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Entering by boat: Belize

What to do to enter Belize by sea: the procedures, the papers to present and the ports where you can clear in.

Based on official sources, checked on 28 October 2026.

Before you arrive

  • Notify the authorities 48 hours before arrival.
  • Online procedure: Notice of Arrival à la Belize Port Authority + SailClear — sailclear.com

The steps

  1. Send the Notice of Arrival to the Port Authority (48 h) and file SailClear.
  2. On arrival call the Port Authority on VHF 16, Q flag up.
  3. Clear immigration, customs, BAHA (agriculture) and the Port Authority.
  4. On departure get the zarpe and leave within 24 h.

Papers to have on board

  • Passports for the whole crew
  • Crew list
  • Boat papers (registration certificate)
  • Outward clearance from the previous country
  • Ship’s stores declaration
  • Insurance certificate

Good to know

  • Notice of Arrival to the Port Authority at least 48 h ahead; late notice may be fined.
  • The tourism board says SailClear is mandatory for pleasure craft since 1 Aug 2022 (noonsite says optional).
  • Fees vary widely by port: Punta Gorda cheapest, San Pedro most expensive; marine park fees on top.
  • Weekends and holidays: arrange by 4 pm on the last working day; overtime charged.

Ports of entry

The ports where you can clear in, and the services available there.

Ambergris Caye

Prepare your arrival with Hullteam

In the app, free: the map of every port of entry and its offices with their contacts, the crew list and the entry forms filled in for you, ready to print or send to an agent.

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Sources

This information is gathered from public sources and sailors’ experience. It does not replace the country’s authorities, whose word is final: check before you leave.