Mexico Rejects Large Cruise Ships at Loreto
The Mexican government has said large cruise ships will no longer be welcome at the Port of Loreto in Baja California Sur, affecting some Mexican Riviera and Baja Peninsula itineraries. Here is what has changed and what it means if you are planning a Mexico cruise from the UK.
Why Has Mexico Ruled Out Cruise Ships at Loreto?
According to the Mexico Daily Post, the decision was announced by Alicia Bárcena, head of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), at a working group meeting in July on regulating navigation at the port. She said that by order of President Claudia Sheinbaum there will be no cruise ships or deep-draft port in Loreto.
Bárcena described Loreto Bay as a natural heritage site of great importance, and said its regulation should be developed in consultation with the community.
Large vessels are said to pose a risk to the habitat of blue whales, which are native to the Baja California Sur region.
How Did the Loreto Cruise Port Plan Unfold?
Loreto had been added to Mexican Riviera and West Coast itineraries after a government decree, published in early April, authorised the port to receive large vessels. The ruling drew backlash from local residents and environmental organisations.
Following the complaints, Loreto was reclassified as a cabotage zone. This means vessels on international itineraries are no longer allowed to call there, the local news source reported.
The Integral Port Administration of Baja California Sur (APIBCS) said it had received arrival requests from cruise lines through to 2030, which shows how much interest the destination had attracted.
Which Cruise Ships Are Affected?
Holland America Koningsdam: Holland America removed an upcoming Loreto call from the Koningsdam’s itinerary, citing a government restriction on cruise ships, as previously reported by Cruise Industry News.
Holland America Zaandam: Deployment data shows the Zaandam is currently the only large cruise ship scheduled to visit Loreto in 2026 and 2027. The 1,432-passenger ship has three calls planned as part of longer Baja Peninsula and Mexican Riviera itineraries. Whether these calls go ahead has not been confirmed, so check the latest itinerary details before booking.
What Does This Mean for UK Travellers Booking a Mexican Riviera Cruise?
If you have already booked a Baja or Mexican Riviera sailing that includes Loreto, your cruise line should contact you about any itinerary changes. If you are still deciding, there is plenty of choice on the Pacific coast, and a UK-based cruise specialist can help you compare options.
Points to consider:
- Check the port list: confirm which Baja California Sur ports are included on the sailing you are considering.
- Look at longer itineraries: Loreto was part of longer Baja Peninsula and Mexican Riviera voyages, so substitute ports may be announced.
- Think about the wildlife angle: if whale watching in the Baja region is a priority, ask about itineraries and excursions that focus on it.
- Plan flights with flexibility: Pacific coast cruises often depart from US West Coast ports, so book flights and hotels with changes in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cruise ships still visit Loreto, Mexico?
Large international cruise ships are no longer permitted. Loreto has been reclassified as a cabotage zone, which means vessels on international itineraries cannot call there.
Why was Loreto closed to large cruise ships?
Concerns raised by locals and environmental groups centred on the protection of Loreto Bay and the habitat of blue whales.
Which cruise line cancelled its Loreto call?
Holland America removed the port from the Koningsdam’s itinerary.
Is the Zaandam still going to Loreto?
The Zaandam is the only large ship shown with Loreto calls in 2026 and 2027, with three planned. Check with your travel agent for the latest confirmation.
Will other Baja California Sur ports be affected?
This announcement concerns Loreto only. Contact us for current itinerary information on Mexican Riviera and Baja sailings.
Can I book a Mexican Riviera cruise from the UK?
Yes, subject to availability. Our team can arrange the cruise, flights and hotel stays. Itineraries are subject to change.
Plan Your Mexican Riviera Cruise with Cruise Continent
If you are weighing up Baja Peninsula or Mexican Riviera cruises, our UK-based cruise specialists can explain current itineraries, suggest alternatives and arrange flights and pre- or post-cruise stays. Call [phone number], email [email address] or [enquire online].
