The government of Belize has announced the reopening of its maritime borders to provide for the resumption of yachting tourism. In a press release issued by the Belize Port Authority, shipping companies and maritime interests were informed that:
Please be informed that approval has been issued by Cabinet for the reopening of maritime borders for yachting tourism under the following conditions: A licensed shipping agent is required in order for vessel (s) to enter the territorial waters of Belize in accordance with the Belize Port Authority Act, Chapter 233, Revised Edition (Substantive) 2011, Part V, section 40. A list of licensed shipping agents can be found on the Belize Port Authority’s website.
The Port Authority Act makes it mandatory that a licensed shipping agent is needed to enter the vessel. Note that Shipping Agents with specialized licenses will be authorized to deal primarily with these non-commercial vessels. A set Tariff of no more than US$150. maximum is hereby approved for this service.
The authorized maritime ports of entry are to be San Pedro, Belize City and Placencia. A 72-hours notice is required for entry. All sister agencies are to be informed immediately upon receipt of the NOA: Immigration, Public Health, Tourism, Customs and Belize Agriculture Health Authority.
All public health safety protocols related to Covid-19 remain in effect. A negative COVID19 test is required to enter Belize. Crew/passengers must take a test before their arrival in Belize. A PCR test can be taken up to 72 hours prior to arrival and a Rapid Antigen test up to 48 hours prior to arrival. Reopening the maritime borders for tourist sector requires efficient, safe boarding and vessel clearance practices. The Belize Port Authority is confident that by following the health guidelines set out both locally and internationally coupled with the established boarding procedures and protocol that the reopening of our maritime borders for yachting tourism can be done safely.
The Belize Port Authority contact information: Email: bzportauth@btl.net Maritime Service, Security & Efficiency Report navigation light breakdowns, hazards, or marine incidents: Emergency VHF CHANNEL 16 or Emergency Hotline: 966 all manned 24/7.