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Complete Guide to All the Cruise Ports in Mexico

This complete guide to all the cruise ports in Mexico covers how safe they are, which cruise lines visit, popular activities, and more.

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Ever wondered just how many cruise ports there are in Mexico and what fun and culturally-rich activities there are to do in them? To help give you an overview of Mexican cruise ports, we’ve put together this full guide that’s complete with what cruise ports are in Mexico (there’s over 20 — we bet you didn’t know there were that many!).

We cover whether they’re safe and then give an overview of port towns and cities on both the west and east coasts. We also go over which ports are visited by which cruise lines, including the ports in Mexico that Carnival visits, the ports in Mexico where Royal Caribbean ships stop, the ports in Mexico that Princess Cruises goes to, and more.

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Are cruise ports in Mexico safe?

According to the U.S. Department of State ’s travel advisories for Mexico at the time of writing, a ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory is in effect for the states where Manzanillo, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Acapulco, Topolobampo, and Mazatlán are located. Further, a ‘Reconsider Travel’ advisory is in effect for the states where Ensenada, Puerto Vallarta, and Guaymas are located.

This is not to say that you need to completely cancel a cruise that visits these places or not even consider booking one that stops there. But if you do take a voyage to one of these ports, we recommend either staying within the developed port area or taking an organized excursion — not venturing out too far on your own.

If going ashore at all makes you uncomfortable, consider staying on the ship that day and enjoying it while it’s much less crowded! Remember that it’s in the best interest of the cruise lines to keep their passengers safe. If the situation gets too bad in a particular area, cruise lines have been known to cancel calls to that port entirely to keep their guests and crew safe.

As for all other ports in Mexico, it’s always good to exercise a healthy level of caution. Leave your expensive accessories and jewelry on the ship, pay attention to your surroundings, and try to stay in more highly trafficked/touristy areas. Like with most countries, there are safer areas than others in Mexico, and certainly some ports are more advisable to visit than others. Check the latest Department of State travel advisories before you book and again right before sailing to help inform your decisions.

What cruise ship ports are in Mexico: Eastern Mexico Cruise Ports

Cruise lines that visit Cozumel: Royal Caribbean, Princess, MSC Cruises, Carnival, Celebrity, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Disney, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Explora Journeys, Virgin Voyages, Silversea Cruises, Crystal, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Viking, Azamara, P&O Cruises, Marella Cruises, American Queen Voyages, Ponant, Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, and Windstar Cruises.

Not only is Cozumel the busiest cruise port in Mexico, but it’s also one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. There are lots of things to do in and around Cozumel during a cruise. Some of these activities include going to the beach, visiting Mayan ruins, boat tours, ATV rides, and shopping. Cozumel is also known as one of the best places in the world for scuba diving, so it’s an ideal spot for those who love to go diving or snorkeling.

Cruise lines that visit Costa Maya: Royal Caribbean, Princess, MSC Cruises, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Celebrity, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Holland America, Virgin Voyages, Disney, Explora Journeys, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Marella Cruises, Crystal, and Azamara.

Costa Maya is another one of the most popular cruise ports in Mexico. Cruisers at this port can go see the nearby Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, hit the beach, or spend the day at the ruins-themed Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom water park. Shopping and restaurants also abound, and the port area is beautifully developed with a swimming pool, bars, restaurants, shops, and more.

Cruise lines that visit Progreso: Royal Caribbean, Explora Journeys, Disney, Carnival, Celebrity, Regent Seven Seas, Ponant, and American Queen Voyages.

Progreso is perhaps best known as the port gateway to Chichen Itza, which is an archaeological site of a large city built by the Mayans around the fifth century. Other things you can do in Progreso include visiting the beach, taking a cenote excursion, or going on a cuisine or alcohol-tasting tour.

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Cruise line that visits Cancun: American Queen Voyages.

Currently the only cruise line that visits Cancun is American Queen Voyages, as the port can only accommodate small vessels. Thus, it isn’t as popular with ships as other destinations in Mexico. During a voyage that does stop here, guests can spend the day on the beach, explore nearby Mayan ruins, or enjoy local cuisine.

Playa del Carmen

Cruise line that visits Playa del Carmen: American Queen Voyages.

Another seldom-visited destination for cruise ships, Playa del Carmen has beautiful beaches of its own, but is often a jumping-off point for those who want to head north to busier Cancun.

Cruise line that visits Campeche: American Queen Voyages.

Campeche is a fortified port city, whose walls were built in the mid-1600s to protect against pirates. This city is great for exploring on foot, and is known for its historic district, military architecture, and baroque colonial buildings. For those who want to see Mayan ruins, those are also an option for exploring nearby.

What cruise ship ports are in Mexico: Western Mexico Cruise Ports

Cruise lines that visit Ensenada: Carnival, Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Celebrity, and Viking.

Located about 90 miles and a two hours’ drive south of San Diego, Ensenada is one of the most popular cruise ports in Mexico as it’s so close to southern California homeports. Cruise passengers arriving in Ensenada can go horseback riding, take a wine or food tour, see the La Bufadora geyser, or spend time in town shopping and enjoying the city streets.

Cabo San Lucas

Cruise lines that visit Cabo San Lucas: Carnival, Holland America, Princess, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Crystal, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Celebrity, and Viking.

When most people think of Cabo San Lucas they think of the Land’s End rock formation, which marks the spot where the Gulf of California meets the Pacific Ocean. Taking a tour to see this is one of the most popular things to do during a stop in Cabo. Other options include going whale watching, hitting the beach, tasting Baja cuisine around town, shopping, and snorkeling or scuba diving.

Puerto Vallarta

Cruise lines that visit Puerto Vallarta: Holland America, Princess, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular vacation spots in Mexico, and is home to some of the country’s best beaches. Aside from having a beach day, other things to do include strolling along the Malecon boardwalk, taking a tequila or food tour, enjoying the streets of Old Vallarta or the Zona Romántica neighborhood, or visiting nearby archaeological sites.

Cruise lines that visit Mazatlán: Holland America, Princess, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Oceania, Celebrity, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Mazatlán is another popular resort city with a beautiful old town district that’s popular with visitors. While in Mazatlán, passengers can hit the beach, visit the aquarium, watch people cliff-dive at El Clavadista, go shopping and to museums, or take a ferry to Stone Island. Those with kids might consider going to Mazagua Water Park, which features water slides and rides, a wave pool, volleyball, and more.

Cruise lines that visit Loreto: Holland America, Princess, Scenic, and Lindblad Expeditions.

Known for its clear blue waters and rock formations, Loreto is a beautiful coastal city located on the eastern side of the Baja California Peninsula. Activities to do include strolling along the Malecon boardwalk, enjoying the city’s colonial architecture, or visiting Loreto National Marine Park, nicknamed “The Aquarium of the World” due to plentiful marine life that make it an excellent spot for diving and snorkeling.

Cruise lines that visit Huatulco: Holland America, Crystal, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, Seabourn, Oceania, and American Queen Voyages.

Located in southern Mexico, Huatulco is a growing tourist area that features the charming old town of La Crucecita. Visiting cruise guests can head to nearby Santa Cruz to enjoy the beach, go snorkeling, go deep sea fishing, see waterfalls at Cascadas Magicas, or explore the Bocana del Rio Copalita archaeological site.

Puerto Chiapas

Cruise lines that visit Puerto Chiapas: Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line, Seabourn, and American Queen Voyages.

During a cruise stop in Puerto Chiapas, you may consider taking a tour of nearby cacao, banana, or coffee plantations; explore the Izapa ruins; or walk the charming streets in the nearby historic city of Tapachula.

Cruise lines that visit La Paz: Carnival, Princess, Holland America, Crystal, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, UnCruise Adventures, and American Queen Voyages.

La Paz is the capital of the state of Baja California Sur. In this bustling cruise port in Mexico, you can stroll along the Malecon boardwalk, enjoy shops and restaurants, hit the beach, go kayaking, or head out snorkeling with whale sharks or scuba diving.

San José del Cabo

Cruise lines that visit San Jose del Cabo: Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures.

Most cruise ships that visit the southern end of the Baja California Peninsula are heading to Cabo San Lucas, which is just a 30 minutes’ drive from San José del Cabo. However, sometimes very small cruise lines like to dock at San José del Cabo instead.

Heading over to Cabo San Lucas is an option for passengers who dock at this port, but San José del Cabo has plenty for a port day on its own. These include exploring the downtown art district, hitting the nearby beaches which are popular for surfing, going deep-sea fishing, or touring local breweries.

Cruise lines that visit Acapulco: Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Silversea, and Crystal.

Acapulco is one of the biggest Mexican party destinations. But it’s also one of the most dangerous cruise ports in Mexico due to crime. Guests should exercise caution when visiting Acapulco, and we recommend taking an organized excursion through your cruise line.

Things to do include hitting the beach; exploring shops, restaurants, and bars near the port area; exploring Old Acapulco; and watching cliff divers at La Quebrada.

Cruise lines that visit Manzanillo: Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, Holland America, Oceania, and American Queen Voyages.

With 40 miles of Pacific coastline, Manzanillo, Mexico is also a nice port to have a beach day. Further points of interest in the area include the Las Hadas Golf Resort, the Tortugario Ecological Center with a turtle sanctuary, and the nearby city of Colima and town of Comala. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities in Manzanillo as well.

Cruise line that visits Guaymas: Holland America Line.

One of the quieter cruise ports in Mexico, many passengers who dock in Guaymas head to nearby San Carlos, which features miles of bays and beaches to enjoy. In addition to exploring the coastline, guests may hike the Nacapule Canyon, visit the Guaymas Historical Museum, go deep-sea fishing, or head out on a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion.

Cruise line that visits Cabo Pulmo: Lindblad Expeditions.

Cabo Pulmo is a tiny resort town that’s world-renowned for its unspoiled marine landscape. In fact, it’s designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the “Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California.” So unsurprisingly, the best thing to do during a port call here is snorkel or scuba dive at Cabo Pulmo National Park, which features a beautiful living coral reef.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

Cruise lines that visit Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Oceania Cruises.

When docking at the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo cruise port, guests have the option to visit one or both of the two towns that the port serves: Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo (located three miles apart). Guests can hit the beach, go shopping, enjoy local cuisine, and visit shops selling lots of handmade goods in both towns. Deep sea fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking are also popular activities.

Topolobampo

Cruise lines that visit Topolobampo: There are no current cruises scheduled to visit in 2024 or 2025.

There are no current voyages that have calls to Topolobampo. However, it does have cruise ship facilities, and Holland America has visited in the past. Popular activities to do in the area include taking a picturesque train ride through the Copper Canyon, hitting the beach, going snorkeling, heading out on a deep-sea fishing excursion, and enjoying the local cuisine.

Santa Rosalia

Cruise lines that visit Santa Rosalia: There are no current cruises scheduled to visit in 2024 or 2025.

Likewise, Santa Rosalia has no scheduled voyages, but cruises have called there in the past. Founded by the French, architecture in this small, old mining town is European-inspired but the culture is thoroughly Mexican. Guests can explore the town, visiting the Iglesia de Santa Barbara (Church of Santa Barbara) and Panaderia El Boleo, a bakery that still uses a wood-fired stove to bake bread and pastries.

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How many of these cruise ports in Mexico have you visited? What are you favorite things to do in these ports of call? Drop us an anchor below to share which of these popular Mexican ports you enjoy visiting via cruise ship.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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7 Most Beautiful Mexican Riviera Cruise Ports

The western coast of Mexico is so well-known for its fabulous beaches and stunning coastline that it’s frequently called the Mexican Riviera. Not be confused with the Mayan Riviera in the Caribbean—where Cozumel is located—the Mexican Riviera is located along the Pacific Ocean and is home to some of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico.

There are 20 cities along the Mexican Riviera, and each one has its own unique landscape and culture. But with a sprawling 4500 miles of coastline, it’s impractical to drive the vast distances between them. That’s why savvy travelers choose to explore the Mexican Riviera by embarking on a cruise .

In this article, we’ll look at the most popular Mexican Riviera cruise ports to visit and the activities you can do while there. We’ll cover them by region, going from north to south, so you can find your perfect Mexican Riviera getaway. No matter where you go in the Mexican Riviera, adventure and culture await you.

so you can see the region’s stunning sights in a short amount of time.

Cruising the Mexican Riviera

A cruise is arguably the best way to see multiple different destinations along the Riviera, and it will also get you closer to the water than anything else you could hope to experience.

Pick the one that suits your vacation style and sit back and let the captain do all the hard work while you take in the gorgeous coastline from the top deck.

Many major cruise lines offer Mexican Riviera itineraries. The most popular Mexican riviera cruise ports are Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas , Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, and Salina Cruz.

Ports may vary, but we hope this guide can help you start customizing a plan that fits your trip. No matter how many days you have to explore, we’re sure you will enjoy your tip along the beautiful Pacific Coast of Mexico.

Where do Mexican Riviera cruises begin?

Depending on the cruise line, you will embark in either Los Angeles or San Diego. It’s important to know your embarkation port so your shuttle or taxi will drop you at the right one.

Los Angeles has two ports: the World Cruise Center (in San Pedro) and the Long Beach Cruise Terminal (in Long Beach). It can take more than an hour to get to either cruise port from LA International Airport (LAX).

• Princess Cruises and Norwegian sail from San Pedro
• Carnival Cruises sails from Long Beach.

San Diego also has two terminals: the B-Street Pier & Cruise Ship Terminal and the Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier. Most cruises depart from the B-Street Pier & Cruise Ship Terminal. Both terminals are approximately 10 minutes drive from San Diego International Airport (SAN).

These cruise lines sail from San Diego:

• Carnival Cruise Line.
• Celebrity Cruise Line.
• Crystal Cruises.
• Disney Cruise Line.
• Holland America Line.
• Norwegian Cruise Line.
• Princess Cruises.

Even if it’s a mere 10-minute trip to the terminal, we’ve experienced enough unforeseen travel delays to recommend arriving a day or two early. You don’t want to miss the boat!

Might as well take advantage of your time in these Southern California cities before departing on your cruise.

• If in LA, pay a visit to Griffith Park, hit the waves with a 2-hour surfing lesson , or walk along Santa Monica Pier.
• If in San Diego, visit the famous San Diego Zoo with this skip the line ticket . Or relax along Black Beach while you watch the locals ride the waves.

ⓘ TIP: Buy travel insurance before your trip. It’s a small expense, but it pays off big if there’s a last-minute cruise cancellation or if one of your bags goes missing!

Mexican Riviera cruise ports in Baja California

1. ensenada.

When you finally arrive in Mexico, your first stop will likely be Ensenada in Baja California. With its many attractions, Ensenada is a great place to get your feet wet in Mexico.

Take a stroll along the Malecon, the boardwalk running from the local fish market and ending at a city park. If you’re lucky, you might see some sea lions or watch the local fishermen bring in their catch of the day.

If you’re a wine lover, you may know that Ensenada is considered the Napa Valley of Mexico. It attracts wine connoisseurs from all over the world, and in fact taking a wine tour is one of the most popular cruise excursions in Ensenada.

Pay a visit to one of the local markets or La Cava de Marcelo , pack yourself a picnic and head out to the vines. Bodegas de Santo Tomas (use Google Translate on this Spanish-language website) is the oldest winery in Baja California. They started all the way back in 1888 and they still give wine tours today.

2. Cabo San Lucas

Some cruises choose their first stop further south from Ensenada, in Cabo San Lucas . Located at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, it boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

A highlight of the town is the Bay of Cabo San Lucas. There, you’ll witness sea life such as sea lions, colorful fish and pelicans. Rock formations form arches and rigid shapes in the water. Many will snorkel or go diving along the edge of the peninsula.

ⓘ TIP:   Be sure you’re on the deck on the approach to Cabo San Lucas. You don’t want to miss this picture-perfect scene.

3. Mazatlán

If your cruise itinerary allows time to venture a little further inland, take the opportunity to visit Mazatlán, a historic little coastal town known for its incredible seafood. Known as the Pearl of the Pacific, Mazatlan endured some tough times with the drug cartel a few years ago, but now it’s experiencing a second wind as a key tourist destination.

A trip to Mazatlan must include a stroll to the historic center of Old Mazatlan. It’s one of those rare spots where the food is great, the history is fascinating and the local shops and boutiques are to die for.

Or, if none of that sounds appealing to you, you can seek out the Sea of Cortez instead for swimming and snorkeling. Even better is a nice zip-line tour with a tequila tasting!

Central Mexican cruise ports

4. puerto vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta is the midpoint of the Mexican Riviera cruise stops. It’s a bustling, modern town with plenty of colonial charm and sweeping white-sand beaches.

If you are interested in culture, you might want to experience some traditional Mexican street theater, enjoy the lush gardens around town, or explore the city’s cobblestone streets. Or perhaps a city tour with visits to a tequila distillery and coffee factory would be more to your liking. ( Learn more here. )

If you want a rush of adrenaline, you’ll find dozens of activities on offer here. Puerto Vallarta has everything from horseback riding and ATVs to waterfall and snorkeling adventures.

For a more relaxed experience, the hop-on/hop-off bus is a favorite activity. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants to explore, art galleries to browse, and boutiques where you will find beautiful hand woven and naturally dyed textiles. (I especially recommend the 4D Art Museum and Galleria Dante!)

5. Manzanillo

The cruise port stop of Manzanillo is a popular tourist destination, both for its fantastic beaches and for the opportunity to go deep-sea sportfishing for marlin.

For beachgoers, Playa La Audiencia is a favorite due to its calm surf for water sports. The waters off the coast have numerous coral reefs, shipwrecks, and other good dive sites.

But there are also some cruise excursions in Manzanillo to consider.

In addition to horseback riding, another popular attraction is the colonial city of Colima, a 90-minute excursion bus drive from Manzanillo. Founded in 1523, Colima is the capital of the state and oozes plenty of historic, Spanish-colonial charm.

Southern Mexican Riviera cruise ports

6. zihuatanejo.

Towards the end of your cruise, you will likely port in cities like Zihuatanejo or Acapulco. Both cities are home to world-class luxury resorts and abundant sea life. Dip your toes in the Pacific, book yourself a cabana and take in the last few days of sunshine from the beautiful white sand beaches.

If you are into surfing then you must pay a visit to Troncones. The beach is located just north of Zihuatanejo and has a reputation for being one of the best spots to find waves in the area. It is also perfect for beginner surfers. There are decent waves year round but like most other surf destinations- the spring and summer months are most popular. Hit up some of the local surf shops to rent some gear if you don’t have gear of your own.

7. Acapulco

During these final few days, you will want to pick up a few gifts for the people back at home. Check out the local markets, boutiques and street vendors for artisan made goods. Some of my favorites in the area include the many local galleries and street vendors. Just make sure that you pack as light as you can so that you still have some room in your suitcase.

ⓘ TIP:   Acapulco is famous for its Cliff Divers. The iconic way to enjoy it is a sunset show with dinner and drinks. CHECK PRICES HERE.

Mexican Riviera cruise FAQs

Are passports required for cruises to mexico.

All travelers should carry a valid passport with them when taking a cruise to Mexico . However, US citizens on closed-loop cruises, which begin and end at the same US port, can enter without a passport and show a state-issued ID and an original birth certificate instead.

When is the best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera?

People cruise the Mexican Riviera year-round, but the best months are from November through May, during Mexico’s dry season. Mexican Riviera cruises are popular even in the more rainy summer months, when the summer travel season is in full swing and kids are on school break.

What about days at sea?

Many of the longer cruises have “days at sea” built in. These are the days that you will want to spend relaxing, refreshing and truly enjoying your trip. What that looks like is up to you. While many people will be hitting the deck and enjoying an expensive cocktail poolside, we consider this the perfect opportunity to explore the ship. Scope out the secret destinations in the morning. Who knows what you might discover? Cruise ships may have 1-3 main pools which are sure to be full on “sea days,” but you might find a spa pool or Jacuzzi in a part of the ship that’s less crowded.

What can I eat in a Mexican Riviera cruise port?

While you’re ashore, the Mexican Riviera offers many opportunities to dine with a view of the ocean or lounge on a beach and be served a cocktail right on the sand. It can also be a lot of fun to be adventurous and eat your way through town on a Mexican food tour . If you don’t eat meat, don’t worry—you won’t have any problem finding vegetarian Mexican food!

Final thoughts about taking a Mexican Rivera cruise

As you can see from our guide, ten days along the Mexican Riviera cruise ports will allow you to barely scratch the surface of what the region has to offer.

With so many beautiful and interesting places to explore we suggest taking a cruise first to cover the most ground. Once you have paid a visit to the best Mexican cruise ports, it will be easier to plan a destination-based vacation for your next trip to the region. Maybe you’ll want to book a few days in Cabo or visit one of the quieter surrounding destinations.

Wherever you go, snap lots of pictures and have a great trip!

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Written by Dan

Professional photographer specializing in street, food and travel shots.

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Manzanillo Cruise Port: Tips, Attractions, Weather

The Manzanillo cruise port is a popular destination on the west coast of Mexico, although it is more popular for resort visitors than cruises.

This large commercial port along the Mexican Riviera overlooks the two bays of Manzanillo and Santiago. It is known for its recreational activities including beaches and marlin fishing.

The best months to visit are during the dry season that goes from November through May each year.

Where is Manzanillo? It is about 175 miles south of Puerto Vallarta and more than 400 miles north of Acapulco. Manzanillo attracts cruise ships on Panama Canal cruises and longer Mexican Riviera cruises. It is not visited as often by seven-day cruises out of San Diego or Long Beach, California.

Attractions and Shore Excursions

Walking around attractions, manzanillo cruise port map.

The Manzanillo port does not have quite as many points of interest for cruise visitors on foot as some other cruise ports. It has more to offer with longer shore excursions that require transportation.

Still, there are a few worthy attractions within the city. Cruise visitors can make a brief visit to the small but pretty and picturesque Alvaro Obregon Garden, just to the right of the cruise dock. The sailfish statue there is one of the most important monuments in the city.

The refurbished historic city center has a pedestrian boardwalk, a main plaza that overlooks the Manzanillo bay, shops, bars and restaurants.

Dining emphasizes fresh seafood. One beverage unique to the region is agua de tuba, which is made from fermented corn beverage and juice of coconut palms.

Shore Excursions

A simple guided city tour starts at about $50 per person and includes transportation. Some include a brief visit to a local beach.

One of the best attractions is the colonial city of Colima. Colima, capital of the state, is a 90-minute excursion bus drive from Manzanillo that offers historic charm and quiet city plazas. The city was founded in 1523.

Visitors will see two famous volcanoes in the distance. Nevado de Colima is 14,200 feet tall and Volcan de Fuego is more than 13,000 feet.

Colima also offers access to the famous Pyramids of La Campana. The pyramids are the largest archeological site in western Mexico. Prices for this six- to seven-hour tour start at about $100 per person.

Fishing is a major attraction because of the large numbers of marlin, sailfish and other sport fish that are found in the waters offshore. Fishing is so popular that the city hosts international tournaments every year, the Mexico Tourist Board says.

Golfers will find the 18-hole Mantarraya Golf Course at Las Hadas resort and a 27-hole course at the Grand Bay Resort on Isla Navidad. Las Hadas is three miles north of the city on the Santiago Peninsula with views overlooking the bay. Isla Navidad is 30 miles north of the city and also overlooks the bay. Golf shore excursion prices start at about $200 per person.

Cuyutlan is an hour south of Manzanillo. It has black sand beaches, good beaches for surfing, the Salt Museum and El Tortuguero turtle sanctuary. The turtle sanctuary is the largest in Mexico and home to iguanas and crocodiles. Prices for this five- to six-hour tour start at about $70.

Nearby Beaches

The Las Hadas resort is a safe shore excursion option offered by some tour operators for about $60 to $70 per person.

Otherwise, beach lovers will find 40 miles of them. Some of the best beaches in Manzanillo line a five-mile segment around the Santiago Bay to the west of the Santiago Peninsula, the Mexico Tourism Board says.

They include Miramar Beach, Olas Altas Beach, Santiago Beach and Audiencia Beach. Audiencia has calm waters and is a good choice for swimming, snorkeling and waterskiing. Miramar has more wind and draws windsurfers, kiteboarders and other watersports enthusiasts.

Like most destinations along the Mexican Riviera , Manzanillo weather has a dry season and a rainy season.

The dry season lasts from November through May with average rainfall of one inch or less per month, according to historical data from the country’s National Water Commission.

The wet season occurs from June through October as a result of the Pacific hurricane season . Average rainfall climbs to more than four inches in June and reaches a high point of more than 10 inches in September.

Average high temperatures range from 85 degrees Fahrenheit or 29 Celsius in January to 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 32 Celsius in July and August.

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Mexico Cruise Ports

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With mile upon mile of soft sand beaches and lush rainforest on its Caribbean shores and the stark beauty of deserts and mountains on the Pacific, Mexico is a country of extraordinary natural beauty. A sophisticated culture extends back centuries, with its legacy of dazzling pre-Hispanic temples and mysterious stepped pyramids surrounded by jungle. Then there’s Mexico’s famous cuisine, from rich chocolate sauces to chili-infused salsas, fresh seafood tacos, and spicy pork tortillas—and of course, tequila.

On the Caribbean coast, snorkel over coral reefs, bask on powdery beaches, and swim in cool, deep cenotes overhung by tropical vegetation. From Costa Maya, try river tubing on the shimmering blue Bacalar Lagoon, or explore the Mayan antiquities of Chacchoben and Kohunlich. Take to the balmy waters off Cozumel for snorkeling, sailing, and kayaking, or head along the coast to the ruins of Tulum.

On the Pacific coast, sample Mexico’s fine wines in Ensenada and stroll the malecón in colorful Mazatlán. Ride a horse, take an expedition into the mountains, or join an ATV adventure in glamorous Puerto Vallarta. Or explore Cabo San Lucas, famed for its craggy rock formations, cactus-studded deserts, and thrilling whale-watching. Discover all that these Mexico cruise ports have to offer on a luxury vacation with Celebrity Cruises.

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The Best Cruise Ports of Call in the Western Caribbean

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A Caribbean cruise is a dream vacation for many travelers. However, when these travelers start planning their cruise , it is difficult to decide which ports of call to visit in the region. Since most cruises sail to either the Eastern Caribbean or the Western Caribbean, the big question soon becomes which is better , an Eastern Caribbean cruise or Western Caribbean cruise? The short answer is that you can have a great vacation at either destination, but there are differences in the ports of call.

This article describes things to do and see at the best cruise ports in the Western Caribbean, which includes the islands west and south of Cuba, along with Mexico, Central America, and Colombia in South America. The good news for cruise travelers is that their cruise ship will most likely have a shore excursion option to participate in the best local activities or see the most interesting historical sites in these ports of call. Alternatively, ships usually dock near a town and/or beach, so those who like to explore on their own can go shopping or enjoy the great beaches and other sites of the Western Caribbean near their ship.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cruise ships have three great Western Caribbean ports of call on the eastern coast and Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. One of the ports, Progreso, is in the Yucatan state of Mexico. The island of Cozumel and Costa Maya, which is about a four-hour drive from Cancun, are located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo.

Cozumel is an island about 12 miles from Playa del Carmen near the southern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Cozumel is only about 30 miles long and 10 miles wide​ but offers diverse activities for visitors. Unsurprisingly, many of these activities are in or on the water, with great beaches, diving, and snorkeling spots. Cozumel also offers history buffs the opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan site of San Gervasio, which is the only archaeological site on Cozumel. However, Cozumel is just a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, which has many excellent Mayan sites nearby like Tulum .

Those who like to shop will enjoy exploring all of the shops near the cruise ship pier or they can take a cab or shuttle into the town of San Miguel near the center of the island. If you love dolphins and want to splurge a little, plan a visit to Dolphinaris , where you can feed and/or swim with the dolphins.

Progreso, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Progreso is on the northern side of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, only about 30 miles from Merida. The port is very distinctive because of its pier, which reaches about 4 miles out into the sea. Completed in 1989, it's the world's longest pier. Fortunately for cruise visitors, a free shuttle will take them into town.

Progreso is one of the newer cruise ports in Mexico, and ships offer dozens of great shore excursions. Visitors who appreciate Mayan history can visit the archaeological sites of Dzibilchaltun, Uxmal, or ​ Chichen Itza , which was voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World , and the only one in North America.

Other shore excursion activities include cave snorkeling, golfing, hiking, fishing, paddle boarding, riding in a beach buggy, or exploring a cave. Since the town of Merida is nearby, visitors can easily learn more about the history and culture of the region.

Costa Maya, Mexico

Costa Maya is also on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, but about 100 miles further down the Peninsula from Playa del Carmen. It's near the border of Mexico and Belize. This region of Mexico is not as developed as other Mexican ports of call, but it does have pristine beaches and spectacular Mayan ruins hidden in the nearby jungle. These ruins are not as over-visited as others in Mexico, which makes them even more fascinating. Many cruise passengers specifically want to visit Chacchoben, an ancient city dating back to the 4th century A.D.

The Costa Maya area also features many different types of birds, monkeys, and even jaguars in its jungle setting. Those who enjoy more active fun will enjoy water sports, biking, snorkeling, and paddle boarding.

The Costa Maya village and cruise facility are in the small town of Mahahual in the southern corner of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. This village was purpose-built to attract cruise ships back in 2001 and significantly renovated after a hurricane in 2007. Cruise travelers will love the numerous shops, bars, and restaurants near the pier, and it's an inexpensive taxi ride into the shopping district of the town of Mahahual.

Most cruise lines will have Costa Maya shore excursions similar to those of Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines.

Grand Cayman Island

Although cruise ships have to tender passengers ashore at Grand Cayman Island, it's still one of the most popular cruise ports in the Caribbean. Grand Cayman has many features that cruise travelers love — great shopping, spectacular beaches, and fun bars. The flat island also has unique places to visit like Stingray City , the turtle farm, and Hell.

Stingray City is a sandbar where stingrays come to be fed. Small boats take vacationers and cruise travelers out to the sandbar and you can snorkel, SCUBA, feed the stingrays by hand, or just watch them in the crystal clear water. The turtle farm on Grand Cayman has all sorts of sea turtles and provides an opportunity for kids (and adults) to learn more about sea turtles. Hell is a small village that sits in the middle of a rocky outcropping that looks almost burned (like Hell). People come to buy postcards and t-shirts and have their photo taken by the "Hell" sign.

Even with all these unique places to see, most cruise travelers head to one of the Grand Cayman beaches (Seven Mile Beach is very popular) to swim or sit on the white sand and have a cold drink.

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica is a large island in the Western Caribbean with three popular cruise ports on the north coast — Montego Bay, Falmouth, and Ocho Rios. All the ports in Jamaica seem to have aggressive vendors, but ignoring them and just saying "no thank you" usually works.

Many travelers consider Montego Bay the island's capital of tourism. It is Jamaica's second largest city and is famous for its lively atmosphere, great duty-free shopping, and luxurious golf and beach resorts. Although some of the best beaches are for resort guests only, cruise passengers can enjoy Doctor's Cave Beach or take an excursion to the famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril (less than 2 hours away).

Montego Bay has some fascinating historic plantation homes, called Great Houses, that are open to tourists. Visitors can also arrange tours to popular sites near other Jamaican ports like Dunn's River Falls , which is closest to the port of Ocho Rios.

Falmouth, Jamaica

Falmouth is a small town of about 10,000 residents on the northern coast of Jamaica about 18 miles east of Montego Bay. Its most famous citizen is Usain Bolt, who is an Olympic champion and world-record sprinter. This historic town with its Georgian-style architecture became well-known to cruise travelers when Royal Caribbean completed its $200 million Falmouth Cruise Terminal in 2011. Since the terminal has pier space for two large cruise ships, its population almost doubles when two ships are in port.

The cruise terminal has enough bars, restaurants, and shopping to keep most visitors happy. Although many visitors never venture outside the terminal area, cruise ships offer excursions that feature Jamaica's history, culture, or natural wonders.

The town of Falmouth provides some good local color and handicrafts for those who want to experience the real Jamaica.

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Ocho Rios is Jamaica's third cruise ship port of call. Also located on the north shore of the island, Ocho Rios is about 48 miles from Montego Bay and 30 miles from Falmouth.

Like other Jamaican ports, Ocho Rios offers plenty of shopping, eating, and drinking venues, but many visitors take a ship's shore excursion to one of the three popular sites nearby — Dunn's River Falls, Mystic Mountain, or James Bond beach.

Ocho Rios has many waterfalls in the surrounding mountains and jungle, but Dunn's River Falls is the one most people want to visit and climb the many terraces that stretch 600 feet up. Be sure to wear water shoes as the rocks are difficult to walk on and slippery.

Mystic Mountain is also near Ocho Rios and offers many activities (for a fee) like zip lines, bobsledding, or a chairlift canopy tour over the rainforest. Great fun for those looking for some adventure.

The James Bond beach is a 20-minute drive from Ocho Rios, and the beach got its name because of its proximity to Goldeneye, the villa where Ian Fleming wrote many of the James Bond novels.

Belize City, Belize

In addition to Mexico and the islands of the Western Caribbean, Central and South America are also visited by cruise ships on their itineraries. Belize City is the largest city in the Central American country of Belize, which was called British Honduras until 1973 and gained its independence from Great Britain in 1981.

Belize City doesn't have as much shopping as other Western Caribbean ports, but cruise ships have terrific shore excursions inland like tubing in a river inside a cave and zip lining over the jungle. Other popular activities focus on the fascinating, diverse culture of Belize, visiting ancient Mayan sites, hiking in the jungle, canoeing, kayaking, or visiting a museum or wildlife sanctuary.

Harvest Caye, Belize

Harvest Caye is Norwegian Cruise Line's private resort on the coast of Belize. Unlike Belize City, which requires tendering ashore, cruise ships can dock at Harvest Caye. The 75-acre resort has a huge swimming pool, beach with cabanas, canoeing, kayaking, ​zip lining, parasailing, and paddle boarding. Harvest Caye also has some nice retail shops.

Many cruise guests whose ships stopover at Harvest Caye will spend their time enjoying the resort's activities. However, those who want to explore more of Belize can take shore excursions that include river tubing in a rainforest, exploring mangrove lagoons, or visiting Mayan archaeological sites.

Roatan, Bay Islands of Honduras

Honduras is south of Belize and Roatan is the most developed of all the Bay Islands of Honduras. Cruise ships dock either in the capital of Coxen Hole or nearby Mahogany Bay. Both these cruise terminals have plenty of shops and things to do within walking distance, but many visitors want to go snorkeling or diving on the huge reef that the Bay Islands are deservedly famous for.

Like other Caribbean islands, Roatan has a fascinating history and local culture, so cruise guests who don't like the beach might want to book a tour that provides an overview of historical Roatan. Another option is to take a small boat to explore the mangrove forests, which are filled with wildlife.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia is the only Western Caribbean port in South America. With almost one million residents, it's quite different than the other Western Caribbean stopovers for cruise ships. Sailing into the city is quite beautiful, so be sure to be out on the deck.

Most tours in Cartagena focus on the old town historical sites or the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, which is a fortress started in the 16th century that took over 150 years to complete. Those who want to go to a South American beach can find several lovely ones near the city. Travelers who love their jewelry will know that Colombia gems (especially emeralds) are famous. It's not surprising that the city has many jewelry stores.

One other fun place to shop in Cartagena is the Las Bovedas shops, which are 23 dungeons built in the 18th century that used to hold prisoners. Today these dungeons are shops holding souvenirs.

Colon, Panama

Although the Panama Canal is a destination in itself, Panama has ports of call on both the Western Caribbean and the Pacific Oceans. Many Western Caribbean cruises have partial transits of the Panama Canal that include the Gatun Lock which links Lake Gatun with the Caribbean Sea.

Colon, Panama is the Panamanian port of call on the Caribbean and Panama's second largest city. Colon doesn't have as many attractions as Cartagena, but most cruise passengers do not have a long time in the city. After all, they've come to Panama to see the Panama Canal.

For those with more time, Panama has some beautiful beaches in the Caribbean with bird watching, diving, and snorkeling. Those who love history should spend a few hours exploring the ruins at Fort San Lorenzo, a 16th-century fort that overlooks the Chagres River.

Puerto Limon, Costa Rica

Most tours of Costa Rica ​will focus on the interior or the magnificent beaches on the Pacific side. However, the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is filled with exotic wildlife (like sloths) and the main port of call is at Puerto Limon .

Puerto Limon is off the beaten path from other towns in Costa Rica, but cruise travelers who love exploring the great outdoors will love the rainforest and trails at Braulio Carillo National Park and the waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and spectacular scenery of Veragua Rainforest Park near Puerto Limon.

Many of us are partial to sloths, and the Limon province even has a sloth sanctuary , where you can learn everything you wanted to know about these fascinating creatures.

Key West, USA

Most cruise cities in the USA are primarily for embarking and disembarking passengers. However, one popular port of call for ships sailing the Western Caribbean is Key West, Florida . It's the southernmost point in the continental United States and has its own special flavor, with a fascinating history, bars, and one of the world's best sunsets (according to their brochures).

Key West is a unique city with its lovely old residences in the historic district, the home of Ernest Hemingway (with its six-toed cats), and President Truman's Little White House. Many ships dock right at Mallory Square, and those with balcony cabins overlooking the pier can watch tourists and locals gather in the square to watch the sunset.

The sunsets at Mallory Square are often magnificent, but those on cruise ships are treated to great sunsets almost every evening.

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Top Mexico Destinations

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Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo (Guerrero, Mexico Riviera)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Hawaii - Mexico - Panama Canal

Local Time 2024-04-16 09:00

Port Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico Riviera. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is a Mexican Riviera cruise port and the 4th-largest city in mexico's Guerrero State. The city covers a total area of approx 10 km2 (4 mi2) and has population around 65,000.

Politically, the city belongs to Zihuatanejo de Azueta municipality (in Guerrero's western part). It is located on the Pacific Ocean coast, approx 240 km (150 mi) northwest of Acapulco . The city belongs to a section of the Mexican Riviera commonly known as Costa Grande. Zihuatanejo has been developed as a tourist attraction along with the resort town Ixtapa, located just 5 km (3 mi) away.

Costa Grande's Archeological Museum is at the southern end of the municipal beach and has 6 rooms that document the culture, archeology and history of this part of Guerrero's coast. 

The main attraction of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is its bay - well-protected from the open sea and a favorite place to moor luxury yachts and other boats during winter months. The bay is surrounded by beautiful beaches and the hills of Sierra Madre mountains.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo region's development has caused some environmental problems. The 5 water treatment plants no longer keep up with sewage demand. Some sediment and untreated wastewater flow into the bay. There is a concern about damaging the coral reef. Some development projects (for building villas, hotels, swimming pools, boat marina, a cruise ship pier) have been delayed because of the need for environmental impact studies.

On land, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo can be reached by highway, bus and air (served by the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport). Regularly scheduled domestic flights are offered from Mexico City and a number of provincial cities. International flights are operated from Canada and the USA.

The number of cruises to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo steadily increases. The port has become a major cruise travel destination mainly due to its perfect beaches. It is also famous for the catamaran tours themed as sunset cruises. Snorkeling and spinnaker flying (sailing) are also offered.

The Port is used mainly by fishermen who arrive every morning to the docks with their catch, "pangas", and other vessels which ferry passengers to fishing charters and places like Las Gatas beach. There is also cruise ship greeting area for passengers who want to see the town. A major draw is sport fishing. Yearly, on May's first weekend, Zihuatanejo hosts the International Sailfish Tournament.

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Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo - user reviews and comments

Exploring 10 Fantastic Western Caribbean Cruise Ports

If you’re contemplating a cruise to the Caribbean, in this article, you’ll discover the top Western Caribbean cruise ports and what they have to offer.

When deciding between an  eastern or western Caribbean cruise, vacationers choose the latter for its adrenaline rush excursions near the ports and more rugged island escapes.

While you can’t go wrong with an eastern, southern, or western itinerary, the islands in the west generally provide a more authentic cultural experience. 

This area comprises approximately 13 islands, including popular destinations such as Costa Maya, the Cayman Islands, Cozumel, and Belize City.

Several islands in the Western Caribbean boast bustling cruise ports, making them a gateway to thrilling adventures. So, in this article, learn about the top cruise ports when selecting a western Caribbean cruise itinerary.

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Why Take A Western Caribbean Cruise?

Many of the Caribbean islands are accessible by flying. If you want to island hop, you can certainly do so, but it often comes at a high cost. Flying can be expensive, depending upon your departure airport.

By taking a cruise of the western Caribbean, you can enjoy three to four port days on a seven-day itinerary. Flying into Florida, Texas, or New Orleans, Louisiana, your embarkation port, comes at a lower cost.

Cruising isn’t for everyone. However, it’s ideal for those who like to unpack once, do not want to worry about where to eat, and don’t mind one day in a destination.

Cruising provides an easy way to travel for those who like variety and prefer not to stay in one place for a week. Wait until after hurricane season to avoid the risk of stormy weather. Cruising in January or February is best.

If you have less than a week, you can take a short 4 or 5-day western or eastern Caribbean cruises at a reasonable cost.

Embarkation Ports

Several embarkation ports offer convenient starting points when heading to the western Caribbean. The most popular ones include Miami, Florida; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Galveston, Texas. 

These ports are significant hubs for cruise lines. Among them, Miami stands out as the primary embarkation port for Western Caribbean cruises, attracting the most significant volume of cruise ships. 

However, Galveston offers the quickest access, directly north of the western Caribbean.

Top Western Caribbean Cruise Ports

While some ports of call in the western Caribbean have docks, others require a tender. Tendering uses small lifeboats to ferry cruise passengers ashore. 

The process is tedious and can take several hours if you’re traveling on a mega-ship. Priority is given to high-status loyalty members and those who have booked a shore excursion through the cruise line.

1. Cozumel, Mexico

The Cozumel cruise port in Quintana Roo state welcomes vessels owned by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line. It’s the most popular and busiest port of western Caribbean itineraries.

Cozumel has three cruise ports, the International pier, Punta Langosta, and Puerto Maya. Together, they can accommodate up to eight cruise ships a day and sees, on average, 30 cruise ships a week.

Diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef attracts many visitors to Cozumel. For beach enthusiasts, there are numerous beautiful  beaches close to the cruise port  for relaxing, sunbathing, or enjoying water sports.

If you prefer something more exclusive, beaches like Nachi Cocum and Mr. Sanchos require a short taxi ride from the port.

Beyond the water and beach, you can take a jeep tour to Mayan ruins, visit an Eco Park, or explore Cozumel’s main town, San Miguel.

Here, you can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, shop for local souvenirs, or immerse yourself in Mexico’s culture.

2. Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Jamaica has five ports, although its busiest, Ocho Rios, Falmouth, and Montego Bay, are on the north coast. Ocho Rios, visited by Holland, Royal Caribbean, and Princess, attracts the lion’s share of cruise guests due to its diverse activities.

Its number one attraction, Dunn’s River Falls , allows cruise visitors to ascend cascading waterfalls. While the falls are beautiful, they can often be overshadowed by the sheer number of people who gather there. 

Konoko Falls might be a better option if you’re not fond of crowds.

Nearby, you can explore the lush Green Grotto Caves, showcasing stunning stalagmites and stalactites. River tubing on the White River provides another fun activity, especially when traveling with kids.

If you’re a music fan, visiting the Bob Marley Mausoleum allows you to delve into the legendary musician’s life.

Mystic Mountain provides an excellent port day activity for adventure seekers. Here, you can zip line and ride a bobsled as if you are part of the Jamaican Olympic team.

Finally, be sure to hit a patio restaurant to savor some jerk chicken and other local cuisine.

3. Roatan, Honduras

The island of Roatan is a beautiful Caribbean destination and relatively undeveloped compared to the port stops in the eastern Caribbean.

This island off the coast of Honduras is home to beautiful beaches and many exciting adventures, including plenty of excursions aimed at thrill-seekers.

Different cruise lines use two ports on Roatan. NCL, Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean visit Coxen Hole. Alternatively, the Mahogany Bay Cruise Center welcomes Regent, Holland America, Princess, and Carnival Cruises.

Like Cozumel, diving tours are popular, with easy access to the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean Sea.

The island is famous for its pristine beaches, such as West Bay Beach and Tabyana Beach, both known for their crystal-clear waters and soft white sands. 

Pirates of the Caribbean and Mayan Eden are two prominent ziplining locations offering breathtaking tropical landscape views.

You can see sloths and monkeys at the latter and enjoy a butterfly sanctuary. The best part; it’s much cheaper than Clip’ N’ Zip zipline next to the  Mahogany Bay cruise port.

4. Belize City, Belize

Cruise ships arriving in Belize City must tender, with the tender process taking 15 to 20 minutes. Tender boats take cruise passengers to Belize’s Tourism Village, home to gift shops, “husband day-care,” patio restaurants, and vendors selling last-minute shore excursions.

RCI, Norwegian, and Carnivals guests can pick up tours to see Mayan ruins, take a jungle tour, go cave tubing, or visit Caye Caulker.  Visits to Caye Caulker include swimming with stingrays and nurse sharks on a sand bar.

The Great Blue Hole is one of Belize’s best attractions. Its mesmerizing sinkhole can be seen from space. However, you can appreciate its natural beauty by taking a flight from Belize City.

If you want to explore beyond the Tourism Village, it’s best to do so on a tour. Belize City has high crime, so traveling in large groups is advisable.

5. George Town, Grand Cayman

Like Belize City, expect to tender to shore in Grand Cayman Island. This island differs from others with its rock facade. So, no lush jungles, rainforests, or green landscapes here.

One of the most unique experiences is the Stingray City tour, considered one of the best places to interact with stingrays globally. During this excursion, you’ll meet friendly stingrays in their natural habitat. 

Since it’s Grand Cayman’s most popular activity, expect to share the sandbar with hundreds of other adventurers. The trip to the sandbar takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your boat’s speed.

Stingrays aside, water enthusiasts might prefer snorkeling or diving the vibrant coral reefs. On land, you can explore the Crystal Caves, head to Seven Mile Beach, or enjoy some retail therapy in George Town.

Shoppers find joy in George Town, where they can browse luxury boutiques and local markets for unique souvenirs. Camana Bay is another favorite shopping spot, known for its chic stores and dining options. 

Not only will you enjoy duty-free shopping, but there’s no sales tax. Top purchased items include luxury watches, jewelry, designer clothing, and Caymanite. 

6. Costa Maya, Mexico

Like Cozumel, you’ll find Costa Maya in the Quintana Roo state. However, it’s closer to Belize City than Cozumel. Its single port can handle three cruise ships daily, generally from Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Visitors to Costa Maya can enjoy watersports, beach time, shopping at local markets, and cultural sites. While you can visit the Kohunlich, Dzibanche, and Chacchoben ruins, you can reach the latter with a one-hour journey from the port.

A visit to Chacchoben Mayan ruins gives insights into an ancient civilization. If your cruise itinerary includes Belize City, you can opt for archaeological sites such as Lamanai, Altun Ha, or Xunantunich ruins instead.

Beyond the tours and great beaches, be sure to savor authentic Mexican cuisine at local eateries, tasting freshly prepared tacos and margaritas. 

7. Harvest Caye, Belize

Located on the southern tip of Belize, Harvest Caye is a premier island destination operated by Norwegian Cruise Line. Unlike most cruise lines’ private islands, this one doesn’t require a tender.

So, as you walk off the ship, expect to encounter a 75-acre oasis filled with opportunities for relaxation and adventure. The pristine seven-acre beach offers comfortable lounge chairs, or you can stay by the pool and enjoy the swim-up bar.

Those seeking thrills can enjoy zip-lining across the island, providing breathtaking landscape views. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and a butterfly garden offer additional activities.

With your cruise ship docked nearby, you can pop back whenever you need a change of clothes or prefer to eat onboard.

8. Falmouth, Jamaica

The Falmouth cruise port lies between two other popular ports; Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. This port welcomes 3 to 5 vessels weekly from major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, and Disney.

The town of Falmouth itself offers visitors a glimpse into Jamaica’s rich history, boasting well-preserved Georgian architecture. Travelers can explore the local markets, indulge in authentic Jamaican cuisine, and take guided tours of historical sites. 

Greenwood Great House, Falmouth Courthouse, and Good Hope Estate are great examples of historical must-sees. If you prefer a mellow shore excursion, a raft ride down the Martha Brae provides that. 

The combination of historical attractions and mellow activities makes Falmouth Cruise Port a versatile destination. With easy access to Ocho Rios, you can also opt for more adventurous excursions nearby.

9. Progreso, Mexico

Situated on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Progreso may attract fewer cruise ships than Cozumel, but it’s a favored port for one reason, access to Chichen Itza. Its four-mile pier (the longest in the world) welcomes ships from Royal Caribbean, Disney, and Carnival Cruises.

If Progreso (Merida) is on your bucket list, you can even get there on a four-day itinerary from New Orleans. 

It’s a diverse port, offering a bit of everything. So, if you want to visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, having a port day in Progreso provides the closest access, although it will be an all-day affair.

Alternatively, exploring Uxmal, Dzibilchaltun, Xcambo, and Dzemul ruins allows for shorter tours but is less impressive than Chichen Itza itself.

If you prefer to chill on a beach, explore Cenote Ikkil, or shop at a local market, Progreso provides that too.

10. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay stands out as a premier destination on the westernmost of Jamaica’s coast. MSC, Carnival, Viking, and Princess Cruises anchor their ships there. 

While Montego Bay shares similarities with other Jamaican ports, like river rafting, ATV adventures, zip-lining, and city tours, you can find unique excursions. 

Additional activities can include:

• Visits to historic plantations and learning about their beginnings and slavery.
• Indulging in local cuisine at lively beachside restaurants.
• Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

The vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes set it apart as a remarkable stop on a western Caribbean cruise.

Other Western Caribbean Cruise Ports

Most vessels stop at the above ten cruise ports when sailing a western Caribbean cruise. While Jamaica has five ports, only smaller lines, include its lesser-known stops of Kingston and Port Antonio (both tender ports).

Belize, Honduras, and Mexico have other ports. However, the mainstream cruise lines don’t utilize them.

If you’re cruising from a Florida cruise terminal, your itinerary could include the Bahamas, Key West, or a day on one of the cruise lines’ private islands. 

By combining an eastern with a western Caribbean itinerary, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds. Plus, you’ll have double the vacation and make twice as many memories, and you can’t beat that!

Monday 23rd of October 2023

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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.

Save Big With These Mexico Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Mexico cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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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.

Explore Cozumel & Cancun Cruises

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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Best Mexico Ancient Ruins and Mayan Sites

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

Huatulco, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Manzanillo, Mexico

Related Destinations

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Cancun, Mexico

This former fishing village on the Yucatan Peninsula has grown into one of Mexico's most popular Caribbean vacation destinations, where beautiful white-sand beaches fringe turquoise waters. The resort also is known for its lively nightlife. Many cruise passengers opt for a shore excursion to ancient Mayan ruins or to Xcaret nature park, where you can swim in the underground rivers of this 250-acre preserve.

West Coast, Mexico

Isla Natividad, Mexico

Baja magdalena, mexico.

Isla De Coiba, Panama

Isla Iguana, Panama

Eureka, california.

Portobelo, Panama

Puerto Penasco, Mexico

Portland, oregon.

San Diego, California

Santa barbara, california.

Monterey, California

Los Angeles, California

Catalina Island, California

Astoria, Oregon

Panama City, Panama

Panama Canal (Cruising Canal)

Isla Gamez, Panama

Isla Contadora, Panama

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Corinto, Nicaragua

Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.