Belize, located on the eastern coast of Central America along the Caribbean Sea, has several key sea ports that support both international trade and tourism. Here are the main sea ports in Belize:
1. Port of Belize (Belize City)
- Location: Belize City (the largest city in Belize)
- Status: Main commercial seaport
- Functions:
- Handles the majority of the country’s imports and exports
- Container and bulk cargo terminal
- Also serves cruise ships via offshore anchoring and tender boats
- Managed by: Port of Belize Ltd.
2. Big Creek Port
- Location: Big Creek, Stann Creek District (southern Belize)
- Main Use: Export of agricultural products
- Especially bananas, citrus, and crude oil
- Private port operated by Banana Enterprises Ltd.
- Has facilities for containerized cargo and bulk liquid cargo
3. Commerce Bight Port (Currently Inactive / Under Revitalization)
- Location: Just south of Dangriga
- History: Formerly used for citrus and banana exports
- Was dormant for years but has been discussed for redevelopment
4. Harvest Caye Port
- Location: Harvest Caye Island (near Placencia)
- Type: Cruise ship port
- Operated by: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
- Built specifically for tourism and cruise passengers
- Includes a private island resort experience for cruise visitors
5. San Pedro & Caye Caulker Water Taxi Terminals
- While not cargo ports, these are important domestic sea transport hubs for passenger traffic between the islands and mainland Belize City.
Overview of Port Functions
Port Name | Primary Function | Location | Status |
---|---|---|---|
Port of Belize | Cargo, containers, cruise tenders | Belize City | Active |
Big Creek Port | Agricultural exports | Stann Creek District | Active |
Commerce Bight | Citrus exports (inactive now) | Near Dangriga | Inactive/Reviving |
Harvest Caye | Cruise tourism | Southern offshore island | Active |
San Pedro/Caye Caulker | Water taxi transport | Northern Cayes | Passenger only |