Belize City Cruise Port Guide 2026 | Tender Process, Altun Ha, Zoo & What to Expect

Belize City is one of the few Caribbean cruise ports where ships anchor offshore and passengers tender in — and that changes your entire port day. In this Belize City cruise port guide, we explain: • How the Belize City tender process works • How much time tendering really takes • Getting from Fort Street Tourism Village to Altun Ha • Visiting the Belize Zoo from a cruise • Transportation tips and return timing • What to expect in Belize City in 2026 Belize City cruise ships do not dock — they tender. That means waiting, boarding smaller boats, and planning carefully for inland excursions like Altun Ha Mayan Ruins or the Belize Zoo. If you're sailing to Belize City on Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC, or Celebrity, understanding the tender system is essential to avoid cutting your day short. This port can be rewarding — but structure decides the experience. Already booked your cruise? Check the link below for a full DockBound port breakdown before you step off the ship.