Landing at Half Moon Caye

Lighthouse Reef is an atoll on the easternmost part of the Belize Barrier Reef System, part of the larger Mesoamerican Reef System. Located about 80 kilometres southeast of Belize City, this important atoll is 35 kilometres long and 8 kilometres wide, forming a shallow sandy lagoon with an area of 120 square kilometres and a depth between 2 to 6 metres deep. An area unparalleled in the region and known for its crystal-clear water, and extraordinary marine life. 

Our plan is anchoring just off the shallow waters of the lagoon and tender everyone ashore with small boats, landing at Half Moon Caye National Monument. Located at the south-eastern corner of Lighthouse Reef, Half Moon Caye is a small 44 acre island barely 1 kilometre long and half covered by coconut trees, the classical postcard example of a tropical island. Despite its small size, though, the Caye has remarkable diversity with half the island covered in a littoral forest. Half Moon Caye is also home to a rookery of the magnificent frigate bird and a nesting colony of the red-footed booby. 

Rangers will be waiting us ashore to point out directions on an interpretive trail and then we’ll have time to explore the island at leisure, observe the birds, walk around the perimeter of the Caye, or relax on the beach and have a swim.  

Practical information: 

• Language: English 

• Included: Government Fee and permission to land at Half Moon Caye, local rangers pointing directions to guests

• Remarks/requirements: It is recommended to wear confortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen and water. A swimsuit is recommended

• Walking information: Walking over unpaved terrain, mostly flat

• Wheelchair accessible: No