9 Fantastic Ports On A The Mexican Riviera Cruise

Table Of Content

• Mexican Riviera ports
• Cruises to Mexico
• Wheelchair and Accessibility at the Cozumel Cruise Port
• Search Cruises

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.

Mexican Riviera ports

The Cozumel Reefs National Park is another must-see destination for nature lovers. For those seeking a relaxing beach day, there are numerous pristine beaches to choose from. Cozumel, one of the most frequented Mexican cruise ports, is a sanctuary for marine life enthusiasts. It’s known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, abundant coral reefs, and vibrant aquatic species, making it a diver’s paradise. Mazatlan is a coastal town in Sinaloa known as the Pearl of the Pacific. A trip to Mazatlan must include a stroll to the historic center of Old Mazatlan, which offers visitors so much history.

Cruises to Mexico

Our Princess fleet includes ships that offer a multitude of amenities and feature the innovative MedallionClass® experience. From a balcony stateroom, take in the sights and sounds of the colorful cultures ashore before enjoying the “sabor” of local cuisine in one of our many eateries during your Mexican Riviera cruise. With an abundance of activities to do on both land and sea, Medano Beach offers something for the whole family. From coffee and salsa to spirits and artisan goods, discover the best things to buy in Mexico cruise ports when you sail with Princess. 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.

Wheelchair and Accessibility at the Cozumel Cruise Port

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Ensenada is arid and mountainous and is located a short distance away from Valle de Guadalupe, known as the “Napa Valley of Mexico”. Other than wine tastings, visitors to Ensenada can walk around the city streets, take a tour to La Bufadora blowhole, go horseback riding on the beach, and taste local cuisine. 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.

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Which Royal Caribbean ships sail to Mexico?

Walking is also a feasible option, especially for exploring the Old Town area. However, for visiting places like El Faro or the beaches, a taxi or pulmonia would be more convenient. From palm tree-lined beaches to its exotic-flavored foods, you’re bound to experience something new. This unique tour is barrels of fun and still leaves time to explore the town.

What to do on a cruise to Mexico

Other activities in Progreso include visiting cenotes, taking a cooking class, and tasting local spirits and beers. The port of Progreso is located on the northern side of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Like other ports on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Progreso offers beaches and Mayan culture mixed with the chance to discover the country's modern culture and cuisine. Cozumel is an island located off the eastern coast of the Yucatán peninsula known for its tropical, lush environment, beaches, and water recreation (scuba diving and snorkeling). The Mexican Riviera refers to cruise ports on the western coast of Mexico along the Pacific ocean.

Why Cruise to Mexico with Princess

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. 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. 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.

Plan your Mexico cruise vacation around the culture and traditions of the Dia de los Muertos. 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. And be sure to immerse yourself in the colonial architecture, bustling parks and lively, spice-fragrant marketplaces in Mexico City, Puebla, and Cancun. Beachside cities and historical towns await you on our top-rated Mexican Riviera cruises.

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Constructed in 1837 by a wealthy businessman, the Plaza Machado allows locals to relax under the orange trees. South of Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo is Mexico’s busiest port, supplying goods to Mexico City. It also holds the title of “Sailfish capital of the world.” Other than fishing, visitors can choose to immerse themselves in Mexican history or choose from a selection of ocean tours. Located in the state of Oaxaca, Huatulco, which once was a fishing village, brings visitors to soak up the sun on its expanse of sandy beaches. With over thirty beaches to choose from, you can’t go wrong with choices like Cacaluta Beach or Playa La Entrega. The waters can sometimes be cold since whale sharks visit Baja California between December and April.

Each of these ports offers a unique slice of Mexico and serves as gateways to the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, exploring these Mexican cruise ports will surely be a highlight of your journey. Mexico’s cruise ports are a magnet for vacationers owing to their sheer diversity. Whether it’s exploring ancient Mayan ruins, savoring delightful Mexican cuisine, or lounging on sun-drenched beaches, each port offers something unique for every traveler.

Mazatlan is a large port city on the Pacific coast of Mexico with two different districts worth exploring. The old town is nearer the port and has colonial buildings with a lot of cafes and bistros, while the Zona Dorado district has various bars and shops filled with intricacies. The beaches to the north and south of Puerto Vallarta’s bay – where three cruise piers are located – are some of the best in Mexico.

For more insights on other cruise port destinations, check out our comprehensive cruise ports guide. Unlike the cruise ports further south, Ensenada isn’t known for its pristine beaches. In fact, its coastline is rather rugged, and activities are suited to kayaking, surfing, and scuba diving. 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.

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. 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. There are decent waves year round but like most other surf destinations- the spring and summer months are most popular.

Complete Guide to All the Cruise Ports in Mexico

Table Of Content

• What can I eat in a Mexican Riviera cruise port?
• Where do Mexican Riviera cruises begin?
• Map of Mexico Cruise Ports
• SIGN UP FOR DEALS ON MEXICAN RIVIERA CRUISES
• Cozumel International Airport Taxi Service to Cozumel Cruise Port

Exploring the vibrant city of Puerto Vallarta offers an unforgettable experience as part of your cruise journey. From the lush mountain landscapes to the sparkling sea, every moment spent in this city is sure to be memorable. For more information on other ports to visit during your cruise, explore our cruise ports guide.

What can I eat in a Mexican Riviera cruise port?

As aforementioned, the cruise port in Cozumel includes three terminals named Punta Langosta, International Cruise Terminal and Puerta Maya. Note that some cruise lines use two or all of these terminals, so be sure to check your itinerary carefully to make sure you have the right terminal. On a seven-day Mexico cruise or a 10-day itinerary, you can find expertly crafted excursions on every itinerary. Zipline across forests and rappel down waterfalls in Puerto Vallarta. Spend the day catching marlin and tuna in the world-class fishing port of Mazatlan. With excursions for every traveler, see why we’re named one of the best cruises to the Mexican Riviera.

Where do Mexican Riviera cruises begin?

Alternatively, renting a scooter or a car is an excellent option for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. It’s worth noting that while driving, one should be mindful of the local traffic rules. Kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddle boarding are all popular water sports.

Map of Mexico Cruise Ports

With over 60 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! La Paz is one of the larger ports on the Sea of Cortez and it’s a great location for water sports including snorkelling, kayaking and scuba diving. If you’re not quite feeling that active, you can explore the charming seaside resorts nearby, wandering along pristine white sandy beaches.

Campeche is one of the smaller ports in Mexico, situated on the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s a port that only the smaller ships of American Queen Voyages would call at, with guided tours of the local colonial architecture and nearby Mayan ruins being the main highlights. Otherwise, the port serves as a gateway to the lively city of San Jose, or you can just explore the sandy beaches and sunbathe for the day. 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. As for all other ports in Mexico, it’s always good to exercise a healthy level of caution.

SIGN UP FOR DEALS ON MEXICAN RIVIERA CRUISES

This one is water-resistant and carries a few small items like a cell phone, money, wallet, and a small camera. The only ways to get from the Cozumel International Airport to the Cozumel cruise port -- regardless of the terminal -- is by taxi or airport shuttle. Cozumel Mexico, an island off the coast of Mexico is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the entire world with millions of visitors each year.

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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. 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. A cruise to Mexico is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe.

Catalina Island

It’s recommended to try local eateries and street food stalls for an authentic experience. But, always ensure that the food is freshly prepared and served hot to avoid any potential health issues. Car rentals are also an option, especially for those who plan to explore the surrounding areas. However, it’s important to note that driving in Puerto Vallarta can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets. And one last thing; try to catch the sunset one night because the Pacific coasts sunsets are spectacular. My husband and I ate in a specialty restaurant the last night on our cruise.

Cozumel International Airport Taxi Service to Cozumel Cruise Port

History lovers will relish the opportunity to visit Mayan ruins in Mexico’s Caribbean ports. The Yucatán Peninsula is home to around 200 public ruins, including the well-preserved Chichén Itzá ruins. 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. A trip to Mazatlan must include a stroll to the historic center of Old Mazatlan.

You can see just from the number of cruise lines – Cozumel is an exceptionally popular port. It’s an island off the coast of Mexico that is well known for its excellent scuba diving opportunities and its beautiful scenery. In this guide I’ll take you through all the cruise ports in Mexico, which cruise lines sail there, and the best things to see and do during your visit. But it’s also one of the most dangerous cruise ports in Mexico due to crime.

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. Not only is Cozumel the busiest cruise port in Mexico, but it’s also one of the busiest cruise ports in the world.

This blog helps over a million people to plan their cruises each month. Another small Sea of Cortez port, this is a great location if you want to learn about some of the copper mining history of this region, or just wander around the tranquil marina. Further, a ‘Reconsider Travel’ advisory is in effect for the states where Ensenada, Puerto Vallarta, and Guaymas are located.

The immediate port area of Costa Maya is well-developed and has a complimentary swimming pool, restaurants, bars, cafe, ice cream, and shopping opportunities. You surely won’t have trouble finding tour operators, day passes at resorts, and cultural opportunities to seek out during your day in port. Mexico is no stranger to tourism, and the influx of both land-based and cruise tourists every year means that the country is well-acquainted with catering to tourists.

While you can cruise to Mexico year-round, the summer months are far too hot to enjoy your vacation. The best months are from November to March when the weather is warm but bearable and the rain is minimal. While there have been advisories about traveling to Mexico, I have never felt unsafe during my visits. While there may be violence in Mexico, crime is everywhere, even in your own town. You can choose from short 3 to 4 day trip or extended itineraries of 14 days.

While the lighthouse itself is not impressive, you’ll enjoy commanding 360-degree views of Mazatlan and the Pacific Ocean if you take the trail to El Faro Lighthouse. Continue on the cobblestones street a little further to discover the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, also known as Mazatlan Cathedral. Along the coastline, cliff divers perform for tourists, and a new monument celebrates the Beatles. However, over 70% of Mezcal is made in Oaxaca, so it’s the best place to try some. A visit to the Pluma Hidalgo Coffee Plantation is a must for coffee lovers.

Carnival Charleston Cruise Reviews 2024 UPDATED: Ratings of Carnival Cruises from Charleston

Table Of Content

• CRUISE PORTS BY REGION
• Explore the Historic Downtown
• FBI Columbia investigating suspicious death aboard Carnival Sunshine cruise ship
• Related Cruises
• New Terminal to Be Developed, Cruises Continue for Now

If you plan to visit the city for a few days before andafter your cruise, then the car rental is a great idea. If you plan to godirectly to the cruise port or spend one night at a hotel sleeping, then youwould be better off with a cab or rideshare. You can take a shuttle for an average of $30+one way, and $60+ for a round trip. This may not be the most economical option,but it does allow you to be taken from the airport directly to your cruiseship. Because the shuttles are run by the cruise lines themselves, the shipwill wait even if it runs late, although that is very rare. In general, the rideshare options are cheaperthan other taxi services and they give you the added benefit of not chargingyou per person as the shuttles and buses do.

CRUISE PORTS BY REGION

This major port city (population around 120,000) is located on the state's central coast, and on the estuaries where Cooper River meets Ashley River. Port Savannah (Georgia) is approx 140 km (87 mi) to the northeast, and Port Wilmington (North Carolina) is approx 245 km (152 mi) to the southwest. Charleston’s lack of skyscrapers and other types of tall buildings gives the entire city an older look and feel. If you want to revel in the city’s unique history, we recommend exploring the historic downtown core. At just over half a mile from the port, you can easily walk to the city center. The humidity can make it feel warmer, so pack light, breathable clothing to explore the city.

Explore the Historic Downtown

Charleston’s mayor says eliminating these departures will allow the city to redevelop the Union Pier Terminal and open up more opportunities for city growth and vitality. If you parking, then you will want to go to Gate #2 of the Union Pier Cruise Terminal (this includes Uber/Lyft drivers). This gate is located at the intersections of Laurens and Concord streets. If you are using GPS, use the address 280 Concord Street to take you to the correct location. It gives you the convenience of a cab, but with a lower cost and a more personalized service.

FBI Columbia investigating suspicious death aboard Carnival Sunshine cruise ship

The Ports Authority (SPA) will sell 0,15 km2 (0,06 ml2) Union Pier property for private development right after the completion of the new terminal. This premium waterfront area will be developed as a new neighborhood and will be of no maritime use. It will feature new streets, public parks, shops, residential homes and businesses, thus increasing the access to the waterfront.

The cruise terminal is well-marked, so just make sure you are following the signs. You will eventually take the exit towards Morrison Drive, then turn right onto Washington Street, where you will find the main parking area and entrance to Union Pier Terminal. If you are in a dropping off passengers at the Charleston cruise port, then you will go to the main gate. For those unfamiliar, the Charleston cruise port is located on the southeast side of the Charleston peninsula. It has two entrances, one for cars planning to park and one for taxis, buses and others that will drop off passengers.

Related Cruises

You can choose between a smallervehicle at a reduced price, or get a larger vehicle for larger groups. If you will be cruising out of Charleston cruise port on your next vacation, you may be wondering how to get to the cruise port. You could be coming from the airport or directly from a hotel. You have the option of a taxi, walking, taking a bus, taking the train, using the shuttles, carpooling, or renting a car. Charleston is closing its port to overnight cruise ships in an attempt to revitalize the waterfront that is currently being occupied by cruise ship facilities. It will continue to function as a port of call, and a new terminal will probably be constructed in the future.

New Terminal to Be Developed, Cruises Continue for Now

The new passenger terminal's construction will cost USD 35 million. Public hearing was also called by the US Army Corps of Engineers after receiving a new federal permit for putting additional pilings beneath one of the old terminal's warehouses. Fort Sumter is a well-preserved sea fort built on an artificial island off the mainland of Charleston. View gun emplacements and a Civil War Museum on the exact location where the war’s first shots were fired. Located just a five-minute walk from the aquarium is the International African American Museum. Built on the site where Gadsden’s Wharf once sat, this is where at least 40% of all enslaved Africans arrived in the United States.

DEPARTURE PORTS

The cheapest way to take a car is through rideshare providers like Uber or Lyft. The bus will cost you approximately $2.00 from the airport to the cruise port, while rideshare services would cost between $8-20. It looks like Charlestonians want the cruises, but don't want the new terminal to be located on the edge of the city's historic district.

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Central & South America

In 2020, Key West voters approved a measure to severely limit the number of cruise ships allowed to dock there. But, the state of Florida reversed that decision a year later. Headed to the Charleston cruise port to drop off or pick up passengers? With parking costing $20 per day at the port, you’re saving your guests some serious cash for their cruise. That to say nothing of saving them the hassle and time of dealing with parking. You could walk down some of thehistorical streets while admiring the architecture.

Carnival ships are currently using the Union Pier Terminal for departures and arrivals. A lot of those journeys are short — heading to the Caribbean and back. Carnival will still be able to use the port, but only for the day. Some people opt to take a train to Charlestoninstead of flying or driving.

Even though Charleston gets plenty of springtime rain, showers are usually brief, so you can still enjoy exploring the city and everything it has to offer. Downtown Charleston is rich in history with period architecture, much of which was built before the Revolution. There are wonderful restaurants, unique boutiques and art galleries to enjoy before or after your cruise, much of which is within walking distance from the terminal. In addition to Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Ecstasy has also offered cruises from Charleston at times. Once arriving, you will need to show your cruise documents to the port staff members. We’ve rounded up a sample list of area companies to give you a good start to go from.

Given its limited capabilities, it is only used as a homeport for a single cruise line – Carnival Cruise Line. Charleston Cruise Port, a section of the Port of Charleston, is located in the city’s historic downtown area. Charleston cruise port passenger terminal is located on 196 Concord Street. Cruise passengers should go to Gate 2 of the Union Pier Terminal, the entrance of which is at the Concord and Laurens intersection near Washington Street.

With that said, plenty of the 2024 cruise season is left, and cruise ships are still expected to visit Charleston’s Union Pier Terminal as a port of call. While the future port development will curtail homeport operations for the time being, this does not mean that Carnival Cruise Line will not return to Charleston. In fact, the cruise line is eager to continue its relationship with the port and bring travelers to this amazing city. If you are picking up guests after their trip, the process is a bit easier.