Today, we are exploring another island exclusive to Norwegian Cruise Line–Harvest Caye, Belize.
Here we go!
Harvest Caye in southern Belize welcomed its first ship in 2016 and has since been a popular NCL Western Caribbean port. The cruise line worked closely with the government of Belize to protect the environment, improve the economy and create an authentic experience for visitors.
The 75-acre island has numerous amenities including a 15,000 square foot pool, a salt water lagoon, a 7-acre beach complete with private villas, and various excursions including snorkeling the world’s second-largest barrier reef. The pool area features a swim-up bar, waterfall and private cabanas available for rent. The salt water lagoon allows guest to enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding and electric float boats.
Guests who enjoy zip lining will want to visit the 136-foot-high Flighthouse. The venue features 3,000 feet of zip lining across the island. Guests who want the view without the thrill can still head to the observation deck for a spectacular view of the mainland and some amazing pictures.
Other shore excursions include a guided exploration of saltwater mangrove estuaries in the protected waters of the Placencia Lagoon, as well as a scenic tour of Nim Li Punit–a picturesque archaeological site. Not only will you get to enjoy the history and sites at the Mayan ceremonial site, but you will also enjoy a traditional Belizean lunch at Spice Farm.
The island also offers rainforest river tubing and parasailing. The rainforest river tubing is a 5 ½ hour float down the river through the rainforest, which allows guests to enjoy the scenery and sounds of Belize. Guests who enjoy parasailing will sail high above the waters of Belize in tandem with an instructor.
Like to shop? Harvest Caye has an expansive shopping village just for you! The shopping village not only has name-brand retailers but also local Belizean vendors. There is no shortage of places to eat and drink. Besides the swim-up bar, the island also features Cat-5 and Rum-Koko. Guests can choose casual eats from the Harvest Caye Bar & Grill, Laughing Bird Bar & Grill, Manatee Bar & Grill or the Land Shark Bar & Grill as well as the Jimmy Buffett Restaurant which are along the marina. If you want something a little more upscale, head to the Horse-Eye Jack’s Villa Bar & Bistro. Local vendors also offer Dulce Ice Cream and other snacks and treats.
Unlike Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay, food and drinks are not included on the island, nor is there an exclusive area for Haven or Suite guests, but guests can come and go between the ship and the island as they please.
Cruise ships that visit Harvest Caye include Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Epic, Escape, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Joy, Pearl, Prima, and Viva.