Starting in July 2025, cruise passengers visiting Mexico’s top coastal destinations—including Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada, Costa Maya, Progreso, and Mazatlán—will begin paying a new tiered entry fee, beginning at five dollars and rising incrementally to twenty-one dollars by 2028. This strategic move by the Mexican government aims to generate sustainable tourism revenue while reinvesting in port infrastructure, enhancing visitor services, and supporting the growing influx of global cruise travelers. With cruise capacity expected to surge in the coming years, the phased fee structure is designed to ensure long-term growth without burdening travelers or disrupting the country’s position as a premier international cruise destination.

Originally, Mexico had planned to charge every cruise ship passenger an immigration fee of forty-two dollars, whether they disembarked or not. This proposal sparked strong opposition from cruise operators, who warned the steep cost could discourage tourism and impact cruise line scheduling. In response, Mexican authorities revised the structure to implement a tiered pricing system that scales gradually over the next few years.

Under the new framework, beginning July 1, 2025, cruise passengers will be required to pay five dollars upon entering Mexican territory by sea. The amount will increase to ten dollars between August 2026 and July 2027, followed by a rise to fifteen dollars from August 2027 to July 2028. By August 2028, the final phase will raise the fee to twenty-one dollars per passenger. All passengers will be individually responsible for the payment, which will be included in cruise fare breakdowns or collected through official port authorities.

This regulatory adjustment comes at a time when Mexico’s cruise tourism industry is experiencing significant growth. The nation’s coastal destinations are seeing increased visitation, thanks in part to expanded cruise itineraries and a global resurgence in leisure travel. Projections indicate that cruise capacity to Mexican ports will grow by thirty-four percent in 2025, with a further sixteen percent increase expected in 2026. Major cruise lines are also investing in fleet expansion and onshore experiences, reinforcing Mexico’s reputation as a must-visit destination.

Cruise Ports That Anchor Mexico’s Tourism Boom

Mexico’s strategic location and vibrant coastal cities make it one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations. The country is home to several well-known ports that welcome millions of passengers annually. Among the busiest are Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada, Costa Maya, Progreso, and Mazatlán. These ports offer a mix of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and convenient infrastructure that appeal to a wide range of travelers.

Each of these locations plays a crucial role in the broader tourism ecosystem by supporting local businesses, providing employment, and showcasing Mexican heritage. The economic benefits extend beyond the port areas, as passengers often spend money on guided tours, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences during their visits.

Cruise Lines Continue to Prioritize Mexico

Several leading cruise operators continue to schedule regular stops at Mexican ports, reflecting the country’s enduring popularity. Cruise lines such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, MSC, Holland America, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages include Mexican destinations in their Caribbean and Pacific itineraries.

These companies view Mexico as a reliable, high-demand market with potential for continued growth. Many are planning new shore excursions, onboard experiences tied to Mexican culture, and even private island developments in or near Mexican waters to cater to growing demand.

Mexico Among Global Cruise Giants

Mexico ranks among the top five cruise destinations globally, consistently drawing travelers from North America, Europe, and beyond. However, it remains behind the Caribbean, which dominates the cruise sector as the top choice for itineraries. Other leading regions include the Mediterranean, Alaska, and Northern Europe. Destinations such as the Bahamas and Hawaii also remain strong cruise markets due to their tropical appeal and unique island offerings.

Balancing Growth and Affordability

Mexico’s revised fee structure reflects an effort to strike a balance between economic development and affordability for travelers. While the government seeks to increase tourism-related revenue, the decision to phase in the charges over three years demonstrates sensitivity to the cruise industry’s concerns about pricing and competitiveness.

By implementing a more measured approach, authorities aim to ensure that growth in cruise tourism continues without alienating budget-conscious travelers. The additional funds generated by the new policy are expected to support infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and local community programs in port cities.

Looking Ahead

With continued investment, increased cruise capacity, and a revised fee system that considers industry dynamics, Mexico is well-positioned to enhance its status as a global cruise hub. The gradual rollout of the new passenger fees is designed to be minimally disruptive while enabling the government to reinvest in its tourism sector.

Starting July 2025, Mexico will implement a tiered cruise passenger fee at its top ports—from five dollars to twenty-one by 2028—to fund tourism infrastructure and support growing international visitor demand. This phased approach aims to boost economic development without disrupting the traveler experience.

As travel demand rebounds and cruise itineraries expand, Mexico remains a vital and attractive destination on the global cruise map—now supported by a more sustainable and cooperative financial model.

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