8 Things to Know About Harvest Caye, Belize

If you’re a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) passenger making a port of call at Harvest Caye in Belize, you’re in for a real treat.
Here are eight things to know about Harvest Caye:
1 – Harvest Caye Is an Island
In Belize, islands are called cayes (pronounced “keys”). Harvest Caye is an island measuring approximately seven acres (2.8 hectares) located just a few miles offshore of southern Belize. Harvest Caye is part of the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the western hemisphere and a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
2 – It’s Really Close to the Mainland
Popular destinations like Placencia, ancient Maya cities, and nature reserves are just a short distance from Harvest Caye. A ferry service to Placencia operates multiple times per day.
3 – Harvest Caye Was Voted Best New Cruise Port
In 2017, Porthole Magazine declared Harvest Caye to be the best new cruise port in the world. With lovely beaches, a swim-up bar, and plenty of things to do and see, it’s easy to see why Harvest Caye is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers.
4 – Everyone Speaks English
In Belize, the official language is English, so you’ll never have to struggle to talk to locals or get around.
5 – American Dollars Are Welcomed
All shops and restaurants in Belize accept American dollars. The local currency is called the Belize dollar and is permanently pegged at 2:1 to the American dollar. This makes it really easy to calculate prices.
6 – Belize Is on Central Standard time
Belize doesn’t follow daylight savings time, so in the summer, it’s in the same time as Denver. During the winter, it’s in the same time zone as Chicago.
7 – Harvest Caye Is a Privately-owned Island
Norwegian Cruise Line owns the entire island, which includes a saltwater lagoon, a large freshwater pool, and wildlife exhibitions including a butterfly house. The island welcomed its first cruise ship passengers on November 17, 2016. Approximately 400 employees work on the island.
8 – You Can Enjoy Exciting Adventures During Your Port of Call
Cruise ship passengers arriving at Harvest Caye can book an exciting guided adventure tour with Untame Belize such as zip lining through the jungle, visiting the ancient Maya city of Nim Li Punit, and river tubing in the middle of a pristine rainforest. All of these activities can easily be enjoyed during your stop at Harvest Caye.