Hello, there is only one daily flight from Houston on Southwest to Belize City per day and unfortunately it arrives at 4:30 PM and the last water taxi is 5:30. Also the last flight from Municipal (half the cost of flying from Belize City) is at 5:30. We have been told we cannot make either of the 5:30 departures. Are there any mainland locals who would transport a couple plus luggage for $100 US around 6:30? We thought perhaps some of the locals run their own boats over for these situations. Thanks!
Jim and Genie

I doubt that would cover the cost of fuel for a boat that would be safe enough to make the trip. You'll also be travelling in the dark and there's good reason why the water taxis don't run at dark, it's unsafe. You're best to spend the night in Belize City or fly.

good advice.

It seems to me your only realistic choice is to fly from the International Airport to San Pedro. Your should be able to make that flight. After you figure in hotel costs it will be about a wash compared to other options.

There are now two private water taxis to the Island. (as of March 1st)

Tropic Ferry http://tropicferry.com/

and a new one Nautilus Water Taxi http://www.nautiluswatertaxi.com/

Both will pick you up at the Airport and deliver you to the dock where you are staying. (Assuming it is on the water) If not, they will get you in the general area. The trip is 1 to 1 1/2 hrs. after you are underway in the boat. So at best you will get in just after sun down and if everything doesn't work out just right you will be traveling in the dark which is doable but the above concerns are correct.

I don't think your $100 price range is realistic though. Don't forget that gasoline is much more expensive in Belize than the USA. If you decide to stay over night on the mainland I stayed one night several years ago at Global Village which is near the airport. I think they will pick you up for free and it was safe and OK. Last week I stayed at the Ramada Princess and they run a shuttle that will cost you $15bz each from the airport. Nice enough and very safe. The Ramada would also put you not too far from the water taxi the next morning.

Good Luck

AS USUAL... Ragman's advice is "right on"... His first sentence sums up the entire thread for advice. Just break down and take the Tropic Air or Maya puddle jumper.. We just did the Southwest flight a few weeks ago and had no problem with connections via Tropic Air.

When all is said and done that is going to be the easiest and the cheapest.

Fly it is! What a helpful bunch. It has been 10 years since I traveled there and much different I am sure. After typing $100, I realized on my own boat, I wouldn't pay the fuel for a long trip like that. LOL So much for being frugal (the wife is an accountant and purchasing agent, I had to be able to tell her I tried! LOL) Thanks all!
Jim

Well, we are staying mainland Friday night. Seems the wife wants to begin our Saturday on the mainland anyway. Thanks for all the help.
Jim & Genie.