Mexico is a popular cruise destination in North America, offering a variety of beautiful destinations, ancient ruins, and gorgeous beaches. Mexico is located in the Northern Hemisphere. A popular spot for those looking to escape the winter months in the United States, New England, and Canada. With its warm Caribbean climate, Mexico is a great choice for those looking for a warm and sunny vacation.
The best time to cruise to Mexico can be influenced by several factors, including the weather, cost, and popular attractions. Understanding these key factors can help you choose the best time to take your next Mexican cruise.
Summer Months (June to August)
Peak Season: Summer months, especially June to August, are considered the peak season for Mexican cruises. During this time, cruise ships are at full capacity. Popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta are bustling with tourists.
Warmest Weather: Summer months bring warm temperatures, making it the warmest time to visit Mexico. This is an ideal time to visit the beaches, enjoy water activities, and bask in the sun.
High Prices and Large Crowds: The high demand during the summer months leads to higher prices for Mexican cruises. Additionally, popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta tend to be crowded with tourists during this time.
Popular Destinations and Activities: The summer months are the perfect time to visit Mexico’s popular destinations. Like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen. It is also a great time for whale watching, golfing, and scuba diving.
Shoulder Season (April to May & September to November)
Good Weather and Lower Prices: Shoulder season, are the months of April to May and September to November. It is a good time to visit Mexico. During this time, the weather is still warm, but prices are lower than in peak season.
Rough Seas in Late Spring: Seas can be rough in late spring. Which may affect certain activities like scuba diving and whale watching.
Whale Watching and Scuba Diving: Shoulder season is a great time for whale watching, as Humpback whales migrate through Mexican waters during this time. It is also a good time for scuba diving, as the warmer waters attract a variety of marine life.
Fewer Crowds and Better Deals: The shoulder season also attracts fewer crowds. At this time, it is easier to find good deals on Mexican cruises.
Low Season (December to March)
Affordable Prices and Fewer Crowds: The low season is from December to March. A good time to visit Mexico if you are looking for affordable prices and fewer crowds. This is a popular time for residents of the Northern Hemisphere seeking a respite from the colder winter weather.
Cool and Rainy Weather: The low season in Mexico brings cool and rainy weather. Which may not be ideal for those looking to spend time at the beach.
Good Time for Northern Hemisphere Residents Seeking a Welcome Respite: For residents of the Northern Hemisphere, the low season in Mexico offers a welcome respite from the winter weather.
New England, Los Angeles, and San Diego as Departure Points: Departure points for Mexican cruises during the low season can include cities such as New England, Los Angeles, and San Diego.
Best Deals and Prices
Early Fall (September and October): Early fall, particularly September and October, is a good time to find great deals on Mexican cruises. Prices are typically lower during this time as it falls outside of peak season and there are fewer crowds. This makes it an ideal time for those looking for an affordable Mexican cruise experience. Additionally, the weather is still warm, with comfortable temperatures and sunny days.
Late Summer (August): Late summer, specifically August, can also offer good deals and low prices on Mexican cruises. Despite being peak season, cruise lines often offer promotions and discounts to fill their ships. This is a good time to find deals on Caribbean cruises that include stops in Mexico. However, it is important to note that prices may increase closer to the holidays. So it is best to book early.
Early December: The early weeks of December are another time when good deals can be found on Mexican cruises. Prices may be lower due to the fact that it falls outside of peak season and there are fewer crowds. This is a good time to find affordable prices on Western Caribbean itineraries that include Mexican ports. Additionally, the weather is still warm, making it a great time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and ancient ruins of Mexico.
High Prices and Crowds
Peak Season (June to August): The summer months, particularly June to August, are the peak season for Mexican cruises. This is a popular time of year, and as a result, prices are typically higher and ships are more crowded. This is also the time when many American students are on spring break. So popular destinations may be more bustling than usual. Despite the crowds and high prices, this time of year can still be a good time to cruise to Mexico, if you are looking for warm weather and sunny days.
Winter Holidays (December to January): December to January, are another time when prices are high and crowds are large. This is a popular time for Mexican cruises as many people are looking to escape the colder weather in the United States and Canada. However, it is important to keep in mind that prices can be significantly higher during this time. Popular destinations may be very crowded too.
Best Destinations to Cruise to in Mexico
- Cabo San Lucas: Located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, bustling city, and great weather. This is a great destination for those looking for a warm and sunny vacation.
- Puerto Vallarta: Puerto Vallarta is another popular cruise destination located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. This city is famous for its sandy beaches, warm weather, and beautiful marine life. It is a great destination for those looking to scuba dive, whale watch, or enjoy the sun and sea.
- Playa del Carmen: Playa del Carmen is a bustling city located on the Yucatan Peninsula. A part of a western Caribbean itinerary. This city is famous for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and warm weather. It is a great destination for those looking for a warm and sunny vacation.
- Los Cabos: Los Cabos is a popular destination for those looking for a warm and sunny vacation. This destination is famous for its golf courses, beautiful beaches, and warm weather.
- The Mexican Riviera: Popular cruise destination that includes the cities of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and the Yucatan Peninsula. This is a great destination for those looking to visit several popular Mexican ports in one trip.
- Yucatan Peninsula: The Yucatan Peninsula is known for its rich history and ancient ruins, including the famous Chichen Itza. This region is also famous for its lush jungle landscapes, beautiful beaches, and warm weather. It is a great destination for those interested in exploring ancient civilizations and experiencing the natural beauty of Mexico.
- La Paz: Located on the Sea of Cortez and is known for its stunning beaches and abundant marine life. This is a great destination for those interested in scuba diving, whale watching, and experiencing the beauty of the Mexican coast.
Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and attractions. Choosing the best one for your Mexican cruise will depend on your personal interests and travel style. No matter which destination you choose, you are sure to have a memorable time in Mexico.
Best Time for Specific Activities
Whale Watching: The best time to cruise to Mexico for whale watching is from December to April. During this time, humpback whales can be seen in Mexican waters as they migrate from colder northern waters to breed and give birth.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: The best time for scuba diving and snorkeling in Mexico is from June to September. It is when the waters are warm and clear, and visibility is at its best. Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will find the Sea of Cortez to be an excellent destination. Located off the coast of Baja California. The area boasts a diverse array of marine life that promises a thrilling experience.
Golf: Treat yourself to a game of golf during the warm and sunny weather from October to May in Mexico. The courses are in optimal condition and make for a fantastic experience. Popular cruise itineraries include stops at world-class golf courses, offering you the opportunity to enjoy a game while on vacation.
Cruise Lines that offer trips to Mexico by season
Summer Sailings to Mexico:
Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of summer sailings to Mexico, visiting popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Ensenada. During the summer months, Carnival’s ships are equipped with a range of amenities, including swimming pools, water slides, and lounges to make the most of the warm weather.
Royal Caribbean International is a popular choice for summer sailings to Mexico. With its fleet of modern ships, Royal Caribbean offers a range of itineraries that visit popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Ensenada. During the summer months, Royal Caribbean’s ships offer a range of activities, including water parks, rock climbing, and zip lining to keep guests entertained.
Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a range of summer sailings to Mexico. With its modern ships, the Norwegian Cruise Line visits popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Ensenada. During the summer months, Norwegian ships offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, water parks, and lounges to make the most of the warm weather.
Princess Cruises also offers a variety of summer sailings to Mexico, visiting popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Ensenada. During the summer months, Princess Cruises’ ships offer a range of activities and amenities, including swimming pools, water parks, and lounges to make the most of the warm weather.
Low-Season Sailings to Mexico
Disney Cruise Line is known for their family-friendly atmosphere and offers a variety of itineraries to Mexico during the low season. The ships feature a wide range of activities and entertainment options for passengers of all ages, making it a great option for families.
Cunard Line is a luxury cruise line that offers elegant and sophisticated experiences for its passengers. During the low season, Cunard Line offers cruises to Mexico, allowing passengers to enjoy the warmth and beauty of the country while also experiencing the luxurious amenities of the ship.
Costa Cruises is a European cruise line that offers a variety of itineraries to Mexico during the low season. The ships feature a range of amenities, including multiple dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational activities, making it a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet enjoyable vacation.
Shoulder Season Sailings to Mexico
Celebrity Cruises offers Mexican cruises during the shoulder season, from September to November. These cruises visit popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta and are ideal for those looking for warm weather and fewer crowds.
Holland America Line offers Mexican cruises during the shoulder season, from September to November. These cruises visit popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen, and are ideal for those looking for warm weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed pace.
MSC Cruises offers Mexican cruises during the shoulder season, from September to November. These cruises visit popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen, and are ideal for those looking for warm weather, fewer crowds, and a more affordable vacation option.
Note: The above list of cruise lines offering cruises to Mexico is not exhaustive and the sailings may vary based on the season. It is advisable to check with the cruise line for the latest information on their Mexican itineraries.
What’s the best time for you?
Mexico is a popular cruise destination that offers a warm and sunny vacation, with beautiful destinations, ancient ruins, and gorgeous beaches. The best time to cruise to Mexico depends on several factors, including weather, cost, and popular attractions.
The summer months of June to August are peak seasons and offer the warmest weather, but prices can be higher and crowds are larger.
The shoulder season of April to May and September to November offer warm weather and lower prices, but the sea can be rough in late spring.
The low season of December to March offers affordable prices and fewer crowds, but the weather can be cool and rainy.
The best deals and prices on Mexico cruises are typically found during the low season or early fall.
No matter what time of year you choose to cruise to Mexico, it is sure to be a great time with beautiful weather, warm temperatures, and many amazing destinations to visit.
