The Western Caribbean is the perfect cruise destination for those interested in Mayan history, beautiful beaches, and natural attractions. From the cobblestone-paved streets of Cozumel to the lush jungles of Honduras, there’s something for every traveler in Western Caribbean cruise itineraries. There’s a wide range of experiences on Western Caribbean cruises, with each port offering its own special charm and attractions.
Cruises to the Western Caribbean usually embark from ports around Florida such as Miami, Port Canaveral, Everglades, Jacksonville, Tampa Bay, and Fort Lauderdale. They sometimes embark from other cities such as New Orleans, Galveston, or Mobile. These cruises also have less island hopping compared to Eastern Caribbean cruises.
What Is the Best Time to Cruise to the Western Caribbean?
The ideal time for a Western Caribbean cruise is between December and April. During these months, the weather is comfortably warm, not too wet or humid, and it falls outside the hurricane season.
Read more: Weather in the Caribbean by Month
Where is the Western Caribbean?
The Western Caribbean is situated on the western side of the Caribbean Sea, extending westward from Florida and south of Cuba. It includes islands like Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Cozumel, Roatán, and the Belize Cayes. The area also covers parts of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, like Costa Maya and Progreso, and countries like Belize and Honduras. Western Colombia, Panama, and Costa Rica are also part of the Western Caribbean.
What Is Considered a Western Caribbean Cruise?
A Western Caribbean cruise refers to a cruise that sails through the western part of the Caribbean Sea, which lies west of Florida and south of Cuba. These cruises often include ports in countries such as Mexico (notably Cozumel and Costa Maya), Belize, Honduras (Roatan), Jamaica (Ocho Rios, Falmouth, Montego Bay), the Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands, and sometimes parts of Central America like Panama and Costa Rica.
The duration of Western Caribbean cruises can vary, typically ranging from 4 to 7 days, but longer itineraries are also available.
The Western Caribbean is renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. Many itineraries offer chances for adventure activities such as zip-lining, jungle tours, and exploring Mayan ruins, especially in destinations like Mexico and Belize.
Map of Western Caribbean Cruise Ports
Cruise Ports in the Western Caribbean
Here’s a list of Western Caribbean cruise ports along with the cruise lines that dock at each port.
Belize City, Belize
Belize City is a popular Western Caribbean cruise port that serves as a gateway to all the diverse attractions across the country. The port area has shops, eateries, and a terminal with all the basic facilities to accommodate cruise passengers. The port itself is a tender port, which means that cruise ships will anchor offshore. Passengers are then ferried to the port and back to their cruise ships on smaller boats known as tenders.
For cruise passengers, Belize City opens up a world of exploration. The city’s attractions include significant historical landmarks like St. John’s Anglican Cathedral, the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, and the Museum of Belize, which documents the nation’s history, people, and culture. The port is also a starting point for diverse tours and excursions, including cave tubing, snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef, and visiting ancient Mayan ruins such as Xunantunich, Lamanai, and Altun Ha.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Belize Dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English, Spanish, Belizean Creole
Cruise lines docking in Belize City: Oceania Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, P&O Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Marella Cruises, Silversea Cruises, MSC Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, TUI Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Belize City: Year round
Dangriga, Belize
Dangriga is a small town in Central Belize with a tender port visited by a few cruise lines. The town is known for its rich Garifuna heritage, making it a cultural hub in Belize. Nestled between the lush, tropical forests of the Maya Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, Dangriga offers a blend of natural beauty, sandy beaches, and cultural vibrancy.
Within the town, the Gulisi Garifuna Museum is a great place to learn about the Garifuna’s vivid culture and history, featuring artifacts, paintings, and documents. For an artistic experience, visit the Pen Cayetano Studiogallery to discover the captivating world of local punta-rock artist Pen Cayetano through his vibrant art and music.
Dangriga also serves as an ideal starting point for visiting Mayflower Bocawina National Park, a stunning nature reserve with waterfalls, rivers, lush jungles, hiking paths, and zipline adventures.
- Pier or tender: Tender
- Currency: Belize Dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English, Spanish, Belizean Creole
Cruise lines docking in Dangriga: UnCruise Adventures, National Geographic Quest
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Dangriga: Winter months
Placencia, Belize
Placencia is a small village in southern Belize with a cruise port that mostly serves smaller-sized ships. Near the port, you’ll find two marinas where you can spot leisure boats moored. The village mostly acts as a gateway point to Belize’s numerous nearby attractions. Famous for its stunning beaches and serene ambiance, Placencia is ideal for a relaxing holiday.
The top attraction near Placencia is the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, a safari park home to jaguars, parrots, monkeys, and other wildlife. Another notable destination is Payne’s Creek National Park, offering a picturesque setting ideal for nature enthusiasts, where you can encounter parrots and various wildlife. For those who love snorkeling or lounging on beaches, Laughing Bird Caye is another must-visit spot.
- Pier or tender: Tender
- Currency: Belize Dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English, Spanish, Belizean Creole
Cruise lines docking in Placencia: UnCruise Adventures, National Geographic Quest
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Dangriga: Winter months
Punta Gorda, Belize
Punta Gorda, a cruise port in southern Belize, currently serves just a few cruise lines and has a small population of 6,000. As a charming coastal town, its economy mainly revolves around tourism and fishing. It’s known for its array of waterfront hotels, bars, and lodges, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Located just a short drive away from Punta Gorda are the ancient Mayan ruins of Lubaantun, an ideal day trip for history enthusiasts. Within the town itself, visitors can explore the bustling Town Market, where they can find an array of local produce, fresh seafood, and unique souvenirs. For art enthusiasts, the We Art Gallery is a must-visit, showcasing a diverse collection of distinctive artworks, ranging from intricate carvings to captivating sculptures.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Belize Dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English, Spanish, Belizean Creole
Cruise lines docking in Punta Gorda: UnCruise Adventures
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Punta Gorda: Winter months
Harvest Caye, Belize
Harvest Caye is a private island in southern Belize owned by NCL. Cruise ships dock at a pier in the southern part of the island. From there, it’s a 5-10 minute walk to the island’s main area.
Harvest Caye features a swimming pool with many lounge chairs, a swim-up bar, a splash area for kids, and a beautiful white-sand beach with 3,000 loungers. There’s also a thrilling 1300 ft zipline starting from the lighthouse that soars over the island. Nature-lovers can also explore the Blue Morpho Butterfly Sanctuary, where you’ll find hundreds of different butterfly species in their natural habitat.
For more adventure, you can take a one-hour trip to Belize’s mainland to see ancient Mayan ruins in the jungle. A popular trip is to Nim Li Punit, a Mayan site from the 5th century AD. Close by, there’s Lubaantun, known for being one of Belize’s largest Mayan ruins and the rumored location of a crystal skull.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Belizean dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Harvest Caye: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Harvest Caye: Year round but the winter is the high season and the most popular month is February.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is a cruise port located in George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands. It is a very popular cruise port in the Western Caribbean itineraries.
Due to its shallow waters, cruise ships anchor offshore George town in the harbor and tender passengers to the shore. Once docked, you’ll find yourself in the middle of George Town’s lively scene, with easy access to a wealth of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The port area has all the essential amenities and serves as a starting point for various excursions.
The most popular attraction in Grand Cayman is Seven Mile Beach, a 6.3 mile (10.1 km) long stretch of beautiful white sand. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore nearby shipwrecks like the U.S.S. Kittiwake and The Gamma. If you’re traveling with a family, consider an excursion to Stingray City, a sandbar where visitors can interact with and feed stingrays. If you just want to relax in a natural setting, visit The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, a beautiful park that is home to the endangered blue iguana.
Related reading: The Ultimate Guide to the Grand Cayman Cruise Port in George Town
- Pier or tender: Tender
- Currency: Cayman Islands dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Grand Cayman: AIDA, Ambassador Cruise Line, Aurora Cruises, Azamara Cruises, Carnival, Celebrity, Crystal Cruises, Disney, HAL, Marella Cruises, MSC Cruises, NCL, Oceania Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Silversea.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Grand Cayman: Year round
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is mostly an industrial port with two piers that are designed to serve cruise ships. Outside the cruise terminal you’ll find a tourist kiosk and taxis waiting to take you to popular tourist destinations.
Cartagena is a city known for its rich history, stunning colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. It’s famed for its well-preserved old town, the “Ciudad Amurallada” (Walled City), which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic area is encircled by massive stone walls and contains narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and lively plazas.
History buffs must explore San Felipe de Barajas, an iconic fortress built in 1657 that offers panoramic views of the city. The old city’s Plaza de Santo Domingo is a must-see too, with its beautiful colonial buildings, bright colors, and a statue of the city’s founder—Pedro de Heredia. Other interesting spots include Las Bóvedas, known for its historic arches and local artisan shops, and the Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa, famous for its hilltop location offering stunning views of Cartagena and rich religious history.
Cartagena is also famous for its Gold Museum, showcasing ancient gold and pottery, and the Palace of the Inquisition, with exhibits from the Spanish Inquisition era. For relaxation, Playa Blanca is a popular beach with white sands and clear waters. Also, don’t miss the Islas del Rosario, a group of beautiful islands known for their clear waters and marine life, great for snorkeling and diving.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Colombian Peso
- Language spoken: Spanish
Cruise lines docking in Cartagena: AIDA, Azamara Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Explora Journeys, Hapag Lloyd, Holland America Line, Marella Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P & O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises, Star Clippers, TUI Cruises, Viking Cruises, Windstar Cruises
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Cartagena: Year round
Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
Puerto Limón, located on the eastern coast of Costa Rica, is a popular Western Caribbean cruise port that welcomes thousands of passengers every year. The cruise terminal itself has all the basic facilities such as a taxi stand, a souvenir market, free Wi-Fi, and buses for shore excursions. The terminal is around a 5-minute walk from the heart of the city.
Puerto Limón mostly serves as a gateway to the country’s lush rainforests, wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. While the city has some attractions, the best experiences are the various trips you can take nearby.
For relaxation, check out the city’s beaches: Playa Bonita, known for its pristine white sand, and Playa Piuta, which is rocky but great for swimming and snorkeling. There’s also Balvanero Vargas Park, a pretty park with a gazebo and plenty of exotic trees and plants.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Costa Rican Colón (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: Spanish (English widely spoken)
Cruise lines docking in Puerto Limon: AIDA, Azamara Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Explora Journeys, Hapag Lloyd, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Marella Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P & O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Star Clippers, TUI Cruises, Viking Cruises.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Puerto Limon: Year round
Roatán, Honduras
Roatán is an island off the coast of Honduras in the Western Caribbean. The island has two cruise ports, one in Coxen Hole and the other in Mahogany Bay. They are located 5 miles (8 km) from each other. Roatán island has plenty of things to do, making it a favored destination for those who love beaches, thrilling excursions, shopping, adventure, and snorkeling.
If you’re looking to relax, head to Little French Key, a private island that is perfect for snorkeling and relaxing after a long cruise. Two great beaches are West Bay Beach and Mahogany Beach, both offering pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters ideal for beach lovers. For animal-lovers, Gumbalimba Park is a must-visit, where you can interact closely with free-roaming animals like macaws, monkeys, and iguanas.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Honduras Lempira (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: Creole English
Cruise lines docking in Roatán: Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Virgin Voyages, TUI Cruises, SilverSea Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, P&O Cruises, Windstar Cruises
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Roatán: Year round but the winter is the high season and the most popular months are January and February
Puerto Cortes, Honduras
Puerto Cortes is a major port city in northern Honduras. It’s mainly an industrial port for cargo ships, though smaller cruise lines occasionally dock. Once you leave the cruise ship, you’ll find local vendors selling handicrafts near the docking area. The town center is just a short walk from the port. The city is famous for its white sandy beaches and natural scenery, drawing tourists from around the world.
A must-visit in Puerto Cortes is Coca-Cola Beach, popular for its warm atmosphere, gorgeous sands, and bright blue waters. History buffs should visit San Fernando Fortress, an old Spanish fort that tells the story of the area’s past. And if you want to unwind after a cruise, head to Central Park—a peaceful spot where you can take a stroll and soak up the local atmosphere. Nature lovers can explore Pulhapanzak Waterfalls and Cerro Azul Meambar National Park, which are a bit further away but well worth the trip.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Honduran Lempira (USD accepted in tourist areas)
- Language spoken: Spanish
Port Antonio, Jamaica
Port Antonio, located on the northeast coast of Jamaica, is a cruise port known for its calm atmosphere and is mainly visited by exclusive luxury cruise lines. It provides a more personal and less commercialized experience than bigger ports. The dock is currently too small for large cruise ships, but there are plans to build a larger cruise port in the city.
Port Antonio has many attractions close to the port. The Errol Flynn Marina, named after the famous actor, is a popular docking spot for private yachts. A popular spot for nature lovers is the Blue Lagoon, which is perfect for swimming and is known for its beautiful cliffs and tropical surroundings. The Rio Grande river, with its lovely waterfalls, is perfect for rafting or tubing. Another must-see is Reach Falls, where you can enjoy a waterfall, swim in a natural pool, and hike or watch birds.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (USD accepted in tourist areas)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Port Antonio: Oceania Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Windstar Cruises
Season when cruise lines dock in Port Antonio: Mostly during the winter and shoulder seasons.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Montego Bay is a lively cruise port on Jamaica’s northwest coast. The port, known locally as Montego Bay Freeport, has a terminal, tour desk, duty-free shops, bathrooms, and a variety of restaurants. It’s also close to the city center, with taxis available right outside the main terminal.
Montego Bay has many beautiful beaches that are close to the port. Doctor’s Cave Beach is famous for its white sand and turqoise water. Dead End Beach is unique because you can witness airplanes ascending and descending right by the beachfront. In the city, Sam Sharpe Square is a bustling spot full of local culture. For history enthusiasts, the Bellefield Great House is a must-see for its lovely gardens and traditional colonial architecture.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (USD accepted in some areas)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Montego Bay: Princess Cruises, Marella Cruises, AIDA Cruises, TUI Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Ambassador Cruise Line
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Montego Bay: Most cruise lines operating in the Port of Montego Bay, Jamaica are seasonal, focusing on winter months. In contrast, Carnival Cruise Line is the exception, operating year-round at this port.
Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth is a popular cruise port located between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The port has a unique triangular shape with two docks that can accommodate two large cruise ships at once. The port welcomes a wide range of cruise lines and offers shopping, dining, and beautiful natural sights close by.
Strolling through Falmouth’s historic streets is a great way to soak up the town’s atmosphere and discover its colonial history. A must-visit for thrillseekers is Dunn’s River Falls, a breathtaking waterfall that visitors can climb to the top. The Green Grotto Caves is another interesting spot, which offers a thrilling cave exploration experience. For relaxation, Burwood Beach has beautiful white sands and clear waters. And if you love rum, don’t miss the Hampden Estate Rum Tour, where you can explore a distillery and learn about the art of rum production.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Falmouth: Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Falmouth: Year round but the winter is the high season and the most popular month is March.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Ocho Rios is Jamaica’s most popular cruise port and welcomes the highest number of ships throughout the year. It has two docks: Turtle Bay Pier and Reynolds Pier. Turtle Bay Pier is the main one and can accommodate two medium-sized cruise ships. Reynolds Pier serves both cruise and cargo ships. It’s also known as the James Bond Pier because it was in the first James Bond film, ‘Dr. No.’
Ocho Rios offers plenty of things to do near the port such as natural attractions, cultural experiences, and stunning beaches. The most popular shore excursion is Dunn’s River Falls, a breathtaking waterfall that visitors can climb to the top.
If you’re looking to relax, head to Ocho Rios Bay Beach, which is dotted with numerous shopping and dining options. And if you’re cruising with a family, head to Dolphin Cove, which offers a chance to swim with dolphins and enjoy an entertaining show. Nearby, Mystic Mountain is great for thrill-seekers, offering zip-lining, bobsledding, and forest hikes.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican Dollar (JMD); U.S. Dollars often accepted but exchange to local currency recommended for small purchases.
- Language spoken: English is the official language; Jamaican Patois also widely spoken.
Cruise lines docking in Ocho Rios: AIDA Cruises, Aurora Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Mein Schiff (TUI Cruises), MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Ruby Princess.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Ocho Rios: Year round but the winter is the high season.
Kingston (Port Royal), Jamaica
Kingston is Jamaica’s vibrant, bustling capital located on the island’s southeast coast. The city’s main port for cruise ships is in Port Royal, at the entrance to Kingston Harbour. If you’re on a cruise to Jamaica, you probably won’t stop at Kingston, unless you’re on particular Western Caribbean cruise trips from Marella Cruises or Silversea.
Near the port, you can explore interesting places like Fort Charles, a historic fort from 1650. If you want to relax, you can visit Lime Cay, a small island near the port with beautiful white-sand beaches. Keep in mind that the best attractions are in Kingston itself. It’s just a 30-minute drive on Norman Manley Highway to get to downtown Kingston from the port.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (USD accepted in tourist areas)
- Language spoken: English
Cruise lines docking in Kingston: Silversea Cruises, Marella Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Season when cruise lines dock in Kingston: Most of the cruises to Port Royal are scheduled during the winter and spring seasons. There are also a couple of cruises in the fall.
Read more: Cruise Ports in Jamaica You Should Visit
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant cruise port known for its lively atmosphere, fun activities, and stunning beaches. Near the port you’ll find plenty of souvenir shops, cafes and local restaurants. The city is famous for its laid-back ambiance and beautiful beaches with clear blue waters. The main street, Fifth Avenue, is a busy walking street with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. It runs right alongside the coast, offering easy access to the many beaches and resorts.
If you’re looking to relax after your cruise, beaches like Playacar Beach, Parque Fundadores, and Mamita’s Beach can’t be missed. Playa del Carmen is also known for its exciting theme parks, which promise a dose of adventure and fun. Visit Xplor Park for zip-lining and underground river exploration, or head to Xel-Há Park for snorkeling and pristine cenotes. Xcaret Park offers a unique blend of ecological and cultural attractions for all ages.
For a more laid-back experience, don’t miss Parque Los Fundadores, a charming park that often hosts local events and serves as a gathering place for both tourists and locals. And if you’re interested in art and optical illusions, the 3D Museum of Wonders is a must-visit destination, where you can immerse yourself in mind-bending visual experiences and interactive art installations.
Adventure seekers should visit Rio Secreto, where you can swim in beautiful, clear lakes beneath stalactites in an underground setting that feels like a sci-fi movie. Additionally, Playa del Carmen is a popular gateway point for trips to Cancun City and Cozumel. And if you’re up for a drive, the Mayan Ruins of Tulum make for a fascinating historical visit.
- Pier or tender: Pier/tender
- Currency: Mexican Peso (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: Spanish (English widely spoken)
Cruise lines docking in Playa del Carmen: Ocean Navigator
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Playa del Carmen: Winter months
Progreso, Mexico
Progreso, situated on the northwest coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, is a favored destination for cruise ships. It’s notable for having the world’s longest cruise pier, stretching 4 miles (6.5 km). In 2019, the port saw nearly 500,000 passengers from 146 cruise ships.
The port area is well-maintained, featuring a modern terminal with all the essential amenities. The city maintains a rustic and authentic Mexican feel, different from more resort-focused ports like Cozumel.
The city is an excellent starting point for exploring Mayan history, with nearby Mayan archaeological sites such as Dzibilchaltun and Xcambo. It’s also about a 2-hour drive from Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Within Progreso, Playa Puerto Progreso and its Malecón (a seaside boardwalk) offer a peaceful and scenic setting perfect for relaxation, with plenty of restaurants lining the area. Another unique attraction is the Laguna Rosada, known for its unique pink waters caused by algae.
Cruise shore excursions in Progreso often include a visit to Merida. It is located about 30-40 minutes inland from Progreso and is known for its rich Mayan and colonial heritage. It is filled with beautiful colonial buildings, vibrant markets, and a lively cultural scene. The city’s blend of history, culture, and cuisine makes it a memorable part of any Western Caribbean cruise itinerary.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Mexican Peso
- Language spoken: Spanish (English widely spoken)
Cruise lines docking in Progreso: Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Explora Journeys (a luxury cruise line owned by MSC Cruises).
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Progreso: Year round
Costa Maya, Mexico
Costa Maya is a highly favored and developed cruise port in Mexico. The port area is well-developed and features common amenities like entertainment, bars, restaurants, pools, and excellent shopping. In 2019, it welcomed about 1.5 million passengers and hosted over 500 cruise ships.
For a family day out, the Lost Mayan Kingdom, a waterpark right near the port, is a great choice. You can also visit Dolphin Discovery for a unique, up-close encounter with dolphins. If relaxation is your goal, Mayan Chan Beach and Mahahual Beach are two great options. And if you’re into Mayan history, the Chacchoben, Kohunlich, and Dzibanche ruins are a bit of a journey from the port but definitely worth visiting.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Mexican Peso (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: Spanish (English widely spoken)
Cruise lines docking in Costa Maya: TUI Cruises, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Marella Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Costa Maya: Year round
Campeche, Mexico
Campeche is a Western Caribbean cruise port located in the northern Yucatan along the Gulf of Mexico. Don’t expect the big cruise lines to visit here; it’s only Ocean Navigator that includes it in its itineraries.
Despite being one of the Western Caribbean’s smaller ports, Campeche stands out due to its unique cultural and historical significance. Founded in the mid-16th century, the city was a significant port during the Spanish colonial era. It is known for its well-preserved historic fortified walls, which were built to protect against pirate attacks.
Campeche offers a variety of attractions close to the cruise port. The Campeche Malecon offers a scenic waterfront promenade perfect for leisurely strolls, while the Campeche Cathedral stands as a striking historical landmark. For those interested in military history, the San Miguel Fortress provides a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. The historic downtown district is a must-visit for its charming streets and vibrant culture. A bit further away, but well worth the trip, is the Edzna Archaeological Zone, offering a fascinating insight into ancient Mayan civilization.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Mexican Peso
- Language spoken: Spanish
Cruise lines docking in Campeche: Ocean Navigator
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Campeche: Winter months
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is a bustling cruise port off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It’s famous for its clear blue waters and beautiful coral reefs, making it an excellent destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Most major cruise lines include stops in Cozumel, making it one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean. In 2022, the beautiful island of Cozumel welcomed more than 3 million tourists from nearly 1,200 cruises.
When you cruise to Cozumel, you’ll dock at either Punta Langosta, the International Pier, or Puerta Maya. Punta Langosta is near the main town, San Miguel, where you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. The International Pier and Puerta Maya are a bit further out but also have good shopping and dining nearby.
San Miguel is the largest town in Cozumel. It’s known for its pastel-colored colonial buildings, lively restaurant scene, and many shops. The island has two Mayan ruins, San Gervasio and El Cedral, while more popular Mayan ruins such as Chichén Itzá and Tulum are easily accessible on the mainland. Cozumel is part of the Mesoamerican Reef, so there are great spots for snorkeling all over the island. The island is also home to plenty of white sandy beaches, though most are located at a bit of a distance from the rockier port.
Related reading: 29 Things to Do in Cozumel on a Cruise Day in Port
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: Mexican Peso (USD widely accepted)
- Language spoken: Spanish (English widely spoken)
Cruise lines docking in Cozumel: Aida Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cruise & Maritime Voyages, Crystal Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, FTI Cruises, Holland America Line, Hurtigruten, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, One Ocean Expeditions, P&O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Plantours Kreuzfahrten, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Sea Cloud Cruises, Silversea Cruises, TUI Marella Cruises, TUI Mein Schiff, Viking Ocean Cruises, Virgin Voyages.
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Cozumel: Year round
Colón, Panama
The cruise port in Colón is a significant hub for cruise ships touring the Panama Canal and traveling to Central America. The city has two cruise terminals: Colon 2000 and Cristobal Pier, which are 3.1 miles (5 km) apart. Colon 2000, the more modern terminal, is right in the middle of the duty-free shopping zone. It offers various facilities like shops, restaurants, relaxation spots, and free Wi-Fi. On the other hand, Cristobal Pier is a bit further east and isn’t used as much. Most cruise ships usually dock at Colon 2000.
Colón is not typically known for its city attractions but serves as a gateway to numerous historical and natural sites, especially relating to the Panama Canal. The city itself is more of a base for excursions, offering a glimpse into Panama’s rich history and biodiversity. However, there are a few sights in the city, like Paseo Marino, a park with great views of the waterfront, and the Inmaculada Concepción Cathedral. Built in 1885, this cathedral is famous for its impressive domes and architecture.
Colón has other must-see attractions that are a bit far but worth the trip. One is the Panama Canal Locks, a key feature of the Panama Canal. Here, you can discover the history of the canal and watch the locks in operation. Also, there’s Parque Nacional Portobelo, a beautiful national park where you can visit old military forts and enjoy activities like diving and hiking. For a bit of history, consider visiting Fort San Lorenzo, located 8 miles (12.9 km) west of Colón.
- Pier or tender: Pier
- Currency: United States Dollar, Panamanian Balboa
- Language spoken: Spanish
Cruise lines docking in Colón: AIDA, Azamara Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Explora Journeys, Hapag Lloyd, Holland America Line, Marella Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P & O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises, Star Clippers, TUI Cruises, Viking Cruises, Windstar Cruises
Seasons when cruise lines dock in Colón: Year round
Final Words
The Western Caribbean is an excellent destination for a cruise. It is known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating Mayan history, and plenty of thrilling and family-friendly activities. However, only focusing on the Western Caribbean means missing out on the wonderful experiences in the Eastern and Southern Caribbean. These areas are also exceptional and should definitely be put on your bucket list for your next cruise.
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