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The Best Cruises to Mexico for Every Traveler

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Whether it's world-class diving, white sandy beaches, or Mayan ruins you’re after, a cruise to Mexico can get you there in comfort and style. 

Set sail from the West Coast to experience the beaches and nightlife of Cabo San Lucas , stroll the boardwalk in Mazatlan, or dig your toes into the sand in Puerto Vallarta. For diving and Mayan ruins, opt to cruise Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Dive into the deep blue water in Cozumel, walk a beach free of high-rise hotels in Costa Maya, or walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans in Tulum . 

Several major cruise lines serve these routes with decked-out ships that offer something for everyone. Sprawling pools, thumping dance clubs, and fresh margaritas are just the beginning. 

This is the domain of large cruise ships, but there are a few smaller vessels—like American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Navigator —that cruise to Mexico . 

Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line sail to Mexico from the West Coast year-round. Three Carnival ships—the Carnival Miracle , Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Residence — cruise to Mexico from Los Angeles and San Francisco. Norwegian Cruise Line sails to Mexico from California, Florida, and New Orleans. 

Princess Cruises, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises sail to Mexico seasonally. While Mexico is warm year-round, you’ll find the most pleasant temperatures—and some of the best prices— between November through February. Mexico’s rainy season is from May through November, but expect bursts of showers instead of washouts. Hurricane season is between June and November, and while hurricanes don't always make landfall, the rains they bring can put a damper on even the best-planned beach day.

Whatever it is you’re looking for, and whenever it is you’re looking to set sail, there’s a cruise to Mexico that’s sure to feel tailor-made for you. 

Best short cruise to Mexico 

In just three nights, Royal Caribbean's  Navigator of the Seas sails from Los Angeles to Ensenada, Mexico, and back.  The itinerary includes a full day at sea—plenty of time to take a few laps around the ship’s ice skating rink, spend a few hours at the spa, try out the longest water slide at sea and catch a show. Of course, you could just spend your entire sea day lounging around on the pool deck eating Johnny Rockets and sipping on colorful cocktails. If you’ve got a little bit more time, opt for a four-night itinerary. Royal Caribbean offers two four-night itineraries on the  Navigator of the Seas . One adds a stop at idyllic Catalina Island. The other spends additional time in Ensenada. 

Best weeklong cruise to Mexico 

There may be no better way to bliss out than by sailing the  Norwegian Bliss along the Mexican Riviera. Sail roundtrip from Los Angeles, stopping in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, Mexico. Spend port days visiting tequila factories, wineries and endless sandy beaches. Or opt for an adventurous 4x4 ride, snorkeling, kayaking or an idyllic horseback ride. On board the ship, you’ll have your choice of 19 restaurants, 20 bars, and plenty of things to do. The  Norwegian Bliss made its debut in 2018, and its entertainment offerings include a two-level  racetrack , Broadway shows, laser tag, mini golf and a casino. The ship has a private 18 and over beach club and a spa with both a salt room and a snow room. 

Best family cruise to Mexico 

There is so much to do on board the  Carnival Radiance your family might not want to leave the ship on port days. The  Carnival Radiance has a water park, a ropes course, mini golf, sports courts, and a kids club that accommodates ages two to 17. There’s also a teen spa, video arcade and enough room to play soccer, basketball, and volleyball on board. With more than a dozen restaurants, there’s something for even the most discerning junior palate. There’s even a green eggs and ham breakfast to go with a Seuss at Sea experience inspired by the famous author’s books.

Windstar Star Legend's Cuadro 44 Restaurant 

Best small ship cruise to Mexico

You could cruise to Mexico on a mega-ship. Or you could opt for a calmer, quieter, more yacht-like experience on Windstar Cruises’  Star Legend . This all-suite yacht boasts cabins that are nearly 300 square feet. The ship is fresh off a major renovation with a new spa, pool, and fitness center. Every bathroom on board has gotten a makeover and comes stocked with L’Occitane toiletries. The  Star Legend is scheduled to set sail from Miami in the spring. Windstar's  Jungles and Jewels of the Central American Coast itinerary sails roundtrip from Miami, stoppings in Key West en route to Cozumel and Costa Maya. But Mexico is just the beginning. Windstar’s  Star Legend also calls on Belize City, Belize, and Roatan, Honduras, giving passengers plenty of chances to go on an unforgettable dive, immerse themselves in ancient ruins or simply soak up the sunshine.  

Best cruise to the Yucatan Peninsula 

Mega ships aren’t the only vessels that cruise to Mexico . American Queen Voyages’  Ocean Navigator is less than one-tenth of the size of the behemoth ships sailing the region. The ship can accommodate just over 200 passengers and feels more like a river cruise ship than an ocean-going vessel. Restaurant and bar choices are limited, but that might not matter much when you’re sipping margaritas and snacking on molletes at the beach. The  Ocean Navigator ’s Mexico itineraries visit seven ports in 10 days, giving passengers the chance to dive into Cozumel’s deep blue water, explore Chichen Itza’s Mayan ruins, and sip on margaritas in Cancun. This isn’t the kind of ship that parties all night, but that should make it easier to wake up for gorgeous sunrises. The price of this all-inclusive cruise includes food, drinks, room service, Wi-Fi, pre-paid gratuities, port fees, and taxes. 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Best luxury cruise to Mexico

There may be few more luxurious ways to arrive in Cabo San Lucas than on board Regent’s new  Seven Seas Grandeur . The cruise line's  Magic on the Mexican Riviera itinerary is scheduled to sail round trip from Los Angeles in late 2024, calling on ports including Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, and Puerto Vallarta. The 10-night journey includes three luxurious days of cruising the Pacific Ocean. Spend your sea days lounging around your spacious suite, playing bocce ball or shuffleboard or relaxing by the pool bar. The ship's suites range in size from 307 to 4,443 square feet. Each comes with a private balcony, and there may be no better place on board to enjoy your morning coffee with a view. Cruise fares on Regent Seven Seas include roundtrip business class intercontinental flights, unlimited shore excursions, unlimited beverages, specialty restaurants, and gratuities.

Best cruise to the Mexican Riviera

If you’re looking to touch grass at sea and sample the best of the Mexican Riviera, the  Celebrity Solstice is for you. This ship is home to a half acre of real green grass and sails from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta. This is a ship with a cool vibe, a sophisticated feel, and lots of fun things to do on board. Try a cocktail-making class or a wine-blending class. Or catch a glass-blowing show on the grass. The ship is also home to more than 200 solar panels and generates some of its own electricity.

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Mexico Boating Guide [ updated 2023 ] This trusted cruising guide covers in great detail both coasts of Baja, the entire Sea of Cortez and all mainland Pacific Mexico to the Guatemala border. Written by active cruisers & professional mariners for recreational boaters: 398 pages, 450 photos, 300 GPS-accurate charts, concise text covers safe approaches & anchorages, what’s ashore. This guide runs mile by mile, no gaps, no fluff . Includes 2023 Paperwork websites , handy Resource Directory to contact all the marinas, boat yards, fuel docks. GPS Waypoints List , full index. Constantly updated since 1986, “Mexico Boating Guide” is the original “cruisers’ bible” endorsed by Latitude 38 and Cruising World, 5-star rated by PassageMaker.

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FEATURED ARTICLE

Not ready to unplug permanently go “commuter cruising” instead, – by capt. pat rains.

Reasonably sane people do take their well found yachts and go long-distance cruising to exotic lands: this crazy idea sprouted in the 1940s, but really bloomed in the 1950s thanks to inspiring tales of the sea-faring live written by the Hiscocks, the Wests, the Pardeys, Hal Roth and Jimmy Cornell.

In those early days, you had to be incredibly wealthy in order to build or buy and maintain an ocean-cruising yacht, or – like most Americans – you had to sell your home, business and everything else you owned. You had to quit your job or close down your business, which severely limited your flow of funds from then on. You had to provision the boat for years of Spartan living off inhospitable shores. Departure day meant severing communications with family and friends. Life-altering commitments like that discouraged all but the most smitten cases of wanderlust.

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Pat Rains invites you to TrawlerFest in Anacortes, WA, May 17 – 21. Pat will present “Mexico’s Little Loop” Sea of Cortez Cruising on May 19, 9-11 am. Then “10 Central American Cruising Stops” May 21, 9-11 am. She’s also leading a “Women’s Roundtable” discussion May 19, 12:30-2:30 especially for women new to cruising. https://www.passagemaker.com/trawlerfest/trawlerfest-anacortes-2022

Former Prison Island to Open for Tourists in April

The Islas Marias had a scary past for boaters. Recreational boaters in the past reported being shot at when they strayed too close to the Islas Marias prison colony. Or they were politely escorted outside the prison’s 20-mile No-Go perimeter by Mexican Navy patrol boats bristling with armed guards. But in 2019 the federal government…

Here are the Top 5 Boating Destinations in Mexico

Table of Contents

Last Updated on February 3, 2022 by Boatsetter Team

Rent a Boat in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and San Miguel de Cozumel

Sailing in and around some of the world’s most popular oceans remains a “bucket-list” item for so many people. A Boatsetter luxury yacht rental is an incredible vacation idea that will never be forgotten. Did you know that renting a boat is now easier than ever? If you get a few of your best friends together one night, talk with them about the type of boat you are dreaming of and start setting aside some dates for your fabulous boating vacation. Think about the types of boats you may want to rent . With Boatsetter , you have a wide range of choices, including catamarans, sailboats, pontoon boat, or all types of powerful and flashy motorboats.

But once you have determined the type of boat you are looking for, the next question is, where should you go? Although Boatsetter offers you amazing options in almost any international location, Mexico is an especially attractive choice for most Americans because it is easy to fly to one of the major cities, and it is close enough that you don’t need to have a large block of time set aside. You can easily take a quick jaunt down south for a relaxing week off, or you might even be able to go for just a weekend. Check out these top five boating destinations in Mexico for some inspiring ideas of where to enjoy the boating trip of your dreams.

Lovin’ it in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a paradise for sun-worshippers and all types of boats. When you rent a boat in Cabo San Lucas , you can count on year-round warm weather and some incredible fishing opportunities. Be sure to sail out to the iconic arching stone cliffs at Land’s End. There are also endless activities for you to enjoy in this resort town, such as jet-skiing, banana boating, parasailing, snorkeling, kitesurfing, and diving. Cabo San Lucas is famous for having tons of wild parties at night, so either come prepared for that or sail your boat offshore to escape the noise and the crowds. It is certainly possible to truly relax in style when you rent a boat in Cabo San Lucas and enjoy all of the great resorts, beaches, and natural scenery.

Pristine Puerto Vallarta

Check out this official travel guide to Puerto Vallarta to discover all of the amazing things the town has to offer. You can enjoy spectacular scenery when you rent a boat in Puerto Vallarta and cruise it up and down Banderas Bay . It is a resort town especially popular with Canadians because there are often good travel deals departing from Vancouver. The most important attractions for us as boaters are the incredible bays and coves, and of course, the amazing beaches. There are eight Blue Flag certified beaches, meaning that they are clean, safe and comfortable: Palmares, Camarones, Playa de Oro, Amapas, Conchas Chinas I, Conchas Chinas II, Garza Blanca, and Sheraton. You can sail your boat rental to all of these beaches and drop anchor slightly off the coast, and then swim ashore . When you rent a boat in Puerto Vallarta, enjoy the incredible weather while relaxing in the cool, calm water.

Cruising in Cancun

Cancun is on the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula and it is a famous spring break destination. It is full of resorts and long, wide beaches that cater mostly to hotel guests. There are two distinct areas: the more traditional downtown area of El Centro, and Zona Hotelera, where most of the high-rise hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants can be found. Again, there are some public beaches you can use when you rent a boat in Cancun but it is best to avoid swimming ashore to one of the private beaches. The water in Cancun is always extremely clear and it is an excellent area to see big green sea turtles and other exotic aquatic life. When you rent a boat in Cancun , it is possible to sail down to Cozumel, although it will take you at least a few hours.

Chilling in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is also on the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It features long lines of palm-lined beaches and a few coral reefs near the shore. When you rent a boat in Playa del Carmen , you will discover that it’s an ideal area for diving and snorkeling, and it is common to see manta rays, moray eels, sea turtles and lots of lavender sea fans. Quinta Avenida is a long pedestrian road that runs parallel to the beach. Here you will find the best bars and restaurants in the town. Playa del Carmen tends to attract more Europeans, so don’t be surprised to hear a wide range of languages while you are lounging on the beach. When you rent a boat in Playa del Carmen , it is also even easier to sail it across the Caribbean Sea to Cozumel, because the island is much closer.

Sunning in San Miguel de Cozumel

San Miguel de Cozumel is the biggest town on the island of Cozumel. The island is easily accessible from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and other parts of the Yucatán Peninsula. If you happen to fly to Cozumel, you can also rent a boat in San Miguel de Cozumel instead of getting one on the mainland. The island features some excellent snorkeling opportunities as well as dozens of interesting coves where you can dock your boat and enjoy a delicious meal or some drinks on the water. Always see what kinds of equipment already come included on your boat when you rent a boat in San Miguel de Cozumel .

Pay Attention to the Weather and Climate on the Water

As a boater, you always want to keep the weather in mind, because it can cause all kinds of problems, from something as simple as ruining your brunch plans, all the way up to something as serious as stranding you in a storm off the coast. Thankfully, Mexican waters generally don’t experience as many weather extremes as some coastal areas. The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit Mexico. It’s an ideal time for a boating adventure because the days are full of sunshine and the nights are pleasantly warm. The rainy season is generally from May to November. You may not think you want to be out on a boat during the rainy season, but even during this time of year, the days are often warm with some minor drizzling some evenings.

Now that you know more about these incredible destinations, start making plans to get down to Mexico! To start browsing the entire Boatsetter fleet of boats for rent, visit the Boatsetter website and enter in your desired location for local listings.

Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent  a boat,  list  your boat, or become a  Boatsetter captain  today.

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WEST COAST ISLAND VIBES

Mexican riviera cruises.

With its world-class wine scene and award-winning beaches, the Mexican Riviera should top your wander list.

A Mexican Riviera cruise is the perfect getaway for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a foodie craving delicious local flavors, a wine enthusiast eager to sip unique varietals or a sun-seeker scoping out some of the world’s best beaches, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more along Mexico’s beautiful western coast. Cruise from Los Angeles and explore some of the region’s must-visit destinations, like Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.

Save big with these Mexican Riviera Cruise Deals

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

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DISCOVERIES FROM ENSENADA TO VALLARTA

Each stop on a western Mexico cruise promises endless new discoveries. Bask in the wild natural beauty of Cabo San Lucas, with its windswept cliffs plunging into the Pacific. Sip local craft beers beachside in vibrant Puerto Vallarta. And embark on a wine- and food-tasting adventure while visiting cosmopolitan Ensenada.

BETTER BEACH DAYS AWAIT

The Mexican Riviera is well-known for its beautiful beaches. From dramatic Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas to Puerto Vallarta’s lively, café- and bar-dotted coast, you’ll have your pick of postcard-pretty shores for soaking up the sun. If you’re looking for activities on the water, consider joining a whale-watching tour in Ensenada — season runs from mid-December to mid-April. Or opt for an unforgettable scuba diving adventure in Cabo’s Bahía San Lucas.

GO WILD ALONG THE BAJA COAST

Mexico’s Pacific side offers plenty for outdoor enthusiasts. In fact, most of the best things to do in this beautiful region happen outside. Like horseback riding along the beach in Cabo. Biking past vineyards in Ensenada’s wine country. And venturing into the wilderness in search of waterfalls just outside Puerto Vallarta. So much outdoor exploring from Ensenada to Cabo to Puerto Vallarta .

CULTURE TRIP

Mexico offers culture cravers endless ways to get their fill on a Cruise from Los Angeles. Puerto Vallarta is a must for those interested in colorful Huichol art, which is abundantly represented in galleries and street murals alike. And the weekly Art Walk San Jose del Cabo that takes place every Thursday from November through June in Cabo San Lucas is not to be missed if you enjoy sipping wine, sampling cheeses and strolling pretty charming cobblestone street while gallery hopping — and who doesn’t?

ADVENTURES FROM CALI TO CABO

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts beautiful scenery, rich culture and thrills the whole family will love, nothing beats Mexico cruises from Los Angeles . Win the weekend with 3-night escapes to Ensenada onboard the amped-up Navigator of the Seas® or wander longer with 5-night getaways onboard Quantum Class headliner Ovation of the Seas®.

BAJA LIKE NO OTHER

Dive deeper into Baja California with extended adventures onboard Ovation of the Seas®. This is the first Quantum Class showstopper to sail from Los Angeles, bringing a new world of entertainment to the best coast. Scope the scenery from Ensenada to Cabo on the North Star®. Bounce bumper cars with your adventure crew at the SeaPlex® and flip into freefall on RipCord® by iFly®. You’ve never done Mexico like this before.

EXPLORE OVATION OF THE SEAS

BETTER WEST COAST BOASTS

When it comes to filling a few days with great food, rich culture and plenty of fun in the sun, nothing beats a Mexico cruise from the west coast. Sail from Los Angeles on Navigator of the Seas® — an Amplified fleet favorite that’s bursting with thrills. Opt for a quick escape to Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas filled with delicious global flavors, top-notch wines and world-renowned beaches.

Explore Navigator of The Seas

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Ready for Adventure Year-Round

Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is bursting with things to do. And if you think you already know the region, think again — there are endless new discoveries to be made. From Ensenada to Puerto Vallarta to Cabo, each city has its own distinct food scene well worth exploring. And Baja is rich in arts and culture, whether galleries or some street murals are more your scene. As for the great outdoors, warm days and breezy nights make it a perfect place to get away year-round.

Though visitors between January and mid-March will be treated to peak whale migration season, while summer offers sunny beach days and prime surf conditions. And if you’re looking to venture away from the beaches, the rugged mountainsides and canyons make for some eye-opening hikes. Whether you prefer getting physical or unwinding and soak up some rays, dining, going for a drink or expanding your horizons, you really can have it all on a Mexican Riviera cruise.

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Mexico’s national currency is the Mexican Peso, but U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere.

Many west coast locals will be acclimated to the water, but for the uninitiated, it can feel brisk, particularly outside the summer months. Consider a rash guard or similar coverage if you’re not used to cooler waters.

If you’re sampling wine in Ensenada, you’re going to find something you’d like to bring back. Not to worry — though there are alcohol restrictions onboard, you’re welcome to check your finds when re-boarding and we’ll hold them until it’s time to take them home!

BOLD FLAVORS ALONG THE BAJA COAST

Mexican cuisine is beloved around the world, and the food you’ll find along the Mexican Riviera has a flavor all its own. From Sonoran specialties like machaca stew to Baja beach-day classics like shrimp and fish tacos, you’ll find plenty of crave-worthy flavors to savor during your Mexico cruise.

SAVOR THIS STEW

A staple of the Sonoran cuisine popular in northern Mexico, machaca guisada is a stew that spotlights spiced beef or donkey. The meet is dried like jerky, pounded and simmered in spiced liquid until it’s tender again. It’s best enjoyed with flour tortillas.

LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT

Even if you’ve never visited Mexico, chances are you’ve tried shrimp or fish tacos before. That said, nobody does them like they do along the Baja coast. Locals in the region typically serve tacos with grilled or fried seafood topped with lettuce or cabbage, pico de gallo and a sour cream or citrus mayonnaise.

TAMALE TIME

Though tamales are popular throughout central and south America, the ones you’ll find along Mexico’s western coast are unique. These are typically stuffed with pork (called guemes tamales) or chicken (tamales fajados de pollo) along with simmered olives and raisins.

RELATED PORTS

Continue to experience the charm of Mexico by cruising to Ensenada, which is also located on the Baja peninsula, or Cabo San Lucas, which is further down the coast. Many cruises from the west coast of California and Mexico continue on to other ports like Catalina Island, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan.

Mazatlan, Mexico

Ensenada, Mexico

Los Angeles, California

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Catalina Island, California

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Cruising Mexico’s West Coast

• By Carolyn and Bob Mehaffy
• Updated: October 4, 2007

For many of us, the mythic cruising destination is usually full of images of an exotic land of eternal summertime, isolated anchorages and pristine white sand beaches. The borders of our dream are marked by palm trees with fronds swishing like the grass skirt of a dancer in a slow, sensuous hula to the rhythm of the gentle but consistent breezes. Here, one imagines, the living is as easy as it can get.

When it comes to the real world, cruisers think of the islands of Polynesia as coming closest to this mythic paradise. West Coast cruisers, however, also know that the Pacific Coast of Mexico has numerous anchorages that can satisfy the wanderlust in any of us. Better yet, the more experienced of these cruisers know that to savor much of the lushness of these tropical destinations, it pays to visit one of several marinas dotting the Pacific Coast, south of the Tropic of Cancer.

During our two recent cruising seasons along Mexico’s west coast, we’ve observed a growing number of folks who spend most of their cruising season in one or several of these marinas. It’s something of a tradeoff: You sacrifice a bit of the isolation that can make cruising such magic, but you’re still close to some pristine Mexican beaches, still living amongst an exotic culture, while basking in the comforts and conveniences of marina living.

Now that we’ve moved further south, we’ve put together a short list of favorites. Each of these marinas is associated either with a luxury resort or a yacht club. They are private, can accommodate large yachts, are near international airports, and are generally well maintained and well run.

Mazatlan, directly across the Sea of Cortez from the tip of the Baja Peninsula, is the home of El Cid, the most northerly of the tropical marinas along this coast. Inside the mouth of Estero El Sabalo, the small Marina El Cid is in the attractively designed and landscaped five-star El Cid Mega Resort. Facilities include tennis courts and a golf course.

The attractions of El Cid include much more than resort access. At the marina are a small market, a chandlery and a fuel dock. North and south of the marina entrance, golden sand beaches stretch for miles and the estuary winding inland is full of shore birds. A short ride on the hotel shuttle takes guests to the city where an extensive malecon (“seawall”) gives glorious views of the seven-mile beach and the sparkling aquamarine waters.

Cruisers to Mazatlan often occupy themselves for weeks sight-seeing in this large city and sunning and swimming at the numerous beaches. The dive shop at El Cid rents equipment and charters for most water sports, including surfing, snorkeling and diving.

The next luxurious resort marina to the south, Paradise Village in Nuevo Vallarta, lies tucked inside the entrance of the Rio Ameca, a few miles north of Puerto Vallarta. Most of the cruisers we met here spent some of each day at one of the three resort pools or at the beach. Bus service to Puerto Vallarta is also convenient.

Despite its reputation as a tourist hot spot, thanks in part to John Huston’s The Night of the Iguana, Puerto Vallarta remains a modest sized town of cobblestone streets leading to a colonial plaza and a cathedral topped with one of the loveliest bell towers we’ve seen-a recreation of the crown of Carlota, the queen of Mexico from 1864 to 1867.

Beyond the city there are a host of wonderful villages and islands which are easy day trips from Paradise Village. One choice spot several miles from the city is the Tres Marietas, at the entrance to the bay. These three deserted islands have small beaches and reefs as well as underwater caves, tunnels and walls for the intrepid explorer.

With all the wonderful facilities of Paradise Village Marina and the plethora of natural and cultural diversions, many cruisers keep their boats here for months, if not years.

This marina is part of the large and elegant resort of Grand Bay Hotel. The marina lies below the sparkling white hotel, set among lush tropical gardens on a peninsula between Laguna de la Navidad and Bahia de la Navidad.

The water taxi ferries guests across the channel to the village of Barra de la Navidad, its buildings spread along a narrow sandbar of the same name. The real attraction for most visitors is the wide beach beginning at the tip of the sand spit and curving around the bay to San Patricio Melaque, the commercial center for the bay. In January surfers flock to the great swells off Barra de la Navidad.

The restaurants, specializing in fish and seafood, draw a number of tourists as well as locals to this beach. Another attraction is the stunning snorkeling and diving area in the southwest end of the cove. This is known among the cruisers simply as the Aquarium. Here grottos of brilliant emerald-green coral shelter slithery, leering eels and tropical fish. A host of day excursions and adventures make this another worthwhile home base in Mexico.

This resort marina is on the far outskirts of Manzanillo-the busiest port in Mexico. The city has less charm than either Mazatlan or Puerto Vallarta, but the fantastic setting of the resort and marina more than compensates for the shortcoming. The Las Hadas resort could have come straight out of Fantasy Island . Walkways curve past chalk-white walls and boughs of purple and melon-colored bougainvillea. The same combination of white and warm color continues on the steep hillside above the walkways, where the Moorish-style villas ascend step by step to the top of Punta Santiago. It’s all very enchanting.

Ashore at water level are the restaurants and exquisitely tiled swimming pools lined with palm trees and palapas (thatch-roofed shelters). A small but lovely beach lies tucked invitingly into the most protected corner of the western end of Bahia de Manzanillo, behind Punta Salagua and the Marina Las Hadas breakwater.

Yachts here need to Med-moor; transients can anchor outside of the breakwater. For many visitors who are staying aboard for extended stays, anchoring is a popular option. The anchorage is cooler, quieter and more private. And strangely enough, there is often less motion at anchor than at the slips.

Carolyn and Bob Mehaffy have been cruising full-time for the past seven years and are currently in Costa Rica. They have written Destination Mexico, Cruising Guide to San Francisco Bay and Cruising Guide to the Hawaiian Islands .

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10 of the Best Mexico Cruises to Book Right Now

Travel experts share their picks for the 10 best cruises to Mexico in 2024 and 2025.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruises

Mexico is an exciting and varied destination with white-sand beaches, dense jungles, modern cities, and ancient ruins. The large country offers coasts on the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and the Sea of Cortez bordering Baja, along with many fascinating places to visit. A stay at one of Mexico’s luxurious resorts is one way to experience the country, but for those who want to see more than one destination, a cruise might be the way to go.

With a cruise, you can visit a variety of ports and enjoy the onboard amenities on your way to somewhere new each day. Most ships offer pools, spas, fitness centers, several dining options, and entertainment and enrichment activities — and, when you're in port, organized excursions offer a range of options, from lazy beach days to exciting adventures. Mexican cruises allow you to experience all these offerings and a laundry list of destinations with no worries about changing hotels, packing up, or getting yourself from place to place.

Pam Jacobs, a cruise specialist with TravelStore in Palos Verdes, California, points out that there's also a wide range of cruise lines available. “Depending on who is going on the cruise — whether it’s a family, couple, friends, multigenerational group — I’ll recommend a specific cruise line. Options vary from adults-only cruises to cruise ships with water parks and kids clubs.”

Meet the Expert

• Pam Jacobs is a California-based travel advisor at TravelStore, specializing in all types of cruises and rail vacations.
• Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor specializing in cruises and the founder of Q Cruise + Travel.
• Mary Curry is a T+L A-List travel advisor and small ship specialist with Adventure Life Journeys.

Here’s a selection of Mexico cruises showing the variety of styles, amenities, and locations available to enjoy on land and on the sea.

National Geographic Expeditions

Nano Calvo/VWPics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

With small groups of 100 or fewer guests, the Mexican cruises offered by National Geographic Expeditions are perfect for travelers who want to become immersed in the destinations they choose. The ships' small size allows them to access narrow inlets and areas close to shore, and their expansive decks offer opportunities for photographing and observing wildlife. “Non-cruisers and those who prefer nature rather than nightlife and entertainment enjoy small ship expeditions,” says Rob Clabbers.

Onboard, a team of experts ranging from naturalists to historians provide background on the wildlife, local culture, and environment. The ships offer comfortable cabins and serve fresh cuisine with ingredients inspired by and sourced from the destinations. Guests can choose daily activities of light to moderate physical impact, with options for walking, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, or biking depending on the destination. For young guests, the National Geographic Global Explorers program includes hands-on activities onboard the ship and in the field that focus on everything from observation skills to photography and maps.

The Itinerary: The Baja California: Among the Great Whales cruise boards at San Carlos on Baja’s Pacific Coast for two days in Bahía Magdalena, one of the main breeding and calving sites for gray whales, where cruisers can kayak, paddleboard, or take a Zodiac to explore. Heading south, the ship passes the southern tip of Baja before arriving at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park with an opportunity to snorkel among the coral reefs and marine life. As the ship heads north in the Gulf of California, guests can explore birds and tropical fish among uninhabited islands before disembarking in Loreto on day eight.

UnCruise Adventures

Courtesy of UnCruise

Mary Curry tells Travel + Leisure , “For an active experience, consider a small ship cruise off the coast of Baja. Several small ship lines offer yachts under 100 passengers that include a menu of excursions — kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, paddleboarding, whale watching, and more.” Curry mentioned UnCruise Adventures as an example. “For travelers who want to truly immerse themselves in the outdoor world, a small ship Baja cruise is the only way to go!”

Both of UnCruise's current Mexican offerings take place on the Safari Voyager , which holds 66 guests. The ship was built for ease of navigating and for the humidity and heat of the tropics, with an air-conditioned lounge featuring big windows for 270-degree views. Onboard, there’s an EZ Dock kayak launch platform, a bow-mounted underwater camera, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles, snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddleboards. Guests also have access to fitness equipment, yoga mats, and a library.

The Itinerary: The round-trip Baja California’s Whales & Sealife cruise offers seven nights aboard the Safari Voyager . From the embarkation point in La Paz, guests cruise to Isla San Francisco, where they can snorkel, hike, kayak, or paddleboard to experience the rugged island. At Bahía Agua Verde, looking for birds, seals, dolphins, and whales is on the agenda along with a mule ride and visit with a local ranchero. The remaining days include more secluded islands and plenty of wildlife viewing — depending on the season, guests can see gray, fin, blue, orca, and sperm whales, along with hundreds of dolphins and many species of birds.

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

“For family cruises to Mexico, I often recommend Royal Caribbean," Pam Jacobs of TravelStore tells T + L. "There’s so much to do on the ships, like water slides, entertainment, and many dining options, so there’s something for all ages to enjoy." This makes Royal Caribbean great for multigenerational groups, she says, noting that their ships tend to include both adults-only areas and youth entertainment.

Navigator of the Seas , a ship that sails exclusively from Los Angeles to Mexico’s west coast, features pools, a splash pad, a surf simulator, and water slides like the Blaster aqua coaster and Riptide headfirst mat racer. Entertainment includes an ice skating show, original productions, outdoor movie nights, pool parties, live music, and an arcade. Adults have their places to relax too, like the Solarium, a pool, whirlpool, and lounge area for guests over the age of 18.

The Itinerary: Departing from Los Angeles, the Seven Night Cabo, Vallarta & Mazatlán cruise spends a day at sea before arriving in Cabo San Lucas, where guests can spend time on the beach, take a boat ride along the shore, explore the art gallery district, or sample the local cuisine. In Mazatlán, there’s the beachfront malecón , traditional old town, and shopping at the Arts & Crafts Center. Puerto Vallarta features beaches, boutiques, street food, and the Xihuacan Museum and Archeological Site. After a final day at sea, the ship returns to Los Angeles.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

“Princess Cruises is obviously a longtime regular in the Mexican Riviera. We all remember the ‘Welcome to Acapulco’ announcements whenever the Love Boat docked for another adventure!” Rob Clabbers says. “They still visit there regularly, but with much more modern ships, more amenities, and more options at the destinations.”

The Discovery Princess , the third vessel designed from the ground up with Princess Medallion Class conveniences, is one of those modern ships. The Medallion, a quarter-sized wearable device, provides for touch-free boarding, keyless stateroom entry, Wi-Fi, ordering food and beverages to your location, onboard directions, and ease of finding and messaging friends on the ship.

The Itinerary: The Mexico cruises on Princess depart from either San Francisco or Los Angeles. The Seven-Day Mexican Riviera journey embarks in Los Angeles and spends the next day at sea before arriving at Cabo San Lucas, where guests can choose from 22 excursions with activity levels from easy to strenuous. Options range widely, from shopping and sailing to horseback riding, ziplining, and snorkeling. The next port is Mazatlán with similar excursions for a full day, then the ship sails on to Puerto Vallarta and spends two final days at sea before disembarking back in LA.

Holland America Line

Courtesy of Holland America

The Koningsdam , Holland America Line’s first Pinnacle Class cruise ship, specializes in the North American West Coast. The 2,650-passenger ship boasts a huge roster of amenities, including a music lounge and trivia center affiliated with Billboard and an at-sea outpost of the performance venue chain, B.B. King's Blues Club. For days at sea, there are pickleball courts (complete with tournaments and complimentary lessons), a fitness center, a casino, and activities for kids ages 3-17. Dining options include a poolside grill, a pizza restaurant, the casual Lido Market, a French brasserie, an Italian restaurant, and the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse.

The Itinerary: The Seven-Day Baja Peninsula cruise boards in San Diego and spends a day at sea before arriving in Cabo San Lucas, where guests can take a catamaran cruise, ride a horse along the beach, snorkel, or explore the shopping and arts district. The next port is La Paz, with a palm-lined malecón to stroll along and whale-watching and fishing expeditions to choose from. In Loreto, one of Mexico’s oldest cities, guests can explore the town, visit a mission or museum, snorkel, or hike in a nearby canyon. After two last days at sea, the ship returns to San Diego.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

“The Caribbean side of Mexico is often included in Western Caribbean itineraries departing from Florida or Galveston," says Rob Clabbers. "The island of Cozumel is one of the most frequently visited ports of call, so there are often a lot of ships — and cruise travelers in port. Costa Maya (near Mahahual) is on the mainland and provides convenient access to beautiful beaches and Mayan ruins."

Sailings on Celebrity ships like the Constellation offer just what Clabbers describes. The 2,184-passenger vessel splits its time between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean and offers a range of amenities, including a casino, a fitness center, an art gallery, a rooftop terrace, and a basketball court. Kids will enjoy the "Camp at Sea" program, while grown-ups can take to the adults-only solarium, featuring a pool and hot tub. Guests can also upgrade to The Retreat for an exclusive lounge, private restaurant, and spacious suite, or to Concierge Class for special amenities and services.

The Itinerary: The seven-night Grand Cayman & Mexico Cruise boards in Tampa and arrives in Costa Maya after a day at sea. There, guests can spend time on a Caribbean beach, snorkel, shop, or explore Mayan ruins. The next port is George Town on Grand Cayman, where designer boutiques, a catamaran cruise, and a snorkeling adventure are on offer. Then there’s a full day in Cozumel for exploring the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere, relaxing on the beach, shopping in San Miguel, or venturing out to the city of Tulum. The ship then returns to Tampa after a day at sea.

Courtesy of Silversea

“The Mexican Riviera is often included on Panama Canal sailings," Rob Clabbers tells T+L. "Operated by both mainstream and more luxury lines like Silversea and Regent Seven Seas, these longer trans-canal sailings between Florida and Southern California offer the advantage of the canal experience combined with a few days in the Caribbean and Mexico.”

The Silver Shadow is one of the Silversea vessels that sails this enticing route. Its continent-crossing voyages provide a variety of experiences, including the thrill of passing through the Panama Canal; port days in Mexico, Colombia, and Costa Rica; and the spacious suites and exceptional service of this Shadow Class luxury ship. Four restaurants, the plush Panorama Lounge, the Observation Library, a pool, a casino, cocktail lounges, a fitness center, boutiques, and a salon provide many ways to spend time during days at sea. Suites range from the 287-square-foot Vista Suite to the two-bedroom Owner’s Suite at more than 1,200 square feet, including verandas.

The Itinerary: The 18-day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles begins with two days at sea before the first stop in Cartagena, Colombia. Guests can explore the Old Town and enjoy the lively, historic city before another day at sea and arrival at the Panama Canal. After the memorable experience of passing through the locks for the 51-mile journey to the Pacific Ocean, passengers spend a day in Panama City. From there, it's on to Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where guests can choose between excursions like a half-day trek in a cloud forest or a jungle cruise. Four days at sea take the ship to Cabo San Lucas for a day, and the journey concludes with a day in San Diego and disembarkation in Los Angeles.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages offers a special perk for many of its Mexico-bound Caribbean cruises: an embarkation point in the cruise line's own Terminal V. The three-story terminal on the northwestern corner of PortMiami is an exciting place to begin a cruise, with skyline views of downtown Miami, Biscayne Bay, and Edgewater. All of Virgin's ships have some itineraries including Caribbean Mexico, but the Scarlet Lady is particularly popular in the region, since Terminal V is its year-round home port. Pam Jacobs, who has experienced Virgin Voyages cruises, notes that the line's adults-only policy is especially appealing "for groups of friends, couples, and just about anyone" — if they're 18 or older.

Onboard, guests can choose from more than 20 eateries, multiple cocktail lounges, a pool, a spa, a casino, a fitness center, and a slate of entertainment that includes live music, circus performances, karaoke, and dance parties. Cabins range from economical Insider and Sea View staterooms to RockStar and Mega RockStar quarters with marble bathrooms, terrace hammocks, in-room bars, and more. Guests who book suites have exclusive access to the Richard’s Rooftop outdoor space and a VIP entrance at the terminal.

The Itinerary: The Western Caribbean Charm Cruise begins in Miami aboard Scarlet Lady and arrives at Roatán, Honduras, after a day at sea. Guests can explore the island on an ATV tour, take a zipline adventure, ride a horse along the beach, or relax on the sandy shore. In Costa Maya the next day, options include a snorkel and glass-bottom boat tour, a kayak excursion, off-roading, or a guided visit to Mayan ruins. After a day at sea, the ship arrives in Bimini in the western Bahamas for snorkeling, diving, swimming with stingrays, or relaxing in a Bimini Beach Club cabana before returning to Miami.

Oceania Cruises

Nick Tortajada/Oceania Cruises

I cruised to Mexico on Oceania's Vista earlier this year, leaving Los Angeles for a short introductory voyage to Mazatlán — and the experience had me instantly wanting to try it again. The opulent ship has a host of beautiful spaces, including a fabulous pool deck, hot tubs, cabanas, and plenty of plush lounges.

The staterooms are comfortably furnished with minibars, spacious closets, large windows, and convenient lighting. In the 2,400-square-foot Owner’s Suite, where I was lucky enough to attend a cocktail party, it’s easy to forget you’re not in a penthouse apartment — except when you step outside to see you’re surrounded by the ocean. The suite's full-sized bar, huge walk-in closet, enormous bathtub, and lavish bathroom would make most guests want to stay in their room. But more than a dozen restaurants and cocktail lounges beckon, and, for quiet time, there’s the library. My favorite part of the cruise was an evening in the lounge named Martinis, listening to piano music and sipping (what else?) a perfect martini.

The Itinerary: The 17-Day Los Angeles to Miami Cruise aboard the Vista offers four ports in Mexico, plus five other stops and a journey through the Panama Canal. The trip starts with a day at sea after leaving Los Angeles, then explores the Mexican west coast with stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanilla, and Acapulco. At those ports, guests can swim, snorkel, shop, and explore the towns and beaches. Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; and Puntarenas, Costa Rica, are the next ports, with a day in each for exploring or relaxing on the beach. The thrilling passage through the Panama Canal takes the ship to Cartagena, Colombia, and then, after a day at sea, to George Town, Cayman Islands, before returning to Miami.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Pam Jacobs of TravelStore prefers the Caribbean Coast for Mexico cruises, and she pointed out that people traveling from the American East Coast have many options for boarding such voyages, including in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa, Florida; Galveston, Texas; and New Orleans. “This saves transportation dollars since they can choose the most economical departure point,” she explains. Norwegian Cruise Line offers Mexican cruises from nearly all of these locations.

Cruise aboard the Norwegian Getaway to experience the megaship life on your next trip south. A 3,903-passenger craft that was remodeled in 2020, the Getaway features five water slides, two pools, four hot tubs, a spa, a casino, and a salon. For young cruisers, there’s Entourage (for teens), Guppies Open Play (for toddlers), and a Kids Aqua Park. The variety of cuisines served onboard includes Brazilian, Japanese, Italian, French, and Chinese, and there's also a seafood restaurant, a raw bar, and several casual options. Staterooms range from economical Inside and Studio rooms to expansive Haven suites.

The Itinerary: The Seven-Day Caribbean Cruise departs from New Orleans and, after a day at sea, arrives in Costa Maya. Guests can visit a water park, explore the Kohunlich Mayan Ruins, swim with dolphins, or ride a dune buggy along the shore to the fishing village of Mahahual. The next day on Harvest Caye in Belize, options include parasailing, ziplining, fishing, or exploring on a glass-bottom boat trip. In Roatán, one of the Bay Islands of Honduras, guests can tour a wildlife preserve, learn about the Garifuna culture, relax in an overwater bungalow, or sample chocolate and local rum. The last port before a day at sea and a return to New Orleans is Cozumel, where guests can swim in a cenote, go snorkeling, enjoy some beach time, or hop on a trolley to see downtown Cozumel.

Related Articles

How to Sail to Mexico from the Pacific Northwest

Beneteau first 435 sloop, february 12th, 2020.

Every year, dozens of boats depart from the Pacific Northwest aiming to reach the warmer climes of Mexico. For many cruisers, this is their ‘maiden voyage’, their first offshore passage. For many of the vessels, this is also a first offshore passage, or at least a first passage for new or upgraded systems aboard. Thus, for both boats and crews it is a rite of passage, a testing of mettle and a first test of new or upgraded systems.

We transited the coast southbound on Avant in August and September of 2013, and have met dozens of cruisers who made the same trip both before and after we did. I am basing this article and its embedded advice on our collective experience as I understand it.

The passage is not a spectacularly difficult one, and barely warrants a mention in Jimmy Cornell’s “World Cruising Routes’, where he states

“ Winds along this route are always favourable, although they are sometimes too strong for comfort. Because of the big swell further offshore, it is advisable to stay as near the shore as caution permits. Several harbours have bars and are difficult or dangerous to enter when there is a heavy swell, especially if this breaks over the bar as it does in the entrance to the Columbia River. Another hazard along this coast is haze, which often reduces visibility drastically and can be extremely dangerous to small boats because of the high amount of shipping. ” (World Cruising Routes, Jimmy Cornell, 1987, page 176/177).

While sage advice, much is omitted in this statement, by nature of its brevity. Herewith, let me offer a perhaps more complete guide to transiting the coast safely and in relative comfort.

Deciding to Go

Go to Port Angeles to check into the USA and obtain your ‘Cruising License’. From Port Angeles, head to Neah Bay, about 50 nautical miles. (Pro tip: Neah Bay is a ‘dry’ community. Provision appropriately in Port Angeles.) Due to the predominantly west winds in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, you’re likely to motor.

Obtaining Your Cruising License

For Canadian and other non-American cruisers, the journey typically begins in Port Angeles, where they check in to American Customs and obtain their American cruising license. The cruising license is important, as it is your proof of having entered the USA legally, and is valid for one year, and non-renewable. (Note, if you are not travelling on a Canadian or USA passport, you will also need an unexpired multiple entry Form I-94W, Non-immigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure Form, or an unexpired passport, valid unexpired United States non-immigrant visa and I-94 Arrival/Departure Form. While most passports allow you to cross the border by automobile unhindered, and you can be issued a visa on the spot when arriving by road, the rules for boats are different and you must have the visa in hand before arrival. (We know cruisers who have been fined $500.00 for not having the visa in hand on arrival). Cruisers we know who checked into the USA in Friday Harbor or Point Roberts have told us of those offices not correctly understanding the cruising license and not issuing one, which can cause problems further south. The Port Angeles office seems to know what they’re doing.

Ask for instructions on how to report as you travel south, as these may change from year to year. You should get a list of phone numbers for the successive Customs and Border Patrol areas you will use to report in.  Generally, you must report on arrival when you arrive at each port; departure reporting is not required.

Making the Left Turn

It’s from Neah Bay that you will execute your passage plan to get to San Francisco. Essentially, you will pass Cape Flattery (about 5 miles west), turn left, and sail south. However, therein lies the rub: how will you make the passage; where will you stop (or will you stop?), and how will you choose when and where to stay and when and where to go? As soon as you leave the Strait, the North Pacific is your mistress and you are at her mercy. As The Clash said in their 1982 hit ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go’:

Should I stay or should I go? It’s always tease, tease, tease You’re happy when I’m on my knees One day it’s fine and next it’s black So if you want me off your back Well, come on and let me know Should I stay or should I go? Should I stay or should I go now? If I go, there will be trouble And if I stay it will be double So come on and let me know

With the fickle North Pacific as your mistress, choosing wisely is critical. You don’t want trouble. You certainly don’t want double trouble. So when should you go, and when you do, how should you go?

First, the ‘when’. Anytime after the spring blows are over (late April most years), and into the fall (before the winter gales arrive) is fine. Most cruisers leave in August or early September, because they do last minute refits over the summer, and also don’t want to spend too long in Southern California where moorage can be difficult to find and is certainly expensive. Knowing they won’t leave for Mexico before the end of hurricane season (roughly Halloween), they try to time arrival so they won’t face extra months of high priced moorage in San Francisco or San Diego.

Planning to be gone from the Pacific Northwest in early August (and certainly before the end of August) is generally the best idea, and most likely to deliver the best weather. We left on the 18th of August, and still met a number of storms, including three back-to-back weather systems that pinned us in Astoria for three weeks.

The Coast Pilot 7 describes the arrival of winter rather poetically:

“ Winter, like an incoming tide, creeps over the northeastern North Pacific. Subtle changes begin in September … Summer breezes become gales. Rain is commonplace. Winds and cool temperatures make the air feel damp and chilly. Storms become routine and onshore flow is near-persistent. Choppy seas turn rough. ”

Leaving later (after Labour Day) demands more caution, attention, and perhaps grit, as the windows of good weather are fewer and shorter, and the windows of poor weather are more frequent, longer and more intense. The likelihood of gales or storms is significantly higher. Bar crossings are likely to be more difficult, and generally the ‘fun meter’ may not register very high some days. The seasonal Coast Guard stations close, leaving only the year-round ones open, with reduced staff.

Then there is ‘how’. There are, broadly speaking, three widely recommended passage plans to get south:

• The ‘big jump’ : head out southwest until you are 60~80~100 miles offshore, turn to a near due south heading and maintain that until about 100 miles north of San Francisco, and then turn to a southeast heading until arrival. For sailing vessels, this is usually a trip that must be accomplished primarily under sail, as the 700 to 800 miles it entails exceeds the motoring range of most sailboats
• The ‘two-step : head out to perhaps 15~25 miles offshore and proceed south, diverting to Crescent City or Eureka (some 400-500 miles from Neah Bay) for a rest and refueling stop. Ensure you have a good weather window to get around Cape Mendocino (~80mi from Crescent City, ~20mi from Eureka) and take the next leg to San Francisco (325-375 miles) when the weather permits.
• The ‘lindy-hop’ : head out somewhat less than 25 miles offshore, and stop as desired (or indicated by the weather) at the myriad of ports along the coast. Make day or single overnight passages using weather windows as they present themselves, and arrive in San Francisco ASAC (As Soon As Comfortable). Wait out any weather that looks unpleasant or uncomfortable in ports along the way, and proceed at your own pace south.

Each has its charms and quirks, and each may suit a captain as their vessel’s and crew’s capabilities dictate.

The Big Jump

The big jump is appropriate if you’re supremely confident in your vessel and have adequate crew for adverse conditions (think fully crewed race boat). It is the riskiest strategy, as you are embarking on a voyage of some 5-7 days, well past the capability of any forecaster to reasonably predict the weather, so you’re rolling the dice on encountering gales, high seas, or worse. This route offers the best chance to earn a story of high winds and waves at sea, surviving a gale, breaking stuff, and so on.

This is the traditional route, and became tradition for several reasons:

• it involves the fewest landfalls (which were uncertain and difficult in pre-GPS days);
• it avoids much of the commercial and fishing traffic on the coast (which was difficult to manage in pre-AIS and pre-radar days);
• you can’t lose crew en route (as there is nowhere for them to get off);
• it is the fastest end to end passage as no time is spent in port (important if you have crew with limited availability).

On the downside, most vessels taking this route encounter at least some adverse weather. It’s a rare week that passes without a gale off the Pacific coast somewhere.  The waves are typically higher further out, as Cornell suggests. If your vessel and crew are untested in multi-day at-sea passages, this may not be the shakedown cruise you want, and any gear or system failure that far offshore may be difficult or impossible to remedy. While most sailors believe that their vessel can withstand conditions far worse than the crew can take, getting past the point of crew comfort, let alone endurance, is no fun and most would seek to avoid finding these boundaries. If the offshore conditions are typical, they are similar to challenging or exhilarating conditions in the Strait of Georgia – and while ‘sporty’ sails like these can be ‘fun’ when you have the prospect of relaxing at the dock, at home, in a shore side pub or yacht club after a few hours, they do become wearing after 24 or 36 hours. Remember, the conditions will be cold no matter what time of year, and cold saps your energy. In the darkest lens of analysis, the only vessels lost on this passage I can recall over many years are those that chose this route.

The Two-Step

The two-step is a good choice if you have crew time constraints, because virtually any vessel can make the two legs under power or motor sailing (perhaps augmenting fuel aboard with jerry jugs), making arrival times more certain. Because each of the legs is shorter, they can be completed in 72-96 hours, making weather forecasting more (but not completely) reliable. As you have not ventured too far offshore, any serious gear failure can be remedied by altering the plan and heading inshore for parts and repairs.

Aerial photo of the Crescent City Harbor and marina CC BY SA 3.0

If the weather forecaster was wrong and you anticipate or encounter worse conditions en route, you’re close enough to shore to seek shelter in one of the many ports en route. Because you are not stopping, it’s fairly quick, not spending nights in marinas along the way. Since Crescent City is the only port south of Neah Bay en route to San Francisco that doesn’t have a bar at the entrance, your entry there is certain (although the port of Humboldt Bay/Eureka is 60mi closer to Cape Mendocino and, in my opinion, the town is more charming. I would choose to head in there over Crescent City if conditions allow). As Crescent City and Eureka are just north of Cape Mendocino (notable as the point on the coast where strong winds happen with the greatest frequency and persistence), you have the greatest certainty in your weather forecast for rounding this point.

On the downside, you will spend as many nights (and hours) traveling in the dark on this route as on the ‘big jump’. This is an issue as crab pots, deadheads, other debris, and fishing vessels may be encountered along the way, and can’t be as easily avoided in the dark (and because you’re closer to shore, they will be more numerous). You may want to find and take crew, as these are multi day passages and watch keeping and crew fatigue can be an issue. You won’t be visiting any of the ports en route. While perhaps not as attractive as the ports of Southern California and Mexico, you have to ask yourself when you might get the chance to visit again. If you divert to another port en route, you could lose crew to shore side demands on their schedules, putting you in the position of needing to find new crew, or divert to the ‘Lindy-hop’ passage plan.

The Lindy-Hop

The third option is the Lindy-hop. This option involves coastal cruising, similar to what you may have experienced in the Strait of Georgia. While this route takes the longest, it can be the most fun as you have a range of ports to visit (including, but not limited to: Neah Bay, La Push, Gray’s Harbor, Astoria, Garibaldi, Depot Bay, Newport, Winchester, Coos Bay, Chetco/Brookings, Port Orford (anchorage only), Crescent City (no bar to cross), Humboldt Bay/Eureka, Fort Bragg, Bodega Bay and Drakes Bay (anchorage only)) all offering varying bar crossing experiences, the promise of a night’s sleep, and sightseeing opportunities.

Aerial photo of the entrance to Humboldt Bay/Eureka CC BY SA 3.0

Because you are making shorter hops you have more control over how many hours you travel in the dark, and some hops can be made entirely in daylight. As you’re making shorter legs, you will almost always be inside a 24 or 36 hour weather forecast, so the chances of the forecast being at serious variance with conditions you encounter is very, very low. You will be well rested, as the legs are not long enough for serious crew fatigue to develop (very important if you’re sailing short handed or as a couple). Any gear failures will only have to be endured for a few hours before you can make port and deal with them (roughly 1/3 of the boats we know who passed down the coast had serious gear failures – autopilots, rudders, steering linkages, wind vanes, broken booms, furlers, etc.). The North Pacific is not a forgiving place to learn.

On the downside, this takes the longest, as you’re spending nights in marinas or at anchor rather than under way. If you leave the Pacific Northwest late in the season, the windows of good weather become fewer as the days pass and winter sets in. It’s the most expensive (because you’re spending time in marinas, eating out, sightseeing, etc.). You can get ‘stuck’ if a weather window doesn’t open while you’re in any given port (although getting stuck is probably more fun than getting pasted off the coast). It does not give you a multi-day passage to test watch systems, cooking underway, and so on (although you can easily do that further down the coast in what are pretty well guaranteed to be far better conditions). The costs in marinas in Washington, Oregon and Northern California are reasonable, usually less than half what you will pay in San Francisco and points south, which goes some way to offsetting the cost of extra marina nights.

On Avant , we aimed for the two step, and a change in the weather forecast shifting the predicted winds from 20 knot north-westerlies to 30 knot southerlies, which made Astoria look very attractive. We then diverted to the Lindy-hop, stopping in Astoria, Coos Bay, and Eureka. Other vessels we sailed in company with that year also stopped in Gray’s Harbor, Newport, Fort Bragg and Drakes Bay without issue.

The Golden Gate Bridge behind Rob on the Radio in Avant’s cockpit as we passed into San Francisco Bay at sunset, September 19, 2013, 27 days after leaving Neah Bay.

Even though we enjoyed good weather windows and smooth seas, the effect of this passage was evident. For example, we left with a new box of corn flakes in a locker below and didn’t open it on the trip. When we did open it in Southern California, we found the flakes reduced to dust by the constant motion.

No matter which route you choose, Drakes Bay usually offers a secure anchorage some 25mi from the Golden Gate Bridge, and the majority of cruisers take advantage of this to grab a few hours of rest and adjust their timing for entering San Francisco Bay.

As a follow-up to this article, you may also want to check-out Rob Murray’s article on hazards and resources when sailing to Mexico: Sailing to Mexico from the Pacific Northwest: Hazards and Resources.

Next Article: 2020 Gwaii Haanas Urban Orientations

Previous article: sailing in chile: part 3 - interpreting the guidebook, about the author.

Rob Murray and Debra Zhou are doers currently on the Caribbean coast of Panama aboard Avant, their Beneteau First 435.

Pacific Northwest ,  Passage Making

Thanks Rob for a detailed articulate discussion of the possibilities for a route south.

Thanks for an excellent article! We hope to be making this journey in the coming years.

Great article!the best I’ve seen detailing this route.

Very good article! Very informative!

Does Drakes Bay have a new bar crossing?

Rob is in Bahia Honda, Panama, and can’t access the currents webpage to reply. He asked the currents editors to post this reply: “No, there isn’t a new bar crossing at Drakes Bay. Drakes Bay and Port Orford (at approximately 42° 44.241′ N 124° 29.643′ W) are useful anchorages, perhaps the only two useful anchorages, to wait out poor weather or rest and adjust ones’ timing for entering a port. However, I wouldn’t call either a ‘port’ as they offer no services or even ready access ashore in poor weather. Waiting out four or five days or a week of poor weather wouldn’t be much fun in either of them. As far as I know, Crescent City remains the only ‘port’ without a bar crossing between Neah Bay and San Francisco.”

Great article Rob! Your observations about learning about what will give first – you or your boat – were on point and quite funny.

Good Article, Rob! Barb & I selected option #1 (The Big Jump), and your summary of the pros/cons was accurate.

We would just add this comment about pre-departure staging: *if* you do the single-hop-to-San-Francisco, then leaving from Bamfield is much preferred over PortAngeles -> Neah Bay. Weather that is good for heading south (i.e. a brisk NW) is crappy for heading out of Juan de Fuca. So, pick a good window to go to Barkley Sound, where you can hang out in comfort (and still in Canada) until you see a one-week period of decent NW wind. Checking into the USA in San Francisco worked out fine for us – a taxi ride to the Customs office, an hour for paperwork, and we received our cruising permit (which the officer didn’t charge us for, either).

Sailing under that Golden Gate is a pretty special feeling!

Thank you Rob for the comprehensive summary of options for heading down the coast which captures a wide range of experience.

Can you please make a referral for a weather router? I plan to do my first Lindy-Hop in early September . followed with a cruise to Porto Vallarta depending on COVID-19 Restrictions.

Carl Richardson Allons-y Beneteau First 36.7

Carl, if you’re doing a series of coastal hops, I’m not sure the services of a weather router are warranted -NOAA does a good job for free. Having said that, I know a number of folk who used Commanders ( https://www.commandersweather.com/ ) on this route and were satisfied.

Please see this article too https://currents.bluewatercruising.org/articles/sailing-to-mexico-from-the-pacific-northwest-hazards-and-resources/ (they should be linked somehow)

Thank you for the article with all of the interesting details and perspectives. We are in Tacoma WA. We will be turning left in August 2021, we have received both covid-19 shots hoping things open up along the way eventually.

Rob thanks! How is it going north to Canada? Do we check in San Diego? I’m American and my GF is Mexicana. Appreciate it. Dan Root

Hi JohnBae, Your name and destination sound like the crew I met, talked with and played a little flamenco for, on the dock at Coos Bay. What an exciting idea to join your vessel. My longest sail was 700 miles up the inland passage on a 52 ft schooner. I know the bliss and hardships of sailing. I hope another time, I’ll join your crew. How about sailing to Hawaii next year. Let me know how Mexico feels to you. Mariachis. Fish tacos. I’ve been thinking of you’all. Please stay in touch. Are you on Facebook? Or posting your adventures online somewhere? Flamenco Granny of Coos Bay, Oregon

Life saving wisdoms passed down; thank you.

where can I get on a sailboat for a cruise to Mexico or Hawaii ? As crew or passenger , thank-you, John

Is it possible to sail this route without encountering any hazards or challenges, or are there certain risks that sailors should be aware of and prepared for along the way?”

There are always hazards and challenges to be reckoned with on any passage. Knowing them in advance allows a boat and crew to avoid the hazards and minimize the challenges!

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Mexico Cruises

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Cruises to Mexico

On one of our unforgettable cruises to Mexico, you’ll experience powdery beaches, exciting cuisine, spectacular antiquities, and tropical sunshine. Explore the aquamarine shallows, colorful reefs, and mysterious Mayan ruins of Mexico’s sun-drenched Caribbean coast, where history, nature, and a rich culture sit side by side.

Wherever you sail to on your Mexico cruise, there’s tequila to be tasted, fresh tacos and guacamole to sample, and feel-good mariachi bands playing in cobblestone town squares. Add in the rhythms of salsa on the tropical breeze and you’ll have a vacation to remember.

Featured Highlights

Mayan antiquities.

Discover the ancient Mayan sites of the Yucatan Peninsula. Puerto Costa Maya is the gateway to Kohunlich, where temples, palaces, and ball courts dating back to 200 BC lie in dense jungle. Or head to Chacchoben, the site dominated by a dramatic pyramid. From Cozumel, visit beautiful Tulum, the ancient Castillo perched on a cliff top overlooking the sea. Cozumel also has its own Mayan site, San Gervasio, which is still a place of pilgrimage today. 

Beautiful Beaches

Mexico’s Caribbean coast is famed for its powdery beaches and aquamarine seas. From Puerto Costa Maya, head to laid-back Mahahual for craft shops, spectacular coral reefs, and waterfront restaurants. On Cozumel, Playa Palancar, backed by dense greenery, is the perfect spot for relaxation. Playa Mia Grand is great for families, with kayaks, paddleboards, and a floating adventure park. Wild Punta Sur, meanwhile, is where turtles nest and tropical fish teem over dazzling reefs.

Colorful Cuisine

Explore the country’s famous cuisine in a cooking class. Snack on empanadas filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Sample cochinita pibil, slow-roasted pork stuffed into a taco, and salbutes, fried tortillas with tomato, onion, avocado, and shredded chicken. Taste tangy ceviche, cubes of fish marinated in lime juice and spices. Wash it down with frozen margaritas, or try a Paloma—tequila, grapefruit juice, and soda.

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A Mexico cruise offers endless ways to escape the everyday, whichever way you choose to explore this exciting country. Choose between 11 Celebrity ships, including three of our revolutionary Edge® Series, all offering the famous personalized touches that make every Celebrity vacation special. Unwind with a spa treatment on board. Dine your way around the world with globally inspired menus across up to 12 specialty restaurants. Bask in tropical sunshine by the shimmering pool, and toast the end of another unforgettable day at The Sunset Bar. 

Elevate your experience to the next level at The Retreat®, with beautifully designed suites, access to a private sundeck (on select ships) and tranquil lounge, and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat. 

Make the most of your time ashore with one of our creative excursions or Private Journeys, whether you want to ride a horse through the green hills behind Ensenada, race across the Baja desert in an ATV, or indulge in a spiritual healing ritual with a shaman. There’s no better way to discover the delights of Mexico than with Celebrity Cruises. 

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Puerto Vallarta Vs. Cabo: Which Should You Visit?

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Mexico Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

White sand beaches, crystal clear water, abundant sunshine, great food, and amazing historical ruins await in the tropical destination of Mexico.

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Top Mexico FAQs

What should I pack for a cruise to Mexico?

When packing for a cruise to Mexico, you’ll need clothing for a tropical climate. Bring plenty of beachwear, a sun hat, sunglasses, coverups, water shoes if you’re visiting coral sand beaches, and reef-friendly sunblock if you intend to go snorkeling.

If you book a snorkeling excursion, all gear will be provided. If there are places where you may want to snorkel independently, consider bringing your own equipment. 

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through cover-ups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip-flops are not considered Smart Casual.

Each itinerary features one to two more “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

Do I need a passport?

It is the responsibility of each guest to identify and obtain all required travel documents and have them available at the pier when necessary. Before leaving home, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the required travel documents you will be asked to provide prior to boarding the ship. You’ll find more information here.

Not all Mexico cruises require a passport. If you are an American citizen traveling from the U.S. to Mexico on a closed-loop cruise, starting and ending at the same U.S. port, a state-issued ID and an original U.S. birth certificate are sufficient. 

If you are on a cruise that’s not a closed-loop, you will need one of the following documents: U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

When’s the best time to cruise?

The peak cruise season on Mexico’s Caribbean coast is from December to April, when the days are warm and sunny, with little rain other than the occasional short, sharp evening shower. You can also cruise to Mexico’s Caribbean coast in the shoulder season, from July to November; there may be a little more rain, but hurricanes are rare here. Your safety is our priority and ships can be moved if a hurricane is forecast.

Winter is peak season to cruise to Mexico’s Pacific coast. Hurricanes can pass through between May and November, so you could expect some rain then.

What ports do you visit in Mexico?

Celebrity’s ships call at Costa Maya and Cozumel on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. On the Pacific coast, we visit Huatulco, Puerto Vallarta, Ensenada, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas.

Where do Mexico cruises depart from?

Cruises to Mexico depart from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa, Los Angeles, and Orlando (Port Canaveral). We offer a wide range of cruises to Mexico, from four-night getaways to longer voyages that combine the best Mexican ports with destinations ranging from Key West to New Orleans, Jamaica, and the Panama Canal.

Is it safe to cruise to Mexico?

For Celebrity Cruises® and parent company, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, the safety of our guests and crew has always been our highest priority. We encourage you to leave valuables on board when you go ashore, and to use the safe provided in your stateroom for your valuables.   

As with any busy vacation destination, take sensible precautions. Don’t carry your cell phone or wallet in your back pocket, and keep your purse and camera close to you. Do not leave your belongings unattended on a beach. Do not drink tap water in Mexico—drink bottled water instead.

Are there any specific vaccinations or health requirements?

There are no specific vaccinations required to enter Mexico, but you should always make sure your regular vaccinations are up to date before traveling.

What can I do on board the ship?

You’ll find no shortage of things to do on board your luxurious Celebrity Cruises ship. Sunbathe by the pool, relax in a bubbling hot tub, or indulge in a treatment in the spa. Enjoy exploring all the different dining options, from made-to-order burgers and salads by the pool to French classics and a delightful 3D cartoon animation in Le Petit Chef, and steaks and seafood in the elegant Tuscan Grille. Elevate your experience to The Retreat and you can enjoy fine dining in Luminae, as well as suite accommodation and access to an exclusive lounge.

On Edge-Series ships, sit with a coffee or a cocktail on the Magic Carpet, suspended over the side of the ship, and admire uninterrupted sea views. On Solstice-Series ships, you can enjoy the sunshine from the beautiful Lawn Club while lying back on the manicured grass with a book.

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Cruises to the Sea of Cortez

Get an even deeper look into mexico's colorful culture.

Dive even deeper into adventure with our 10-day cruises to the Sea of Cortez. Our most comprehensive itinerary gives you a complete look at Mexico’s diverse and festive culture. Enjoy convenient roundtrip departures from Los Angeles as well as an overnight stay in Cabo included in every itinerary. From the colonial town of Loreto to the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, experience Mexico’s best on a Sea of Cortez cruise with Princess®.

Featured Ports on a Sea of Cortez Cruise

Learn more about the ports on your Mexico cruise to the Sea of Cortez.

• Cabo San Lucas
• Puerto Vallarta

Located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo is surrounded by clear waters and sun-kissed beaches. As one of the world’s premier resort destinations, it’s the perfect place to relax, recharge and reawaken your passion for adventure. On a Mexico cruise, tour Todos Santos and enjoy lunch at the Hotel California. Or sail on a catamaran to Lover’s Beach, and snap a photo in front of El Arco on your way.

When it was founded in 1535, La Paz was a quiet bay with roaringly beautiful landscapes. Today the city is still home to sun-drenched beaches and mountains, but it’s also teeming with lively locals and endless activities. During your Sea of Cortez cruise, lounge on the golden shores. Or spend the day downtown shopping for artisan goods — like woven textiles and pottery — at the street side stalls.

While Loreto is known for its cliff-top vistas and sparkling beaches, there’s more to the city than just its scenery. On a Sea of Cortez cruise, visit the missions that give the city its rich history — like Mission San Javier and Mission of Our Lady of Loreto. Or snorkel through the 100-mile Loreto National Marine Park for a chance to see some of the 800 species of fish that swim through the waters.

Between its beaches, aquatic parks and vibrant art scene, Puerto Vallarta’s varied landscapes offer adventures for all. On a Mexico cruise, wander through the city’s galleries, and sample tequila alongside handmade tortillas and salsa. Or stroll along the seafront Malecon boardwalk – the city’s premier shopping destination — where mementos, margaritas and Mexican buffets await.

What to Do on a Baja California Cruise

On a Sea of Cortez cruise with Princess, discover culture around every corner.

• Natural Wonderlands

Inspired by 19th-century California mission-style architecture, Mexico’s cathedrals tell a unique story of times past. On a Sea of Cortez cruise to La Paz, visit the Cathedral de Nuestra Senora de la Paz. Admire the preserved stained-glass windows that decorate its exterior. Then step inside to see a collection of paintings and statues dedicated to Virgin Mary, the city’s patron saint.

Taste, see and meet true Mexican heritage on a Baja California cruise with Princess. In Loreto, stroll down the cobbled streets decorated with multi-colored homes, shops and museums. Sample Mexican seafood — like “chocolate” clams cooked over rocks — while sipping on spicy margaritas. Or meet the locals on a visit to the Main Plaza or during a traditional Mexican fiesta.

Natural wonderlands

From beaches to jungles, Mexico’s landscapes are untamed. During your Sea of Cortez cruise, see these terrains like never before. In Puerto Vallarta, take a boat to Las Caletas, a secluded oasis surrounded by sandy shores and forests. Hike through the island’s interior alongside a local guide, or zipline through the woods at the Kids Adventure Park. Then take a dip in the sea before your boat ride back to the city.

History is an important part of Mexico’s story. On a Baja California cruise, discover tales from ancient civilizations when you visit San Jose Del Cabo, just a short drive from Cabo San Lucas. Between the 18th-century architecture and the Spanish colonial character, let the preserved charm of this rural town transport you to Mexico’s past. Hear stories from locals, and learn city secrets from expert guides.

Sea of Cortez excursions

Our Sea of Cortez cruise excursions introduce you to the people and places that call Mexico home. Embark on an off-road adventure through the jungles of Puerto Vallarta, then enjoy lunch by a hidden lagoon. Kayak along Loreto’s coastline with your loved ones, and horseback ride along Cabo’s sandy shores. Or visit the El Serpentario Reptile Center and Cactus Nursey in La Paz and get up close to enclosed snakes, lizards and crocodiles.

More ashore

Enjoy every second in Cabo with More Ashore overnight stays. On any of our 10-day Baja California cruises, enjoy two days in Mexico’s resort city. Sip on a cocktail while watching the sun set over the ocean. Dance the night away in one of the bustling bars. Or taste Mexican street-food — including smoked fish, tacos and chicken tamales — alongside locals at any of the city’s restaurants.

Ships on this itinerary

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 Sea of Cortez cruise.

#PrincessCruises Mexico Connections

See Mexico through our guests' eyes.

Mexico Cruises Onboard Experience

Experience the country’s unique character the second you step on the ship with traditional Mexican cuisine, events and activities.

Mariachi and margaritas

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

Every reason to celebrate

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

Mexican and Spanish Cuisine

Famous for a reason

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

Mexico Cruise Articles & Videos

Learn more about Mexico before you set sail.

2024-2025 Mexico Cruises

Sailing the Mexican Riviera for more than 50 years.

6 Things to Buy in Mexico Cruise Ports

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

Explore Puerto Vallarta's Hidden Beach: Playa del Amor

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

5 Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

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

See the La Quebrada Cliff Divers

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

Things to Do in Manzanillo, Mexico

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

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Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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

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Start planning the vacation of your dreams with a cruise you'll love at a price you can't beat. Explore our latest featured deals, snag some last-minute savings and see how our all-inclusive packages can make your getaway even better.

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Our top-rated Mexican Riviera cruise is the best way to enjoy Mexico.

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Siesta or fiesta, we've got the best Mexico cruise for you.

Each port on our Mexican Cruise holidays is filled with fun and adventure including kayaking, zip lining, swimming with dolphins, scuba diving and much more. You're never far from a beautiful beach or a good party on Norwegian's cruises to Mexico. Explore the Mexican Riviera's old traditions and stunning towns with many ships to choose from, inclduing our sister ships, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy .

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Cruise to Mexico on One of Our Most Blissful Ships

Experience the beauty and splendor of this romantic region with a cruise aboard one of our most exciting ships, Norwegian Bliss. Witness Cabo's gorgeous sunsets from the Observation Lounge or whilst enjoying a delectable dinner on The Waterfront, exclusively on Norwegian. Once you're ready for more adventure, head to the outdoor laser tag arena, or go for some laps at the thrilling race track.

Mexico Cruise Image Gallery

• San Diego, California
• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Puerto Vallarta
• Zihuatanejo, Mexico
• Acapulco, Mexico
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Explore Mexico Cruise Ports

Featured Mexico CRUISE ITINERARIES

Best mexico excursions.

We know the destinations you'll be visiting and what there is to see, do and experience. We offer you a variety of excursions to choose from, in every port you'll visit.

Mexican Outback & Camel Ride

This Mexican Outback and Camel Safari is an unforgettable eco-adventure that combines spectacular views, delicious cuisine and an exciting beach camel ride....

Salsa & Salsa

Are you ready to try Mexican salsa, margaritas and learn how to dance the Salsa? Then this tour is for you! ...

The Best of Mazatlan

Your tour begins with an interesting ride along Mazatlan’s oceanfront for a view of the lighthouse and offshore islands. Continue into the heart of the old downtown for a short vis...

Las Caletas Hideaway

Your tour begins as you board a van or coach at the pier and travel to Gringo Gulch, where you'll begin a walking tour of the picturesque town of Puerto Vallarta. ...

Mexico HOTELS

• LOS ANGELES

Hilton Checkers Los Angeles

Less than a mile from The Museum of Contemporary Art, this genteel hotel in a 1920s building is a mile both from the Walt Disney Concert Hall and from the Grammy Museum at L.A. Live.

Relaxed rooms offer flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms and desks, as well as coffeemakers. Suites add separate living areas.

Relaxed rooms offer flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms and desks, as well as coffeemakers. Suites add separate living areas. Some include patios and/or fireplaces.

There's a polished bar and an elegant restaurant. Other amenities include a fitness centre, a business centre and a rooftop terrace, plus meeting and event space.

Distance/Airport: 18 miles Distance/Pier: 23 miles

Package includes: Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Important Note: Accommodations are based on double occupancy per room. Some accommodation will allow triple and quad guests in a room and are subject to availability and surcharge will apply. Additional hotel rooms to accommodate triple and quads may be required, and surcharge will apply.

The Sheraton Grand Los Angeles

Part of the Bloc shopping and entertainment centre, this upscale high-rise hotel is a minute's walk from a metro station, and less than a mile from the Crypto.com Arena.

Sophisticated rooms offer Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers; microwaves and minifridges are available on request. Suites add separate sitting areas. Club rooms provide access to a lounge with complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon snacks.

There's a hip restaurant featuring farm-to-table fare, and a lobby bar serving cocktails. Other amenities include a gym, plus 35,000 sq ft of meeting space.

Phone: (213) 488-3500

Distance/Airport: 17.5 miles Distance/Pier: 23 miles

Read THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT Mexico Cruises

Must-Try Foods on Norwegian Bliss

Let's take a quick food tour of Norwegian Bliss — complete with appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

Explore Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, together, make up Los Cabos.

Mexican Must-try Dishes

Experience the culinary landscape with these delicious eats.

Cruise to Puerto Vallarta and More

The Mexican Riviera offers breathtaking experiences in Ensenada, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta.

Explore Like a Travel Writer

Get a first-hand look at cruising the Mexican Riviera.

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MEXICO CRUISES

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

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

Make the Most of Your Mexico Cruise Vacation

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

MEXICO CRUISES FROM SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

Award-winning mexico cruises.

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

Mexico Cruise Deals

Get away for less with Mexico cruise deals and promotions. Check out our current offers and save big on your next vacation.

Explore The Mexican Riviera

Featured mexico cruise itineraries.

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

7-Day Mexican Riviera

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

9- to 14-Day Mexico & Sea Of Cortez

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

Featured Mexico Cruise Ports

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

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

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

Mazatlan, Mexico

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

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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

SEE ALL MEXICO CRUISE PORTS

Featured Mexico Shore Excursions

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

Mexico Cruise Onboard Experience

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

Dining Experiences

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Mexico vacation packages.

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

Find Flights

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

Add a Hotel Package

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

Plan Ground Transportation

Schedule ground transportation between the airport and ship. Breeze to and from your Mexico cruise ship and enjoy the peace-of-mind of having it all arranged ahead of time.

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• Cruise Destinations

Best Cruises to Mexico

• Carnival Firenze
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Luminosa
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Radiance

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• Ports of Call

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

• Check out the shopping scene for unique local crafts.
• Fly high — with a view — while parasailing.
• Get down to scuba and snuba.

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7 best Mexico cruises for 2025 and 2026

Cruises to Mexico have an appeal that's hard to match.

Pacific Coast itineraries cover both Baja California (with stops in Ensenada) and the area farther south considered the Mexican Riviera (featuring the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta). Where else can you spend the morning whale watching from a small boat, followed by an afternoon of shopping or enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine?

The ports on Mexico's eastern coast are often lumped together with other Central American ports or island destinations on Western Caribbean cruises . Do a bit of digging, and you can find three- to five-night cruises from Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; and Mobile, Alabama, that visit only Mexican ports, including Cozumel, Costa Maya and Progreso.

Beaches and water sports, as well as eating and drinking, are the primary attractions on cruises to Mexico. Both coasts offer ample opportunity to play in the sun and sand. The best Mexico cruises have lengthy port stops that provide plenty of time to explore, plus time on board the ship to relax and decompress.

You might even be able to cruise to Mexico without a passport if your cruise begins and ends in the same U.S. port.

So, what's the best cruise to Mexico? Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line run year-round cruises from the Los Angeles area and Galveston ports, while Princess Cruises, Holland America , Norwegian Cruise Line , Celebrity Cruises and Disney Cruise Line offer seasonal cruises to Mexico from the West Coast.

Occasionally, you can find luxury cruises to the Mexican Riviera on lines Regent Seven Seas . Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures offer nature-oriented small-ship opportunities in Baja California.

We scoured all the options and came up with the best Mexico cruises to help narrow your choices. Here's what we found.

3-night Baja cruise on Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance gets the nod for having a year-round schedule of short escapes to Mexico.

Carnival Cruise Line 's west coast Mexico cruises sail from the port of Long Beach, which is a fun destination in its own right, with beaches, water sports and the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Carnival Radiance (formerly Carnival Victory) underwent a complete refit in 2021, adding a dedicated comedy club, top-deck water attractions and the first-ever chicken joint from Shaquille O'Neal, aptly named Big Chicken .

The ship goes to Ensenada and back with one fun day at sea. Water sports and whale watching in winter are among the top activities in Ensenada for Carnival cruisers. For a local lunch in port, order fish tacos; Ensenada claims to have invented the dish. Some also claim Ensenada is the original home of the margarita. Drink enough of those, and it won't matter if it's true or not. If margaritas aren't your thing, there are popular wineries in port worth checking out.

You can also cruise this route on Carnival Firenze , one of Carnival's two "Fun Italian Style" ships (adopted from sister cruise line Costa). However, that ship mainly sails four- and five-night itineraries from Long Beach.

Who should go : It's no secret that Carnival's Fun Ships are known as party ships. This short hop to Mexico is ideal for residents of the Western states looking for an escape any time of year. The ship's atmosphere is enthusiastic and fun, which spills into Ensenada on the single port day of the cruise.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

4-night Baja cruise with Catalina Island on Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder is one of Disney Cruise Line 's oldest and smallest ships, carrying only 2,700 passengers. However, it's packed with Disney adventures, including a musical stage production of "Frozen," character meet-ups and the most family-friendly cabins at sea. Wonder sails to Mexico from San Diego during the fall and winter.

Not every four-night cruise on Wonder includes Catalina Island, but if you can snag one that does, it's a huge bonus of family fun. Activities in the port of Avalon on Catalina include an amazing zip line course with five lines. Soaring along the island's hillsides 600 feet above the beaches below, the adventure course takes more than two hours to complete.

If your crew isn't into high-speed zipping, try a backcountry bison expedition or a relaxing day at the beach. Catalina is a charming island with a European feel, memorable food and a fascinating history. The second port on the itinerary is Ensenada, where the wildlife-watching or beach fun can continue.

Who should go: Disney Wonder is an ideal ship for family cruise travel from the West Coast. Features include the Marvel Superhero Academy inside the Disney Oceaneer Club, the activity space for kids. You'll have family-friendly accommodations on board, most with split bathrooms (one with toilet and sink, the other with bath-shower combo and sink). Parents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a night out without the kids, dining at the adults-only Palo specialty restaurant or sampling an adult beverage at the After Hours entertainment district.

5- and 6-night Cabo overnight cruises on Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean 's Quantum of the Seas is one of the largest vessels ever to sail from Los Angeles.

Quantum of the Seas carries 4,180 passengers at double occupancy. The ship features skydiving and surfing simulators, a bumper car pavilion, robotic bartenders and laser tag. The ship has so many included and extra-fee dining options that you'll be hard-pressed to try them all on a five- or six-night sailing.

The allure of this itinerary is the overnight in Cabo San Lucas. (The six-nighter also includes a visit to Ensenada.) After all those other cruise ships say adios to Cabo, cruisers can explore the city's nightlife. Street taco tour, anyone? Tequila flights? How else can you enjoy late-night freshly fried churros on a street corner?

The rest of the trip is all about fun on the ship as you cruise the Pacific Ocean waters.

Who should go: A Mexico cruise on Quantum of the Seas is ideal for big-ship lovers. Myriad flights into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the area's smaller regional airports make it accessible to most of the Western states. For Californians who can drive to the port in less than a day, the fun of a beach day in nearby Long Beach before or after the cruise makes this sailing an easy choice.

7-night Mexican Riviera cruise on Discovery Princess

When Princess Cruises ' Discovery Princess isn't in Alaskan waters, it can be found cruising to the Mexican Riviera from the Los Angeles port at San Pedro.

The seven-night itinerary includes Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, plus three sea days to enjoy the ship, which carries 3,660 guests. Discovery Princess brings a bit of elegance to the riviera with afternoon tea and the ability to order the Ultimate Balcony Breakfast to your cabin's private veranda (for an additional charge).

For a true splurge, book one of two Sky Suites on Discovery Princess. Each suite has two bedrooms and a luxurious 1,000-square-foot balcony for unrivaled views.

Who should go: This is the best Mexico cruise for those seeking Princess' relaxed upscale mode of cruising. Children are always welcome on Princess, and there are plenty of connecting rooms and cabin options with third and fourth bunks. Though the ship offers a youth program, don't expect waterslides and thrill rides. The vibe on board is low-key, and the average age is a bit older when compared to Royal Caribbean or Carnival.

7-night Mexican Riviera cruise on Carnival Panorama

Carnival Panorama is loaded with Carnival-style fun. From a jaw-dropping, nail-biting ropes course high above the decks to waterslides and an indoor trampoline park, this ship is a crash course in playtime. The seven-night itineraries sail from Long Beach and include the main western Mexico ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, where the ship stays into the evening hours.

With three sea days, cruisers have plenty of time to enjoy the ship. The best part is that this floating thrill ride cruises this itinerary year-round.

Who should go: It's a great choice for families with tweens and teens because so many of the onboard activities are geared to them. Couples sailing without kiddos can enjoy adults-only areas like the Serenity sun deck retreat, a plush Cloud 9 Spa and Havana cabins with their exclusive pool deck.

7-night expedition to Baja California with UnCruise

UnCruise Adventures does Mexico with an entirely different approach to cruising.

Leave the party ships and the thrill rides behind for an expedition adventure aboard the 66-passenger Safari Voyager. The ship sails from La Paz, Mexico, between January and June, taking passengers in search of gray whales, whale sharks, rays and an amazing variety of sea life, as well as wildlife on dry land.

Activities include kayaking, Zodiac boat rides, snorkeling, hiking and, of course, downtime at the beach. Safari Explorer is somewhat basic in its amenities. You can expect cabins that are quite cozy, but there's ample public space on deck to watch for sealife and meet your fellow passengers.

UnCruise fares include all meals, excursions, equipment, beverages (including alcohol) and airport transfers, leaving you free to enjoy the adventure.

Who should go: This cruise is for physically fit adults and families with kids ages 8-17 seeking adventure in the wilds and waters of Baja California.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

10-night Mexico cruise with Cabo overnight on Grand Princess

Princess Cruises' 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess sail seasonal 10-night Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez itineraries from Los Angeles.

The Grand Class vessels have an intimate feel and are on average 20% smaller than Princess' newer Royal Class ships (such as the previously mentioned Discovery Princess). The interiors revolve around lively, piazza-like atriums with cafes and boast large theaters and multiple restaurants and bars.

Each sailing calls in La Paz, Loreto and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, with an overnight stop in Cabo San Lucas. In La Paz, catch some rays on the soft golden sand and take a dip in the turquoise water, or dive down to see the astonishing underwater world by snorkeling or scuba. In Loreto, step back in time to the 17th century at Mission San Javier with its stunning stained-glass windows and the bell tower of Our Lady of Loreto. Then enjoy the seafood specialties of the area, including tender "chocolate" clams cooked on hot stones (best accompanied by the citrus tang of an authentic margarita). Keep an eye on the sea while you're in these charming towns and you might also spot whales swimming by.

Four sea days allow you to rest up from your adventures ashore.

Who should go: This cruise is for anyone who enjoys exploring port cities more in-depth than what's offered by a standard port call and who appreciates less of a party atmosphere on board. Daytime activities in Cabo include sport fishing, wildlife watching, boat rides, camel rides, kayaking, parasailing and snorkeling. Add in evening tasting tours, and you're set.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Bottom line

The best cruises to Mexico are the ones that suit your travel personality. Whether you're looking for a party atmosphere or adventure, there's a ship waiting to take you to Mexico any time of year.

Focus your search on round-trip itineraries from major ports in Los Angeles and San Diego. You'll also find options for cruises to Mexico's west coast from San Francisco. Mexico cruises from Galveston, New Orleans and even Mobile, Alabama, focus on the country's Caribbean shores.

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Cruises to Mexico

Cruising in mexico is a magical experience. discover mariachi music, fiery sunsets and golden beaches in festive ports..

Set sail down the sunny Baja Peninsula and call at famed ports along the Mexican Riviera, or cruise the turquoise Caribbean around Cancun and the Yucatan Peninsula. Whichever area you choose, Mexico offers balmy weather, historic sites, colorful traditions, delicious cuisine, exceptional shopping and endless fun in the sun.

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