Belize is a tropical wonderland of turquoise blues,
emerald greens and sparkling whites. It draws together two of nature's most productive and
diverse habitats- tropical rain forest and coral reef-into close, interconnected
proximity. The barrier reef that runs the entire length of its 185 mile coastline is the
largest in both the Western and Northern Hemispheres, second only to Australia's Great
Barrier Reef.
During your stay you'll listen to the pulsing sounds of the rainforest from atop a grand
Mayan pyramid, walk from island to island through the shallows along pristine coral
beaches, snorkel and dive in an endless underwater garden while marveling at the riot of
colorful sponges and tropical fish. How about seeking out gentle manatee at their favorite
underwater hot spring hideout or sea kayaking the intricate channels of a mangrove lagoon
in search of howler monkeys and keel-billed toucans?
Your home and adventure center for most of the journey will be aboard the
Nortada, a deluxe yacht with all the amenities, where you can watch dolphins surf the bow
wake or a leviathan whale shark pass through the transparent depths, then retire for
sunset drinks and a gourmet meal. The Nortada comes equipped with everything you'll need
to explore this rich marine coastal environment including: sea kayaks for everyone (with a
couple of clear acrylic kayaks for a glass bottom boat effect), snorkeling gear and snuba
(air hoses with compressor) for those seeking a deeper experience of the living reef. We
also have access to scuba for breathtaking wall dives.
The country is a treasure trove of Mayan archeological sites stretching the breadth of the
country. Did we say treasure? The intricate reefs and cayes (pronounced keys) that make
for such great snorkeling, diving and sea kayaking were once the ideal hideout for the
real pirates of the Caribbean including Blackbeard himself. Belize has a rich and alluring
human history: an amalgamation of cultural infusions including indigenous Maya, Creoles
descended from black African's brought in as slaves to provide the backbone of the logging
trade, Confederate expatriates escaping the victorious Union, Mennonites from Europe,
Mestizos fleeing Central American wars and British expatriates - particularly Scots.
Belize was formerly a colony under the protection of the crown as British Honduras where
English is still heard alongside Creole, Spanish and various Amerindian tongues.
In the days ahead we have arranged for you to view the region's most spectacular Mayan
city complexes, jungle rivers, lagoons and of course the fabulous beaches, cayes and
atolls of Belize's own great barrier reef.
Your
yacht will be waiting for you at the same dock where the Queen of England parks hers when
she is in town. After spending a day in search of manatees among the inland coastal
lagoons, we'll set off down the coast for an inland adventure that will take us into the
jungle. We continue south by yacht to explore the jungle river habitat along the Monkey
River in the sparsely inhabited southern coast of Belize and take time out for a jungle
walk before returning up the coast for some sea kayaking on the long lagoon beside the
quiet party town of Placencia. That evening you can stroll the long unbroken stretches of
sandy beach on the other side of the peninsula before some fine dining at the famous
Turtle Inn, owned by Francis Ford Coppola. Careful not to get your feet wet in the
Caribbean if you decide to dine on the beach by candlelight.
Next comes three unfettered days beachcombing, swimming, snorkeling, sea kayaking, diving
and bird watching. We explore both the southern and northern reaches within the reef and
along its wall with an emphasis on the south. The area inside the northern reef has a
flatter bottom of grassy beds and patch reef, while the structure in the south takes on
more relief with natural pinnacles, tiny atolls and sink holes. We return to port where
you have the possibility of extending your journey before returning home.
ITINERARY (STANDARD OPTION)
DAY 1: Friday - Fly to Belize City
Today
you begin your trip by flying to Belize City, Belize. Flights from Miami take a little
over two hours while those from Houston are just under two and a half. Once you clear
Customs and Immigration, our representative will meet and transfer you to your hotel, the
Radisson Fort George. The hotel maintains a colonial air, sits near the tip of the
fashionable Fort District's waterfront facing the Caribbean Sea and boasts its own marina.
Most flights arrive in the mid to late afternoon, which is why we've left the afternoon
free. However, if you are arriving on an early flight, a range of options are available
including a visit to one of the Mayan ruins not far from town, the renown zoo or a guided
city tour (see options under Extending Your Stay below). Tonight's dinner is on your own
at one of the hotel's three restaurants or nearby in the Fort District. Radisson Fort
George Hotel
DAY 2: Saturday - Your Choice: Tikal in Guatemala or Lamanai in Belize.
- Tikal Option:
- While Belize is a treasure trove of
Mayan ruins, the granddaddy of them all
lies just across the boarder in Guatemala. Tikal is to the Maya what Machu Picchu is to
the Inca or the Pyramids are to ancient Egyptians. The city entered its golden age around
AD 700, and still astounds with its towering pyramid temples (which you may recognize as
the rebel base in Return of the Jedi), rising from the emerald green jungle that once
enshrouded and hid this wonder of the ancient world. Tikal National Park covers 222 square
miles and resides in the 2 ½ million acre Maya Biosphere Reserve. Natural history
enthusiast will find a range of species including howler monkeys, parrots and toucans.
Your expert local guide will lead you through some of the 6 square miles of cleared ruins
and plazas including stately Temples I and II, the shrines of the North Acropolis and the
imposing palaces of the Central Acropolis. Our flight departs Belize City at 8:30 am. The
return flight leaves at 4:00 pm and takes 45 minutes to return. - Extending Your Stay In Tikal: This enormous Mayan complex offers more than enough to experience for those who seek to explore for more than a day. A highlight for some is getting their entry ticket stamped for an after-hours stay to watch the glow of the sunset on the jungle pyramids or arrive early to witness the dawn that so captured the imaginations of the Mesoamericans. We can arrange for you to fly to Tikal a day or two ahead of the group with accommodations either in or near the park and your own local guide.
- Lamanai Option
- Belize is literally filled with Mayan ruins.
Today we plan to visit one of the
oldest, largest and most enduring of them on a jungle voyage Indiana Jones would enjoy. We
travel by road, then by boat for an hour and a half journey back in time up the New River.
A hint that things are moving into the past comes unexpectedly as we pass by the town of
Shipyard where Mennonites - part of a group that made a centuries long circuitous
migration of the globe that brought them to Belize in 1958 - have established a
settlement. The surrounding forest begins to vibrate with life including long-tailed
hermit hummingbirds, keel-billed toucans, red-eyed tree frogs and camouflaged bats.
Ancestors of the Morelet's crocodiles that lurk in the dark waters beside the boat may be
responsible for Lamanai's Mayan name of 'submerged crocodile'. A bend in the river brings
us to ruins perched on the banks of an expanse called the New River Lagoon. Only a small
portion of the newfound ruins have been cleared with much still overgrown, adding to the
sense of exploration. First settled some 1,000 years BC, Lamanai is an extensive complex
that reached its zenith shortly before Jesus was born and was once home to 50,000 Mayans.
Though neglected it was one of the few great sites still inhabited when the Spanish
conquistadors arrived in search of El Dorado. You will not only discover an ancient Mayan
ball court and stelae covered in hieroglyphics, you will stand before a 13 ft. Mayan face
carved in stone on the flanks of a small pyramid. To cap the adventure, climb to the top
of Lamanai's 112 ft. pyramid, once the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere, to
look out over the jungle canopy towards the river from whence we came and will return.
Your yacht, the Nortada, will
be waiting for you upon your return this evening, ready to transport you on a cruise of
the coastal waters off Belize: jungle rivers, mangrove lagoons, sandy white cayes, coral
reefs and atolls; a true tropical island paradise brimming with colorful creatures.
Boarding is as easy as walking out to the dock owned by the hotel, where your captain,
guide and crew will stand ready to welcome you aboard. They'll introduce you to the vessel
and show you to your quarters where your bags will be waiting. There will be time to
freshen up in your private bathroom with shower before meeting for drinks and dinner. That
evening your guide will give you a briefing on the next day's activities and present an
overview of the journey ahead. B, L, D. Acommodations aboard the Nortada
DAY 3: Sunday - Swallow Caye & Southern Lagoon
You'll
want to rise early to take in views of the colorful harbor and Ft. George lighthouse as we
leave port. Our first day on the Caribbean Sea could be entitled, In Search of Manatees,
as we visit two favorite haunts of these large blimp-like mammals-commonly called sea
cows-that are so ugly they're cute. Our first stop is the new wildlife reserve at Swallow
Caye less than 5 miles east of Belize City. Backed by the picturesque Maya Mountains our
next stop, Southern Lagoon, makes for beautiful views. This is where you'll find the
largest population of manatees in the Caribbean. The afternoon outing takes us up the
Manatee river and Soldiers creek lined with wild orchids and stands of bamboo. This is
considered an excellent wildlife habitat, home to howler monkeys, a variety of birds and
even jungle cats. If there is time we'll meet up with our sea kayaks at the mouth of the
river for a late afternoon paddle. B, L, D. Acommodations aboard the Nortada
DAY 4: Monday -
Mayflower Ruins, Cockscomb Basin, Sittee River, Garifuna Villages
This morning we disembark the Nortada and head west toward the Mayan Mountains by minivan.
Our first stop is the Mayan ruin known as Mayflower. The tiny complex is nestled in the
jungle beside the attractive waters of Silk Grass Creek. Our next stop is less than 10
miles as the toucan flies. The locals simply call it "the Cockscomb," famous for
being the first jaguar preserve in the world. A series of well maintained trails thread
through the basin rewarding hikers with spectacular views, visits to waterfalls and
opportunities to swim. We return to the coast on a scenic route that follows the Sittee
River where you'll find thick vegetation where large iguana feed on figs and parrots eat
mangoes. Jaguars have been seen making river crossings. We end our day back on the beach
at the village of Hopkins to bask in the warm Garifuna cultural and toast the tropical
sunset. B, L, D. Accommodations aboard the Nortada
DAY 5: Tuesday -
Monkey River & Placencia
The region is a tranquil tropical forest brimming with creatures from the river bottom to
the jungle canopy overhead. On the way up the river by panga we'll help our guide spot
iguanas, crocodiles and turtles. Many stretches along the river have been designated as
special conservation areas and are home to a colorful array of tropical birds. Returning
to the Nortada we'll make our way to the sleepy little village of Placencia. It sits at
the very southern tip of a long narrow peninsula giving rise to an equally long, winding
lagoon on one side with long stretches of unencumbered sandy white beaches on the other.
The main street is a concrete footpath that runs past pastel colored clapboard homes, many
sitting on stilts. This afternoon we'll pull into Placencia harbor and then sea kayak up
the unique lagoon which once served as the towns' main highway for commerce.For dinner we
have another treat lined up for you at the Turtle Inn owned by Francis Ford Coppola. B, L,
D…Accommodations aboard the Nortada
DAY 6 thru 8: Wednesday thru Friday - Best of the Barrier Reef, Cayes & Atolls
Before us
stretches a sparkling turquoise wonderland of crystal white islets called cayes, crowned
with mangroves and royal green palms. The reef has the affect of lifting the entire coast
and cordoning it off from the depths. This forms an oceanic basin naturally planted with a
living explosion of richly blooming coral gardens constructed and inhabited by a plethora
of neon creatures. Your mission for the next three days is to beach comb, sunbathe, swim,
snorkel, paddle, dive, fish (see sections on diving and fishing below) and generally relax
as you take in this natural wonderland.
Because of their bio-diversity, reefs have been called the rainforests of the sea,
supporting almost 25% of all life in the oceans, yet they account for less than 1% of the
great ocean floor. At 185 miles (300 km) long, stretching the entire length of the
country, Belize's barrier reef is unrivaled in the Americas. It's foundation reef was laid
down over one million years ago by the ancestors of many of the same species you can find
in evidence along its living layer today. The reef is home to over 460 species of fish
waiting there for you to see. We plan to use the coming days to their fullest. Depending
on the season, weather conditions and other factors-including best times to view certain
species-we plan to alter our itinerary for maximum rewards. Following are just some of the
places we may visit. It will not be possible to visit all of them on any one trip, but you
will see the best based on conditions. B, L, D…Accommodations aboard the Nortada
South Water Caye Marine Reserve: The reserve covers over 60 square miles and
reaches to within 5 miles of the coast of Belize. It harbors 10 large mangrove cayes, 2
ranges and many smaller cayes. There are two research stations in the group, one operated
by the Smithsonian on Carrie Bow Caye and another on South Water Caye, which accepts the
overflow of researchers from the Smithsonian. We've been fortunate to secure permission to
visit South Water Caye, one of the few cayes that sit directly on top of the main ridge of
the barrier reef. You can snorkel at length amidst patch coral in water little more than
waist deep. Man-O'-War Caye Bird Sanctuary lies just to the north. Its wet interior is
covered with red mangrove and supports one of the largest frigate bird colonies in the
Caribbean. Between Carrie Bow and Wee Wee Caye, pinnacles known as sand bores rise from
the floor breaking the surface to create a nesting site for sooty terns. Rays and
barracuda frequent the channels between these natural towers. To the south of the reserve
we may pass the inner caye of Long Coco-on our way to the Monkey River-where dolphins are
known to chase boats and revel in the bow wake. 
Laughing Bird Caye National Park:
The Caye became a National Park in 1981 and then a "critically protected area"
when the Belize reef system became a World Heritage Site in 1996. The caye sits on a
narrow reef ridge called a faro, also known as a shelf or mini atoll. Its steep sides
enclose a lagoon making for some spectacular snorkeling and diving off the eastern shore.
Here you will swim past elkhorn coral among damselfish, bonefish, parrot fish and others
including the occasional nurse shark and ray.
Silk (Queen) Cayes Marine Reserve: Nestled beside the Queen's entrance
through the barrier reef are the Silk or Queen Cayes, which possess their own system of
reef and offer some of the best snorkeling and sea kayaking in the remote southern section
of the reef system. The deserted island atmosphere of the Silk Cayes attracts private
yachts seeking secluded islands. Divers can explore the deep wall area along the outer
edges. 
Gladden Spit
Marine Reserve: This is one of the world's top locations to dive and snorkel with the
giant, though docile, whale shark. Situated along the southern end of Belize's barrier
reef, Gladden Spit is spawning ground for 25 species of reef fish and has been placed
under the protection of the Friends of Nature. The whale sharks are attracted to large
numbers of fish eggs that are at their greatest up to 10 days following each new moon in
April, May, September and October. - Glover's Reef: Named for the pirate John Glover, this is another of the three atolls
within the Belize Barrier Reef and home to a marine reserve. The "string of
pearls" circular reef forms a lagoon with roughly 800 coral patches and pinnacles
that rise to
the surface, ideal for
snorkeling and sea kayaking. Glover's is know for an abundance of manta rays, turtles and
whale sharks. It offers several wrecks for divers at the north end. There are enough top
notch dive spots for a number of trips here with locations bearing the name of the
creature of choice including Octopus Alley, Dolphin Dance, Turtle Tavern and Shark Alley.
Marine habitats here include the expansive floor of the lagoon, patch reefs and peripheral
reefs, which led to its recognition as the most biologically developed atoll in the
barrier reef. You'll be glad to know that throughout our journey we have a very high
probability of seeing and perhaps swimming with dolphins. 
Turneffe Islands Atoll &
Blackbird Caye: Turneffe is the middle of Belize's three great atolls, just 25 miles from
Belize City, and is home to a number of shallow lagoons. The atoll offers another
"string of pearls" set of cayes with mangrove clusters and inter-tidal areas.
You can find an assortment of creatures here from wading birds and osprey to manatees and
crocodiles. If you plan to fish during the trip, this makes a good choice. Just skip the
other activities and head for the crystal flats in search of bone fish and tarpon. You
will have to notify us so we can arrange this ahead of time. Don't forget to bring your
own gear. We plan to visit one of the largest of the cayes, Blackbird Caye, where
snorkelers and divers will be very content. You can hop a sea kayak and snorkel along the
reef just 300 yards from the boat dock. There's a tie-down buoy to hitch your kayak to
while you snorkel. The dives here are considered among the best in the Western Caribbean.
The atoll is comprised of a score of mangrove islands, which are nurseries to the coral
reef, giving rise to numerous schools of fish. There are 14 dives within minutes of
Blackbird Caye. Some famous sites include the Elbow with a sloping drop-off where you can
spot predators including wahoo, bar jacks and permits. Rays and gropers inhabit the
cave-like formations of Gales Point. The Sayonara is a wreck resting in 30 feet of water
on the leeward side of the reef. Brightly colored sponges and coral abound as do many of
the 460 species of colorful reef fish.
Lighthouse Reef & Half
Moon Caye: Lighthouse Reef is one of Belize's three great atolls and home to the Blue Hole
deep dive spot made famous by Cousteau. Half Moon Wall, however, offers the best
snorkeling and diving, rivaling anywhere in the world. Crescent shaped Half Moon Caye,
where Half Moon Wall is situated, became Belize's first natural monument in 1982. Some
4,000 red-footed boobies with unusually white plumage nest on the island in the company of
98 other bird species including osprey and the magnificent frigate bird with its
inflatable scarlet sack. Iguana can be found on the island as can both loggerhead and
hawksbill turtles in the summer. Both iguana and turtle were major food sources for the
Maya. A must is to climb the Audubon Society's observation tower in the ziricote forest
for a wondrous view over the canopy toward the lighthouse and a rusting wreck of the ship
Elksund stranded on the white sandy shore. Half Moon Wall sits just off the southwest of
the caye bearing its name. Near to shore an undersea sandbank is home to thousands of
garden eels swaying with the current as they feed on passing plankton. They draw back into
their holes at the slightest sign of danger. The shallows are interesting for snorkelers,
and divers will be treated to exceptionally clear water filled with coral heads and
species including butterfly fish, angel fish, damsel fish, parrot fish and more. A dive
down one of the canyons reveals overhangs, caves and a riot of colorful sea fans and
sponges. Large pelagic fish can be seen passing in company with sea turtles, barracudas
and the occasional eagle or manta ray. After lunch there will be time for a sea kayaking
clinic followed by a paddle amongst the coral.
DAY 9: Saturday - Belize City: Fly Home / Early Excursions / Extensions
Early this morning you'll find yourself back at Belize City Harbor. Those electing to go
to Tikal and Guatemala at the end of the trip will need to rise early to catch the 8:30 am
flight. For those with a late afternoon flight home there's still plenty of time for
another excursion, which can be ordered up on a days notice (see Extending Your Stay
below). For anyone flying home today, we've arranged airport transfer from the Ft. George
Hotel. Of course you can always prolong your visit in our tropical paradise by considering
one of the extensions below. B
Notes On the Itinerary
The Standard Itinerary begins on Fridays, with Tikal or Lamanai at the
beginning.
The Reverse Itinerary begins on Saturdays, with Tikal or Lamanai at the
end.
The Maya Max Itinerary begins on Fridays and ends on Sundays and includes
both Tikal and Lamanai
While we do our very best to follow the itinerary as written, it is
subject to change without notice for reasons beyond our control. This is especially true
when weather conditions dictate. Participants should consider this as a condition of the
trip when signing up.
THE NORTADA: Motor Yacht - 4 Cabins - 8 Passengers
- 4 Crew - 1 Naturalist Guide
Welcome to your home in Belize aboard the Nortada! The Nortada is a fully outfitted
adventure center with enough kayaks to accommodate all our passengers along with two
special clear acrylic kayaks for some unique views of the reef. We also have snorkel
equipment for everyone and snuba (an air compressor with air hoses) allowing you to stay
underwater at a depth of 2 meters (6 feet). Built by Chantiers Naval Guy Coach in France,
the Nortada is well designed with ample space on deck and a large saloon. Her speed and
accommodations combine for a comfortable journey to even the more remote areas of the
barrier reef. For a secure voyage she is equipped with cutting-edge navigation and safety
equipment. All cabins come with private bathrooms, hot showers and air conditioning.
Quarters are cleaned daily. Your galley and dining staff will turn out both wholesome and
gourmet meals, and our vessel is stocked with "food for thought" as well-a
library containing a wealth of information on the natural history and history of Belize,
plus an entertainment center complete with DVDs or videos. This is your vacation and time
to relax. There is plenty of space to lounge in the sun or shade, and the bar is always
open for refreshments.
Trip includes:
- The cost of the cruise
- 1 night accommodation at the Radisson Fort George Hotel
- Land excursions included within the trip including ground transportation
- Meals as noted (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
- Transfer to and from airports
- Your naturalist guide during the cruise
- Local guides within itinerary
Level: moderate. Involves jungle hiking and boat rides.
Prices & Departures for 2004 & 2005: Costs are per
person in double occupancy. Single occupancy in hotels and on board the Nortada is
available at an additional 50% of the program price. Please add 10% to price of departures
taking place on or between Christmas and New Year
| Available Year-Round | 9D/8N Fridays (Standard) or Saturdays (Reverse) |
| High Season (Dec 16-May 31) | Low Season (Jun 1-Dec 15) |
| 9D/8N Standard or Reverse | 9D/8N Standard or Reverse |
| $2720 | $2312 |
| Charter Rates High Season | Charter Rates Low Season |
| 8 passengers: $20,890 | 8 passengers: $17,756 |
| 7 passengers: $19,661 | 7 passengers: $16,669 |
| 6 passengers: $18,115 | 6 passengers: $15, 397 |
| Roundtrip air Belize City/Flores | $176 (subject to change) |
| 8D/7N Yacht Only (Sat/Sat) | 8D/7N Yacht Only (Sat/Sat) |
| $2385 | $2037 |
| 10D/9N Maya
Max (Fri/Sun with Tikal and Lamanai) |
10D/9N Maya Max (Fri/Sun with Tikal and Lamanai) |
| $3060 | $2611 |
| Roundtrip air Belize City/Flores | $176 (subject to change) |
 |
|
CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS: 30% discount (not available for Christmas and New Year period)
EXTENDING YOUR STAY: Extending your stay for even a short time can
render rich rewards in Belize. A full range of excellent day excursions can be arranged on
a day's notice from the Radisson Fort George Hotel (see below). Another option for those
seeking adventure is a visit to one of the lodges in the Cayo district from which you can
go on adventurous excursions. Finally, for those in search of night life and more beach
time there are the resorts at Amebergris Caye. The following are just some of the options:
Tikal: Arrive a day or two early and allow us to arrange your flights,
accommodations and guide at one of the most extensive archeological sites in the world.
This will give you an opportunity to view the ruins at sunup and sundown when the crowds
are gone, while giving you more time to experience the exotic rainforest creatures.
The Lodges of the Cayo District: The Cayo District near Mountain Pine
Ridge offers an entirely different experience of Belize with a variety of habitats, Mayan
Ruins, white water rafting, cave tubing, exploring waterfalls and rock pools to name but a
few adventures. We can make arrangements for you at lodges including the Lodge at Chaa
Creek, Blancaneaux Lodge and Pooks Hill Lodge. For those looking for more reef time there
is Jaguar Reef Lodge and Coco Plum Caye.
One Day Excursions From the Radisson Fort George Hotel: Following are
just some of the reasonably priced options
Altun Ha: The largest Mayan jade head representing the Sun God was found here.
Belize City Tour: View the colonial structures, culture and lifestyle of the Belizean
people.
Belize Zoo: Renown zoo features indigenous animals in their natural habitat setting.
Caracol: This is the Maya city that defeated Tikal.
Jaguar Reserve/By Land: Excellent rainforest and only Jaguar Reserve in the world.
Lamanai: Visit one of Belize's largest exotic Mayan ceremonial centers off the New River
Lagoon.
Mountain Pine Ridge: See the breathtaking beauty of the high country with its spectacular
waterfalls There are also opportunities to spend more time out on the water fishing,
diving and sea kayaking.
We will be delighted to customize your extension
(Subject to change)
