To the best of my knowledge there is no law to prevent a foreign captain from entering Belize waters. There can be requirements for a pilot in certain waters but I've heard none of this, except for very large shipping. In addition these matters in some cases have to do with international treaties.

I might suggest that having proper charts available and navigational aids might be a better way to protect the reef.

I'm often reminded of the difference between owning a piano and being a pianist. Having a license and knowing how to navigate the waters of this most intricate coastline are vastly different things.

I'm sure we'd all like to see better charts, better markers --- if you have the money and time, please make it happen - Belize just can't afford those things today. We're still trying to get potable water to the villages and find the money to keep orphanages open.

A local person is not costly to hire, most likely needs work/income to sustain/improve the standard of living (see San Mateo thread), and knows how to keep you out of trouble. A local person knows the waters and the weather instinctively - this is something priceless when it comes to health and safety.
Is this not good - and easy?