Mexico Cruises

Mexican cruises are popular with Americans who find the departure points convenient and economical. Most cruises depart from ports along the West Coast of the United States and head south to the Mexican Riviera. Alternatively, cruise ships on the East Coast travel down to the Mayan Riviera along the Yucatan Peninsula. These cruises generally depart from Florida or sometimes points further north. Cheap airfares to many of these port cities, or package deals, also attract Canadians who are looking to escape cold weather.

The most popular Mexican cruises are along the West Coast, with departures from San Diego and Los Angeles. These cruises typically call on the cities of Los Cabos, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo, Acapulco, and Manzanillo, or some combination of these. This area is known as the Mexican Riviera. Ports of call offer a range of possibilities from exploring city centers, shopping, spending time at the beach, and visiting historical sites.

Mexico cruises along the Mexican Riviera range anywhere from cheap 3 night getaways to 12 nights and beyond. Some cruise lines offer much longer vacations, incorporating the countries of Belize, Panama, Ecuador, and Peru. There are also a wide range or price options for these cruise as they range in quality and duration. The best cruise deals for this area are typically found in the fall.

From the East Coast of the United States, cruises to Mexico typically stop at Cozumel and the Costa Maya. The most popular departure points are from the state of Florida.

Cozumel, an island off the Yucatan Peninsula across from Playa del Carmen, is well known for its snorkeling and shopping. Visitors can either wander through the town or take a taxi or excursion to snorkeling areas. The most popular of these is Chankanaab National Park which is well set up for tourists and beginner snorkelers.

The Costa Maya port of call, which is relatively new, is located south of Playa del Carmen near the border of Mexico and Belize. This is a relatively remote port which has been created specifically for cruise ships. The area is still developing. From here passengers can take excursions to see stunning Mayan ruins, relax on the beach, snorkel, go ATV riding, or sailing. Unlike many of the city stops this one is designed to offer a little more nature. In general Mayan Riviera cruises are usually combined with other stops in the Caribbean and are one portion of a larger cruise itinerary.

On both the East and West Coasts of Mexico cruises are popular winter vacation getaways. Apart from finding cruise specials in the shoulder season, travelers may also want to consider last minute cruise deals which can spring up throughout the year.