Puerto Vallarta proudly represented the state of Jalisco at the 40th edition of Seatrade Cruise Global, held April 7-10 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. This world-renowned event is considered the cruise industry’s most important annual gathering, bringing together cruise lines, suppliers, travel agents, and tourism leaders from across the globe.
As part of Mexico’s participation, Puerto Vallarta joined destinations like Chiapas and Yucatán on a special Mexican island exhibit. In addition, the city’s port authority, ASIPONA, took part in the “Ports of Mexico” pavilion, which showcased the country’s port infrastructure and services.
This important event was a key part of Puerto Vallarta’s tourism promotion strategy, aiming to attract new cruise routes, more visitors, and stronger partnerships. Mexico continues to lead the world in cruise ship arrivals, and Puerto Vallarta remains one of the most popular stops along the Mexican Pacific coast.
One of Puerto Vallarta’s main advantages is that cruise ships dock here longer than in many other ports, allowing passengers more time to explore the destination and creating greater economic benefits for local businesses. To highlight this, local tour operators including River Park, Vallarta Adventures, and Vallarta Shorex joined the delegation to showcase the city’s wide range of experiences available to cruise travelers.
Led by Luis Villaseñor and Carlos Mora of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Trust, the delegation met with representatives from major cruise lines such as Carnival Group, Princess, and Norwegian. These meetings focused on sharing updates about Puerto Vallarta, including major infrastructure projects like road improvements, the construction of a second terminal at Puerto Vallarta International Airport, and the new highway that connects the coast to Tequila, opening the door for new excursions inland.
The possibility of Puerto Vallarta becoming a home port was also discussed, thanks to its ideal location, expanding air connectivity, and modern port facilities. This would position the city as a key departure and arrival point for cruise routes along the Pacific coast of Mexico.
The meetings also included talks with ASIPONA Puerto Vallarta to discuss ways to enhance the passenger experience and updates on new port developments. Additionally, the delegation explored partnership opportunities with leaders of the Islas Marías tourism project, aiming to boost nautical tourism in the region.
In 2024 alone, Puerto Vallarta welcomed 167 cruise ships, bringing more than 548,000 tourists and nearly 200,000 crew members, according to ASIPONA data. With an average spending of $120 per passenger, cruise tourism remains a vital part of the local economy.
With over 11,000 attendees, 600 exhibitors, and representation from more than 70 cruise lines, Seatrade Cruise Global was an ideal platform for Puerto Vallarta to strengthen alliances, promote its many attractions, and position itself as one of Mexico’s leading cruise destinations.
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