolate nibs, enjoy a tasty locally made chocolate treat just like the Maya Gods consume. Immerse yourself in this one-of-a kind Maya experience. Variety of chocolate products such as cocoa wine, chocolate liqueur, cocoa powder, cocoa nibs, Dark regular, chili and ginger chocolate bars as well as locally made souvenirs are available for purchase.

Almond Hill Lagoon, Historical Belize, Saint John's Cathedral

Enjoy an overview of the city and a look at Almond Hill Lagoon during this half-day tour by coach and airboat. Meet your tour representative on the tender pier and board an air-conditioned bus for a guided tour of historical Belize. Your tour guide will acquaint you with the rich history of the city from its establishment by shipwrecked British sailors in 1683 to modern day while you pass Saint John's Cathedral (the oldest in Central America).

Indian Creek, Power Airboat

Following your 40-minute city tour, arrive at the Airboat Outpost situated on a waterway leading to the Almond Hill Lagoon, just past mile post 9 on the George Price Highway. Upon arrival at our Airboat Outpost guests will received a short orientation and safety briefing before boarding your open 450 horse power airboat for the ride of a lifetime. This tour takes you via a waterway onto the beautiful Almond Hill Lagoon. As your Captain opens the throttle, feel the breeze tugging at your skin while your boat rips across the lagoon at speeds over 40 miles an hour towards the manatee feeding grounds. Upon reaching your destination, quietly drift keeping a lookout for the docile manatees that frequent this area. With a loud call of "clear" from your captain, you are once again speeding across the lagoon to Indian Creek.

As your captain eases off the throttle you seem to disappear into Indian Creek, straight ahead of you lies your quest; an eye-opening ride on the pristine marsh, an entirely different world of unspoiled beauty protected by the lack of access. Zip along in water only inches deep where only Airboats dare and enjoy the incredible sites. See beautiful water lilies, many colors and varieties of wading birds, turtles and maybe even a wily old crocodile trying to catch dinner as you glide over hundreds of acres of open marshland lined on all sides by mangroves, a natural playground for Mother Nature's wildlife. All too soon you are speeding back across the Almond Hill Lagoon heading for the Airboat Outpost, where a cool complimentary drink awaits you.

Explore an ancient Mayan civilisation dating from 200 B.C. during this captivating, half-day excursion to the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins.

Belize City, Orientation Drive, British-Colonial and Modern Buildings, Countryside Villages

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Altun Ha. En route, embrace the Caribbean charm of Belize City during an orientation drive through its picturesque streets. See and learn about the business, historic and cultural aspects of Belizean life, beautiful landmarks, and old British-Colonial buildings mixed with modern architecture. Leaving the city, ride along the Phillip Goldson Highway and pass by several quaint, countryside villages before reaching the Altun Ha Mayan Ruins. Located only seven miles (about 11.2 kilometres) from the sea and surrounded by a primary broadleaf rainforest ruins, Altun Ha spans approximately five square miles (about 13 square kilometres).

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins, Jade Head of the Sun God Kinich Ahau, Temple of the Masonry Altars

Archaeologists believe that Altun Ha dates from 200 B.C. Three plazas and 13 structures mark the epicentre of this very important ceremonial site and trade centre of the ancient Mayan civilization. However, Altun Ha did not come to the attention of archaeologists until 1963, when pilot and amateur Mayanist Hal Ball noticed the existence of this ancient site from the air. In 1965, Altun Ha captured worldwide attention when Professor David Pendergast of the Royal Ontario Museum discovered the almost ten-pound jade head of the Sun God Kinich Ahau in the tomb of a Royal Priest, located within the Temple of the Masonry Altars. The jade head is considered one of Belize's national treasures.

Walk to the Top of a Temple, Altun Ha Museum, Artisan Village, Shopping, Lunch, Marimba Music

Upon arrival at Altun Ha, take a guided walking tour. Along the way, see the largest of the pyramids, the Temple of Masonry Altars, which rises 54 feet (about 16.4 metres) above the ground. During your tour, you are invited to climb the stone steps to the top of one of the three main temples on the site (weather permitting). From this vantage point, enjoy spectacular panoramic views and photo opportunities of the surrounding countryside. Other highlights of your visit here include the Altun Ha Museum, which displays evidence of ceremonial practices and items traded with the Yucatan, and an opportunity to browse the items for sale at the artisan village located onsite. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Mangroves, Jaguar Jungle Camp, Caves Branch River

Your adventure begins the moment you board your air-conditioned coach for the approximately 1hour 20minute ride through quaint Belize City and 37 miles (59.5 kilometres) up the Western Highway accompanied by your entertaining, informative guide. Marvel at the diversity and expanse of this country as you traverse through mangroves, savannah and small villages then finally divert onto a remote country road that leads you closer to your adventure. At last you arrive at your jungle playground 'Jaguar Jungle Camp' where you are met by your river guide who outfits you with your gear, gives you a safety briefing and leads you on your jungle trek to the clear waters of the Caves Branch River.

Ancient Mayan Caves, Archways & Formations

Jump into your tube, and float gently into mysterious limestone archways beckoning you into the mouth of centuries old caves, holding untold stories of Mayan rituals. Explore the many awesome formations that decorate these amazing caves and learn about the trees and jungle that surround them. Feel the rush of cool water as you meander into small rapids, letting the currents guide you where they will. Just relax and lay back on your tube, listen to the sound of falling water as your guide leads you through the currents that continue to carve and shape these natural wonders.

At the end of your adventure, make your way out the river and up to the Bush-camp Café where a local lunch awaits you before heading back to the pier.

Explore the many highlights of Belize City during this scenic and leisurely sightseeing excursion via coach.

Belize City Tour, Baron Bliss Lighthouse, Museum of Belize

Depart the pier for a scenic and leisurely, approximately two-hour sightseeing drive through Belize City. Along the way, learn about and explore Belize's vibrant culture and history from the comfort of your air-conditioned coach. Your guide points out various landmarks and points-of-interest, such as the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, resting-place of one of Belize's benefactors, and the Museum of Belize, a former Colonial prison built by slaves.

HM Court, St. John's Cathedral, Coastal Views, Belize Sign Monuments

Additional highlights to be seen include HM Court, the Supreme Court building. Built in 1926, it still functions as the highest court of Belize. From here, pass by St. John's Cathedral, the oldest Anglican cathedral in Central America, and take in splendid coastal views en route to a photo stop at the Belize Sign Monuments. Here, you can capture your memories and experiences on this tour. At the conclusion of your sightseeing tour, commence the short drive back to the pier.

Discover the coastal splendour and wildlife along the Belize River during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion via riverboat.

Belize City and Belize River Cruise

Depart the pier for the short transfer to the dive centre. Upon arrival, receive your safety and tour instructions, then embark your semi-covered riverboat and begin your scenic, approximately 100-minute journey along the Belize River.

Mangroves, Manatees, and Exotic Birds, Monkeys and Wildlife

Relax, take photos and soak up the scenery whilst gliding along the Belize River, and a series of small rapids and peaceful waters. Explore Belize City's coastal treasures en route to manatee feeding grounds and mangroves, and look for exotic birds and other wildlife along the way. See gentle, docile manatees, iguanas, spider monkeys, tapirs, crocodiles, and other denizens of the historic Belize River. A refreshing rum punch is served during the short, relaxing ride back to the dive centre. Upon arrival, disembark your boat and re-board your coach for the short drive back to the pier.

Experience the spectacular natural beauty of Belize from a unique perspective during this exhilarating, flight-seeing excursion.

Belize City, Flight-Seeing, Barrier Reef and Lighthouse Reef Atoll

Depart the pier for the short transfer to the Belize Municipal Airstrip. Upon arrival, a comfort stop is made before check-in. Afterward, receive your safety and flight instructions, then board a Cessna for a scenic and exhilarating, approximately 70-minute flight-seeing tour. Leaving Belize City, take in splendid views of the old capital before flying over the Belize Barrier Reef, longest in the Western Hemisphere, and Turneffe Atoll. Upon arrival at the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, make several fly-bys over this incredible natural wonder.

Cays, Caves, Atolls, Blue Hole, Booby Bird Sanctuary, and Shipwrecks

Next, follow the reef wall south to historic St. George's Caye. From here, head east over Turneffe Atoll, Half Moon Cay and the Lighthouse Reef Atoll to the Great Blue Hole, then make several passes over this renowned Belizean attraction. Your flight continues over Turneffe Atoll, Glovers Reef, the Booby Bird Sanctuary and shipwrecks. Along the way, look for manatees and other marine life that inhabit the tropical shores and coast of Belize. At the conclusion of your tour, commence the short flight back to the Belize Municipal Airstrip, then re-board your coach for the short drive back to the pier.

Experience the spectacular undersea world of Belize from up-close during this panoramic, half-day beach break and snorkelling excursion.

Belize City, Boat-Ride, Barrier Islands, Shark & Ray Alley Marine Reserve, Sharks, Rays, Marine Life

Depart the pier for a scenic, approximately one-hour boat ride along Belize's barrier islands en-route to the amazing Shark & Ray Alley Marine Reserve. Upon arrival, receive your safety and snorkelling instructions, then swim with these gentle marine animals accompanied by your guide. Along the way, get up-close and personal with nurse sharks and southern stingrays at one of the most popular snorkelling destinations in the country. In addition to sharks and rays, see a variety of coral formations, tropical fish and marine life species such as horse-eyed jacks, Bermuda chubs, small barracudas and others moving above the seagrass.

Caye Caulker, Free Time, Caribbean Sea, Sunbathing, Swimming, Beachcombing, Shopping

Following your snorkelling session, embark the boat and head to the Caribbean island paradise of Caye Caulker. Upon arrival at this quaint fishing village, embody its 'go slow' theme during a relaxing beach and island break. Some free time is made available for you to sunbathe on the white-sand beach, swim in the inviting, crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, explore the island, browse the shops for souvenirs, and/or enjoy food and beverages at your own expense. At the conclusion of your visit, embark your boat and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier, with refreshments and a light snack served en route.

Philip Goldson Highway

Your adventure begins when you hop aboard a comfortable air-conditioned bus for your 45 minute drive which begins with a tour of Belize City highlighting the historic rich Colonial past of Belize City, the country's former capital. Leaving Belize City, you travel for some ten miles on the Phillip Goldson Highway before turning off on the road to Green Estates Eco Park for approximately 1 mile.

Green Estates, Pontoon River Boat Safari

At Green Estates, you will board your Pontoon River Boat complete with thatch roofing and spacious comfortable seating for your 1 hour 45 minute cruise of the famous and historical Belize River with its spectacular rain forest which brims with exotic birds, hydrophilic iquanas, mangroves and orchids. Experience the thrill of relaxing and cruising along the very scenic Belize River and escape into another world as the jungle comes alive with its mesmerizing sites and sounds as we serve you delicious rum punch.

Upon concluding your Green River Pontoon River Boat Safari, you will dock at Green Esatates where you will be seated at our very comfortable restaurant facility and served a delicious buffet lunch of traditional Belizean Lunch.

Belize City

Your excursion begins at the pier where you'll board your air-conditioned transportation for a driving tour of Belize City. Belize City, the capital, is the country's only genuine urban area. It is also the commercial and cultural center of the country. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, learn about the business, historic and cultural aspects of Belizean life. View the significant landmarks and beautiful colonial buildings as your guide calls out the various points of interest around town. The city contains both the main seaport and a colorful mix of about a third of the country's population.

Community Baboon Sanctuary

Continue on into the country for a visit to the Community Baboon Sanctuary, a pioneering project in voluntary grassroots conservation by the local villagers. See the Black Howler Monkey (known as the baboon in the local Creole dialect) in their natural setting of the rainforest where they can be protected in a sustainable environment.

An American primatologist Dr. Robert Horwich, along with a local landowner named Fallet Young, founded the sanctuary. Started in 1985 with the initial participation of 12 landowners, it has grown and now helps to ensure the protection of not just Black Howler Monkeys, but many species of flora and fauna in the area. Today, the population of the Black Howler Monkey in the sanctuary is thriving with more than 2,000 monkeys in residence.

Olde River Tavern, Fort Street Tourism Village

After your sanctuary tour, transfer to a local favorite called Olde River Tavern for a delicious sit-down meal. Be sure to stop at the gift shop for a memento of your visit, and then board your transportation for the ride back to the ship terminal. Your excursion culminates at the Fort Street Tourism Village where you can shop for souvenirs, apparel, jewelry and more. Or grab a snack at one of the many eateries before returning to your ship.

Explore ancient ruins and natural wonders during this full-day tour.

After tendering to shore, board your comfortable air-conditioned coach for the approximately 75-minute ride up the Northern Highway accompanied by your guide who will share with you, Belize's rich cultural and ecological heritage. Upon arrival at the river outpost, a quick comfort stop will be made before embarking onto your boat.

River Cruise

Anticipation builds as your skilled captain pulls away from the dock to begin the roughly 80-minute (42 km / 26 miles) trip up the meandering New River towards your Maya Ruin destination. Keep your eyes open and your cameras ready as crocodiles and iguanas, a variety of bird species and even a troop of howler monkeys are just some of the wild life that might make an appearance for you.

Lamanai Mayan Ruins

On approaching the entrance of the New River Lagoon the ruins of the high temple rises into view welcoming you to the ancient Mayan city challenging you to climb its' peak. But first you enjoy a delicious buffet style Belizean lunch, fueling you for your roughly 1hr 30min ruin expedition. Your guide will give insight into this hidden world still surrounded by pristine jungle, and where elite rulers are buried in magnificent temples and sacred deities are immortalized in stone images.

Following your guided tour of the ruins site, time will be available to shop at the gift shop on site before boarding your boat for the exhilarating nonstop ride back to the outpost and your waiting bus which will take you back to the cruise ship pier.

Discover the pristine natural beauty of the lagoons of Belize in a fun-filled new way during this scenic and exhilarating, mini-speedboat excursion.

Belize City, Mini-Speedboat-Ride

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 40-minute drive to the outpost. Upon arrival and following a comfort stop, receive your safety and tour instructions. Afterward, don your safety vest and get ready to be the captain of your own private, mini-speedboat during a guided journey through Almond Hill Lagoon. Easy-to-use and stable, the mini-powerboats are fitted with environmentally-friendly engines.

Diverse Wildlife, Reptile and Bird Species, Pristine Ecosystems, Shopping Stop, Belize City Tour

This fun-filled, exhilarating excursion is suitable for beginners and experienced boaters, and provides the excitement and thrills of navigating an approximately 13-foot (about four-metre) mini-speedboat in comfort and style. Along the way, follow your lead captain and marvel at the beautiful, pristine ecosystems that surrounds you. Look out for the diverse wildlife, reptile and bird species that inhabit this area, including possible crocodile sightings. This fun-filled family tour enables you to cruise as slow as you would like, or as fast as a jet-ski. At the conclusion of your tour, return to the outpost. Following a brief comfort and shopping stop, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier, with a brief tour of Belize City en route.

Caye Caulker

Your awe-inspiring excursion begins when you take a scenic 55 minute boat ride along the Largest Barrier Reef in the Western Hemisphere to the beautiful, unspoiled island of Caye Caulker. Located just within the Barrier Reef, this small coral island is perfect for your Caribbean escape. After a safety briefing issued by one of our professional marine guides, you will be given snorkeling equipment and proceed to the edge of the Belize's Barrier Reef for your snorkel adventure. Get a first-hand view of Mother Nature and be amazed with the rich, pristine waters, abundant marine life and vibrant coral formations at Coral Gardens.

Shark & Ray Alley, Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill

You will then proceed to Shark & Ray Alley where each group will have its own professional and knowledgeable marine guide. You can stand on the sandy bottom or float and just let your hands slide on these docile creatures as they swim by you in very close proximity. After this amazing personal encounter with the Sharks & Rays, you will return to the island to enjoy delicious local cuisine (available for purchase) which you pre-select, at the Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill located at the world famous "Split" in Caye Caulker. Lazy Lizard is on the edge of the Caribbean Sea and perfect for enjoying the fresh Caribbean breeze while enjoying some of their best original tropical beverages (available for purchase).

Relax on the water's edge of the beautiful Caribbean Sea on the sandy pristine beaches of Caye Caulker, located immediately adjacent to the restaurant. Feel the gentle breezes, the sand between your toes and the spectacular hues of blue of the enchanting Caribbean Sea. Enjoy a bit of island exploration, souvenir shopping, relaxation and the warm Caribbean Charm of Caye Caulker and the rich diversity of its people. Then enjoy the relaxing 1 hour boat ride back to the cruise port. On the way back, enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea, while sipping a complimentary rum punch or fruit punch.

Experience the spectacular natural splendour and ancient history of western Belize during this panoramic, full-day excursion to the Xunantunich Ruins.

Belize City, Western Belize, Maya Mountains, Tropical Rainforest

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately two-hour drive through the western Belizean countryside. Western Belize is considered the finest part of the nation's interior, as it is the gateway to the Maya Mountains and lush, tropical rainforest of Belize. Your guide points explains various aspects of the mountainous landscape, culture, history and lifestyle of Belizeans as you make your way toward Xunantunich (Maiden of the Rock).

Sucootz Village, Ferry-Ride, Mopan River, Xunantunich, El Castillo, Burial Chamber

Upon arrival at Sucootz Village, embark an historic, hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River; the only way to access the sacred grounds of Xunantunich. Upon arrival at this ancient city, take a guided walking tour. Walk to the top of El Castillo, the main temple and tallest structure in the city, and marvel at the panoramic views of Belize and Guatemala in the distance. Next, proceed to the Burial Chamber. One of the most important sites discovered in this ancient Maya city, it is considered to be one of the largest Mayan burial chambers found within the last 100 years. When it was unearthed, archaeologists found a number of ceramic vessels, obsidian knives, jade pearls, animal bones, and other stone artefacts.

Cayo District, San Ignacio, Local Restaurant, Belizean Lunch with Live Marimba Music, Shopping

Following your tour, a comfort stop and an opportunity to browse for souvenirs, re-board your coach and head to the Cayo District. Upon arrival in the bustling town of San Ignacio, proceed to a local restaurant for a typical Belizean lunch accompanied by a cultural Mayan group playing live Marimba music. During your lunch break, you can browse the local arts, craft and souvenirs available for sale. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 2.25-hour drive back to the pier.