First Visitors Arrive at New Resort-Port

Norwegian Cruise Line has welcomed the first guests to Harvest Caye, the line’s new Caribbean destination on an island in Southern Belize. 

The visitors arrived onboard Norwegian Dawn, sailing from New Orleans.

Harvest Caye is located one mile offshore and includes amenities such as pools, beach villas and a variety of eco-activities and interactive wildlife programs. The location is the only port in Belize that features a cruise ship pier for guest convenience.

Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, said: “We have worked closely with the government of Belize to ensure that that this spectacular destination was authentic for our guests, provided economic opportunities for the local community and preserved and protected Belize’s incredible natural beauty. We’re overjoyed with the results of this four year development project, and we look forward to seeing Harvest Caye and Southern Belize grow.”

Investment in the Caye is projected to generate 500 direct jobs and over 1,500 indirect jobs by the year 2020.

Harvest Caye’s conservation programs and education efforts were developed by award winning author and wildlife expert Tony Garel, the destination’s Chief Naturalist. He will lead many of the island’s educational tours and will be available to chat with guests about the incredible array of wildlife in Belize.  

The island’s aviary will also house a breed and release program for Scarlet Macaws, in an effort to increase the population of the native birds. To help further the island’s conservation efforts, more than 15,000 new mangroves have been planted throughout the island, serving to increase the natural estuary system that serves as a critical habitat for birds, fish and other marine species.