Royal Caribbean Cancels Manzanillo Stops Amid Safety Concerns
Royal Caribbean has made the decision to cancel its stops at the Mexican port of Manzanillo, following a ‘no travel’ advisory issued by the United States Department of State. This move comes after the U.S. government raised serious concerns regarding crime and kidnapping in the area, prompting the cruise line to prioritize passenger safety. The announcement was made this past weekend, and it has left many travelers questioning when, or if, the cruise line will return to this popular destination.
The U.S. State Department’s advisory specifically targets the state of Colima, where Manzanillo is located, due to widespread violent crime, gang activity, and safety issues. The advisory warns that criminal organizations are involved in violent acts, with many homicides being targeted assassinations. Furthermore, shooting incidents between these criminal groups have resulted in bystanders being injured or killed, making the area highly dangerous for visitors. In light of these conditions, the U.S. government has recommended that American citizens avoid traveling to the region.
Royal Caribbean’s decision to cancel its port calls in Manzanillo follows this warning, marking a significant shift for the cruise line, which has previously included the city as a stop on several of its itineraries. The cruise line, which has a reputation for carefully assessing safety risks in its destinations, has not indicated when it might return to the port. This decision is a part of the larger trend of cruise lines reevaluating their destinations based on safety advisories and political conditions around the world. For now, Royal Caribbean passengers who had planned to visit Manzanillo will need to consider alternative ports or itinerary changes.
Despite the cancellation by Royal Caribbean, some cruise lines, like Carnival’s Princess Cruises, are still planning to include Manzanillo in their itineraries for February and September 2025. However, with the growing concerns over safety, it remains to be seen how long these cruise lines will maintain their stops at this port. It is likely that the U.S. State Department’s advisory will continue to influence the decisions of other cruise companies that may have been considering a return to Manzanillo.
For years, Royal Caribbean marketed Manzanillo as a hidden gem on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, highlighting its golden beaches, lively fishing harbor, and the emerald rainforest that surrounds it. The area was positioned as a relaxing and picturesque destination for travelers, with promises of unforgettable memories to be made by visiting its stunning natural landscapes. Unfortunately, as safety risks have escalated, the potential for those experiences has diminished, and the focus has shifted to ensuring the well-being of passengers above all else.
This cancellation reflects broader trends in the travel industry, where safety has become a top priority in the face of rising crime and political instability in certain regions. 2024 has proven to be a year full of risks for travelers, and the decision by Royal Caribbean to cancel its stops in Manzanillo serves as a reminder of the growing importance of staying informed about travel advisories and making safety a priority when planning trips. As the year progresses, it is likely that other destinations may also come under scrutiny, especially in regions where safety remains a major concern.
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