cruises to mexico cancelled 2023

Cruise Lines Quit Western Mexico, Citing Security and Profits

By Frommer's Staff

Years ago, someone dubbed the string of port cities and resorts along Mexico's western coast "The Mexican Riviera" -- a marketing gimmick if ever there was one, but it wasn't a complete stretch. Blessed with miles of beaches, mountains, a perfect (and year-round) beach climate, and the cachet of being a playground for Hollywood royalty and jetsetters, the region had mojo.

It still does, but today, it's also got something else: worries.

The drug trade-related violence that has wracked Mexico over the past five years has begun spilling over from the border towns to what were previously peaceful resort areas. In early January, more than 30 people were killed in Acapulco alone, 15 of them by decapitation, and in an area just minutes from the tourist zone.

The port city of Mazatlan , too, has seen a strong uptick in violence, with two men shot just last month in the parking lot of a hotel frequented by tourists. Mazatlan is cited, along with Acapulco, in the current U.S. State Department travel advisory on Mexico, which notes that one of Mexico's most powerful drug cartels is based in Mazatlan's home state of Sinaloa. "[T]he city of Mazatlan has experienced a recent increase in violent crime," the advisory notes. "U.S. citizens should … exercise extreme caution when visiting."

The violence has begun having a severe impact on tourism -- a situation that's particularly noticeable when it comes to cruise tourism, since all it takes is one executive decision to pull a ship and all of its passengers out of a port or an entire market, and send them elsewhere.

And that's exactly what's going on.

On Monday, Carnival Cruise Lines ( www.carnival.com ) became the latest and most high-profile cruise line to announce that it was canceling upcoming calls by Carnival Splendor and Carnival Spirit to the port of Mazatlan. The line's official statement cited "recent security incidents" for the decision, and noted that "[a]lthough there have been no incidents involving cruise passengers, the safety of our guests and crew is our number one priority."

"We are working closely with the Mexican government and local officials to review their plans to improve security in all of the main tourist areas," the statement continued. "Once we are comfortable with their plans and implementation, we expect to return to Mazatlan. We are hopeful that this process can be completed within a short period of time."

In the meantime, Carnival ships will either spend an extra day at Cabo San Lucas , on the Baja Peninsula, or make a call at Manzanillo , a busy port city south of Puerto Vallarta.

Carnival's decision follows similar recent moves by Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line , which respectively cited "the changing environment in Mazatlan" and "recent incidents of violence" in their decisions. Both lines' ships have replaced Mazatlan with an additional day in Cabo San Lucas.

At present, Holland America ( www.hollandamerica.com ) has not announced plans to cancel Mazatlan port calls. Princess ( www.princess.com ), for its part, is taking a wait-and-see approach. "Our next scheduled call to Mazatlan is Sapphire Princess on March 16," line representative Karen Candy said this week. "At this time, we haven't made any changes but as the safety and security of our passengers and crew is our highest priority, we're closely monitoring the situation."

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has not publicly cited cartel-related violence as a reason for the shift, but instead blamed economic realities -- which may, of course, be related. In a blog post made in the wake of Mariner's redeployment announcement, Royal Caribbean President Adam Goldstein stated that: "We truly wish we could justify the ship remaining in L.A., but we are unable to do so… There is no question that there are tens of thousands of loyal Royal Caribbean cruisers who live in the Western U.S. and cruise on Mariner of the Seas. And yes, she does normally go out full. Unfortunately, it is possible for both of these observations to be true and yet the ship does not perform at an acceptable level to be able to remain in California. Throughout the industry, ships normally go out full. The critical question is at what price? … [F]or now we are unable to generate acceptable levels of performance."

Currently, Royal Caribbean has only one cruise -- a 15-night westbound Panama Canal run in late April aboard Radiance of the Seas -- scheduled to call at any Mexican Riviera ports.

According to figures published by the cruise industry marketing group CLIA, the number of passengers sailing to the Mexican Riviera has fallen by about 23 percent since 2008. In addition to the affected Mexican ports, U.S. home ports for the region have also been suffering: San Diego will board about half the passengers it saw in 2010, and business is down about 72 percent from its 2008 high. Los Angeles will see a projected 20 percent drop from its 2010 capacity, and a 50 percent drop from 2008.

In the wake of recent incidents and ensuing cruise cancellations, Mazatlan beefed up security on the ground, adding plainclothes personnel to the existing security force in the main tourist areas and excursion sites. "Mazatlan is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in Mexico, and has hosted nearly 1.5 million cruise passengers since 2008," said the Mazatlan Tourism Trust in an official statement. Nevertheless, the cruise business is clearly trending away, as other regions offer a more winning combination of popular appeal, ease of operations, and the lack of high-profile violence.

Talk with fellow Frommer's travelers on our Cruise Travel Forum.

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So close, yet so deliciously far. Mexico might be right down there, but it exists in another world entirely. Experience a whole enchilada’s worth of rich culture and fun on a cruise to Mexico. Each port — including favorites Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta — contributes its own distinct local flavor to the mix. Whether your Mexico cruise style is west-coast Riviera with its Pacific charm, east-coast Caribbean and its island mojo… or perhaps Baja and its out-of-this-world coastal scenery, you’ll find Mexico central to a great vacation.

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MEXICO CRUISES

When it comes to extraordinary vacations, a cruise to Mexico has it all: vibrant cultural heritage, ancient ruins, incredible food, and natural splendors that range from arid deserts to balmy rain forests. Holland America Line offers the best Mexico cruises for a fully immersive experience, one beyond the sun and surf.

If you're passionate about food, a cruise to Mexico is a revelation, as the country is recognized by UNESCO for its preservation of age-old culinary techniques. Find a wide array of cruises to Mexico from San Diego if you need a quick escape. Or be swept away on a longer cruise adventure to iconic destinations like Puerto Vallarta, Cabos San Lucas, and Mazatlán. Zip line in a tropical forest or go whale watching off the coast on shore excursions . Whatever draws you to this amazing place, we have the Mexico cruise for you and a welcome as warm its sun-soaked beaches.

Make the Most of Your Mexico Cruise Vacation

Experience all that the Mexican Riviera has to offer with an unforgettable cruise. Read on to learn more about Mexico cruise deals, shore excursions, and more, so you can choose the vacation that’s right for you.

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Award-winning mexico cruises.

The votes are in and Holland America Line has the best Mexico cruises. Enjoy an immersive experience as our well-appointed ship sweeps you to vibrant cities and secluded coastal towns along the Mexican Riviera.

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Explore Mexico’s unique charm with one of our featured Mexico cruise itineraries.

7-Day Mexican Riviera

Need a breezy getaway? Find 7-day Mexico cruises and unwind with the sun and sea.

9- to 14-Day Mexico & Sea Of Cortez

Visit Sea of Cortez treasures, from Cabo San Lucas to the charming Puerto Vallarta.

Featured Mexico Cruise Ports

Relax and enjoy an array of activities at these popular Mexico cruise ports.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Los Cabos doesn't exude the same kind of charm as many other areas of inland Mexico do, but its twin towns—San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas—don't seem to mind. Visitors are drawn here less for the traditional Mexican culture than for the sun, the sand, and the opportunity to just relax.

Mazatlan, Mexico

Mazatlán, nicknamed the Pearl of the Pacific, is a pleasant port city in the Mexican state of Sinaloa. Here, the best of traditional Mexican architecture, food and culture is found alongside contemporary conveniences, amenities and attractions.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Unlike some of Mexico’s beach resorts, Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific Ocean, retains its colonial-era charm. Its town square, Plaza de Armas, and the gorgeous parish church topped with an ornate crown serve as the loveliest representations of bygone ages.

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Fully immerse yourself in Mexico’s beauty and culture with these popular Mexico shore excursions.

Mexico Cruise Onboard Experience

Live it up in port and at sea. Perfect days and amazing nights await on your Mexico cruise with our award-winning onboard experience. Learn more about the country’s influential cuisine with cooking demonstrations. Treat yourself to the ultimate steakhouse at sea at Pinnacle. Find entertainment venues with feature programs for every preference, from Memphis Blues at B.B. King’s to dueling pianos at Billboard Onboard.

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Add flights and hotels before or after your cruise (or both!). Arrange ground transportation to create a custom Mexico cruise vacation package.

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Fly to cruise departure ports, such as San Diego, and then set out on your cruise to Mexico. Find low prices, loads of options that arrive and depart in time for your cruise, and enjoy flexibility and support should plans change with Flight Ease ®.

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Add a hotel package to your cruise to Mexico and luxuriate in a comfortable stay in your cruise departure or arrival city.

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Cruise to Mexico with the expert. With over 50 years of experience, we know all the cities and excursions that provide the most authentic Mexico cruise adventures — not just margaritas and mariachis, but more! Visit the best ports in the Mexican Riviera and get a taste of the warm sun, diverse culture and festive flavors of the region. Each itinerary offers something unique, like more time ashore in Cabo or the unparalleled ports of La Paz or Loreto on our 10-day cruises to Mexico.

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Five-day mexico cruises from los angeles.

Experience every side of Mexico when you spend two full days in Cabo San Lucas on a Mexico cruise with Princess. Sail under El Arco on your way to Lover’s Beach. Watch for whales and sea lions in the Sea of Cortez. Or take a swim past colorful fish and coral reefs. Enjoy Cabo’s vibrant nightlife as you dance and sip cocktails under the night sky.

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Seven and 10-day mexico cruises from california.

Cruise to Mexico from Los Angeles or San Francisco and have time to relax at sea plus experience adventure. Shop along Puerto Vallarta’s beachside boardwalk, the Malecon. Tour the 500-year old city of Comala while in Manzanillo, and learn to make ceviche from a renowned chef in Mazatlan. Or sunbathe on Lover’s Beach in Cabo.

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10-day mexico cruises from california.

Our 10-day cruises are comprehensive, with visits to unique coastal cities like La Paz, where snorkeling with sea lions excites, and Loreto, where a clambake awaits. Enjoy ziplining through Boca de Sierra, kayaking through Paradise Cove in Cabo, riding an ATV through Puerto Vallarta and more on a Mexico cruise. Then enjoy two days at sea to relax and recharge.

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Explore destinations easily on a MedallionClass vacation. Taking in balcony or top deck views, and don’t want to move? Order drinks that find you. Want to make the most of your time away? Design each perfect day with our interactive activity planner. Hate to wait when boarding or disembarking in port? Choose your preferred arrival window and make gangway reservations. Enjoy more time to connect with the places you sail.

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Perfect Family Vacations

Whether you explore on land or unwind on board, there’s fun to be had for everyone. Recognized by Porthole Magazine as “Best Multi-Generational Cruise Line,” our Mexico cruises offer activities for all ages. Adults can indulge in the region’s food and beverages while kids can kayak, paddleboard or swim in the sea. Set sail when the whole family is on holiday break, or book a getaway during a long weekend.

Year-Round Cruises to Mexico

With regular sailings out of San Francisco and Los Angeles, Mexico is just one flight — or drive — away. No matter how busy your schedule may be, you can still indulge in a quintessential Mexico cruise vacation any time of the year thanks to our year round sailings. If you have more time to spare, arrive early or stay longer and explore the wonders of our West Coast embarkation ports.

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Fiesta & Flavor

Sweet and spicy.

In partnership with Bill Esparza, a James Beard Award Winner, our culinary excursions introduce you to the region’s bold flavors. With Mexican culture infused into every menu, experience the country from scratch. Taste rare spirits alongside a chef in Puerto Vallarta, and learn how these liquors travel from field to glass. Or prepare salsa and margaritas alongside a local in Cabo — only on a Mexico cruise with Princess.

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Answer adventure's call.

Zipline through the lush rainforests of Puerto Vallarta. Snorkel alongside sea lions off the coast of La Paz. Or embark on a deep sea fishing adventure in Loreto for a chance to reel in treasures from the sea. Those looking for a more relaxing day in the sun can unwind on the beaches of Manzanillo or watch the migration of whales near Cabo. Adventure awaits on a cruise to Mexico.

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Culture is the heartbeat of Mexico. Cruise to La Paz and visit a pottery factory, or head downtown to shop for artisan gifts — like hand-crafted jewelry, woven gifts and decorations. Tour a coffee plantation in Puerto Vallarta, and enjoy a prepared lunch on the grounds. Or spend a full day exploring Colima, a short drive from Manzanillo, where 200-year old ruins of the Pyramids of La Campana whisper secrets of times past.

Mexico Cruise Excursions

From a private beach getaway at Las Caletas in Puerto Vallarta to salsa-making in Cabo, find expertly crafted shore excursions suited for any guest when you cruise to Mexico. In Mazatlan, tour one of the country’s most popular breweries. Swim alongside the largest fish in the ocean, the whale shark, while in La Paz. Or relax and recharge with your loved ones at one of Mexico’s finest resorts in Manzanillo.

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More Ashore

Enjoy extra time on land with our More Ashore program — offering a variety of overnight stays in Cabo San Lucas and La Paz on certain itineraries — and explore more of Mexico. Cruise through the Sea of Cortez, considered to be the “Aquarium of the World”, as well as the Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the surrounding landscapes with the golden sunset as your backdrop on our Mexico cruises.

Local Connections

Meet the personalities that call these lands home on shore excursions exclusive to Princess when you cruise to Mexico. Learn about the traditions of the Aztec people during a tequila tasting with a local Puerto Vallarta restaurateur. Or meet one of Mazatlan’s most famous chefs, Diego Becerra, and spend the afternoon in his seafood bar, Compañia Minera. Sample ceviche, local craft beer and cocktails.

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Mexico cruises onboard experience.

Mariachi and margaritas

Sip, savor and sway to the music with onboard activities that give you a taste of Mexican tradition. Sample tequila while learning about the drink’s history from a local expert, and indulge your taste buds with tacos and fajitas. Or let loose with your loved ones during a mariachi performance, and dance to the lively tune of violins and guitars. On a cruise to Mexico with Princess, activities lie around every corner.

Every reason to celebrate

On select sailings in October and November, discover the region’s heritage with our Mexican Fiesta. Celebrate the Day of the Dead, a holiday to commemorate loved ones who have passed. From face-painting to Aztec flower-making, there are activities for the whole family on a cruise to Mexico. Learn a traditional dance, decorate marzipan skulls and make a skeleton out of pasta. Or watch dancers perform ‘The Procession of the Dead.’

Mexican and Spanish Cuisine

Famous for a reason.

Recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage and preservation of culinary technique, Mexican and Spanish cuisine is a big part of the region’s culture. Sample the bold flavors and creative combinations for yourself on a cruise to Mexico with Princess. In many of our dining rooms, enjoy Mexican-themed dishes — like ceviche, fajitas and coconut cocadas — for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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6 Things to Buy in Mexico Cruise Ports

From coffee and salsa to spirits and artisan goods, discover the best things to buy in Mexico cruise ports when you sail with Princess.

Explore Puerto Vallarta's Hidden Beach: Playa del Amor

Swim your way to seclusion at Puerto Vallarta's hidden beach, Playa del Amor. A romantic, awe-inspiring lagoon awaits after navigating a natural rock cavern.

5 Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

Discover 5 things to do in Cabo San Lucas while on a Princess Cruise. Make the most of Cabo San Lucas' pristine landscapes and natural wonders.

See the La Quebrada Cliff Divers

See the La Quebrada cliff divers with Princess Cruises. One of our unique Panama Canal excursions, the Acapulco cliff divers are a famous sight.

Things to Do in Manzanillo, Mexico

Explore things to do in Manzanillo, Mexico with Princess Cruises. The Mexican Riviera has many beauties including Manzanillo, a historic city center.

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Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your Mexico cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Mexico Cruises

Embrace thrilling water sports, captivating camel rides and decadent dining on a disney mexican cruise., ports of call.

Cruise to Mexico along the Baja Peninsula and dock in coastal towns that include Ensenada, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

Mexican Cruises

Treat yourself to a sun-drenched voyage from San Diego to Mexico for a weekend getaway or a longer escape.

Port Adventures

Snorkeling, cooking lessons, safari tours and more—abandon all worries on a Disney shore excursion in sun-soaked Mexico.

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Add a 3-night Disneyland Resort and Southern California Escape from Adventures by Disney before select sailings from San Diego for a rare peek behind the magic.

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RAINFORESTS TO RUINS

Mexico cruises.

Experience flavorful food, mesmerizing landscapes and ancient past with a cruise to Mexico.

Cruise to Mexico and find everything from volcanoes, jungles and deserts and beaches, to enjoy outdoor and urban adventures of all kinds. Head to  museums to see the surreal works of Frida Kahlo and ancient artworks excavated from the Maya civilization. Or see Mayan ruins up-close-and-personal — remnants of ancient temples, like Chichen Itza and Tulum, stand just a stone's throw from pristine beaches, so you can take a soak or a surf after your history lesson. And be sure to immerse yourself in the colonial architecture, bustling parks and lively, spice-fragrant marketplaces in Mexico City, Puebla, and Cancun. Discover the magic with a Mexico cruise.

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EXPLORER'S SPIRIT

Get out of your comfort zone and discover an untamed wilderness, where you can dive into an underground cave or encounter ancient ruins with the best Mexico cruises.

THE PAST PRESERVED

Discover why Mexico is one of the most impressive civilizations in the world when you experience its Mayan ruins at Tulum, Ek Balam or Chichen Itza and its Aztec roots at Tenochtitlan and Templo Mayor, harkening back thousands of years of history.

It's easy to get in touch with Mother Nature when you're in Mexico. Tours take you through cenotes, expansive underground caverns, or on rainforest safaris where you can spot iguanas, macaws and other colorful wildlife.

COAST CALLS

Reach the beach and soak, surf or snorkel in Mexico's clear waters, then stroll over soft sands and discover ancient ruins by the sea in places like Cozumel and Cabo San Lucas. More seascapes are found in Playa Progreso in Yucatan, Costa Sur in Puerto Vallarta, Cacaluta in Huatulco and Mahahual in Costa Maya, all of which provide those frame-ready vistas synonymous with Mexico.

GET A TASTE OF THE CULTURE

Mexico's cities and towns offer a wealth of cultural gems. You'll find everything from high art to colorful villages brimming with life and tradition on your cruise to Mexico.

DIG INTO LOCAL LIFE

Mexico's sprawling urban areas show you the lively side of this rich country. Stop by Mexico City, Cuernavaca, Cancun or Puebla to see the bustling streets filled with restaurants, bars and stores, the busy plazas with vendors offering local food and candy, and the charming colonial neighborhoods with colorful flowers dripping from balconies.

From colorful skull souvenirs — a throwback to the ancient practice of honoring passed-on ancestors — and charming sombreros to Mayan temples and colonial-era architecture, Mexico is a treasure trove of the visual arts. You can get a glimpse of the country's most renowned artist, Frida Kahlo, at the Frida Kahlo Museum in Playa del Carmen.

TASTY TEMPTATIONS

Mexico is a kaleidoscope of unique regional cuisines, all equally flavor-packed. In Oaxaca, taste your way through the varieties of rich mole sauces, and in Yucatan explore fresh flavors in dishes heavy with citrus and spice, like cochinita pibil, the shredded pork that fills one of Mexico's most-loved taco styles.

Best Mexico Cruises

A cruise to Mexico is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Mexico onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

Mexican Riviera Cruises

Mexico’s wild west coast offers just as much natural beauty, vibrant culture and sun-kissed adventures as its eastern counterpart, the Riviera Maya. Cruise from Los Angeles onboard the Amplified Navigator of the Seas® to Baja’s brightest jewels, like foodie-favorite Ensenada, fun-loving Cabo , charming Mazatlán and scenic Puerto Vallarta .

Explore Cruises To The Mexican Riviera

THE GREAT GULF

Cruise the Yucatan Peninsula, which separates the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico, and discover Mexico's Caribbean side. Stop in Cozumel island, off the east coast of Yucatan , and enjoy the bright-blue waters and untouched paradise appeal.

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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Mexico Cruises Insider

Mexico is ready for you to explore at any time of year. In general, the weather is best between December and April — there's little rain, and the temperatures are very comfortable. The wet season starts in May and ends in October, while hurricane season (affecting mostly the Caribbean side) starts in June and runs until November.

When you travel to Mexico, one of the best ways to enjoy the country is by immersion. Try the local food, shop the local markets, and choose excursions that allow you to spend time getting to know a specific neighborhood, historic site or natural wonder.

Learn a few phrases in Spanish and speak to waiters, vendors, tour guides and everyday people. Ask about places to eat, the history or the music. Get out of your comfort zone and reach out to the people who know the country best — they can let you know where to go for the best price on that souvenir you're seeking or which beachside spot makes the best margarita.

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The best ancient sites and ruins to visit in Mexico. Go back in time and discover the beauty, the mystery and the culture of the venerated Mayan people.

Haggling on prices at local markets is par for the course here — just make sure you know a few words of Spanish, and don't ask the vendor to go unreasonably low.

Mexico's tiered bus system is a great way to get around affordably: Choose the first ("primero") or platinum ("platino") options for the high-end treatment.

There's a more lax attitude about time in Mexico so factor in an extra half-hour to an hour when planning out your Mexico cruise itineraries.

FOR THE FOODIE'S SABROSO IS THE WORD

Sabroso means delicious, which is synonymous with Mexico's cuisine. Known the world over for its originality when it comes to multilayered flavors that focus on spice, Mexican food boasts dishes like mole, cochinita pibil and tacos al pastor. When in Mexico, go where the locals are eating and enjoy the salsas, the spices and the crunch.

MOLE POBLANO

A saucy and popular delicacy, mole poblano is made with chili peppers and chocolate and is poured over chicken and then topped with sesame seeds.

Tamales are a steamed masa, or a corn-based dough filled with meats, cheeses, vegetables, chili peppers or fruits. The masa is wrapped inside of a leaf and steamed. Discard the leaf and chow down on the stuffed dough for a traditional treat.

CHILAQUILES

Fried tortillas take a swim in spicy red salsa or refreshing green salsa for a savory dish commonly enjoyed during breakfast.

RELATED PORTS

In Mexico, you can explore an array of culturally unique cities like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and Cozumel, as well as cruise ports such as Huatulco, Costa Maya and the Yucatan. And the best way to get to know these places is by arriving from the water.

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

Cozumel, Mexico

Mazatlan, Mexico

Yucatan (Progreso), Mexico

Ensenada, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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Norwegian Forced To Cancel Some 2025 Cruises

We are barely into 2024 and already Norwegian Cruise Line has had to cancel some 2025 itineraries.

20 trips aboard seven different vessels are affected, reported Cruise Industry News.

The cancellations are for a variety of reasons, according to a memorandum sent to travel advisors.

“Due to fleet redeployments, charters and one drydock, we have made the decision to cancel selected sailings onboard our ships,” the company said.

The affected cruises are:

• Norwegian Epic: Nov. 1, 2025; and Nov. 11, 2025
• Norwegian Jade: Feb. 20, 2025; March 4, 2025; March 13, 2025; and March 24, 2025
• Norwegian Pearl: Oct. 15, 2025
• Norwegian Sky: April 19, 2025; May 5, 2025; May 16, 2025; May 27, 2025; and Jun. 5, 2025
• Norwegian Spirit: Jan. 1, 2025
• Norwegian Star: May 17, 2025; May 29, 2025; and June 9, 2025
• Norwegian Viva: May 18, 2025; May 27, 2025; Sep. 20, 2025; and Sep. 29, 2025

Passengers are being offered different shifts with similar itineraries to replace the canceled cruises. New cruises to replace the cancelled sailings will be announced in two weeks, Norwegian Cruise Line said.

The canceled cruises had itineraries that ranged from Asia to the Caribbean.

Norwegian Cruise Line Cancels Some 2025 Sailings on Various Ships

• March 31, 2024

Norwegian Cruise Line is cancelling several sailings onboard its fleet for 2025.

According to a statement sent to travel agents, a total of 20 departures across seven different vessels have been affected.

“Due to fleet redeployments, charters and one drydock, we have made the decision to cancel selected sailings onboard our ships,” the company said.

According to the letter, the following cruises are no longer going ahead:

• Norwegian Epic: Nov. 1, 2025; and Nov. 11, 2025
• Norwegian Jade: Feb. 20, 2025; Mar. 4, 2025; Mar. 13, 2025; and Mar. 24, 2025
• Norwegian Pearl: Oct. 15, 2025
• Norwegian Sky: Apr. 19, 2025; May 5, 2025; May 16, 2025; May 27, 2025; and Jun. 5, 2025
• Norwegian Spirit: Jan. 1, 2025
• Norwegian Star: May 17, 2025; May 29, 2025; and Jun. 9, 2025
• Norwegian Viva: May 18, 2025; May 27, 2025; Sep. 20, 2025; and Sep. 29, 2025

Affected passengers are being offered the option of rebooking their cruises to alternate dates of travel that offer similar itineraries, the company added.

New cruises to replace the cancelled sailings will be announced in two weeks, Norwegian Cruise Line also said.

The cancelled cruises were set to visit an array of areas of the globe, including the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Adriatic Sea, the Middle East, the Red Sea, Asia and Northern Europe.

Several itineraries included destinations in areas that are currently facing geopolitical challenges, including Israel and the Red Sea.

The Norwegian Viva’s Sep. 29, 2025 departure was scheduled to sail from Haifa, Israel, to Istanbul, Turkey. Sailing for ten nights, the now-cancelled itinerary featured visits to several destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Holy Land, with ports of call in Egypt, Cyprus, Israel, Greece and Turkey.

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• 02 April 2024

A 2023 hurricane caught Mexico off guard: we must work together to prepare better

• Gian C. Delgado-Ramos   ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6851-9309 0 ,
• Simone Lucatello   ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0003-3577-9221 1 ,
• Debora Ley   ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-5038-6966 2 ,
• Antonina Ivanova   ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1591-6006 3 ,
• Ma de Lourdes Romo-Aguilar   ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6380-2770 4 ,
• Cecilia Conde   ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6761-1912 5 &
• Miguel Imaz-Lamadrid   ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0002-6653-0835 6

Gian C. Delgado-Ramos is a senior researcher of urban sustainability and resilience at the Institute of Geography, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Simone Lucatello is a senior researcher in climate-related disasters, adaptation and humanitarian action at the Mora Institute of the Mexican National Agency for Humanities, Science and Technology (Conahcyt), Mexico City, Mexico.

Debora Ley is a renewable-energy resources and climate-change specialist at the Energy and Natural Resource Unit, ECLAC-Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.

Antonina Ivanova is professor of sustainable development and climate-change policies and financing, and director of the APEC Studies Center at the Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Ma de Lourdes Romo-Aguilar is professor of urban and environmental management at the Northern Border College (El Colef) of the Mexican National Agency for Humanities, Science and Technology (Conahcyt), Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Cecilia Conde is a researcher in climate change at the Institute of Atmospheric Sciences and Climate Change, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.

Miguel Imaz-Lamadrid is professor of risk assessment, hydrology and geoinformatics at the Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.

An emergency responder in Acapulco amid the rubble left by Hurricane Otis in October 2023. Credit: Quetzalli Nicte-Ha/Reuters

You have full access to this article via your institution.

When Hurricane Otis hit Acapulco on the Pacific coast of Mexico on 25 October 2023, it had developed much more quickly and taken a different course than predicted. It damaged an area covering nearly 700 hectares, home to around 560,000 people (see go.nature.com/499dwgy ). A preliminary assessment suggests that reconstruction could cost between US$14 billion and $21 billion (see go.nature.com/3pkbvav ).

The hurricane’s impact exposed a lack of readiness from the Mexican government’s National Civil Protection System, local authorities, emergency response agencies and the private sector (particularly the tourism industry); this lack of preparedness affected a large part of the local population.

It also laid bare the structural and socio-economic vulnerabilities that prevail in the country. Years of uneven development and territorial planning have led to the formation of settlements that are particularly at risk from natural hazards and in which the poorest communities are systematically the most vulnerable. As extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity , so does the need for communities to be better prepared — and better repaired.

Disaster early-warning systems are ‘doomed to fail’ — only collective action can plug the gaps

In 2023, we and others founded the Mexican Network of Scientists for Climate (REDCiC, for its acronym in Spanish) to build bridges between those working on climate issues from different perspectives. This includes scientists and postgraduate students from the country at Mexican and international public and private research institutions, as well as journalists and outreach professionals. The network currently comprises around 100 members, and is likely to double in size in a couple of years. By organizing activities such as conferences and workshops, REDCiC facilitates scientific exchange and knowledge sharing, and seeks to ensure that climate adaptation and mitigation policies are rooted in robust data and analyses. For example, a workshop on Hurricane Otis led to a collaboration with the Mexican federal government’s National Council of Humanities, Sciences and Technologies (Conahcyt). And through public campaigns, media exposure, outreach and education, REDCiC engages the public in climate actions and highlights the role of citizen science, local practices and Indigenous Knowledge in addressing current and future environmental challenges.

Grounded in this interdisciplinary perspective, here we set out three priorities for scientists and policymakers to tackle climate-driven hazards and help reduce vulnerability.

Invest in modelling and forecasting

Disasters fuelled by the climate crisis are on the rise globally. In 2023 alone, record-breaking floods hit multiple countries, including the United States (see go.nature.com/3psmtaj ), India and several Mediterranean nations. According to the international disaster database EM-DAT, there were prominent episodes of intense droughts ( go.nature.com/496q8uj ), heatwaves 1 and wildfires 2 across the Northern Hemisphere, including in Canada, the United States and Mexico. It is essential that models and practices reflect current climate trends as accurately as possible.

A satellite image of the category 5 Hurricane Otis over the west coast of Mexico. Credit: GOES-East/NOAA/Alamy

Why did state-of-the-art models fail to forecast that Otis would reach the maximum intensity (a category 5 hurricane), rather than remain a tropical storm? Thorough analyses are required, but it seems to have stemmed partly from its rapid development in the East Pacific region, where data-collection points are sparse. The limited availability of ocean buoys, land observations, radars and hurricane hunters along the west coast of Mexico places heavy reliance on satellite imagery for forecasting, which, along with the aggravating nature of climate impacts, can lead to less-accurate forecasts.

Flash floods: why are more of them devastating the world’s driest regions?

Governments and funding agencies must invest in better infrastructure and instrumentation, along with more research into weather events. Many phenomena — including how hurricanes intensify 3 — are complex and not well understood. They remain difficult to predict despite considerable advances in meteorological modelling and forecasting in recent decades 4 .

An overhaul of what is considered expertise is also required — Indigenous Knowledge and local and traditional practices have typically been dismissed, but can help to improve information quality and data availability for modelling and forecasting 5 . This is especially crucial for a country such as Mexico, where a large proportion of lands (including at least 60% of forests and tropical rainforests) are managed by Indigenous and local communities.

Build resilience in vulnerable communities

The effects of Hurricane Otis also underscore the need to improve early-warning systems — which is itself contingent on accurate forecasts. Because disaster preparation becomes difficult once winds reach tropical storm force (sustained surface winds of 63–117 kilometres per hour), alerts should be issued between 36 and 48 hours before the predicted impact. This is in line with the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All initiative, which aims to ensure everyone is protected from natural hazards by 2027.

To protect populations effectively , communication must be rapid and seamless between stages, from data collection and forecasting to the spread of disaster-risk knowledge and warnings to communities that are likely to be affected.

Moreover, the response capacity of a community comes into play. This aspect is relatively subjective and, in a sense, is not just a policy issue but a political one, because it involves defining what is meaningful, desirable and a priority. Power dynamics at local and national levels have long led to the marginalization of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, which means that such groups have historically been excluded from decision-making processes.

Mangrove saplings planted by a community reforestation project in El Delgadito, Mexico. Credit: Gemina Garland-Lewis

In making landfall in and around Acapulco, Otis hit an area known for its long-standing stark inequalities and vulnerabilities, and its lack of inclusive mechanisms for planning, coordinating and implementing risk strategies. Farther inland, the government of Mexico City has announced the development of ‘community brigades’ to address these issues. Groups of trained volunteers help to lead disaster-risk prevention and responses in their communities , although the project is still in the developmental phase.

With the arrival of El Niño, prepare for stronger marine heatwaves

As well as being disproportionately affected by the effects of climate change, low- and middle-income countries often encounter significant barriers to implementing long-term climate strategies. Although international climate justice and loss-and-damage mechanisms are crucial, so are ambitious national and regional actions. A robust adaptation framework involves reshaping urban and rural development strategies, re-evaluating building codes and construction practices for efficiency, circularity and resilience, and reconceptualizing reconstruction efforts to incorporate ecosystemic, social and cultural diversity. This can succeed only if the framework is put in place by local and national governments working with local communities, because it is not enough to just swiftly and pragmatically disburse loss-and-damage funding . Local needs, challenges and priorities need to be considered.

Historically, low- and middle-income countries have been assigned the role of resource providers. These prevailing dynamics of global production, consumption and trade must be re-evaluated. Each country must assess the extent to which it can decouple resource extraction from economic growth, by reducing reliance on linear models of production and consumption, and improving resource efficiency and circularity. Similarly, nations must explore strategies to decouple economic growth from overall prosperity and quality of life. This includes a re-evaluation of the significance of private, public and social property, which can play a key part in resource demand. For example, prioritizing investments in public infrastructure and urban utilities can alleviate resource demand. Rather than promoting private amenities such as swimming pools, which are often an inefficient use of land and resources, emphasis should be placed on public alternatives such as open spaces and public recreational areas.

Work with local communities

In Mexico, investing in and implementing mid- and long-term adaptation policies and plans has proved challenging, even though these have been formulated by the federal government, most of the state governments and a few municipal governments. This is largely because more than one-third of the country’s population lives in poverty, according to CONEVAL (the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy). Against this background, addressing basic urgent needs within a framework of short-term goals has necessarily been prioritized over future climate adaptation plans, even though this population group is likely to be most affected by long-term climate effects.

Beyond poverty and inadequate basic services and infrastructure, however, climate action is hindered by weak governance, restricted funding, limited human capacity at the local level and a lack of trust and involvement of Indigenous and local communities.

Meet the scientists planning for disasters

Tools such as risk atlases, territorial and hydrological planning and building standards must be adapted and robustly updated to take climate risks and systemic vulnerabilities into account. For this to happen, it is essential for the scientific community, practitioners, government agencies and, certainly, Indigenous and local communities to reach a consensus on the most suitable criteria, while considering diversity (spatial, social and cultural). A participatory and inclusive consensus should enable development of meaningful metrics to assess vulnerability and evaluate the effectiveness of actions taken.

This type of consensus-building practice led to the successful reforestation of mangroves in the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. The mangroves protect the local coastal community of El Delgadito from hurricanes, storms and floods; provide habitats for fish and shellfish — a key source of livelihood — and serve as carbon dioxide sinks. Since 2017, however, it has been recorded that mangroves have suffered dryness and uprooting, which is attributed to climate change.

In response, in 2019, the local community initiated a reforestation effort in partnership with scientists at Mexican institutions, the US–Mexican non-governmental organization WILDCOAST and the Mexican government’s National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP). This enabled the reintroduction of more than 60,000 plants in 4 years 6 . Women and young people of any gender are actively involved in planting, maintenance and monitoring activities. Children are also encouraged to participate, fostering environmental awareness and education in the community.

The REDCiC network aims to promote progress along all three priorities outlined. It fosters interactions in the scientific community — from climate, environmental and social sciences to public health; supports communication between scientists, relevant institutions and the public; and promotes the inclusion of Indigenous and local communities at all levels of the discourse.

These collaborations are crucial for building a climate-resilient society, particularly in contexts that are characterized by constrained capacities and escalating needs, as in Mexico. International organizations, local and regional governments, scientific institutions, organized civil society, the private sector and the media should support networks such as this one — in Mexico and elsewhere — through funding but also by engaging with their members and activities to accelerate transformational, rather than merely incremental, climate action.

Nature 628 , 33-35 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00904-0

Thompson, V. et al. Nature Commun. 14 , 2152 (2023).

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MacCarthy, J., Richter, J., Tyukacina, S., Weisse, M. & Harris, N. The Latest Data Confirms: Forest Fires are Getting Worse (World Resources Institute, 2023).

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Judt, F., Rios-Berrios, R., & Bryan, G. H. Mon. Weather Rev. 151 , 2683–2699 (2023).

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Brunet, G. et al. Bull. Am. Meteorol. Soc. 104 , E909–E927 (2023).

Ranasinghe, R. et al . in Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis (eds Masson-Delmotte, V. et al .) 1767–1926 (Cambridge Univ. Press, 2021).

Ivanova Boncheva, A. & Bermudez-Contreras, A. in Towards an Emissions Trading System in Mexico (ed. Lucatello, S.) 265–284 (Springer, 2021).

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Competing Interests

G.C.D.-R. is rapporteur of the Multidisciplinary Expert Scientific Advisory Group of the 7th Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-7) process of UNEP, and a selected participant for the Scoping Meeting of the IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities. S.L. is a lead author in the GEO-7 Report and UNEP Foresight Assessment. D.L. is coordinating lead author (CLA) of the UNEP GEO-7 report, the IPBES NEXUS assessment and an active official for ECLAC-Mexico.

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Reporting by Stefanie Eschenbacher in Mexico City and Arathy Somasekhar in Houston Additional reporting by Ana Isabel Martinez in Mexico City Editing by Marianna Parraga and Lisa Shumaker

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Stefanie covers energy, the environment and climate change across Mexico and Central America - with a particular focus on the troubled Mexican state oil company Pemex and its emissions. A German native, she also spent more than a decade writing about all things finance while based in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. Before that, she worked in microfinance in Ghana. She holds a Master's degree in economics and finance.

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