A Tropical Pause: Exploring NCL’s Harvest Caye, Belize

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As part of our Caribbean adventure aboard the Norwegian Getaway, one of our much-anticipated stops was Harvest Caye, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island paradise off the coast of southern Belize. While we were hoping for white sand and sun-soaked beach lounging, the weather had other plans — a tropical storm had just passed through, leaving behind chilly breezes and murky waters.

Most guests opted to stay on the ship or venture only briefly into the island, especially since the ocean wasn’t ideal for swimming. A few brave souls still made it into the massive resort-style pool, which is impressively large and comes with a swim-up bar for those seeking a drink with their dip. While we skipped swimming, we decided to take a different approach to exploring…

(Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) 

Kayaking Through the Mangroves

One of the highlights of our day was kayaking in the lagoon, a peaceful and unique way to get close to the island’s natural side. The calm waters took us through lush mangroves, where we spotted fish, birds, and glimpses of Belize’s delicate marine life. If you're into eco-adventures, this is a great way to spend part of your time here — it's both relaxing and immersive.


A Heads-Up on Costs

Something we wish we had known ahead of time: Harvest Caye is not all-inclusive.
That means food, drinks, and activities all come at an extra charge — and your NCL onboard dining package doesn’t apply here. Even more important, you can’t use your $50 shore excursion credit from NCL at this port. All charges go to your room key, so be mindful when grabbing lunch or signing up for an activity.

We wandered into the shopping village, where local Belizean artisans sell handcrafted souvenirs, jewelry, spices, and woven goods. It was a nice way to connect with some authentic Belizean culture while supporting local businesses.


Ziplining and Wildlife

While we didn’t go ziplining ourselves, it looked like a blast! The Harvest Caye Zip Line is no joke — you start from a 130-foot lighthouse and glide over the beach and across the island for incredible aerial views. It’s a standout option for thrill-seekers and one of the most visually exciting activities on the island.

There’s also a small wildlife exhibit where you can see animals native to Belize, such as toucans (the national bird!) and even howler monkeys. These little experiences made the island more than just a beach destination — it’s a nice blend of nature, education, and adventure.

What We Liked

  • Kayaking through the lagoon – peaceful and scenic.

  • Friendly staff and clean facilities – everything felt safe and well-maintained.

  • The variety of optional activities – ziplining, paddleboarding, nature walks, and more.

  • Local shopping village – real Belizean crafts, not your typical cruise souvenirs.

What We Wish Was Different

  • No included food or drink – surprising for a private island stop.

  • Couldn’t use the $50 excursion credit – make sure to budget ahead.

  • Cool weather and murky water – nature doesn’t always cooperate, especially in winter.

Despite the less-than-perfect weather, we’re glad we stepped off the ship and gave the island a chance. Harvest Caye isn’t just a stop — it’s a full-on resort experience (just be prepared to pay for it). With a little sun and warmer water, we could easily see how this would be a relaxing and fun destination for a full beach day.

Next time, we’re packing swimsuits and planning for zipline reservations!

Until then —
Keep wandering, keep paddling, keep discovering.
—The Trekking Pawns


 

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