Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta saw the arrival of 267,000 passengers on 90 cruise ships from January to May 2024, according to the National Port System Administration (Asipona PV).
This influx of visitors strengthens Puerto Vallarta’s position as a favorite destination on the Mexican Riviera route. This is due to strong commercial relationships with various shipping companies, managed by the Jalisco Tourism Secretariat and Fidetur Puerto Vallarta, led by Luis Antonio Villaseñor Nolasco.
Furthermore, the Jalisco Tourism Secretariat is working hand-in-hand with the Jalisco Infrastructure and Public Works Secretariat to thoroughly renovate the nearby docks. These improvements aim to enhance the overall cruise passenger experience and contribute to a wider economic spillover for the region.
“By expanding and improving tourist experiences for cruise passengers, we boost economic benefits to other areas as well,” said Vanessa Pérez Lamas, Jalisco Tourism Secretariat.
Economic Impact on Jalisco
Cruise visitors spent an average of $83.90 per person in the first four months of 2024, according to Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism. This spending brought an estimated $22 million to Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta’s popularity stems from its prime location and the wide variety of tourist attractions it offers. Cruise lines are particularly drawn to the city because it allows for extended stays of 10 to 12 hours. The city boasts three berths that can accommodate even the largest cruise ships. Major cruise lines like Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian, Oceania, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Vidanta, Viking, and Windstar all call on Puerto Vallarta.
The Mexican Riviera route, a popular cruise itinerary originating from Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego in California, features Puerto Vallarta alongside Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlán. These cruises primarily cater to passengers from the United States, but there is a growing international presence.
Puerto Vallarta’s strong presence at Seatrade Cruise Global 2024 further solidified its position as a leading destination in the Mexican cruise industry. This positive momentum suggests continued growth in passenger reception for the city in the coming years.
