Belize is unquestionably the best sailing destination in the entire Caribbean. Her cruising grounds include 3,000 sq. miles of territorial waters, hundreds of islands many of which are uninhabited and thousands of coral reefs including three large offshore atolls. Two hundred miles of protected coastline offers a variety small communities as well as several rivers and large lagoon systems to visit. The myriad of cayes offer secluded and well protected anchorages and an immense variety of marine mammals, birds and sea life. Beautiful coral reefs, manatees, porpoises, are all available to the sailing charter traveler.Some charter operators sail to Rio Dulce, Guatemala and to the Bay Islands of Honduras. The main ports for sailing charter activity are on Ambergris Caye and from Placencia Village.

Chartering is an ideal way to access this vast water wonderland. You will find a number of charter options available in Belize. High end luxury mega-yachts and large, over sixty foot, sailing vessels aren't available for a variety of reasons; lack of developed ports for provisioning and entertainment, extensive areas of shallow water and the fact that Belize is largely an eco-touring destination to name a few. Motorized and sailing vessels between thirty and fifty feet make up the majority of charter boats in the country. This size range is the most practical for accessing small bays, island chains and cuts in the barrier reef. They are also large enough to provide comfort and safety while handling various sea conditions encountered while making crossings to the outer atolls.

Enjoy many water sports and special activities on your sailing charter vacation. Whether you are an experienced diver or just learning to swim chartering in Belize will provide countless opportunities to snorkel, free dive or SCUBA dive with instruction available if you wish. Some vessels are equipped with sea kayaks, inflatables, fiberglass skiffs, and even windsurfers. While snorkeling gear may be provided it's always a good idea to bring your own to insure a proper fit. Some crews specialize in marine life identification. These vessels will be equipped with identification guides and other related reading materials. Other activities include birding, photography, exploring the islands, visiting native fishing camps and small coastal villages, instruction in local cooking and sailing lessons. Some vessels even offer learn-to-sail charters with sailing instructions from a seasoned skipper. Honeymoon sailing charters are popular in Belize. Some charter operators also offer live-aboard options.

The fishing in Belize is great. Belize is home to an impressive variety of game fish as well as many choice and edible species. Most charter boats operating in Belize offer some form of fishing but experience and results vary greatly. If fishing is important to you be sure to check out their claims. Some boats have special fishing charters; fly fishing, spin casting, trolling, bottom fishing and blue water trolling. These should be crewed by experienced, licensed, local fishing guides. If you plan on bringing your own gear it's a good idea to ask your charter captain for tips on what works best in the area.

Sail Belize any time of year. What will the weather be like? Belize is situated in the extreme western Caribbean in the gulf of Honduras and actually has three or four distinct weather regions. Without going into great detail let it be said that there is almost always a nice place to sail somewhere in Belize. The prevailing winds over most of the coastal waters are light and northeasterly but vary seasonally in direction and strength. It can be blowing 30 knots north wind in Ambergris Caye and 10 knots southeasterly 150 miles away in the Sapodilla Cayes at the same time. The trick is to know where to go for good sailing and safe anchorage and at what time of year. There is no substitute for experience and local knowledge in matters of weather. Be sure your captain and crew are well versed in the seasonal changes. If you are bare boat chartering be sure to ask your charter company about seasonal weather trends in the areas you plan to visit.

Sailing in Belize waters pose unique navigational challenges. The obstacles are many and the man made aids to navigation are few. Even with up to date charts, GPS and a depth sounder you will encounter many challenges to safe navigation. The Belize Department of Fisheries and Coastal Zone Management authorities are adopting and enforcing strict new measures to protect the reef from the ravages of irresponsible anchoring practices and numerous accidental groundings. Recently fines in excess of $10,000 U.S. dollars have been levied against unfortunate mariners. Read your charts and cruising guides carefully and always respect the reefs and cayes. Many charter boats operating in Belize have several years of experience sailing in Belize waters but others do not. The degree of experience of your crew will decide how thoroughly you can explore, discover and enjoy this sailing paradise.

Choose the right sailing charter option for you. If you really enjoy sailing there are fine traditional mono-hull yachts available both crewed as well as bare boat. There are a number of independently owned and operated sailing as well as motorized vessels. Service ranges from very basic to very comfortable but not to luxury class. Independent operators' charter themes vary depending on their level of experience in the country and the type of activities they offer. Food and beverage service varies greatly and should be checked out in advance.

There are also two commercial charter fleets if that is your preference. You may have sailed in many parts of the world already. Belize is unlike any other destination. Your choice of charter options is critical to the success and enjoyment of your trip. While bareboat chartering has its advantages, one accident can change the memories of an entire sailing holiday. Be sure to learn all you can about Belize waters and seasonal weather patterns before sailing unassisted in Belize. Also be sure to practice environmentally safe anchoring practices at all times. Accidents can be very costly and the reef only grows at a rate of two inches per hundred years.

Enjoy safe and memorable sailing in Belize. Choose your vessel and crew carefully. Be sure they can provide as many of the things you are looking for as possible. Check references and testimonials. Communicate with your charter provider to get the most out of them. Let them know what you are interested in and inform them of your special interests and activity levels. Once you become more familiar with Belize waters and see what the area has to offer you may choose a different charter option in the future.

For more information & Belize Sailing Charter reservation inquiry, visit Belize-Sailing-Charters.com