Destination Highlight: Barrier Reef Snorkeling Adventure with Celebrity Cruises

One ticket to adventure

The first thing I noticed about Belize wasn’t dramatic.

It was practical.

We stepped off the Celebrity Constellation and onto a tender boat just after sunrise, knowing that if we signed up for this Belize Barrier Reef snorkeling adventure, it would take the entire port day. No shopping afterward. No squeezing in something else. This was the plan.

And I can say without hesitation—it was the right decision.

Tendering to Belize City, Belize

Because Belize City is a tender port, your day starts early. There’s something about holding that excursion ticket in your hand that feels like a commitment. You’re not wandering the port to see what looks interesting. You’ve already decided how you’re going to spend your time.

I’ve had scuba diving on my bucket list for years. At this point in life, I’m realistic. Snorkeling is more practical—and in a place like Belize, it’s more than enough. The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, stretching along the coast of Belize and into neighboring countries. It’s known for strong visibility, diverse marine life, and relatively easy access from shore.

We boarded a second boat with our group and headed out toward Caye Caulker.

A history lesson of Belize, the aquatic ecosystem, and safety briefing.

There were around forty guests in total, but once we reached the snorkeling sites, the guides divided us into smaller groups. The ride to Caye Caulker took about 45 minutes. Along the way, the guides talked about the reef and the mangroves that help protect it.

Perfectly blue water and anticipation of the adventure that lies ahead

Caye Caulker came into view gradually. It’s a small island—actually two islands split by a hurricane decades ago. There are no cars, just sandy roads and golf carts. It feels relaxed without trying too hard to impress you.

Approach to Caye Caulker

Before heading out to snorkel, we stopped at a beach bar called the Lazy Lizard. The process was simple: order your lunch before you leave so it’s ready when you return. That small logistical detail made the entire day run smoothly.

How can you not want to see what the restaurant has to offer with a sign like this?

Then we were fitted with snorkel gear.

Mask and Snorkel

I’ve done enough excursions over the years to know when equipment is subpar. This wasn’t. The masks didn’t fog up, and the snorkels had backflow valves to help prevent saltwater from coming in. When you’re in the water for 45 minutes at a time, those things matter.

The first snorkeling site was about 10–15 minutes from the island. The water was roughly 30 feet deep where we entered, and the visibility was very good.

Snorkelers in the water

We saw snapper, sergeant major fish, grouper, and a lobster tucked into coral. A guide pointed out a green moray eel partially hidden in the reef. At one point, I drifted a little too close to coral without realizing it, and the guide gently redirected me. The supervision was attentive but not intrusive.

The sandy bottom had more conch shells than I’ve seen in one place before, some still alive and leaving visible trails behind them in the sand.

After about 45 minutes in the water, we climbed back aboard and moved to a second site.

his one was shallow—about waist-deep with a sandy bottom. The guides used sardines to attract nurse sharks. Within minutes, several arrived. Then more.

We stepped into the water and stood while the sharks fed nearby. They were focused entirely on the bait. Stingrays began moving through the group as well, occasionally brushing against legs as they swam past.

At one point, the sharks and stingrays outnumbered the people in the water. It was unusual, but it never felt unsafe. The guides were organized, calm, and clearly experienced.

If you’re concerned about swimming ability, buoyancy devices are provided. On this tour, we used life preservers from the boat. You can float easily without much effort. This is a good option for first-time snorkelers who are comfortable being in the water and following instructions.

Afterward, we climbed back on board and were handed rum punch while we dried off.

We returned to the Lazy Lizard for lunch.

Grille Snapper, Plantains, and Beans and Rice

I ordered grilled fish with rice, beans, and plantains. The fish was fresh and well-prepared. The plantains were particularly good—caramelized and soft without being overly sweet.

Island Grilled Lobster

Another guest at our table ordered grilled lobster caught locally. It was split open and easy to eat, with a generous amount of meat.

I also tried a coconut mint mojito. After several hours in the sun and saltwater, it was refreshing and well-timed.

We had about an hour to eat and walk around. I noticed fishing charters, dive shops, and small hotels. The island felt welcoming and straightforward. The locals were friendly without being pushy.

It left an impression.

Before heading back to Belize City, we made one final stop near the mangroves to watch tarpon feeding.

Tarpon gumping out of the water to grab a sardine

Large tarpon were jumping two to three feet out of the water to grab sardines. There were no nets or barriers, which made it feel more natural than some controlled feeding setups elsewhere.

The boat ride back to Belize City took about 45 minutes. We were on one of the last tenders returning to the ship. In total, the excursion lasted roughly six and a half hours.

Here’s the direct answer: YES, I would do this again. Without hesitation.

Even if I were on back-to-back cruises stopping in Belize, I’d strongly consider booking the same Belize Barrier Reef snorkeling tour. Conditions change. Marine life moves. You won’t see exactly the same thing twice.

It’s important to understand that this excursion uses your entire port day. If shopping in Belize City is a priority, this tour won’t leave time for that.

But if your goal is to experience the Belize Barrier Reef, snorkel in clear water, see nurse sharks and stingrays up close, and spend time on Caye Caulker, this is a well-run, organized option.

One additional note: use reef-safe sunscreen. Certain chemicals in traditional sunscreens damage coral ecosystems. Mineral-based, reef-friendly options are widely available and worth bringing with you.

What surprised me most was how much Caye Caulker stayed on my mind afterward. I found myself taking photos of hotel signs and fishing charter boards. I could easily see returning for a few days—perhaps a small-group fishing trip or a longer stay focused on snorkeling and diving.

Caye Caulker is ideal for travelers who want a laid-back Caribbean island without large resorts. It offers reef access, fishing, diving, and simple accommodations in a compact setting.

If you’re planning a cruise stop in Belize City and want a full, active day centered on the water, this Belize Barrier Reef snorkeling adventure is a strong choice.

And if you’re considering turning that one port stop into a future standalone trip to Caye Caulker, that’s a conversation worth having.

Some excursions are entertaining. This one was worth repeating.