East Mexico
Bright, beautiful and a conjurer of dreams – the eastern side of Mexico is a yacht destination that seems to bridge the gap between ancient civilisation and new...
Luxury Yacht Charter Guide to East Yucatan
A collision of colour, a smear of Mexican charm and a balmy Caribbean edge - as a yacht charter destination, East Yucatan captures the best of both worlds. With Belize and Guatemala making up two of the most exciting destinations you can expect blue holes, crumbling Mayan ruins, majestic coral cities, and dense tropical rainforests that hide a wide abundance of fauna and flora. Over in Guatemala there’s looming volcanoes and glittering lakes. Hikers will be in their element at the array of peaks to tackle, culture vultures will find mesmerising museums and markets to explore, and with an eclectic mix of vibrant cities and lost nature across East Yucatan – you can build a brilliant yacht itinerary to capture the best of both worlds.
Reasons to Charter a Yacht in East Yucatan
Mayan Ruins
Over 1500 ancient Mayan sites can be sought out on the glorious shores of Guatemala. Those yacht charter guests looking to immerse themselves in the fascinating history of Central America will find more than their fill in Guatemala. Tikal is one of the most important Mayan complex ruins in the area, dating as far back as 6th century BC. Climb the towers, hear the storeys, and let your imagination run wild in these jungle wrapped archaeological sites. Over in Belize and the deep south of Toledo and the Cayo district both boast the chance for visitors to get a fascinating look into the mythical stone temples, and tombs buried deep in the jungle.
Blue Holes
Made famous by its plummeting blue holes, Belize is one of those amazing mystical destinations deep in the heart of the Caribbean. Even as you gaze out from the deck of your superyacht you can see the shades of blue change colour. Suddenly the aquamarine turns to sapphire, and swimmers will note the temperature change. Intrepid divers can test their prowess by diving deep into the blue hole, where silence hangs heavy and the fascinating rock formations hang like chandeliers above your head.
Outdoor Adventure
Caribbean beaches, kayaking great lake expanses, hiking volcanoes, jungle trekking and white-water rafting. The opportunities for adventure are endless for those on a yacht charter adventure in East Yucatan. Zip lines linger above forest canopies, paragliders drift over deep cut craters, and savvy scuba diving spots invite you to slip beneath the blue.
Where to Visit in East Yucatan
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Just 25 miles long and 5 miles wide, you would think that Ambergris Caye would have sold its soul to tourism. While the poster child of Belize does entice many a visitor, it still manages to keep that peaceful paradise feel that lends itself so well to luxury yacht charters. Down in the south, San Pedro is starting to become more developed with buzzing beach bars and souvenir shops. In the north of the island you will still find strong Hispanic influence, remote beaches, afternoon fiestas and fabulous food.
Antigua, Guatemala
16th century ruins, the froth of jacaranda and stunning cobbled squares – it’s easy to fall head over heels for Antigua. Yacht charter guests cruising Guatemala will want to put this one at the top of their list when it comes to pretty ports of call. Wander the sculpture park of Efrain Recinos, an artist considered to be the Guatemalan Picasso, learn to salsa with a private lesson downtown, buy some beautifully bright woven tablecloths and trinkets at the Los Colores de la Tierra, and stroll the painted sunshine streets that run beneath the 17th century El Arco de Santa Catalina.
The Grand Chanel, Belize
Boasting the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere makes Belize a well worthy yacht charter stop for that fact alone. Guests who dream of snorkelling alongside elegant manta rays, gentle sea turtles, aqua bright fish, and the occasional hammerhead shark will be in their element at this divine underwater Garden of Eden.
When to Charter a Yacht in East Yucatan
The dry season can be the best time to charter a yacht in Guatemala. Between the months of April and December you will find azure skies to match the seas, warm weather, and the hiking trails are well and truly open for business. Even in the wet season, the sporadic downpours don’t disrupt the whole day and only last for a couple of hours. For yacht charters also travelling to Belize, its best to avoid September and October as this is when the weather is at its most challenging.
