There are parts of Mexico that you have to be careful and not travel to but Ensenada and Cobo are not those areas. a sleepy fishing village to become a popular beach resort. With Mexican National. Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. This can leave cruisers wondering: Is Mexico dangerous? Luckily for cruisers, the majority of Mexicos most popular cruise ports (and shore excursion destinations like Playa del Carmen or Tulum) in the Mexican Riviera and Riviera Maya have either Level 1 or Level 2 travel advisories from the State Department, meaning travelers should either exercise normal levels of caution or increased caution, but do not need to reconsider travel. La Bufadora, a natural sea geyser located nearby, puts on a highly You can post now and register later. When our cruise ship made port in Ensenada, I had no intention of leaving the ship. This last weekend where 10 people were killed and 9 more shot and injured at the races in Ensenada seemed to be more random than targeted. in 5 reviews and restaurants nearby. Avenida Lopez Mateos and Boulevard Costero: These two parallel streets near the waterfront are lined with shops, from Mexican liquor and duty free perfume to woven blankets, leather goods, pottery, and silver jewelry. Today, Ensenada is a bustling port city that welcomes thousands of cruise ship passengers each year. pic.twitter.com/oghBX1P7qX, The US State Department:The U.S. Consulate General Tijuana is aware of reports of multiple vehicle fires, roadblocks, and heavy police activity in Tijuana, Mexicali, Rosarito, Ensenada, and Tecate. Practice situational awareness regardless of the country youre in. Punta Banda is also home to several seafood restaurants that offer fresh catches of the day, as well as a few small beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The port is situated in an industrial harbor, right by the worlds largest Mexican flag, hoisted on an enormous flagpole on Ensenadas Malecon. In addition to La Bufadora and the wine country, Ensenada has several other attractions worth visiting. It is important to have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and any necessary visas, in order to avoid delays. The Malecon and Avenida Lopez Mateos are two of Ensenadas main tourist areas. Public transport in Ensenada is carried out by small buses called "micros". No, Not Safe, over 200 murders this year alone 2021, its July. The port is a major hub for cruise ships and handles a significant amount of passenger traffic each year. Both terminals offer a range of amenities and services for passengers, including restaurants, souvenir shops, and currency exchange booths. The unrest was due to Mexican cartels shutting down much of the region on Friday. Additionally, any excursions booked through the cruise line are run by verified and vetted tour companies, and visit heavily-touristed areas. With its stunning beaches, charming town, and range of activities and attractions, Ensenada is sure to delight visitors of all ages and interests. The cruise ship pier is within easy walking distance of Avenida Lopez, which is the main street in Ensenada and home to many shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Cruises will also most likely be canceled on Sunday as well as excursions and massages. Travelers to Mexico are warned to be aware of the inherent risk of contracting and spreading the virus by visiting the area. Always be careful when stepping out into a crosswalk car drivers, not every time stop to pass pedestrians. There are no longer any Ensenada Massages, Valle Mobile Spa, or Ensenada Excursions available. How Safe Is Ensenada for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad Copyright 2023 Maritime Page/ Privacy Policy / Sitemap /Contact Us, ENSENADA MEXICO 10/9/22 | THINGS TO DO IN CRUISE PORT | WALKING AROUND TOWN | CARNIVAL RADIANCE, I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. The risk of being a victim of pickpocketing in Ensenada is low. People get killed at the bars all the time at least once a month. I do agree with not drinking in excess though. Ensenada is a port city in Baja Mexico, ranked 3rd-largest in the Mexican state Baja California Sur. Im 64 265 and can handle my own but not worth it to argue. However, recently just before a FOS cruise on Miami on spring break, my wife and I where eating in South Beach when we were caught in the middle of what looked like a gang fight with guns involved, luckily no shots were fired but this happened right next to us, obviously I would feel uneasy coming back to SB any time soon. Safety in Ensenada - Royal Caribbean Blog Taxi services work round the clock The Port of Ensenada is one of Mexico's most visited ports of call for major cruise lines. Never walk down the street with a drink in your hand. Ensenada, one of Mexico's most successful cities, has grown from I walk the streets during the day but I also in 220 pounds in covered in tattoos. Scams are super prevalent. As a white American, you are ONLY welcome if you are spending money and even then you are not even considered a guest. He did get stopped by the police on the way down once and they stole something out of the back of his truck. 5 Things to Do While In Port In Ensenada, Mexico 1 - 10 of 394 Ensenada Cruise Reviews. Tracking data has shown that the Sunshine-class Carnival Radiance made its scheduled visit to Ensenada on Wednesday, August 17. The regions abundant marine life and favorable weather conditions make it an ideal location for fishing. This oft-visited Mexican: Hungry vaqueros head to Bronco's for breakfast, lunch and dinner where mesquite-grilled steaks are the specialty (Av Lopez Mateos 1525). For now, the US State Department has declared the situation in Ensenada is under control again and would be safe to travel to and visit. The answer is complicated but ultimately depends on where youre going, how youre getting there and an individual's personal safety and comfort levels. The shopping area is safe in the daytime, but I wouldn't go it alone. Many wineries offer tastings and tours, and some even have on-site restaurants that serve delicious food paired with their wines. Many Mexican cities and states, particularly those visited by cruise ships, are just as safe or safer than many destinations that dont get a second thought when it comes to safety. Once cleared, passengers can explore the charming town of Ensenada or take part in one of the many shore excursions offered by their cruise line. Ensenada, located in Baja California, Mexico, is a popular cruise destination for those looking to explore the Pacific coast. About usMaritime Page is your go-to source for all things related to the maritime industry, from personal watercraft to the largest seagoing cargo ships and cruise vessels. In addition to souvenirs, there's a pharmacy and liquor store. Since then, Ensenada has grown to become a popular tourist destination, particularly for cruises. He has a boat in a marina there. Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean canceled their calls to Ensenada, Mexico, on Sunday after local unrest made it unsafe for passengers to disembark at the port. Cruisers also have the added benefit of having an onboard medical facility and being close to major cities. Cruise ships dock in an industrial harbor, right by the world's largest Mexican flag, hoisted on an enormous flagpole on Ensenada's Malecon. Based on reviews from past visitors, Ensenada may not be the most impressive cruise port in terms of amenities, but it makes up for it with its charm and friendly locals. U.S. government employees have been instructed to shelter in place until further notice.. I live in Mexico, and I totally understand when tourist feels uneasy or insecure coming here after seeing terrible news like this. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties. Every place they take you they get a kickback, which is fine, but I would rather go on my own next time and be able to choose where to go, not just who they have deals with. The worst part is coming back and crossing the border. Wait, are we talking about Mexico or the USA? The port accommodates cruise ships, bulk cargo, and container ships. Unlike what you are probably used to, public bathrooms in Ensenada are not free. and the winery of Bodega Santo Tomas, founded by the Dominicans in "Our hearts are heavy": New Jersey in mourning after cargo ship fire Ensenada is a popular cruise port located on the Baja California Peninsula. Riviera del Pacifico: Standing inside this elegant Spanish/Moorish building, one can imagine Bing Crosby crooning to Xavier Cugat's Orchestra. Margarita: Hussong's Cantina (Avenida Ruiz 113), the landmark watering hole, serves small but potent margaritas from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. The Valle de Guadalupe is the most popular wine region in the area, with dozens of wineries to choose from. I don't know, I feel like I wouldn't have to worry about a darn thing in Andorra, San Marino, or Bhutan. elsewhere. Four hundred pesos is $20 usd. Wednesday night, firefighters were called to Port Newark. fishing make Ensenada one of the leading resort and commercial centers The port is open for business seven days a week, and the hours of operation can vary based on the cruise schedule and the time of year. Felt mostly safe, obviously some no go zones. Travelers from all around the world are drawn to this Latin American getaway for its beautiful beaches, rich culture and history, delicious food and drinks, and favorable currency exchange rates. harbor and modern port facilities, making it Baja California's leading With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery, Ensenada is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mexico. Anywhere in Mexico will be a comparative carefree relief of safety. It's safe enough to travel by it. It's really too bad that the government lacks control over the violence there. the short ride downtown. Ensenada cruise port is popular in part because it is convenient to reach for ships from San Diego. Shared by cargo. the one in front kept asking if I was drinking, etc. Currently, the Mexican states of Quintana Roo, Yucatan, Baja California Sur and Oaxaca are listed as areas with Level 1 or Level 2 advisories. Here are four tipson how to avoid: The Tolerance Zone is Miramar Street between Lopez Mateos and Avenue Juarez. Overall, Ensenada is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and affordable cruise port destination. Lunch is the biggest meal of the day, enjoyed between 1 - 4 p.m. U.S. government employees have been instructed to shelter in place until further notice. Below are 5 . Yep, 5 . To compare, 60 percent of the U.S. population is considered fully vaccinated, and has a seven-day average of 120,305 new cases -- well above the caseload for Mexico. Use at least one anti-theft device such as steering wheel locks, kill switches, or other such device. Still, no paradise is perfect. Sometimes police can do random car selection for a routine search. Spanish is the official language in Ensenada and the currency is the peso, though in most tourist areas, U.S. dollars are accepted and English is understood if not spoken. Additionally, the homicide rates in popular U.S. tourist cities such as St. Louis and New Orleans are higher than the entire national average for Mexico -- however the total U.S. homicide rate is about five times less than in Mexico. Cruise Ships Cautiously Returning to Ensenada If youre not a local, you have a target on your back. The village is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a large craft market where visitors can purchase handmade goods and souvenirs. Ensenada is one of the first settlements established in the Californias. The terminal features a market with numerous vendors, where visitors can purchase souvenirs, clothing, and other items. Your link has been automatically embedded. Visitors can also see sea lions at La Lobera. The bay is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Playa Hermosa and Playa San Miguel. PPPJJ-GCVAB. All Rights Reserved. Whether youre looking for a quick bite or a full meal, youre sure to find something to suit your taste. 11 Coolest LEGO Ship Sets for Mariners and Adults, Travel on Cargo Ships: An Unconventional and Affordable Way to Explore the World, Costa Maya Cruise Port: A Complete Guide for Travelers, Best Beaches in Costa Maya Near Cruise Port: Top Picks for Cruise Passengers, Best 5 Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya in Mexico to Visit from Cruise Port, 10 Biggest Heavy Lift Ships in the World: Semi-Submersible Heavy Transport Vessels, What is a Ships Bollard? Among the nicest for Taxco silver jewelry are Los Castillo and Mario's Silver Shop (Lopez Mateos 815 & 1090). The village also features a large outdoor stage where live music and cultural performances are often held. The Ensenada cruise port is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible for travelers. Seeing as its the only port for this short weekend cruise it would be a bit disappointing. Never leave your car parked on the side of the highway. Ensenada's cruise dock features a market with numerous vendors. First Name Last Name. In the news a lot of death women bodies has been uncovered in the area,so the area is not safe at all. YoungFamilyExplorers This modern facility is equipped to handle large numbers of visitors, with a variety of amenities available to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. numerous boutiques and restaurants, vast accommodations and excellent The port is a major hub for trade between Asia, North America, and South America. If you have a problem or crime, they will not investigate it unless you pay them. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a range of water sports in the crystal-clear waters of the bay. The CDC recommends that all tourists to Mexico be fully vaccinated and follow local health and safety protocol such as mask wearing and social distancing. The currency of Mexico is the peso (MXN). The big no getting drunk in a bar, a big red light for problems. Mercado de Mariscos (Malecon at Av Alvarado): Admire the day's catch, including yellowtail, tuna, albacore and marlin, at Ensenada's popular outdoor fish market by the sportfishing pier. What year did you go? By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. $15 per person tour to La Bufadora - you can buy this excursion at the bus station in town). Navigator of the Seas is scheduled to visit tomorrow, while Carnival Miracle is scheduled to be in Ensenada on Saturday, August 20, as part of a 4-night Baja itinerary. Excursions - Princess Cruises The crime risk is low and tourists here can feel securely. This ban includes all forms of smoking advertisement. Sign up for our free newsletter. You can find me on, Sacrificial Anodes: A Comprehensive Guide to Corrosion Protection in Marine Applications, Rubber Flooring for Boats: A Durable and Slip-Resistant Option. The Ensenada Cruise Port is operated by the Port Authority of Ensenada. I have been going to Ensenada for the last 40 years and have never had an issue. They drive around in Big Trucks, checking out the chicks, but fail to catch very few criminals. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Fortunately, the unrest has slowed this week, and Border Report has reported that Carnival Cruise Line has recommitted to its scheduled calls on Ensenada. There is also a pharmacy and liquor store on site, making it easy for travelers to stock up on essentials before heading out on their adventures. The cartels that operate near and around the cruise port (Compton, Torrance, South Central) are where you might get killed or worse. Ensenada Shore Excursion Reviews - Cruise Critic I look at things in this light, I dont worry about a person coming into a store with automatic weapons shooting at people here living in Mexico. Two Cruise Ship Calls to Ensenada Canceled Due to Local Unrest Ensenada Cruise Port Guide: Tips, Attractions, Weather - Caribeez.com Ensenada has a regular port of call for luxurious cruise ships, which means a constant stream of tourists. The U.S. State Department recently bumped the travel advisory for Mexico up a notch to a "Level 3: Reconsider Travel", urging tourists to rethink travel to the area due to high numbers of COVID-19. The terminal also has a tourist information center where passengers can get information on local attractions and activities. The Port Authority of Ensenada is committed to providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly port. The port handles a significant amount of cargo, including bulk cargo and container ships. Ensenada, located on the beautiful Baja California Peninsula, is a regular port of call for luxurious cruise ships, which means a constant influx of tourists. As with any country, not all cities in Mexico are equal when it comes to safety. The ports strategic location and modern infrastructure make it an ideal location for businesses looking to expand their operations in the region. Cruise Port of Ensenada 33 reviews Unclaimed Landmarks & Historical Buildings Edit Write a review Add photo Photos & videos See all 252 photos See All 252 ship in 14 reviews excursion, no people bothered me, and I felt safe. The main advice is not to drink much here and wearing modest clothes. The risk of tsunamis and tornadoes is high enough in this region of Mexico. Also, Ensenada often suffered from droughts. Prices in dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an S with a double stroke. East coast hurricane season in the Riviera Maya runs from June through November, and youll have a higher risk of running into a big storm between August and October. The Port Authority of Ensenada is responsible for the management and operation of the port. Ensenada is a bustling port city located on the coast of Baja California, Mexico. The good news is that restaurants and hotels have no-charge facilities for customers. Im very happy [Carnival Cruise Line] confirmed the rest of their scheduled arrivals and they trust in the actions weve implemented, said Ayala Robles, mayor of Ensenada, after a conference call with the cruise line on Monday, August 15. Yes I have been pulled over by the police but I did break a law. Youll also sleep aboard the ship, so theres no worry over hotel safety. They gave me back my billfold and said I could go. Always stop at those places and follow instructions for cooperation. The local police are part of the scam as well. Destination Details. Cafes which offer free WiFi for customers in Ensenada are generally pretty cheap, running from $10 to $50 pesos per hour. Whether youre interested in exploring the local nightlife scene, enjoying the beautiful beaches, or experiencing the rich culture and history of the area, there is something for everyone in Ensenada. Mexico has the worlds second highest rate of violence against the trans community, which may cause trans cruisers to rethink their plans. Alternatively, For those looking for a more secluded beach experience, Playa Hermosa is a great option. After visits from two cruise lines were canceled last weekend in the wake of a recent surge of unrest, cruise ships are cautiously returning to the popular port of Ensenada, Mexico. We're scheduled to go on a weekend cruise in August and theres a port day in Ensenada. Government officials declared the assailants hijacked and burned at least two dozen vehicles, with many of the bars and restaurants closing down early. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. Big time tourist trap. The port is home to two terminals: the Cruiseport Village and the Ensenada International Cruise Terminal. The authority has implemented a range of measures to reduce the ports environmental impact, including the use of shore power to reduce emissions from ships while they are in port. It is not likely that cruise lines will be affected by the Passenger Vessel Services Act. USA scares me. Carnival Cruise Line responded on its Twitter account, saying Carnival Radiance would not be visiting Ensenada:Due to recent local unrest and issued guidance from the US State Department for its employees to shelter in place in Ensenada and the surrounding region, the Carnival Radiance will cancel the call in Ensenada.. You can sightsee, shop or kayak at Punta Banda but the true pleasures of this festive city are culinary. Manage Booking. Baja destination is a multi-faceted jewel. Ensenada is located in the heart of Mexicos wine country, and visitors can take advantage of this by taking a wine tour or visiting one of the many wineries in the area. Please dont forget to come back to whatsinport.com for new and updated port guides. Whichever activities on this list you choose to participate in, you will be doing a fair amount of walking. Ensenada Port Overview General information about the Ensenada cruise port. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. The town is known for its agriculture industry and produces a significant amount of strawberries, tomatoes, and cucumbers. A country or destination that sounds frightening at first can be no more so than your own hometown. Read More. If you want to go to some wineries, consider a ship tour because Guadalupe Valley is about 1/2 hour away. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. The Dangers Of Ensenada: A Travel Warning For American Tourists CRUISE HIVE LTD 2008-2023. Passengers should check with their cruise line or the port authority for specific hours of operation and any updates or changes to the schedule. Carnival Cruise Line has resumed calls to Ensenada after recent unrest, but future calls may still be in jeopardy. Visitors have praised the city for its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and affordable prices. Your previous content has been restored. The port is a major hub for trade between Asia, North America, and South America. One of the frustrating things for tourists driving in Ensenada is a lack of street signs, except for the tourist area and main streets. I told them $400 pesos were missing. You cannot paste images directly. Pasted as rich text. The city is generally secure, the index of crime is low, maybe the lowest in the whole of Mexico. These include the history museum of Ensenada, the water show at el Parque de la Bandera, the Caracol Museum, the Regional Museum, and the Underwater Blowhole. Carnival Radiance and Navigator of the Seas have since returned to their homeport of Los Angeles. Today, it's a cultural center, used for weddings and receptions and mariachi and dance performances. The Ensenada Cruise Port has a modern terminal facility that can accommodate up to two ships at the same time. Other than that he has had no problems. Ensenada is located just south of Los Angeles and is a popular destination for cruise ships departing from the city. Additionally, civil unrest, high COVID-19 case numbers and terrorism has caused the State Department to flag France, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom and Denmark under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory -- one level higher than Mexico. canceled visits to Ensenada on Sunday, August 14, 2022, Discuss this topic at our Cruise Boards >, Free daily cruise updates to your inbox >, Subscribe for daily cruise news on YouTube >, It's time to check today's cruise deals right here >, Carnival Cruise Line Addresses Cheating Claims at Trivia, Holland America Line Has Biggest Booking Day in 150-Year History, Royal Caribbean Itinerary Change With Only Tender Ports, Even More Cruise Options Coming to Major Florida Homeport. Whether youre a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, Ensenada is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. The U.S. Department of State recommends LGBTQ+ travelers exercise discretion in publicly identifying themselves as LGBTQ+. Ensenada Bay is a picturesque area located just a short distance from the port. The states of Guerrero and Sinaola (among others) are under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. Some Typical tourist shops with name brand bags, etc. Ensenada is a coastal city in Mexico that has a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial era. Access your cruise without logging on. Click here to get an offer for travel insurance. I mean you have to be cautious no matter where you go. Locals and criminals who got deported from the US are working together trying to scam you. No surprise then that both Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line canceled their port calls to Ensenada, Mexico, this weekend. The Ensenada International Cruiseport Village is a first-level cruise terminal that offers a range of facilities and services to passengers. The reality is, things can go down anywhere at anytime. The videos that are floating around of this is clearly shocking and shows the gunmen firing wildly into the crowds. Clear editor. Seafood: For fine seafood and dramatic ocean views, reserve a table at Punta Morro (1.5 miles north of the city at Punta Morro Hotel 800-526-6676). For black pottery of Oaxaca, there's Colores de Mexico (Lopez Mateos 1094) and for Mata Ortiz pottery, Galleria de Perez Meillon (Centro Artesanal, Blvd. It is only 70 miles south of the U.S. border on the Baja California peninsula in Mexico and 81 miles south of San Diego. Ensenada is a popular cruise port destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. An example includes the state of Sinaola, which is under an advisory. As with hurricane season in the Caribbean, however, any ships bound for ports of call that could be affected by a hurricane will simply alter course to avoid the storm.