F.A.Q

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What forms of payment are accepted at Itza Resort?

We accept Visa and Mastercard, as well as US Dollars (USD) and Belize Dollars (BZ$).
The fixed exchange rate in Belize is BZ$2 to US$1.

Why stay on Lighthouse Reef instead of the mainland?

  • less commute fatigue
  • shorter runs to dive sites
  • surface intervals back at the resort
  • calmer pace
  • more reef time
  • fewer crowds
  • more immersive experience.

Is Itza similar to a liveaboard?

offshore access
without:
liveaboard confinement.

Atoll-Based Diving vs Mainland Diving in Belize

How do I get to Itza Resort?

Most divers only visit Lighthouse Reef as a long day trip. Staying offshore changes the entire rhythm of the experience.

Boat transfers run Wednesdays and Saturdays from Belize City, departing at 2:00 PM and arriving around 4:00 PM.

The ride takes about 2 hours across open water.

We can arrange a trusted taxi from the international airport (BZE) to the dock.
If your flight arrives late, we recommend overnighting in Belize City or arranging a private charter.

Return boats depart Long Caye around 8:00 AM, arriving in Belize City around 10:00 AM.

Is staying offshore worth it?

Yes — for many divers, staying offshore completely changes the experience.

Instead of waking up early for long boat rides from the mainland or Ambergris Caye, guests at Itza Resort are already on Lighthouse Reef Atoll, only minutes from many of Belize’s best dive sites.

That means:

  • Shorter boat runs
  • More flexible dive schedules
  • Surface intervals back at the resort
  • Less time commuting and more time enjoying the reef

Many photographers, experienced divers, and travelers looking for a quieter pace especially appreciate the ability to return to shore between dives instead of spending the entire day on a boat.

For travelers who value reef access, calmer pacing, and a more immersive atoll experience, staying offshore is often one of the biggest highlights of the trip.

How close are the dive sites?

Most dive sites are 5–15 minutes from the dock.

  • Great Blue Hole → ~30 minutes
  • Half Moon Caye → ~15 minutes

This proximity is one of the main advantages of staying at Itza.

What happens if weather affects diving?

Weather can affect dive schedules.

We adjust plans daily for safety and aim to provide the best possible diving conditions. Flexibility is part of the experience of being on a remote atoll.

Being based directly on Lighthouse Reef gives us more flexibility to adapt dive timing and site selection around conditions.

What is the typical diving depth?

Most dives range from 50–80 feet.

The Blue Hole dive reaches depths of up to 130–140 feet.

Open Water certified divers are welcome, and we adjust dive plans based on experience.

Are room rates per person or per room?

Room rates are based on double occupancy (per room), not per person.

Rates reflect our remote atoll location, small-group diving model, and off-grid operations.
Most guests combine their stay with diving, meals, and transfers to create a full experience.

Unlike mainland dive operations, guests are staying directly on Lighthouse Reef itself, with dive sites only minutes away.

What are the rooms like?

The focus here is reef access and island immersion rather than resort-style amenities.

Our rooms are simple, comfortable, and designed for rest between dives.

All rooms include:

  • Ceiling fans and natural airflow (no air conditioning)
  • Private bathrooms
  • Daily housekeeping (on request)
  • Towels and linens refreshed regularly

This is off-grid island living, not mainland luxury.

Is there air conditioning?

There is no air conditioning. Rooms rely on ceiling fans, natural ventilation, and sea breezes. Hot water is available, though like many remote island properties, availability may occasionally be affected by off-grid operational requirements.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available in common areas only.

There is no cell service on the island.

Is Itza Resort suitable for non-divers?

It can be—but it is primarily a diving-focused experience.

Non-divers can enjoy:

  • Snorkeling
  • Kayaking
  • Relaxing on the island

However, there are no typical resort amenities (no pool, spa, or nightlife).

Can the boat ride be rough?

Yes, at times.

The transfer crosses open Caribbean water, and guests may get wet in rough conditions.

We always prioritize safety and confirm conditions before departure.

Our captains and crew operate these waters regularly and monitor conditions carefully before departure.

Do you recommend dive insurance?

Yes—strongly.

The nearest hyperbaric chamber is in San Pedro.
We recommend DAN or equivalent dive insurance for all divers.

Are children allowed?

Yes, children are welcome.
We have room configurations suitable for families.

Is fishing available?

Yes.

You can fish from the dock or by kayak, and we can arrange guided fishing trips if requested.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes.

Filtered drinking water is available throughout the resort, including rooms and common areas.

What should I know about sustainability at the resort?

We operate as a low-impact, off-grid property:

  • Solar-powered electricity
  • Rainwater collection
  • Reef-safe practices
  • No single-use plastics

Guests are briefed on how to help protect the reef during their stay.

Planning Your Stay

What is included in a typical dive package?

Most guests choose a package rather than booking individual components separately.

Package pricing typically includes:

  • Accommodations
  • Daily meals
  • Scheduled scuba diving
  • Roundtrip Lighthouse Reef transfers
  • Taxes and fees
  • Applicable permits

For stays of 4 nights or longer, Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye excursions are generally included as part of the package.

The primary additional cost for divers who require equipment is dive gear rental, currently US$45 per diver per day.

What is the typical diving depth?

Most dives around Lighthouse Reef Atoll range between 60–80 feet (18–24 m), with typical dive times of 45–60 minutes depending on conditions and air consumption.

Night dives are generally conducted at shallower depths of approximately 30–40 feet (9–12 m).

The Great Blue Hole is a deep dive that reaches approximately 130 feet (40 m). Bottom time at depth is typically around 12 minutes, followed by a controlled ascent and additional safety stops. The Blue Hole is normally combined with reef dives at Half Moon Caye and Lighthouse Reef on the same day.

Open Water certified divers are welcome, and our team adjusts dive plans based on certification level, experience, and conditions.

Do you offer Nitrox?

Nitrox can be arranged with advance notice.

Availability depends on scheduling and logistics, so divers requiring Nitrox should contact us before booking. When available, Nitrox is offered at an additional charge of approximately US$10 per tank.

Many guests dive standard air throughout their stay, while others choose Nitrox for repetitive diving schedules and additional conservatism on reef dives.

Do you have hot water?

Yes.

Hot water is available at the resort.

Is drinking water provided?

Yes.

Complimentary purified drinking water is available throughout your stay.

Guests are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles as part of our sustainability efforts.

How much do drinks cost?

Bar prices vary, but typical pricing is:

Imported cocktails and premium drinks: approximately US$15
Local mixed drinks: approximately US$10
Local beer: approximately US$6

Availability and pricing may vary based on season and supply deliveries to the atoll.

Where is the nearest decompression chamber?

The nearest hyperbaric chamber is located in San Pedro, Belize.

In the unlikely event of a diving emergency, evacuation would be coordinated by boat or helicopter depending on weather conditions, the nature of the emergency, and operational considerations.

We strongly recommend that all divers carry dive accident insurance such as DAN.

What is your cancellation policy?

You can view our full policy here:
Reservation & Cancellation Policy

A 50% deposit is required to confirm your booking.
The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to arrival.

Still have questions?

Call us at +1 305-600-2585 -::- +501-629-5953
or email [email protected]

We’re happy to help you plan your stay.

Where should I start if I’m planning a trip?

These resources answer many of the questions guests have before booking:

→ What Does a Week at Lighthouse Reef Atoll Actually Look Like?

Can Non-Divers Enjoy Lighthouse Reef Atoll? Itza Resort vs Liveaboard

Things to Do at the Great Blue Hole and Lighthouse Reef Atoll

You can also build a personalized estimate using our trip planning tool:

Plan Your Stay

1