The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) officially launched the Boca del Rio project during an inauguration ceremony on Sunday, April 14, 2019 as part of its plan to develop and enhance the attractions and amenities in key tourism destinations in Belize. The launching also included a family day of fun, which included numerous sports, prizes and lively music.
The project was a joint initiative of the BTB, the Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. and the San Pedro Town Council. It entailed the reclamation of 100 ft. by 370 ft. of the Boca del Rio beachfront; construction of a 100 ft. by 100 ft. swimming area; construction of a reinforced seawall and the installation of signage.
The project is in tandem with the National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan (NSTMP), which gives top priority for the investment in the sun and beach production Belize and it is part of BTB’s efforts to provide infrastructural development in key tourism destinations with the aim to enhance the visitors’ experience in an enjoyable environment.
The project was implemented by contractor Cayo Frances Limited, a local contractor based in San Pedro Townover a three-month period.
San Pedro continues to be Belize’s most visited destination registering 203,340 visits in 2018 representing 41.5% of the total amount of overnight visits to Belize. Furthermore, San Pedro currently hosts 172Hotels, many of which are located in the vicinity of the Boca del Rio and there are also numerous restaurants and bars which provide excellent service to our visitors.
Situated at the mouth of the river (Barry Bowen Bridge), Boca del Rio separates the main town from Ambergris Caye by a channel popular among swimmers and beach lovers due to its crystal waters. The area has always been a wonderful spot for visitors, family recreation and relaxation. However, throughout the years the beach area vibrancy had declined due to the deterioration of the beach.
The Boca del Rio area has a park that is equipped with amenities such as chairs, swings, slide and basketball court. In an effort to promote and assist with the self-sustainability, BTB assisted the San Pedro Town Council with beach chairs, tables and umbrellas that will generate revenues to maintain the Boca del Rio beach. This will provide a recreational area for locals and tourists alike to enjoy our beautiful Caribbean Sea in a safe environment. The BTB is committed to collaborate with partners and stakeholders in executing innovative strategies to market, develop and enhance the Belize Tourism product .It is also extremely delighted to have been granted the opportunity to bring meaningful and lasting development to San Pedro via Boca del Rio project.
