Heidi BucoloNorwegian Cruise Line’s Harvest Caye offers a unique blend of Caribbean beauty and authentic Belizean culture, making it a standout port of call on Western Caribbean itineraries. However, this means that Harvest Caye operates differently than most cruise line private islands—and that means there are a few things you need to know before you step off the ship. From understanding that your beverage package won’t work ashore to knowing which activities are complimentary and which require your credit card, a little preparation goes a long way.
Having just returned from a visit to this NCL exclusive destination on Norwegian Aqua, we’re sharing info on all the free activities, what costs extra, insider tips, and more for your next Western Caribbean cruise stop. Whether you’re planning to lounge on the 7-acre beach, enjoy the other resort amenities, or explore the mainland, this guide covers everything you need to make the most of your day at Harvest Caye, Belize.
Harvest Caye Quick Facts
Port Information:
- Walk directly off the ship (no tendering required)
- Long pier walk from ship to island – complimentary tram service available
- Located in southern Belize, about 1 mile from the mainland
What’s FREE:
- 7-acre beach with loungers and umbrellas
- 15,000 sq ft resort-style lagoon pool with swim-up bar
- Kids splash pad
- Wildlife Experience (toucan, macaws, butterflies, boa constrictor)
- Beach volleyball and island activities
- Tram service around the island
- Restrooms, showers, and changing facilities
What Costs Extra:
- ALL food and beverages
- Your NCL beverage package DOES NOT work on the island
- Your ship card DOES NOT work on the island
- Shore excursions (ziplines, watersports, mainland tours)
- Beach villas and pool cabanas
- Clamshell rentals, lockers
What to Bring:
- Cash or credit card (American dollars accepted, 2:1 conversion to Belize dollar)
- Water shoes
- Sunscreen and sun protection
- Beach/pool essentials
No WiFi Available – Even with an onboard internet package
What is Harvest Caye, Belize?
Harvest Caye is Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island located in southern Belize. This 75-acre retreat opened in 2016 in partnership with the country of Belize as a hub to explore this Caribbean destination. While located only about a mile from the mainland of Belize, the only way to visit the island is on an NCL cruise.
Harvest Caye features a lagoon pool with swim-up bar, a 7-acre beach, restaurants and bars, and a variety of shore excursion options. You can certainly enjoy a day of fun in the sun at this private island. Or, you can also take a ferry to the mainland for further exploration.
One thing to note is that unlike most other private islands, Harvest Caye is staffed primarily by locals and not NCL staff. This is similar to Carnival’s new private destination in the Bahamas, Celebration Key.
Which Ships Sail to the Island?
Many of Norwegian Cruise Line‘s Western Caribbean itineraries visit Harvest Caye, Belize. There are twelve ships scheduled to visit Harvest Caye in 2026 sailing from a variety of homeports including Galveston, Miami, New York, Port Canaveral, and New Orleans, among others. This is subject to change.
- Prima
- Aqua
- Bliss
- Breakaway
- Dawn
- Encore
- Escape
- Gem
- Getaway
- Luna
- Star
- Viva
Can I Walk on to the Island?
YES! Harvest Caye is NOT a tender port.
Cruise ships are able to dock at Harvest Caye which allows guests access to walk directly off the ship on to the island. Keep in mind that it is a rather long walk from the ship down the pier to get to this private retreat. So, take advantage of the complimentary tram service if you are unable to walk long distances.
How Do I Get Around the Island?
Walking is the easiest way to get around the island. If you are tired of walking or are unable to walk long distances, there are complimentary trams with designated stops along the stretch of the island. For individuals with mobility issues, beach wheelchairs are also available near the entrance to help maneuver over the uneven terrain.
If interested, a ferry service from Harvest Caye to Placencia on the mainland of Belize is available as well. Ferry tickets can be purchased onboard the ship at the shore excursions desk or at the marina on the island.
Harvest Caye, Belize Map
What’s Included vs. Not Included on Harvest Caye
This is the most important section to understand before you visit Harvest Caye. Unlike Norwegian Cruise Line’s other private island in the Bahamas (Great Stirrup Cay), Harvest Caye operates differently when it comes to what’s complimentary and what costs extra.
What’s Complimentary (FREE)
Free Activities & Amenities:
- Complimentary showers, restrooms, and changing rooms
- 7-acre beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas
- 15,000 square foot resort-style lagoon pool with swim-up bar area
- Kids Splash Pad with fountains, sprinklers, and waterslide
- Wildlife Experience (toucan, macaws, butterflies, boa constrictor)
- Beach volleyball and other beach activities
- Live music
- Tram service with designated stops
- Beach wheelchairs for those with mobility issues
What’s NOT Included (Costs Extra)
Food & Beverages:
The biggest difference from other private islands is that all food and drinks on Harvest Caye cost extra. Your NCL beverage package will not work on the island. And if you’re looking for complimentary food options, you will need to head back to the ship for lunch.
Dining options on the island include:
- Harvest Caye Bar & Grill (2-story venue near the pool) | MENU
- Flighthouse Bar & Grill (serving the beach) | MENU
- Mahogany Bar & Grill (marina area) | MENU
- Manta Ray Bar & Grill (near the cabanas) | MENU
- Blue Pearl Ice Cream | MENU
Additional bars on the island include:
- Tropical Potions
- The Perfect Margarita Bar
- South Pool Bar Absolut Vodka
- Bacardi Bar
- Toucan Cafe (serving Starbucks)
Some examples of current food and drink pricing:
- Shrimp ceviche – $12
- Island nachos – $12
- Caesar salad – $10
- Chicken wings -$11
- Cheeseburger – $13
- Chicken tenders – $13
- Belizean salbutes – $13
- Tacos – $15
- Shrimp po’boy – $18
- Ice cream – starting at $4
- Specialty drinks – $10 to $12
- Beer – $7
- Bottled water – $3
- Soda – $3.25
Shore Excursions:
Any shore excursions will need to be purchased at an additional cost. These options range from renting kayaks or paddleboards to use in the lagoon to the popular Flighthouse Zipline Adrenaline Package, watersports, and parasailing.
There are also excursions that take you to the mainland to explore more of Belize. These can include visiting Mayan ruins, snorkeling the barrier reef, river tubing, ecotours, exploring the wildlife and mangroves of Placencia Lagoon, and more.
All of these experiences can be booked using your NCL online cruise planner prior to your cruise or once onboard the ship pending availability. We always recommend booking your shore excursions early, as popular tours do sell out.
Some examples of current shore excursion pricing:
- Flighthouse Zipline Package – $109
- Superman Zipline – $75
- Lagoon Zipline – $65
- Howler Monkey River Expedition – $139
- Catch & Release Fishing – $139
- Wave Runner – $129 1 guest, $159 2 guests
- Kayak Rental – $35
- Stand Up Paddle Board Rental – $29
- Paddle Board Manatee Watch – $69
- Funcat Rental – $79
- Parasail Adventure – $119
- Placenia Lagoon Wildlife & Mangrove – $69
- Barrier Reef Snorkel – $119
- Mango Creek & Independence Village Life – $69
- Black Swan Electric Boat – $49
- Glass Bottom Reef Explorer – $99
Premium Upgrades:
- Beach Villas ($899+) – Located on a secluded portion of the beach with air conditioning, exclusive dining and beverage options, private restroom, indoor and outdoor showers, hammocks, and butler service
- Pool Cabanas ($399+) – Poolside canopy retreat with private loungers and prime location near all the food, drinks, and fun
- Lockers ($7)
Shopping Village:
The shopping village offers handcrafted souvenirs, artwork, jewelry, Moho Chocolate with locally made chocolates and soap, and local rum vendors. Be sure to bring cash as your ship card is not accepted.
Do I Need Money When Ashore?
YES! Since food, drinks, and most activities on Harvest Caye are not included, you will need to bring money when going ashore.
American dollars are accepted. Though, if you want to know the conversion to the local currency, it is permanently 2:1 Belize dollar to American dollar. Credit cards are also accepted at most locations.
It is important to note that your ship card will NOT work on Harvest Caye either. So, do be sure to bring cash or a credit card.
You may also want some extra money to provide tips to the helpful island crew.
The Beach at Harvest Caye
There are 7-acres of sprawling beachfront on Harvest Caye that is accessible to all guests. There are plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas available to accommodate NCL’s larger ships. Clamshells are available to rent for some extra shade, as well as beach floats and snorkeling equipment.
Since it is a rather rocky coastline, a pair of water shoes might be helpful if you plan to take a dip in the Belizean waters.
If you are looking for a more relaxed vibe during your visit to this private island, claim your spot a bit further down the beach. If you head away from the start of the beach, you can escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet day ashore.
Resort Pool
Arguably the most popular spot on the island is the resort-style pool. This 15,000 square foot retreat provides a lively atmosphere throughout the day with music and plenty of Caribbean vibes. This complimentary pool area offers plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas, as well as a swim-up bar.
Cruisers of all ages will enjoy taking a dip in the pool or lounging in this upbeat area. With the nearby Harvest Caye Bar & Grill, you are never too far away from some food and drinks either.
Kids Splash Park
If you are cruising with the kids, they will love the complimentary Splash Park on Harvest Caye. Located not far from the beach, this water attraction provides a nice alternative for younger children.
This splash pad comes complete with fountains, sprinklers, water cannons, a kid-sized waterslide, and a drench bucket that will keep the little ones occupied for hours at no additional cost to you.
Wildlife Experience
The Nature Center on Harvest Caye provides a complimentary “Wildlife Experience” for guests to enjoy. You can observe the endangered toucan which is Belize’s national bird as well as the Scarlet Macaw. You can also view a butterfly exhibit, a boa constrictor, and more.
The Wildlife Experience on Harvest Caye functions as both an educational and a rehabilitation center. So, why not take a break from the sun to visit this small, shaded area and learn a bit more about these creatures and the conservation efforts during your visit to Harvest Caye.
Flighthouse
Perhaps the most iconic landmark on the island, the Flighthouse is home to Harvest Caye’s most thrilling attractions for adrenaline seekers. This multi-level structure features zipline experiences that provide stunning aerial views of the island and surrounding Caribbean waters.
The signature Flighthouse Zipline Adrenaline Package includes multiple ziplines of varying lengths and heights, including the Superman Zipline and the Lagoon Zipline. The Superman Zipline (where you soar face down in a “Superman” position at 40 mph) and the Lagoon Zipline (where you soar 100 feet above the Manatee Lagoon) can both be purchased individually as well.
Lagoon
The lagoon at Harvest Caye offers a protected area perfect for water sports and activities. This calm, shallow body of water is ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water-based fun.
You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other watercraft to explore the lagoon at your own pace. The tranquil waters make it an excellent option for beginners or families with children who want to try something a bit more adventurous.
Marina
The marina area at Harvest Caye serves as the hub for water-based excursions and transportation to the mainland. This is where you’ll find the Mahogany Bar & Grill, tour departure points, and the Belize sign that’s perfect for photos.
From the marina, you can catch the ferry to Placencia (15-20 minute ride) if you’re interested in exploring authentic Belizean culture, shopping, or dining off the island. Guests should inquire about the ferry once on board the ship at the shore excursions desk.
How Does Harvest Caye Compare to Other Private Islands?
If you’ve visited other cruise line private islands, you’ll notice Harvest Caye operates a bit differently. The most significant difference is that no food is included at Harvest Caye. Your NCL beverage package received with More at Sea won’t work here either.
Compared to NCL’s Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas):
Both are Norwegian Cruise Line private destinations, but while GSC is run by mostly ship staff, Harvest Caye is staffed mostly by locals. Further, Great Stirrup Cay includes complimentary food, making it more budget-friendly. However, Harvest Caye offers unique advantages like the Wildlife Experience center and Belizean mainland access for a more authentic experience.
Compared to Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas):
Perfect Day at CocoCay is larger and more developed with attractions like the tallest waterslide in North America giving it a theme park-like feel. Food is included at CocoCay, and the Royal Caribbean drink package works on the island as well. In contrast, Harvest Caye is smaller and more intimate, with a focus on natural beauty and Belizean culture.
Compared to Disney’s Castaway Cay (Bahamas):
Castaway Cay includes food and non-alcoholic beverages and is exceptionally family-friendly with character meet-and-greets. It also features an adult-only area. Harvest Caye provides better access to mainland cultural experiences and adventure excursions but has less to keep young children entertained.
Compared to Carnival’s Celebration Key (Bahamas):
Harvest Caye is most similar to Celebration Key. Both islands charge for food and beverages and are staffed primarily by locals rather than cruise line employees. Both feature beaches and a lagoon pool; though, Carnival’s pool area is much larger.
Pros and Cons of Harvest Caye, Belize
Pros of Harvest Caye:
- Easy to navigate layout with walking paths
- Direct access to the mainland for cultural experiences
- Offers both complimentary beach and pool access
- Unique wildlife experience
- More natural and authentic island time
Cons of Harvest Caye:
- Food not included
- NCL drink package doesn’t work ashore
- No WiFi on the island
- Lack of adult-only spaces or private beach clubs
- Not many activities for young kids
The Bottom Line:
Harvest Caye is ideal for travelers who want authentic cultural experiences and mainland adventure opportunities. If you prefer all-inclusive convenience, other private islands might be better. But Harvest Caye still offers a great beach day. The island is thoughtfully designed, easy to navigate, and features a wide variety of amenities. Having visited most of the other major cruise line private destinations, we were pleasantly surprised by our first visit to Harvest Caye.
Frequently Asked Questions About Harvest Caye
Does my NCL beverage package work on the island?
No. Food and drinks are not included at Harvest Caye, and your beverage package won’t work either. Bring cash or a credit card.
What should I bring to Harvest Caye?
Essential items: cash or credit card, water shoes for the rocky beach, sunscreen, swimwear, refillable water bottle, portable fan, and power banks for charging devices. Be sure to grab beach towels before heading down the pier as well.
How much time do I need at Harvest Caye?
Most ships spend 6-8 hours at port, which is plenty of time to explore all the island has to offer, along with enjoying the beach and pool. Mainland excursions typically take 3-5 hours.
Is Harvest Caye good for kids?
Yes! There’s a complimentary splash pad, lagoon pool, and the Wildlife Experience center with toucans, macaws, and butterflies – all free activities perfect for families.
What’s the weather like?
Tropical and warm year-round (75-85°F). The dry season is November-April; May-October brings more rain and humidity and coincides with hurricane season.
Will my cell phone work on the island?
Cell phone service availability depends on your carrier and international plan. Since Harvest Caye is in Belize, you’ll be using international roaming if your phone connects to local towers. There is no WiFi available on the island, even with an onboard WiFi package.
Will I Have Fun at Harvest Caye, Belize?
Most certainly! Whether you choose to spend your day eating and drinking, enjoying the pool party atmosphere, relaxing on the beach, or exploring Belize through shore excursions, Harvest Caye offers something for everyone to enjoy.
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