CAYE CHAPEL

• BZCUC
• Latitude: 17.6961
• Longitude: -88.0421
• East Coast Central America
• Port in Belize

Location: Belize

Caye Chapel Marine Port, Belize: Description and Specifications

Overview

Caye Chapel is a private island located off the coast of Belize in the Caribbean Sea. The island lies approximately 16 miles (about 26 kilometers) north-northeast of Belize City and 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of the popular tourist destination of Caye Caulker. Caye Chapel is known for its exclusive resorts, luxury accommodations, and pristine natural beauty, including white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Port Description

As Caye Chapel is a private island, its marine port facilities are designed primarily for private yachts, small boats, and ferry services that transport guests and supplies to and from the mainland. The port is crucial for bringing in tourists, providing logistical support for the island's infrastructure, and facilitating recreational activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and boating.

Specifications

1. Location:

   • Geographical Coordinates: Approximately Latitude 17.7333° N and Longitude -88.0333° W
   • Proximity: 16 miles (26 kilometers) from Belize City; 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Caye Caulker

2. Facilities:

   • Marina: The island features a private marina equipped with slips for docking yachts and smaller vessels.
   • Docks: Floating and fixed docks to accommodate various types of boats.
   • Mooring: Mooring buoys are available for anchoring yachts and small boats.
   • Fuel Station: Provision for refueling vessels.
   • Water and Electricity: Freshwater and electrical hookups for visiting vessels.
   • Security: The marina area is often monitored for the security and privacy of guests.

3. Accommodations and Amenities:

   • Resorts and Private Rentals: Various high-end accommodations, including villas and suites.
   • Restaurants and Bars: Fine dining and casual eateries, with a focus on seafood and local cuisine.
   • Recreational Facilities: Golf course, swimming pools, wellness spas, and fitness centers.

4. Navigation:

   • Approach: Clear waters make for relatively easy navigation. However, mariners should use updated nautical charts and navigation aids due to shallow coral areas.
   • Depth: The approach to the marina typically has sufficient depth for yachts, but it's advisable to check for specific depth information as needed.
   • Tidal Information: Tides in the region can affect docking and undocking procedures; local tide tables should be consulted.

5. Customs and Immigration:

   • Clearance: Private island ports often arrange for customs and immigration clearance for international visitors. It's advisable to confirm beforehand if such services are available on Caye Chapel or if they need to be completed at a nearby larger marina (such as in Belize City).

6. Environmental Regulations:

   • Sustainability: Operations on private islands like Caye Chapel focus on sustainable practices to protect the surrounding marine environment, including waste management and coral reef preservation.

7. Transportation Links:

   • Ferry Service: Regular ferries and private boat transfers are available from Belize City and other nearby locations.
   • Air Transfers: The island has its airstrip to facilitate charter flights and private jets, offering another mode of access for guests.

Conclusion

Caye Chapel's marine port is a sophisticated facility designed to support the luxurious and exclusive nature of the island. It provides essential amenities and services for private vessels, ensuring that guests have a seamless experience from arrival to departure. While accommodating luxury needs, the port also emphasizes environmental stewardship to preserve the island's natural beauty for future generations.