West Coast cruising is about to get a major upgrade. For decades cruise lines have focused on The Bahamas and Caribbean when it comes to creating destinations. Private spots like Mahogany Bay, CocoCay, Grand Turk, Great Stirrup Cay, and Celebration Key are all in the Caribbean region.
The west coast of North America — namely Mexico — has welcomed cruises and grown as a destination, but without cruise lines building up destinations.
That’s about to change.
Carnival Corporation — the parent of Carnival Cruise Line, Princess, and others — has announced a brand-new destination located in Ensenada, Mexico. The all-new Ensenada Bay Village takes what’s currently an empty lot at the port and will transform it into a complete destination for cruise passengers.
All told, the $26 million project will take 24 months to open but after that time, a spot currently with nothing will offer some of the most fun activities in the entire region.
Carnival says it plans tons of activities in the port. This starts with high-octane options like zip lines, river rides, and even a dune buggy course located right at the pier.
Want something higher end? The company says there will also be chocolate and tequila tastings, wine/cheese pairings, and crafts to buy.
And if you want to relax, there will be thermal springs, spa offerings and a large pool area.
All of it will also be tied to the local area with a design that “draws from 18th-century California-style architecture reminiscent of old California towns.”
Carnival says that once it’s completed, Ensenada Bay Village will have the ability to welcome up to 9,000 visitors each day. And you don’t have to sail on a Carnival-brand ship to visit. The company specifically says that the new destination will welcome passengers from other lines.
An overhead rendering reveals a large complex taking over nearly all of the port area. Guests will only have to walk steps from the ship to enjoy. There are multiple massive pools shown, and closest to the ship appears to be the dune buggy course.
There’s no word on admission and pricing. It’s not clear if passengers will be allowed to enter for free or if there is a charge. It’s safe to assume at the very least there will be a cost for activities such as zip lines and spa services.
No doubt Carnival will release more details in the months ahead. As for now, all we can do is look forward to a big step forward for cruising from the West Coast.
