Caye Caulker, a stunning Caribbean island off the coast of Belize, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back island vibe. If you’re arriving at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City, you might be wondering about the best way to reach this paradise. Fortunately, you have a few options, including flights and ferries. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to get from Belize City to Caye Caulker, covering BZE to Caye Caulker flights, ferry options, and the flight schedule to Caye Caulker. Additionally, we’ll compare Maya vs. Tropic Air, the two main domestic airlines serving the island.
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Option 1: Taking a Flight from Belize City to Caye Caulker
One of the fastest and most scenic ways to travel from Belize City to Caye Caulker is by taking a short domestic flight. With a travel time of just 10 to 15 minutes, flights offer a hassle-free way to reach the island while enjoying breathtaking aerial views of Belize’s coastline and the Belize Barrier Reef. This is the way we decided to go, mainly for convenience. In my opinion, it is the best option. We chose Tropic Air, but Maya Island Air is an equal choice. I will break down the differences between Maya vs Tropic Air below.
Airlines: Maya vs. Tropic Air
When flying to Caye Caulker, you’ll have two main choices: Maya Island Air and Tropic Air. Both airlines operate small aircraft that shuttle passengers between the mainland and the island multiple times a day.
- Maya Island Air: Known for slightly lower fares, Maya Island Air operates regular flights between Belize City and Caye Caulker. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Tropic Air: Offering a similar schedule and service, Tropic Air is often considered a more premium option, with slightly newer aircraft and a more extensive route network within Belize.
Since both airlines operate out of Belize City’s domestic airport (BZE’s smaller counterpart, the Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport), it’s important to factor in transportation time between the two airports when booking your flights.
Flight Schedule to Caye Caulker
Flights from Belize City to Caye Caulker typically run from early morning until late afternoon, with departures approximately every hour. However, flight availability depends on demand, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Give yourself a 2 hour window from when your flight lands in BZE to when you fly out to Caye Caulker. This will give you time to get through customs and buy your duty-free beverages, if desired.
A Flight Schedule of Tropic Air vs Maya Island from Belize City (BZE) to Caye Caulker:
Cost of Flights
The price of flights between Belize City and Caye Caulker ranges from $75 to $100 one-way, depending on the airline and the season. While it’s the quickest travel option, it’s also the most expensive compared to the ferry.
Option 2: Taking the Belize City to Caye Caulker Ferry
If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, the Belize City to Caye Caulker ferry is an excellent choice. This scenic boat ride takes about 45 minutes to an hour and offers a relaxing way to enjoy the Caribbean waters. Be mindful that you will need to take a taxi to the ferry terminal from BZE, which I will go more into detail about below.
Ferry Companies and Departure Points
Two main ferry companies operate daily water taxi services from Belize City to Caye Caulker:
- San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi
- Ocean Ferry Belize
Both ferry companies depart from the Belize City Marine Terminal, which is located in downtown Belize City, about a 25-minute taxi ride from the international airport (BZE).Tickets can be bought in advance but you can also buy them at the terminal when you arrive.
Ferry Schedule and Frequency
Ferries run every hour or so from morning until late afternoon, making this a flexible option for travelers arriving at different times of the day. The ferry ride itself is smooth and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea as you approach Caye Caulker.
San Pedro Belize Express and Caribbean Sprinter Schedules from Belize City to Caye Caulker:
Ticket Prices and Booking
The cost of a one-way ticket from Belize City to Caye Caulker is typically around $15 to $20 USD, making it the more affordable choice compared to flying. You can purchase tickets online in advance or directly at the ferry terminal upon arrival.
How to Get from Belize City Airport to the Ferry Terminal
If you choose the ferry option, you’ll need to get from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) to the Belize City Marine Terminal. Here’s how:
- By Taxi: The easiest and most common way to reach the ferry terminal is by taxi. The ride takes around 25 minutes and costs about $25 to $30 USD. Taxis are readily available outside the airport.
- By Shuttle: Some hotels and tour operators offer shuttle services between BZE and the ferry terminal. This can be a convenient option if you’ve booked accommodation in advance.
Which Option is Best?
Choosing between a flight and the Belize City to Caye Caulker ferry depends on your budget, time constraints, and travel preferences.
- Take a flight if you want the fastest and most convenient way to get to Caye Caulker. This is ideal for travelers with a higher budget who prefer to minimize travel time.
- Take the ferry if you want to save money and don’t mind a scenic boat ride. The ferry is a great option for those who enjoy being on the water and don’t have tight time constraints.
If you’re unsure, consider your arrival time at Belize City Airport (BZE). If your flight lands late in the afternoon, a flight might be the better choice since the last ferry usually departs in the early evening.
Final Travel Tips
- Book flights in advance to secure the best fares and preferred departure times. Give yourself a 2 hour window.
- Check the ferry schedule before your trip, especially if you’re arriving in the afternoon or evening.
- Keep some cash on hand for taxis, ferry tickets, and incidental expenses. You can use USD or the Belize Dollar (BZD).
- Enjoy the journey! Whether you’re soaring over the Caribbean or cruising across the turquoise waters, the trip to Caye Caulker is part of the adventure.
By planning ahead, you’ll ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival on this beautiful island. Now that you know how to get from Belize City to Caye Caulker, it’s time to start packing for your tropical getaway!
