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Here are some of the best things to do in and around Costa Maya during your cruise day. Costa Maya has changed time zone to EST (Eastern Standard Time), the same time zone in the East Coast of North America, 5 hours behind UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). Since the change to EST, Costa Maya is not scheduled to participate in daylight saving time. The symbol for Pesos is $, like the US dollar, which can cause some confusion. It’s a good idea to double check pricing when making a purchase in US dollars, as well as to check the change that you’re receiving.
Scuba Dive the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Opposite these are the typical duty-free shops common in all Caribbean cruise ports. In Port Costa Maya, you may find the best deals on tequila and cigars from any of the Caribbean ports. There isn't an official Tourist Information kiosk in the cruise terminal. However, the cruise port authority kiosks provide excellent information for those wishing to explore Costa Maya independently. Typical tours like the ones exploring the Mayan Ruins of Chacchoben or Kohunlich are a must - the first can also be combined with beach time. A Beach Break is also combinable with a Catamaran Sail, Snorkel, Dune Buggy, Paddle-board or a Segway Tour.
Adventure, thrilling and fun activities
The port of Costa Maya offers several docking spots on its pier, giving the ability for multiple ships to dock at the same time (we’ve been in port with as many as four ships in port). While there are quieter times, don’t be surprised if the port is busy during your call. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal and cruise port area. In Mahahual, many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi if you need to upload your cruise holiday snaps.
Sightseeing and Activities
A tropical, beachy port that’s still manageable and not as heavily commercialized as Cozumel. Port Costa Maya (locode MXCOM) is also the closest tourist destination to the lesser-known Mayan ruins in Mexico's Yucatan state (including Kohunlich and Chacchoben). In 2017 was discovered Ichkabal (the largest Mayan archaeological site) and since 2019 it is added to Costa Maya's Shore Excursion program for cruise companies-organized land tours. Your trip wouldn’t be complete without swimming with the dolphins. Take advantage of the dedicated dolphin centers to swim with these beautiful and playful creatures.
Many shore excursions occur in spectacular Mayan ruins that showcase an ancient civilization. Also, the famous Bacalar Lagoon is an hour’s drive from the cruise port. Nestled in Quintana Roo on Mexico’s Eastern coast, Costa Maya is the perfect relaxation spot for cruise passengers. The resort has beautiful white-sand beaches, swimming pools, an aviary, and a marine park with dolphins. For culture buffs, Mayan ruins from this ancient civilization are relatively close.
Costa Maya Cruise Review
Mahahual is just 3 km/2 mi away and the berthed in Costa Maya cruise liners are easily seen from there. By the New Mahahual (cruise port development) project are planned the construction of new (second cruise dock) approx 12 km/7,5 mi to the south (along the coastal road). This could result in up to 4 vessels docking simultaneously each day. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Mexican culture, explore the coast’s natural beauty, and create unforgettable memories in Costa Maya. Plenty of fun, adventurous shore excursions are available from the cruise terminal, showcasing everything from the natural to the historical.
The town is just at ~5-min drive distance from the cruise port. Shuttle bus service and taxis go to the Mahahual boardwalk, with fares (cruise port to Mahahual Town) at ~USD 5 per person. You can spend the entire day moving from one attraction to another. Besides taking a plunge in the pools, you can also have fun at the bars and restaurants. Book an excursion to the Seven Colors Lagoon, commonly known as Bacalar Lagoon. It gets its name from the different shades of blues and teals coloring the surrounding water.
We’ll be honest, sometimes the seaweed can make the beaches at Costa Maya less than desirable. However, the water is still very clear if you get off the shore a little bit. Excursions are available through your cruise line and the pros can take you to spots where you’ll see abundant wildlife under the water.
MSC Seashore Live Blog - Day 6 - Costa Maya - Cruise Blog
MSC Seashore Live Blog - Day 6 - Costa Maya.
Posted: Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:00:00 GMT [source]
While it may be best visited on a Costa Maya excursion due to the challenging road conditions, the journey is well worth it. Whether driving yourself or joining a group tour, visiting the Chacchoben Ruins is essential for any history enthusiast or culture lover. Soak in the atmosphere and learn about the ancient Mayan people while exploring this unique and fascinating archaeological site. Stepping back in time, visitors can immerse themselves in the area’s rich history and imagine what life was like during the height of the Mayan civilization. The well-preserved structures offer a fascinating insight into their advanced society and architectural prowess.
You’ll find a tourist booth with information for local beaches and excursions that will take you outside of the cruise port area. There is also a meeting area for those who have pre-booked Costa Maya shore excursions and tours. There are a lot of great things to do in Costa Maya while on a cruise, including activities right at the cruise terminal, shore excursions to Mayan ruins, and beach clubs. Overall, Costa Maya is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.
One of the charms of Costa Maya is its relatively undeveloped landscape. Unlike more commercialized destinations, there are no towering high-rises here. The heart of this tranquility is Mahahual, a small village enveloped by lush jungle. This fishing village, known for its laid-back vibe and picturesque beaches, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist areas. Designed for cruise visitors, Costa Maya’s port is a gateway to exploring natural beauty and Mayan ruins, ensuring a memorable experience.
There are several ways to get to Chacchoben ruins, including renting a car, taking a taxi, or booking a guided tour. Chacchoben ruins are probably one of the few accessible Mayan ruins in Mexico. Children can have fun at pint-sized slides and mini pools at the Monkey’s Island kids’ area. Most of the beach clubs have either a minimum spend or an open bar, and you should definitely check out Yaya Beach, Blue Kay, Ibiza Sunset, Pitaya Beach Club, and Pez Quadro. Local vendors and beach massage areas are also available, as well as other facilities including showers, changing rooms, and restrooms. For those looking for adventure and thrill, ride ATVs through Costa Maya while your guide introduces you to their local culture.
By sitting right on top of the world’s second-largest barrier reef, Costa Maya should not have any problem in boosting their diving tourist industry. This is a tourist trap, it is better to go out of the port gates and take a $3 shuttle to the town called Mahahual. There is lots of brightly painted pottery, Mexican blankets, jewelry, etc. One such place is Jaime’s at the Blue Reef and another is the YAYA Beach Club.
To visit areas that are slightly further from the waters of the port, like Bacalar Lagoon or the Mayan ruins, it’s advisable to join an excursion. Such excursions will offer better rates and many activities to enjoy during your day trip. Located just 45 miles from the Costa Maya cruise terminal, the Chacchoben Ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. Easily accessible, visitors can rent a car for a cheap day trip or join a group tour to explore these excavated pyramids. You can discover this hidden gem on your next cruise ship stop in Costa Maya. In conclusion, Costa Maya’s combination of ancient ruins, cultural shows, water parks, and family-friendly options make it a compelling destination for visitors.
Mahahual Beach is a 5 minute taxi ride from the Costa Maya cruise port. This natural beach is great for cruisers who are looking for an inexpensive beach day. Check reviews for Playa Mahahual before you go, as occasionally sea weed can be an issue at this popular beach. Cruise ships typically dock at the Costa Maya Cruise Port, and it’s common to have three to four cruise ships dock at a time. Costa Maya Cruise Port is a popular cruise destination located on the eastern coast of Mexico, in the state of Quintana Roo, near the small fishing village of Mahahual. Costa Maya, Mexico is approximately 124 miles (200 km) south of Playa del Carmen and 149 miles (240 km) south of Cozumel.
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