Table Of Content
One of the most popular things to do at the Costa Maya cruise port, is to watch a performance by Paplanta Flyers. The Danza de los Voladores (Dance of the Flyers) is a traditional and artistic Mexican flying performance on that takes place on a very high pole within the central square of the cruise port. However, English is widely spoken by tour guide, shopkeepers and restaurant workers at the cruise port and surrounding tourist areas. Costa Maya cruise port was severely damage by Hurricane Dean in 2007 and took several years to recover. We visited recently while on a Virgin Voyages cruise, and could see that the area has much improved. Port Costa Maya (locode MXCOM) is also the closest tourist destination to the lesser-known Mayan ruins in Mexico's Yucatan state (including Kohunlich and Chacchoben).
Restaurants at Costa Maya Cruise Port
Jaime’s at the Blue ReefThis isn’t a restaurant in the traditional sense. Sitting right on the beach, for $57 per adult you get all you can eat and drink, as well as beach chairs, palapas, and snorkel equipment. The menu is heavy on seafood, but there is something for everyone. As the place only takes in 35 people, you’ll want to book ahead of time via the website.
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
What was once a sleepy fishing town (and in many ways still is), now sees some of the biggest ships in the world, sailing to the port from everywhere from Galveston to Miami. You can take a $8 taxi ride (that’s per taxi for one or more people) to anywhere in Mahahual. Here’s how to do exactly that, save a bundle of cash and have one of the best port days ever. Situated along the turquoise-colored Caribbean Sea, Puerto Costa Maya (Costa Maya cruise port) and its nearby towns rest between the sea and the deep jungle.
West and SouthCaribbean cruise ports
As with any unfamiliar place, exercising caution and being aware of your surroundings is always good advice. The lagoon is home to several cenotes—natural, water-filled sinkholes. At Cenote Azul, you can relax on the surrounding wooden swings and take Insta-worthy photos. It’s important to note that, due to the distance and range of activities on offer, a visit to the Bacalar Lagoon means you won’t have time to explore Mahahual near the cruise port. Besides swimming with marine mammals, the attraction features shows that entertain visitors with dolphin acrobatics and aerial performances. Most visitors who interact with the dolphins say it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, never to be missed.
EXPLORE MEXICO
Cruise News Update: Storm, Cruise Rescue, Ports - Cruise Hive
Cruise News Update: Storm, Cruise Rescue, Ports.
Posted: Sat, 03 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
During our recent cruise to Costa Maya on Virgin Valiant Lady, we decided to do a day trip to Chacchobeen Mayan Ruins. We’ve been to Costa Maya cruise port on past cruises and wanted to explore this region beyond the man made cruise terminal. If you go to Mahahual or one of the other local beaches, you can participate in several water sports and activities.
Fuerte San Felipe, Bacalar
Delve into ancient history, swim with abundant marine life and stroll across white sandy beaches during your cruise to Costa Maya. This Mexican city welcomes you with a relaxed vibe, authentic flavors, vivid colors and a host of adventures sure to get the blood pumping. The small all-inclusive day resort is located about five miles south of the cruise port.
Maya Chan Beach Resort
Dzibanche is said to be the first capital of the Kaan Dynasty, also known as the Snake Dynasty and the center of social and economic activities for the local population. Within the same archeological zone, in the heart of the jungle, you can also visit Kinichná ruins located approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) from Dzibanche. The complex is dominated by a huge two-level pyramid that you can climb and admire the spectacular views of the lush rainforest and surrounding pyramids. There are usually no crowds as the place is off the beaten track. There are several ways to get to Chacchoben ruins, including renting a car, taking a taxi, or booking a guided tour. Chacchoben ruins are probably one of the few accessible Mayan ruins in Mexico.
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico’s newest port, was expressly built to welcome cruise vacation guests to explore its pristine beaches, legendary Mayan ruins, and lush sub-tropical landscapes. An excursion to Bacalar offers exciting insights into the real pirates of the Caribbean. Built to protect the citizens from pirate raids, the Bacalar Fortress boasts views across the sparkling water and you can still see imposing cannons on its ramparts. Close by is the Seven Colors Lagoon, reflecting incredible shades of blue.
Also, the famous Bacalar Lagoon is an hour’s drive from the cruise port. The following map of Costa Maya cruise port shows all facilities in the terminal area. Costa Maya cruise port features a modern shopping mall, central plaza and saltwater pools.
There are also several shops selling discount-priced brand jewelry, beachwear, Mexican silver and handicrafts, hand-made souvenirs. Costa Maya counts with many experiences offered via Port Pass - an access pass to all in-port activities. One of the Port's newest additions is the Rockpool where tourists can relax, swim, drink and enjoy the view of the docked ships.
This amazing sight can be reached by boat, taking approximately 25 minutes from the Costa Maya port. Here you can snorkel, swim, and explore the different colors of the lagoon. No visit to Costa Maya is complete without immersing yourself in the ancient roots and traditions of their Mayan culture, which lives on today. While the Nacional Beach Club and Bungalows is a private resort, a day pass will grant you access to their exclusive beach, outstanding hospitality, and delicious culinary fare. Segways are a fun, novel way to see the sights of the Costa Maya.
Many cruise passengers decide to hang out around the free saltwater swimming pool in the centre of the Costa Maya cruise port, followed by a bit of souvenir shopping. Mahahual village is very safe and the beach is ideal for families and people of all ages. Along the beach, you will encounter local restaurants, bars, and beach clubs offering beach chairs, umbrellas, watersports, and fantastic service.
The Maya Chan beach club is located approximately 4 miles away from the Costa Maya cruise port. Maya Chan Beach is popular with cruise passengers visiting Costa Maya for the day. You can book Maya Chan Beach as a shore excursion with the cruise line or opt to go on your own.
The best ATV shore excursions include fajitas or tacos, Mexican beers or non-alcoholic cold drinks, and time at the Costa Maya beach. The best thing is that the start-off point and return destination are only a five-minute taxi ride from the cruise port. The Maya Chan Beach Resort is a hidden gem 4 miles (6.4 km) south of Costa Maya.
Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, relaxation, or experiencing Mexican culture, Costa Maya has something to offer everyone. The best way to visit the Bacalar Lagoon is to book a shore excursion beforehand. The stunning inland freshwater lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear waters, which showcase seven shades of blue. You can go swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding, which provides one of the most peaceful and tranquil ways to immerse yourself in the lagoon’s beauty. The Caribbean coast of Mexico is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities, largely due to the stunning beauty of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. This reef is the second-largest barrier reef system in the world and a haven for a diverse array of marine life.
There is a pool at the Costa Maya terminal, but you’ll have to purchase food and drinks to use it. If you do not plan to explore outside of it, you’re probably better off exploring the terminal and returning to the ship to swim. Mahahual offers beautiful and fun sights like the bustling Malecon—perfect for a quick but memorable excursion. Being your own tour guide means stopping whenever and wherever you want, diving into the local scene at your own pace. ATV tours can be booked from local vendors near the cruise port and offer an exciting way to explore Costa Maya.
No comments:
Post a Comment