The Best Boat Rentals in San Pedro

Expect shared snorkel or sailing trips to run about $60–$120 per person for a half day, typically including a licensed captain and crew, snorkel gear, marine park fees, water or soft drinks, and often fresh fruit. Private charters for small groups generally start around $400–$800 for a half day and $700–$1,200 for a full day, with fuel, captain, gear, and cooler ice included; many full‑day trips add lunch or a beach barbecue. Sunset sails commonly cost $60–$95 per person, while larger premium yachts with extra amenities can range higher based on size and service. Prices vary by boat size, duration, itinerary, and inclusions, so check what’s covered before you book.

You’ll find a wide mix suited to different plans: fast center‑console skiffs for reef snorkeling and fishing, comfortable sailboats and catamarans for relaxing day sails and sunset cruises, and roomier motor cruisers for private groups that want shade, cushioned seating, and space to spread out. If you’re planning a celebration or want extra comfort, look for boats that list a marine restroom, freshwater rinse, Bluetooth sound, and ample shade.

Most visitors opt for captained charters. Belize requires operators of power‑driven vessels to hold a valid Master’s License, and commercial passenger boats must meet additional safety and licensing rules. Because tourists typically don’t hold local operator licenses and the barrier reef has narrow channels and protected zones, captained trips are the norm. A few providers may offer limited self‑drive options inside calm lagoons to experienced boaters, but plan on hiring a captain unless you’ve arranged a compliant bareboat in advance.

Most charters meet at easy‑to‑find spots in town, such as the San Pedro Marine Terminal on Coconut Drive, the municipal pier by Central Park downtown, or along the public docks in the Boca del Rio area near the bridge. Many captains also offer pickup from resort piers along the coast, which can save time for groups staying north or south of town.

Within minutes you’ll be alongside the Belize Barrier Reef with clear views of coral gardens and turquoise water. Classic stops include Hol Chan Marine Reserve and nearby Shark Ray Alley for snorkeling with colorful reef fish, gentle nurse sharks, and southern stingrays; Mexico Rocks to the north for shallow patch reefs; and the calm leeward side for sandbar lounging and sunsets. Day trips often combine reef snorkeling with an island stop like Caye Caulker or a swim at Secret Beach on the west side of Ambergris Caye. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, eagle rays, and dolphins; manatees are a treat in season.

If your trip is captained, the licensed skipper handles all legal requirements. To operate a motorboat yourself in Belize, you’re expected to hold the appropriate local operator (Master’s) license, and the vessel must be properly registered and inspected. Because of this, visitors almost always book captained boats; it’s safer, easier, and lets you focus on the fun while your crew navigates marine park rules and the reef channels.

Yes—family trips are very common. Every passenger is provided a life jacket, and boats carry the required safety equipment. Child‑size life vests are available when you request them in advance; many crews also offer snorkel sets sized for kids. For younger children, choose morning departures when the sea is calmer, pick shaded boats, and consider itineraries that mix short snorkel stops with relaxed cruising or a beach visit.

On private charters, BYO snacks and drinks are usually welcome, and most crews stock coolers with ice and water. Many trips include fruit, sodas, or rum punch, and full‑day outings may add a beach barbecue or a stop for lunch. Glass is discouraged on deck, especially when visiting marine reserves, so plan for cans or reusable bottles, and pack reef‑safe sunscreen.

Small, well‑behaved dogs are often allowed on private charters with advance approval. Let the captain know your pet’s size, bring a towel and leash, and plan for shade and water breaks. Pets generally stay aboard during snorkel stops, and some protected areas don’t allow animals ashore, so confirm any restrictions when you book.

Belize’s dry season (roughly December through April) brings sunnier days and calmer seas; June through November is the rainy season and also the Atlantic hurricane season, with the windiest stretch typically in late summer and early fall. Captains constantly monitor marine forecasts and will reroute to leeward waters, reschedule, or cancel if conditions aren’t safe. Most operators offer weather‑related flexibility—commonly a free reschedule or refund if the captain calls it off—so check your specific policy. Morning departures are usually smoothest year‑round.

Yes. Private boats can be set up for celebrations with playlists, coolers, and simple decorations, and itineraries can mix reef snorkeling, beach time, and a sunset cruise. Share your headcount, desired vibe (chill vs. party), and must‑do stops; for larger groups, consider a catamaran with ample seating, shade, and a marine restroom. Lock in dates early for weekends and holiday weeks.

The most reliable boating weather is December through April. Summer stays warm and beautiful, but brief showers and wind are more common; many travelers plan early‑morning outings for the calmest seas. Demand spikes during U.S. holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day, as well as during San Pedro’s Lobster Fest in early to mid‑July and Belize’s September Celebrations leading up to Independence Day on September 21. To secure your ideal boat and time, book a few weeks ahead in shoulder months and much earlier for peak season, festivals, and weekends.

Absolutely. Popular day plans pair Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley with a stop on Caye Caulker—about 30 to 45 minutes away by boat—for lunch and a dip at The Split, or trade reef time for a lazy afternoon in the shallow, clear water at Secret Beach. Longer full‑day adventures might add Mexico Rocks to the north or explore farther‑flung reef and mangrove areas when conditions allow. Your captain will help match the route to your group’s pace and the day’s weather.