Mexico Anticipates Record-Breaking 9.3 Million Cruise Passengers in 2024

Mexico is gearing up for a banner year in cruise tourism, with over 9.3 million passengers expected to grace its shores across both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. This forecast not only sets a new record but also signifies Mexico’s burgeoning appeal as a premier cruise destination.

According to Riviera Maya News, Secretary of Tourism Miguel Torruco Marqués unveiled these optimistic projections, indicating that Mexico will host 3,122 cruise ship arrivals in 2024. This figure represents an 8 percent increase from 2023 and a 5.8 percent rise from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Additionally, the anticipated passenger count marks a 2.4 percent increase in cruise travelers visiting Mexican ports.

The island of Cozumel, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, continues to be the crown jewel among Mexico’s cruise ports, expecting to receive 1,199 ships, accounting for 34.8 percent of the total cruise ship visits to the country. Following closely is Mahahual/Costa Maya, another gem in the Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo, which is slated to welcome 598 cruise ships, representing 19.2 percent of Mexico’s total cruise arrivals.

On the Pacific coastline, Ensenada leads the pack with 278 scheduled cruise ship visits, making up 8.9 percent of the country’s total. Other significant Pacific ports include Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, with 225 and 167 cruise ship arrivals, respectively, in 2024.

This surge in cruise tourism underscores Mexico’s allure as a diverse and dynamic destination, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences from the sun-soaked beaches of Quintana Roo to the rugged beauty of the Pacific coast. As Mexico prepares to welcome a record number of cruise passengers, its ports stand ready to showcase the country’s unparalleled hospitality, cultural heritage, and natural wonders.