Cruises to Belize from Florida

Cruise ships stop in Belize on longer journeys that include more stops. (Photo: Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images )

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With the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, an English-speaking populace and a laid-back, multicultural vibe, the Caribbean nation of Belize is a paradise for U.S. travelers looking for a trip a bit off the beaten path. While flying is an easy option to get there, another way to see Belize is by cruise ship. If you're looking to leave from Florida, you're in luck: the majority of cruises to the Caribbean start their journeys from there.

Step 1

Get your passport, or make sure your current one is valid. According to the U.S. Department of State, Belize authorities require a passport with at least six months' validity left to be admitted in the country. If you don't have a passport or it's set to expire soon, visit the U.S. Department of State's "Passports" page to get a new one. Regular requests typically take about six weeks, although you can pay more to have the passport expedited.

Step 2

Search for cruises. Most cruise lines offer at least one or two cruises that include Belize; to look at all the available choices, check out the "Belize Cruises" page of the Cruise Compete website. There you'll find descriptions of various cruises from Norwegian Cruise Lines, Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Holland America, among others. Browse the various listings, making note of the departure city. Most times, departures are from Tampa, Miami or Ft. Lauderdale.

Step 3

Click "request competing quotes" on the Cruise Compete site to see various travel agents' prices for the cruises you're interested in. Note the prices given by the various agents, and then go to the websites of each cruise line you're interested in traveling with to get a price quote for the same cruise from them. Book your cruise with the company that offers you the lowest price, but still provides you with the amenities, dates and extras you're looking for. To do this, you'll need to provide a credit or debit card number and some other personal information when prompted by the company's online reservation system.

Step 4

Prepare for the trip. The weather in Belize is mild year-round, with highs in the mid-80s Fahrenheit and lows in the 70s. As such, you will need warm-weather clothing, and a light raincoat to bring along on excursions to shore. Since cruise luggage can sometimes get waylaid, pack a day bag to carry on board with you, containing a change of clothes, swimsuit and any medications and toiletries you can't live without.

Step 5

Plan for activities. Since Belize offers incredible diving along its barrier reef, consider bringing any scuba gear you have, or make arrangements to rent some from a local dive shop. Use the ScubadivingBelize.com website, or the Official Site of the Belize Tourism Board, to locate and contact any scuba tour companies, hiking guides or other special activities you may want to take part in during your trip.