cheap carnival cruises to mexico

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The 5 Absolute Cheapest Carnival Cruise Deals for 2024

There’s been enough upheaval in cruising to last a lifetime, but there’s little doubt that people have flocked back to cruising following the health crisis.

Are you eager to get back to sailing? The good news is that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. As we go to press, the cheapest cruises for 2024 run $184 per person for an interior room before taxes and port fees. That means a couple can sail for less than $500.

Despite the turmoil that cruising has seen, it’s unlikely you’ll see lower prices any time soon. Already ships sailing the Caribbean and Bahamas are back above 100% occupancy has people can’t seem to get enough travel. That’s pushed prices slightly higher, but there are still plenty of deals to be found.

Below, we’ve highlighted the five absolute cheapest cruises from Carnival for 2024 year that depart from North America. To offer some variety, if two sailings are very similar in price and itinerary, we’ve only included the longest sailing. Keep in mind that prices can vary.

4-Day Bahamas Cruise From Miami

• Date: Multiple; September-December 2024
• Ship: Carnival Conquest
• Ports: Princess Cays, Nassau
• Starting Price: $184 per person

Want to find a cheap Carnival cruise? As you’ll see, the keys are to keep it short, travel off-peak dates, and stick to older ships. This sailing ticks all three boxes. The four-day cruise departs Miami aboard the Carnival Conquest for a quick trip over to the Princess Cays and Nassau. It’s also on Carnival Conquest, which is one of the older ships in the fleet, launching in 2002.

As for the cruise, before reaching The Bahamas, you’ll have a day at sea to lounge poolside and work on your tan. Then it’s a day in the private Princess Cays destination, and another day in Nassau before returning back to Miami. It’s definitely a short vacation, but if you just need to get away, it’s perfect and won’t break the bank.

We found several sailings in the fall of 2024, including dates from September through December for just $184 per person. Click here to learn more about this cruise .

4-Day Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles (Long Beach)

• Date: November 11, 2024
• Ship: Carnival Radiance
• Ports: Catalina, Ensenada
• Starting Price: $194 per person

While $184 is the lowest price we found during our search for any Carnival cruise from the United States, this trip is literally just a few dollars more. And if you’re someone on the West Coast, it’s the best deal because you won’t have to fly across country to board the ship. Here, you can sail for about $50 per day.

The cruise is on the Carnival Radiance (an older ship). It sails from the Port of Long Beach to Catalina Island, and Ensenada, Mexico, before having a day at sea to enjoy prior to returning home. Can’t make it in November? There are multiple dates throughout the year for just a few dollars more per person. Click here to learn more about this cruise .

4-Day Bahamas Cruise From Port Canaveral

• Date: September 30, 2024
• Ship: Carnival Glory
• Ports: Nassau, Princess Cays
• Starting Price: $204 per person

If you can’t swing cruise from Miami, then this trip is very similar to the one listed above, but sails from Port Canaveral near Orlando.

This sailing departs Florida, with a full day in Nassau, followed by the Princess Cays — a private Carnival spot. Then you’ll have a full day at sea as it cruises back to Port Canaveral.

We found a price as low as $204 per person, but if you can’t sail then, there are several more options for just a few bucks more. Even as slightly higher prices, that’s a great deal for a chance to get out of town for a few days and spend some time at sea. Click here to learn more about this cruise .

• Date: December 16, 2024
• Ship: Carnival Firenze
• Starting Price: $219 per person

In our list, we’ve skipped over a number of cruises that are very similar to one another in order to provide some variety. For example, with a 3-day cruise and a 4-day cruise priced the same, we’ve only included the longer 4-day cruise as a better value.

But while this trip is almost the exact same as the one aboard Carnival Radiance shown above, it has an important distinction. This cruise is aboard Carnival Firenze. This ship is one of the cruise line’s Italian-themed ships that came over from sister brand Costa. 

Cruises aboard this ship feature more Italian theming, including decor, food options, and events. The cruise line calls it “Carnival Fun Italian Style.”

This route is priced at $219 and is the same as the four-day trip above, with stops in Catalina and Ensenada.  Click here to learn more about this cruise .

5-Day Bahamas Cruise From Jacksonville

• Date: Multiple, November 2024
• Ship: Carnival Elation
• Starting Price: $229 per person

When it comes to value, the cheapest isn’t always the best deal. Case in point, this cruise is $229, which is a bit more expensive than the cheapest cruise we found. But it’s also for five days, which is longer than the shorter trips on our list. In total, this cruise costs just $46 per person, per day for cruise fare (taxes, fees, and gratuities will be more).

It departs Jacksonville, putting it a closer drive to those in neighboring states like Georgia and the Carolinas who want to cruise but don’t want to fly down to Orlando or Miami. Sailing aboard the Carnival Elation, you’ll have stops in Nassau and the Princess Cays along with two full days at sea. Click here to learn more about this cruise .

Note: The cruises above are the cheapest we found from Carnival for 2024. But there are still plenty of inexpensive trips out there for very low prices. Slightly increase your budget and you’ll find many more options sailing from ports around the country.

How to Find More Deals on Carnival

While we’ve included the cruises with the absolute cheapest prices we could find, it’s understandable if these trips aren’t exactly the ones you’re looking for. Maybe you want a longer cruise, or to sail from a different port.

Fortunately, there are plenty more deals out there. If you want to find the best prices, stick to a few simple rules…

Timing of the Cruise: When you sail makes a difference in cruise pricing. The basic rule of thumb is that choosing a cruise during the off-season helps reduce your fare. If your schedule permits, sail during the school year when fewer people are free to travel (as a bonus, your cruise will be quieter when there are fewer children on board).

As you can see, many of the trips above sail in the fall. This is after kids go back to school, meaning that families are less apt to book this sort of cruise. Other affordable times to sail include April-May and early in the year.

Choose an Older Ship: Unless you have your heart set on sailing a cruise line’s latest ship with all the newest bells and whistles, choose a voyage aboard an older vessel. The fares on these ships tend to be significantly lower.

With new ships, there is typically more demand and interest, which coincides with higher prices. Don’t be scared of older ships. They are updated regularly with many of the features found on newer vessels, including favorite restaurants and amenities. No, they aren’t the exact same as a new ship, but still offer plenty to like.

Interior Cabins: The prices mentioned in this article are all for interior cabins. That’s because these rooms offer the least expensive price to get on the ship. Of course, not everyone likes interior rooms, but the premium on a balcony cabin can be pricey.

If you’re the sort of person who likes to spend lots of time in the cabin in your own space, then a balcony could be well worth the money. But if you’re the type to be out and about during your cruise, then you’ll likely only use the cabin to sleep and to change clothes. In that case, you can sail the exact same trip as someone in a balcony cabin, but for hundreds less.

More on Cruise Deals & Buying:

• How to Book a Cruise 
• 10 Rules for Getting the Best Cruise Deal

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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Why should i book a carnival cruise.

If you're looking for an unforgettable vacation, Carnival cruises are a perfect choice. Carnival is one of the best cruise lines in the industry, with a successful history of providing excellent service and luxurious experiences. The Carnival cruise vacations take you to some of the world's most beautiful and fascinating destinations. They’re sure to have features to please everyone in your group.

How to find the best Carnival cruise deals?

There are many different Carnival cruise deals to choose from depending on your destination and the experiences you would most like to enjoy. These deals let you include additional features for a lower price to make your vacation even more comfortable. You can find the best deals by searching for your destinations, and filtering by your desired cruise lines. This way only the companies you wish to travel with will appear. You can also sort your results by price and length of time.

How to choose your cruise with Carnival?

If you want to book aCarnival cruise there are plenty of amazing Carnival cruise deals available. Add your destination, cruise vacation, and number of travelers. Then you can sort your results by price, duration, and departure date. You can also filter by cruise line, cruise ship and cabin type. You’ll find different amenities to suit your vacation needs on each Carnival cruise. For example, youth programs, fitness facilities, and spa facilities.

What do I need to look out for when booking a Carnival cruise?

When booking your 2025 Carnival cruise it’s important to consider a few practical tips. Check what the cost covers, and what you may need to budget for or need insurance for. Think about any amenities or onboard service you’ll require, depending on the length of the Carnival cruise. For example, youth programs, entertainment, fitness facilities, spa facilities, and room service. Secondly, research the weather conditions for your journey and destination. In some locations, summer and winter weather can vary a lot. Another tip is to go over the ship layout to see where you’d like to pick a cabin. Don’t forget to check visa requirements and any flight logistics.

When is the best time to book a Carnival cruise?

You can book a Carnival cruise as early as you like depending on availability. There’s a higher chance of finding cheaper Carnival cruise prices by booking between 6 months to 12 months in advance. But there are also lots of last-minute cruise deals closer to your preferred departure date, but this will depend on your flexibility.

Are last minute deals available with Carnival?

Yes, you can find last-minute Carnival cruises on Expedia. Add your travel dates to the cruise finder and sort your results to find the best price available. Cruise deal discounts are indicated by a green box above the Carnival cruise price.

How do I book a cruise with Carnival?

To book a Carnival cruise on Expedia select your Carnival destination and filter by cruise line. You can also browse our extensive selection of pre-selected cruise deals and find the perfect cruise for you. Once you have found the one you want, choose your dates and the port of departure. You can also refine your search by cabin experiences, or cruise ship. Each ship will have amenities to suit your needs including room service, spa facilities, and fitness facilities.

Is Carnival great value for money?

Carnival cruises are excellent value for money if you're looking for an enjoyable and relaxing cruise vacations. A Carnival cruise offers a high standard of service, a great selection of dining, modern amenities, friendly staff, and exciting activities. The exceptional quality of the experience is worth the price.

Can I cancel a Carnival cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel your Carnival cruise. We all have unfortunate circumstances where we need to cancel a booking, so Expedia makes it easy to do so. All you have to do is head to your My Trips page on Expedia and click on the cancellation button. Another option is to contact customer service, where you’ll receive help with cancelling. Do make sure that you’re aware of the refund policy that applied to your booking, to see if you’re entitled to a full refund.

Carnival Cruise Guide

Since Carnival entered the cruise scene in 1972, they have founded dozens of new ships dedicated to providing millions of passengers with memorable vacations ashore! Prepare to have the time of your life on Carnival’s innovative cruise ships equipped with high tech entertainment facilities and features, like live stage shows, casinos, spas, waterslides, deck parties and more! Carnival’s "Fun Ships" are floating playgrounds for those looking for an adventurous escape. Allow yourself to relax and experience the sheer bliss of traveling with Carnival. With great onboard amenities, and an extensive choice of activities and dining options you're sure to meet new friends, create lasting memories, and have more fun than you ever thought possible. With sailings to the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Canada, Alaska, Europe and more, Carnival will make sure you have an enjoyable time every step of the way.

Carnival Promotions

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Carnival Articles

5 REASONS CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE MAY BE RIGHT FOR YOU

Heather McManus - Oct 21, 2019

Discover what makes Carnival Cruise Line unique and determine if it’s the right fit for your travel style!

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CRUISING 101: BEST CRUISE LINES FOR FIRST TIME CRUISERS

Heather Mcmanus - Sept 13, 2019

Cruise line branding will give you a lot of clues about what kind of travelers they’re targeting, but if I had to completely stereotype some of the major cruise lines and their typical guests, here’s how I’d do it. Consider this your cheat sheet on the best cruise lines for first time cruisers.

Carnival Ships

• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Vista
• Carnival Radiance
• Carnival Mardi Gras
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Imagination
• Carnival Ecstasy
• Carnival Victory
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Inspiration
• Carnival Sensation
• Carnival Fascination
• Carnival Fantasy
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Valor

More Cruise Lines to Explore

• AmaWaterways
• Avalon Waterways
• Azamara Club Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruise Lines
• Crystal Cruises
• Cunard Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Uniworld River Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Viking River Cruises

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Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

Mexico and Central America: Baja Mexico Cruise

4-night carnival radiance cruise.

From $438 per person* Includes government taxes, fees and port expenses of $39 per person

Carnival Cruise Line

So close, yet so deliciously far. Mexico might be right down there, but it exists in another world entirely. Experience a whole enchilada's worth of rich culture and fun on a cruise to Mexico. Each port contributes its own distinct local flavor to the mix.

Included Extras

  executive member benefit.

Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

  Digital Costco Shop Card

Member Exclusive: Digital Costco Shop Card with every Carnival Cruise Line sailing†

Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Port of Call Port of Call (Arrival, Departure)

Long Beach is a coastal city and port in Southern California. Moored in its Queensway Bay, RMS Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner and museum ship. The waterfront Aquarium of the Pacific features touch tanks and a shark lagoon. Modern and contemporary works are on display at the Museum of Latin American Art. Rancho Los Cerritos is a 19th-century adobe home and museum set in expansive gardens.

Santa Catalina

Just off the coast of Southern California is an island that looks much like California did two hundred years ago, a wilderness of oak, cactus, and sage, an island with secluded coves surrounded by ocean with lush kelp forests and abundant sea life. This is Santa Catalina Island, a wilderness preserved for all to enjoy. Yet, Catalina has all the accommodations and recreational activities of a modern beach resort.

Hey, there's more to this town than it just being the finish line for the annual Newport-Ensenada Race! The City of Ensenada has completed a total renovation of Primera, the main street downtown. Enjoy a stroll down the cobblestone sidewalk complete with outdoor cafes, interesting shops, strolling musicians and street vendors. The malecon (harbor boardwalk) renovation was completed last year and provides a beautifully landscaped walk along the harbor front to the Ventana Del Mar Plaza with its huge Mexican flag. From there, you can look across the rio at the new small craft harbor nestled in the middle of the new cruise ship docks. It will be interesting to watch the progress on this new endeavor. The story is that in order to expand the cargo port on the north side of the harbor, the developers had to relocate the passenger ships' dock and provide some type of recreational asset for the city. It looks to be a good solution. Ensenada is also a swell place to take possession of your new boat (more on that later), get a new bottom job for your old boat or set as your destination for an extended coastal cruise, a fun weekend road trip or the start of some long distance cruising! The people of Ensenada are trying hard to improve their city, both for turistas, a big part of their income and for themselves and their families. We have seen improvements which are good, and yet some loss of the "Mexico-ness" in some of the tourist areas. We have met a lot of the residents and business people and want to thank them for their hospitality. As visitors, it is our obligation to live up to the Bienvenidos and the Mi Casa es Su Casa that have been extended to us.

Onboard the Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance

Costco member reviews.

• Year Built: 2000
• Year Refurbished: 2020

Double Occupancy Capacity: 2984

While the sun has set on the legendary Carnival Victory, she’s been transformed into something that shines even brighter: Carnival Radiance. Everything the sunlight touches on Carnival Radiance has been doused with an extra dose of fun. There's the biggest Serenity area ever, featuring three decks, plenty of recliners and even a waterfall. Carnival WaterWorks, packs favorites and awesome new slides — like the slick Speedway Splash — into the signature waterpark. There's also SportSquare, where you can let your inner champion run free (around the jogging track), miniature golf, or engage in a little one-on-one, from ping pong to foosball to giant chess. Dining options include Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, Cucina del Capitano, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi. All the latest Carnival bars are here: RedFrog Pub, Piano Bar 88, and the new multi-purpose Liquid Lounge. It’s an expansive theater that’s home to captivating daytime and nighttime entertainment, including the line’s high-tech Playlist Productions revues and audience participation favorite Hasbro, The Game Show.

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

• Disco/Nightclub
• Theater/Show Lounge
• Outdoor Movies
• Fitness Center
• Educational Programs
• Miniature Golf
• Pool - Children's
• Pool - Outdoor
• Sports Facilities
• Water Park Arena
• Water Slide
• Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
• Art Gallery
• Internet Center
• Children's Indoor Play Area
• Organized Age Specific Activities
• Teen Center or Disco
• Teen Programs
• Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
• Safe Deposit Boxes

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

• Game Arcade
• Beauty Salon
• Fitness Classes
• Spa Services/Massage
• Sauna/Steam Room
• Bars/Lounges
• Babysitting
• Conference Center
• Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
• Infirmary/Medical Center
• Self-Service Laundromat
• Wedding/Vow Renewal

Main Dining Room

Main Dining

Main Dining Room:  Carnival's Main Dining Room brings you a full three-course menu in an experience that’s satisfying, but never stuffy. Drop in nightly and enjoy a rotating menu of delectable favorites like steak, roasted duck, scallops, prime rib, and, of course, sinfully delicious desserts.

Specialty Dining

Bonsai Sushi:  Dine amidst expertly pruned bonsai trees while enjoying sit-down service and an affordable menu of delectable catches, plus soups, sides, sakes, and desserts. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Cucina del Capitano:  Italian-American dishes inspired by the recipes from our Italian captains’ and officers’ childhoods are served up family-style in a comfy, eclectic environment decorated like an Italian country home. Vintage images of our captains and ships adorn the walls, and there’s even a Captain’s table where you just might see the man himself dine. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast:  Sit down to a truly fantastical feast at the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with The Cat in the Hat and Friends™. Bright colors and patterns decorate your table, which features fun and unique menus. Feast! Feast! Feast! Lose yourself exploring a delicious menu where you'll find "Green Eggs and Ham," brightly colored fruit, gravity-defying pancake stacks, funky french toast, "Moose Juice" 'n' "Goose Juice"… and much more. (Classic breakfast offerings are available as well.) Breakfast is also the perfect time to meet and greet the stars of Dr. Seuss - characters will be around for special photo opportunities and fun interactions, making this a meal to remember. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

JavaBlue Café:  From the simply caffeinated to the simply sublime, nothing satisfies your coffee craving like JavaBlue Café, featuring fun twists on the hot and cold drinks you enjoy, plus a mouth-watering assortment of baked treats. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

RedFrog Pub:  Get into an island state of mind before you even set foot on one. RedFrog Pub is Carnival's laid-back, no-worries, oh-so-lively, Key West-inspired pub. Sample Caribbean fare, dominate at the foosball table, enjoy live music and try the signature private-label brew, ThirstyFrog Red. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Seafood Shack:  A good seafood dish is quite the catch. However you like yours served - whether it’s on a roll, in a salad or atop a platter - Seafood Shack’s the place to cast your net. Imagine a New England-style seaside spot where you can take it all in, enjoying a great meal complete with a side of ocean view. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Steakhouse:  The menu features premium cuts of beef cooked to your specifications, as well as a fantastic selection of seafood, entrées, gourmet appetizers and an extensive wine list. Like any destination restaurant, reservations for Steakhouse are highly recommended. Your meal includes an appetizer, salad, entrée, side and dessert. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Steakhouse Selections:  Whoever said you can’t always get what you want certainly never said it on a Carnival cruise. Odds are that something from our steakhouse sounds good - filet mignon, New York Strip, lobster, or surf and turf. Now you can get these signature steakhouse dishes anytime you’re enjoying dinner in the main dining room. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

The Chef’s Table:  Treat your taste buds to unique culinary event hosted by one of Carnival's master chefs. Your VIP experience begins with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for a select group of 14, followed by a galley tour. The evening’s highlight is a full-service dinner of amazing appetizers, entrees and desserts not found on the regular menus. Seating is limited, so reserve early at the ship’s Guest Services desk. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

24-Hour Room Service:  There’s a menu of salads, sandwiches and sweet stuff - completely free - during the day, plus hot food options available for a small fee. Late-night menu options (after 10 p.m.) are also available for a small fee.

Casual Dining

Big Chicken:  Carnivals Chief Fun Officer, Shaq O’Neal, brings his poultry know-how and good taste to the seas with Big Chicken. Step up to the counter for lunch or dinner and walk away with your choice of chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips or juicy fried chicken baskets… plus side dishes, like potato salad and jalapeño slaw. Early-morning buzzer-beaters are invited to enjoy a breakfast featuring classics like a three-cheese omelet, chicken biscuits, and biscuit and egg. And so’s everybody else - breakfast is served all day!

BlueIguana Cantina:  The BlueIguana Cantina features freshly made tacos and burritos. Throw homemade tortillas and salsa into the mix, and you have a casual dining experience that will have you coming back for more.

Guy's Burger Joint:  Carnival has teamed up with celebrity chef Guy Fieri to bring all the authentic appeal of a roadside burger shack to Guy's Burger Joint, the cool poolside spot for hot burgers and hand-cut fries. Try a fresh-off-the-grill burger Guy's way, or take it off-road to the toppings bar and truly make it your own.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que:  Enjoy a wide variety of BBQ favorites smoked right on board over hickory and cherry wood using Guy’s signature recipes, rubs and spices. Throw in sides like Mac Daddy Mac n Cheese, Old Skool Potato Salad and Collard Greens and you’ve got a rockin’ sea day on deck.

Lido Marketplace:  Featuring an amazing variety of casual dining spots, each just a few flip-flopped steps from the last, Lido Marketplace always has a special something ready to satisfy your latest craving spectacularly. Here Carnival does it with dozens of what-to-eat options... great choices like BBQ, a deli counter, salad bar, an Asian station and a pasta bar... plus one spot where the chef serves up a different surprise daily! At Lido Marketplace, there's tons of indoor and outdoor seating made for gathering around, so you can enjoy your personal faves in your favorite company for lunch or dinner, or even breakfast! Lido's also where you can find soft serve, frozen yogurt and fresh pizza 24-hours a day.

Pizzeria del Capitano:  Featuring piping hot slices right out of the oven, with your choice of toppings, Pizzeria del Capitano is the good kind of cheesy - the best reason to stop in for a taste of hand-tossed specialties made with fresh mozzarella. This place rolls out pizzas and Caesar salad 24 hours a day.

Seaday Brunch:  At Seaday Brunch, you can sleep in and still enjoy breakfast favorites, while early risers get a head start on lunch. You’ll enjoy huevos rancheros, special French toast, loaded mac-n-cheese and more ways to cook eggs than you may have thought possible.

Swirls:  Swirls ice cream entices with sweet frozen treats around the clock! Choose from chocolate, vanilla or strawberry. Open on Lido deck 24/7, frozen yogurt and soft-serve ice cream is a great way to beat the heat all day, or the perfect nightcap after a long evening of fun.

The Carnival Deli:  Craving a little taste from the old neighborhood? Enjoy old-time favorites like a hot pastrami on rye, a grilled Reuben or roasted turkey breast on a country roll. Sandwiches and wraps are always hand-carved and served fresh with coleslaw or relish and a kosher dill pickle.

Disclaimer regarding ship dining

• > Inside Stateroom
• > Ocean View Stateroom
• > Balcony Stateroom
• > Suite Stateroom

An Interior stateroom is a comfortable retreat, featuring a full private bathroom. Some rooms also feature pull-down beds – ideal for families.

Interior Upper/Lower (Category: 1A)

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• In-room safe for valuables
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• Stateroom climate control
• Bathrobes upon request

Interior (Category: 4A)

Interior (Category: 4B)

Interior (category: 4c), interior (category: 4d), interior (category: 4e), interior (category: 4f), interior (category: 4g), interior (category: 4h), interior with picture window (obstructed views) (category: 4j).

Spa Interior (Category: 4S)

• Unique welcome ritual
• Priority spa reservations
• Unlimited use of Thermal Suites
• Complimentary scrub kit to use in our Thermal Suites
• Two complimentary fitness classes (per guest)
• Complimentary body composition analysis
• Exclusive discounts on treatments during port days
• Cloud 9 Spa bathrobes and slippers
• Upgraded Elemis in-stateroom toiletries

Guarantee - Inside (Category: IS)

Category: IS This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

These rooms with a view let you sail along to beautiful destinations while gazing at the sort of vistas you simply won't find anywhere on land.

Ocean View (Category: 6A)

Ocean View (Category: 6B)

Ocean view (category: 6c), ocean view (category: 6d), scenic ocean view (category: 6j), scenic grand ocean view (category: 6k), guarantee - oceanview (category: ov).

Category: OV This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Porthole (Category: PT)

Relax and admire the passing scenery from your stateroom’s private balcony.

Balcony (Category: 8A)

Balcony (Category: 8B)

Balcony (category: 8c), balcony (category: 8d), balcony (category: 8e), aft-view extended balcony (category: 8m).

Aft-View Extended Balcony (Category: 8N)

Spa balcony (category: 8p), spa balcony (category: 8s), premium balcony (category: 9b).

• Modified for guests with wheelchairs

Premium Vista Balcony (Category: 9C)

Guarantee - Balcony (Category: BL)

Category: BL This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

A spacious room, that includes priority check-in during embarkation.

Extended Balcony Grand Suite (Category: ES)

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority dinner reservations for select specialty restaurants
• Priority main dining room time assignment (Early, Late, or Your Time Dining)
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 AM
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattresses

Ocean Suite (Category: OS)

Grand Suite (Category: GS)

Captain’s suite (category: cs), guarantee - suite (category: st).

Category: ST This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

• Ship Name: Carnival Radiance
• Year Entered Present Fleet: 2000
• Ship Class: Sunshine Class
• Maximum Capacity: 3,873
• Number of Passenger Decks: 13
• Number of Crew: 1,108
• Officers' Nationality: Italian
• Ocean-View without Balcony: 310
• Ocean-View with Balcony: 503
• Total Inside Staterooms: 612
• Tonnage (GRT): 101,509
• Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 2,984
• Country of Registry: Panama
• Total Staterooms: 1,492
• Suites with Balcony: 52
• Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Available Dates & Prices

Departure date, inside stateroom, ocean view stateroom, balcony stateroom, suite stateroom, departure date - 08/19/2024, terms & conditions.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

Ship's Registry: Panama

Digital Costco Shop Card

This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.

Ship Rating

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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Cruises from Tampa to Mexico

There are a lot of cruises from Tampa to Mexico. Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean all offer them. Destinations in Mexico include Cozumel and Costa Maya. See the schedule of departures below.

Costa Maya (Mexico) was developed specifically as a cruise port. It is like a resort with pools, restaurants, and shops. There are white sand beaches with shallow surf at the village of Mahahual. A big attraction is the close access to Mayan ruins in the Yucatan peninsula like Chacchoben.

Cozumel (Mexico) is the big name stop on Mexico cruises. It's an island with a large underwater reef. Go snorkeling or diving to see tropical fish, turtles and other sea life. Interact with dolphins at Chankanaab National Marine Park. Take an excursion to the nearby ancient Mayan city of Tulum.

Longer Western Caribbean cruises that include Mexico and other countries are also available from Tampa.

4-night cruise to Mexico on Carnival Cruise Line . Round-trip from Tampa to Cozumel (Mexico). • 2024 departures: January 4, 18; February 1, 15, 29; March 14, 28; April 11, 25; May 9, 19, 23; June 6, 16, 20; July 4, 14, 18; August 1, 11, 15, 29; September 8, 12, 26; October 6, 10; November 3, 7, 21; December 5, 19.

5-night cruise to Mexico on Celebrity Cruises . Round-trip from Tampa to Costa Maya (Mexico) and Cozumel (Mexico). • 2024 departure: February 5.

5-night cruise to Mexico on Royal Caribbean . Round-trip from Tampa to Costa Maya (Mexico) and Cozumel (Mexico). • 2024 departures: January 6, 15, 20, 29; February 3, 12, 17, 26; March 2, 11, 25; September 22; October 6, 20; November 3, 17; December 1, 15, 29.

5-night cruise to Mexico on Royal Caribbean . Round-trip from Tampa to Progreso (Mexico) and Cozumel (Mexico). • 2024 departures: July 1, July 15, July 29, August 12.

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RAINFORESTS TO RUINS

Mexico cruises.

Experience flavorful food, mesmerizing landscapes and ancient past with a cruise to Mexico.

Cruise to Mexico and find everything from volcanoes, jungles and deserts and beaches, to enjoy outdoor and urban adventures of all kinds. Head to  museums to see the surreal works of Frida Kahlo and ancient artworks excavated from the Maya civilization. Or see Mayan ruins up-close-and-personal — remnants of ancient temples, like Chichen Itza and Tulum, stand just a stone's throw from pristine beaches, so you can take a soak or a surf after your history lesson. And be sure to immerse yourself in the colonial architecture, bustling parks and lively, spice-fragrant marketplaces in Mexico City, Puebla, and Cancun. Discover the magic with a Mexico cruise.

Save Big With These Mexico Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Mexico cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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EXPLORER'S SPIRIT

Get out of your comfort zone and discover an untamed wilderness, where you can dive into an underground cave or encounter ancient ruins with the best Mexico cruises.

THE PAST PRESERVED

Discover why Mexico is one of the most impressive civilizations in the world when you experience its Mayan ruins at Tulum, Ek Balam or Chichen Itza and its Aztec roots at Tenochtitlan and Templo Mayor, harkening back thousands of years of history.

It's easy to get in touch with Mother Nature when you're in Mexico. Tours take you through cenotes, expansive underground caverns, or on rainforest safaris where you can spot iguanas, macaws and other colorful wildlife.

COAST CALLS

Reach the beach and soak, surf or snorkel in Mexico's clear waters, then stroll over soft sands and discover ancient ruins by the sea in places like Cozumel and Cabo San Lucas. More seascapes are found in Playa Progreso in Yucatan, Costa Sur in Puerto Vallarta, Cacaluta in Huatulco and Mahahual in Costa Maya, all of which provide those frame-ready vistas synonymous with Mexico.

GET A TASTE OF THE CULTURE

Mexico's cities and towns offer a wealth of cultural gems. You'll find everything from high art to colorful villages brimming with life and tradition on your cruise to Mexico.

DIG INTO LOCAL LIFE

Mexico's sprawling urban areas show you the lively side of this rich country. Stop by Mexico City, Cuernavaca, Cancun or Puebla to see the bustling streets filled with restaurants, bars and stores, the busy plazas with vendors offering local food and candy, and the charming colonial neighborhoods with colorful flowers dripping from balconies.

From colorful skull souvenirs — a throwback to the ancient practice of honoring passed-on ancestors — and charming sombreros to Mayan temples and colonial-era architecture, Mexico is a treasure trove of the visual arts. You can get a glimpse of the country's most renowned artist, Frida Kahlo, at the Frida Kahlo Museum in Playa del Carmen.

TASTY TEMPTATIONS

Mexico is a kaleidoscope of unique regional cuisines, all equally flavor-packed. In Oaxaca, taste your way through the varieties of rich mole sauces, and in Yucatan explore fresh flavors in dishes heavy with citrus and spice, like cochinita pibil, the shredded pork that fills one of Mexico's most-loved taco styles.

Best Mexico Cruises

A cruise to Mexico is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Mexico onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

Mexican Riviera Cruises

Mexico’s wild west coast offers just as much natural beauty, vibrant culture and sun-kissed adventures as its eastern counterpart, the Riviera Maya. Cruise from Los Angeles onboard the Amplified Navigator of the Seas® to Baja’s brightest jewels, like foodie-favorite Ensenada, fun-loving Cabo , charming Mazatlán and scenic Puerto Vallarta .

Explore Cruises To The Mexican Riviera

THE GREAT GULF

Cruise the Yucatan Peninsula, which separates the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico, and discover Mexico's Caribbean side. Stop in Cozumel island, off the east coast of Yucatan , and enjoy the bright-blue waters and untouched paradise appeal.

Explore Cozumel & Cancun Cruises

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Mexico Cruises Insider

Mexico is ready for you to explore at any time of year. In general, the weather is best between December and April — there's little rain, and the temperatures are very comfortable. The wet season starts in May and ends in October, while hurricane season (affecting mostly the Caribbean side) starts in June and runs until November.

When you travel to Mexico, one of the best ways to enjoy the country is by immersion. Try the local food, shop the local markets, and choose excursions that allow you to spend time getting to know a specific neighborhood, historic site or natural wonder.

Learn a few phrases in Spanish and speak to waiters, vendors, tour guides and everyday people. Ask about places to eat, the history or the music. Get out of your comfort zone and reach out to the people who know the country best — they can let you know where to go for the best price on that souvenir you're seeking or which beachside spot makes the best margarita.

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The best ancient sites and ruins to visit in Mexico. Go back in time and discover the beauty, the mystery and the culture of the venerated Mayan people.

Haggling on prices at local markets is par for the course here — just make sure you know a few words of Spanish, and don't ask the vendor to go unreasonably low.

Mexico's tiered bus system is a great way to get around affordably: Choose the first ("primero") or platinum ("platino") options for the high-end treatment.

There's a more lax attitude about time in Mexico so factor in an extra half-hour to an hour when planning out your Mexico cruise itineraries.

FOR THE FOODIE'S SABROSO IS THE WORD

Sabroso means delicious, which is synonymous with Mexico's cuisine. Known the world over for its originality when it comes to multilayered flavors that focus on spice, Mexican food boasts dishes like mole, cochinita pibil and tacos al pastor. When in Mexico, go where the locals are eating and enjoy the salsas, the spices and the crunch.

MOLE POBLANO

A saucy and popular delicacy, mole poblano is made with chili peppers and chocolate and is poured over chicken and then topped with sesame seeds.

Tamales are a steamed masa, or a corn-based dough filled with meats, cheeses, vegetables, chili peppers or fruits. The masa is wrapped inside of a leaf and steamed. Discard the leaf and chow down on the stuffed dough for a traditional treat.

CHILAQUILES

Fried tortillas take a swim in spicy red salsa or refreshing green salsa for a savory dish commonly enjoyed during breakfast.

RELATED PORTS

In Mexico, you can explore an array of culturally unique cities like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and Cozumel, as well as cruise ports such as Huatulco, Costa Maya and the Yucatan. And the best way to get to know these places is by arriving from the water.

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

Cozumel, Mexico

Mazatlan, Mexico

Yucatan (Progreso), Mexico

Ensenada, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Huatulco, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Manzanillo, Mexico

Related Destinations

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The Best Cruises to Mexico for Every Traveler

Whether it's world-class diving, white sandy beaches, or Mayan ruins you’re after, a cruise to Mexico can get you there in comfort and style. 

Set sail from the West Coast to experience the beaches and nightlife of Cabo San Lucas , stroll the boardwalk in Mazatlan, or dig your toes into the sand in Puerto Vallarta. For diving and Mayan ruins, opt to cruise Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Dive into the deep blue water in Cozumel, walk a beach free of high-rise hotels in Costa Maya, or walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans in Tulum . 

Several major cruise lines serve these routes with decked-out ships that offer something for everyone. Sprawling pools, thumping dance clubs, and fresh margaritas are just the beginning. 

This is the domain of large cruise ships, but there are a few smaller vessels—like American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Navigator —that cruise to Mexico . 

Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line sail to Mexico from the West Coast year-round. Three Carnival ships—the Carnival Miracle , Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Residence — cruise to Mexico from Los Angeles and San Francisco. Norwegian Cruise Line sails to Mexico from California, Florida, and New Orleans. 

Princess Cruises, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises sail to Mexico seasonally. While Mexico is warm year-round, you’ll find the most pleasant temperatures—and some of the best prices— between November through February. Mexico’s rainy season is from May through November, but expect bursts of showers instead of washouts. Hurricane season is between June and November, and while hurricanes don't always make landfall, the rains they bring can put a damper on even the best-planned beach day.

Whatever it is you’re looking for, and whenever it is you’re looking to set sail, there’s a cruise to Mexico that’s sure to feel tailor-made for you. 

Best short cruise to Mexico 

In just three nights, Royal Caribbean's  Navigator of the Seas sails from Los Angeles to Ensenada, Mexico, and back.  The itinerary includes a full day at sea—plenty of time to take a few laps around the ship’s ice skating rink, spend a few hours at the spa, try out the longest water slide at sea and catch a show. Of course, you could just spend your entire sea day lounging around on the pool deck eating Johnny Rockets and sipping on colorful cocktails. If you’ve got a little bit more time, opt for a four-night itinerary. Royal Caribbean offers two four-night itineraries on the  Navigator of the Seas . One adds a stop at idyllic Catalina Island. The other spends additional time in Ensenada. 

Best weeklong cruise to Mexico 

There may be no better way to bliss out than by sailing the  Norwegian Bliss along the Mexican Riviera. Sail roundtrip from Los Angeles, stopping in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, Mexico. Spend port days visiting tequila factories, wineries and endless sandy beaches. Or opt for an adventurous 4x4 ride, snorkeling, kayaking or an idyllic horseback ride. On board the ship, you’ll have your choice of 19 restaurants, 20 bars, and plenty of things to do. The  Norwegian Bliss made its debut in 2018, and its entertainment offerings include a two-level  racetrack , Broadway shows, laser tag, mini golf and a casino. The ship has a private 18 and over beach club and a spa with both a salt room and a snow room. 

Best family cruise to Mexico 

There is so much to do on board the  Carnival Radiance your family might not want to leave the ship on port days. The  Carnival Radiance has a water park, a ropes course, mini golf, sports courts, and a kids club that accommodates ages two to 17. There’s also a teen spa, video arcade and enough room to play soccer, basketball, and volleyball on board. With more than a dozen restaurants, there’s something for even the most discerning junior palate. There’s even a green eggs and ham breakfast to go with a Seuss at Sea experience inspired by the famous author’s books.

Windstar Star Legend's Cuadro 44 Restaurant 

Best small ship cruise to Mexico

You could cruise to Mexico on a mega-ship. Or you could opt for a calmer, quieter, more yacht-like experience on Windstar Cruises’  Star Legend . This all-suite yacht boasts cabins that are nearly 300 square feet. The ship is fresh off a major renovation with a new spa, pool, and fitness center. Every bathroom on board has gotten a makeover and comes stocked with L’Occitane toiletries. The  Star Legend is scheduled to set sail from Miami in the spring. Windstar's  Jungles and Jewels of the Central American Coast itinerary sails roundtrip from Miami, stoppings in Key West en route to Cozumel and Costa Maya. But Mexico is just the beginning. Windstar’s  Star Legend also calls on Belize City, Belize, and Roatan, Honduras, giving passengers plenty of chances to go on an unforgettable dive, immerse themselves in ancient ruins or simply soak up the sunshine.  

Best cruise to the Yucatan Peninsula 

Mega ships aren’t the only vessels that cruise to Mexico . American Queen Voyages’  Ocean Navigator is less than one-tenth of the size of the behemoth ships sailing the region. The ship can accommodate just over 200 passengers and feels more like a river cruise ship than an ocean-going vessel. Restaurant and bar choices are limited, but that might not matter much when you’re sipping margaritas and snacking on molletes at the beach. The  Ocean Navigator ’s Mexico itineraries visit seven ports in 10 days, giving passengers the chance to dive into Cozumel’s deep blue water, explore Chichen Itza’s Mayan ruins, and sip on margaritas in Cancun. This isn’t the kind of ship that parties all night, but that should make it easier to wake up for gorgeous sunrises. The price of this all-inclusive cruise includes food, drinks, room service, Wi-Fi, pre-paid gratuities, port fees, and taxes. 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Best luxury cruise to Mexico

There may be few more luxurious ways to arrive in Cabo San Lucas than on board Regent’s new  Seven Seas Grandeur . The cruise line's  Magic on the Mexican Riviera itinerary is scheduled to sail round trip from Los Angeles in late 2024, calling on ports including Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, and Puerto Vallarta. The 10-night journey includes three luxurious days of cruising the Pacific Ocean. Spend your sea days lounging around your spacious suite, playing bocce ball or shuffleboard or relaxing by the pool bar. The ship's suites range in size from 307 to 4,443 square feet. Each comes with a private balcony, and there may be no better place on board to enjoy your morning coffee with a view. Cruise fares on Regent Seven Seas include roundtrip business class intercontinental flights, unlimited shore excursions, unlimited beverages, specialty restaurants, and gratuities.

Best cruise to the Mexican Riviera

If you’re looking to touch grass at sea and sample the best of the Mexican Riviera, the  Celebrity Solstice is for you. This ship is home to a half acre of real green grass and sails from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta. This is a ship with a cool vibe, a sophisticated feel, and lots of fun things to do on board. Try a cocktail-making class or a wine-blending class. Or catch a glass-blowing show on the grass. The ship is also home to more than 200 solar panels and generates some of its own electricity.

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Cruises to Mexico have an appeal that's hard to match.

Pacific Coast itineraries cover both Baja California (with stops in Ensenada) and the area farther south considered the Mexican Riviera (featuring the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta). Where else can you spend the morning whale watching from a small boat, followed by an afternoon of shopping or enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine?

The ports on Mexico's eastern coast are often lumped together with other Central American ports or island destinations on Western Caribbean cruises . Do a bit of digging, and you can find three- to five-night cruises from Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; and Mobile, Alabama, that visit only Mexican ports, including Cozumel, Costa Maya and Progreso.

Beaches and water sports, as well as eating and drinking, are the primary attractions on cruises to Mexico. Both coasts offer ample opportunity to play in the sun and sand. The best Mexico cruises have lengthy port stops that provide plenty of time to explore, plus time on board the ship to relax and decompress.

You might even be able to cruise to Mexico without a passport if your cruise begins and ends in the same U.S. port.

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So, what's the best cruise to Mexico? Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line run year-round cruises from the Los Angeles area and Galveston ports, while Princess Cruises, Holland America , Norwegian Cruise Line , Celebrity Cruises and Disney Cruise Line offer seasonal cruises to Mexico from the West Coast.

Occasionally, you can find luxury cruises to the Mexican Riviera on lines Regent Seven Seas . Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures offer nature-oriented small-ship opportunities in Baja California.

We scoured all the options and came up with the best Mexico cruises to help narrow your choices. Here's what we found.

3-night Baja cruise on Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance gets the nod for having a year-round schedule of short escapes to Mexico.

Carnival Cruise Line 's west coast Mexico cruises sail from the port of Long Beach, which is a fun destination in its own right, with beaches, water sports and the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Carnival Radiance (formerly Carnival Victory) underwent a complete refit in 2021, adding a dedicated comedy club, top-deck water attractions and the first-ever chicken joint from Shaquille O'Neal, aptly named Big Chicken .

The ship goes to Ensenada and back with one fun day at sea. Water sports and whale watching in winter are among the top activities in Ensenada for Carnival cruisers. For a local lunch in port, order fish tacos; Ensenada claims to have invented the dish. Some also claim Ensenada is the original home of the margarita. Drink enough of those, and it won't matter if it's true or not. If margaritas aren't your thing, there are popular wineries in port worth checking out.

You can also cruise this route on Carnival Firenze , one of Carnival's two "Fun Italian Style" ships (adopted from sister cruise line Costa). However, that ship mainly sails four- and five-night itineraries from Long Beach.

Who should go : It's no secret that Carnival's Fun Ships are known as party ships. This short hop to Mexico is ideal for residents of the Western states looking for an escape any time of year. The ship's atmosphere is enthusiastic and fun, which spills into Ensenada on the single port day of the cruise.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

4-night Baja cruise with Catalina Island on Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder is one of Disney Cruise Line 's oldest and smallest ships, carrying only 2,700 passengers. However, it's packed with Disney adventures, including a musical stage production of "Frozen," character meet-ups and the most family-friendly cabins at sea. Wonder sails to Mexico from San Diego during the fall and winter.

Not every four-night cruise on Wonder includes Catalina Island, but if you can snag one that does, it's a huge bonus of family fun. Activities in the port of Avalon on Catalina include an amazing zip line course with five lines. Soaring along the island's hillsides 600 feet above the beaches below, the adventure course takes more than two hours to complete.

If your crew isn't into high-speed zipping, try a backcountry bison expedition or a relaxing day at the beach. Catalina is a charming island with a European feel, memorable food and a fascinating history. The second port on the itinerary is Ensenada, where the wildlife-watching or beach fun can continue.

Who should go: Disney Wonder is an ideal ship for family cruise travel from the West Coast. Features include the Marvel Superhero Academy inside the Disney Oceaneer Club, the activity space for kids. You'll have family-friendly accommodations on board, most with split bathrooms (one with toilet and sink, the other with bath-shower combo and sink). Parents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a night out without the kids, dining at the adults-only Palo specialty restaurant or sampling an adult beverage at the After Hours entertainment district.

5- and 6-night Cabo overnight cruises on Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean 's Quantum of the Seas is one of the largest vessels ever to sail from Los Angeles.

Quantum of the Seas carries 4,180 passengers at double occupancy. The ship features skydiving and surfing simulators, a bumper car pavilion, robotic bartenders and laser tag. The ship has so many included and extra-fee dining options that you'll be hard-pressed to try them all on a five- or six-night sailing.

The allure of this itinerary is the overnight in Cabo San Lucas. (The six-nighter also includes a visit to Ensenada.) After all those other cruise ships say adios to Cabo, cruisers can explore the city's nightlife. Street taco tour, anyone? Tequila flights? How else can you enjoy late-night freshly fried churros on a street corner?

The rest of the trip is all about fun on the ship as you cruise the Pacific Ocean waters.

Who should go: A Mexico cruise on Quantum of the Seas is ideal for big-ship lovers. Myriad flights into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the area's smaller regional airports make it accessible to most of the Western states. For Californians who can drive to the port in less than a day, the fun of a beach day in nearby Long Beach before or after the cruise makes this sailing an easy choice.

7-night Mexican Riviera cruise on Discovery Princess

When Princess Cruises ' Discovery Princess isn't in Alaskan waters, it can be found cruising to the Mexican Riviera from the Los Angeles port at San Pedro.

The seven-night itinerary includes Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, plus three sea days to enjoy the ship, which carries 3,660 guests. Discovery Princess brings a bit of elegance to the riviera with afternoon tea and the ability to order the Ultimate Balcony Breakfast to your cabin's private veranda (for an additional charge).

For a true splurge, book one of two Sky Suites on Discovery Princess. Each suite has two bedrooms and a luxurious 1,000-square-foot balcony for unrivaled views.

Who should go: This is the best Mexico cruise for those seeking Princess' relaxed upscale mode of cruising. Children are always welcome on Princess, and there are plenty of connecting rooms and cabin options with third and fourth bunks. Though the ship offers a youth program, don't expect waterslides and thrill rides. The vibe on board is low-key, and the average age is a bit older when compared to Royal Caribbean or Carnival.

7-night Mexican Riviera cruise on Carnival Panorama

Carnival Panorama is loaded with Carnival-style fun. From a jaw-dropping, nail-biting ropes course high above the decks to waterslides and an indoor trampoline park, this ship is a crash course in playtime. The seven-night itineraries sail from Long Beach and include the main western Mexico ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, where the ship stays into the evening hours.

With three sea days, cruisers have plenty of time to enjoy the ship. The best part is that this floating thrill ride cruises this itinerary year-round.

Who should go: It's a great choice for families with tweens and teens because so many of the onboard activities are geared to them. Couples sailing without kiddos can enjoy adults-only areas like the Serenity sun deck retreat, a plush Cloud 9 Spa and Havana cabins with their exclusive pool deck.

7-night expedition to Baja California with UnCruise

UnCruise Adventures does Mexico with an entirely different approach to cruising.

Leave the party ships and the thrill rides behind for an expedition adventure aboard the 66-passenger Safari Voyager. The ship sails from La Paz, Mexico, between January and June, taking passengers in search of gray whales, whale sharks, rays and an amazing variety of sea life, as well as wildlife on dry land.

Activities include kayaking, Zodiac boat rides, snorkeling, hiking and, of course, downtime at the beach. Safari Explorer is somewhat basic in its amenities. You can expect cabins that are quite cozy, but there's ample public space on deck to watch for sealife and meet your fellow passengers.

UnCruise fares include all meals, excursions, equipment, beverages (including alcohol) and airport transfers, leaving you free to enjoy the adventure.

Who should go: This cruise is for physically fit adults and families with kids ages 8-17 seeking adventure in the wilds and waters of Baja California.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

10-night Mexico cruise with Cabo overnight on Grand Princess

Princess Cruises' 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess sail seasonal 10-night Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez itineraries from Los Angeles.

The Grand Class vessels have an intimate feel and are on average 20% smaller than Princess' newer Royal Class ships (such as the previously mentioned Discovery Princess). The interiors revolve around lively, piazza-like atriums with cafes and boast large theaters and multiple restaurants and bars.

Each sailing calls in La Paz, Loreto and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, with an overnight stop in Cabo San Lucas. In La Paz, catch some rays on the soft golden sand and take a dip in the turquoise water, or dive down to see the astonishing underwater world by snorkeling or scuba. In Loreto, step back in time to the 17th century at Mission San Javier with its stunning stained-glass windows and the bell tower of Our Lady of Loreto. Then enjoy the seafood specialties of the area, including tender "chocolate" clams cooked on hot stones (best accompanied by the citrus tang of an authentic margarita). Keep an eye on the sea while you're in these charming towns and you might also spot whales swimming by.

Four sea days allow you to rest up from your adventures ashore.

Who should go: This cruise is for anyone who enjoys exploring port cities more in-depth than what's offered by a standard port call and who appreciates less of a party atmosphere on board. Daytime activities in Cabo include sport fishing, wildlife watching, boat rides, camel rides, kayaking, parasailing and snorkeling. Add in evening tasting tours, and you're set.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Bottom line

The best cruises to Mexico are the ones that suit your travel personality. Whether you're looking for a party atmosphere or adventure, there's a ship waiting to take you to Mexico any time of year.

Focus your search on round-trip itineraries from major ports in Los Angeles and San Diego. You'll also find options for cruises to Mexico's west coast from San Francisco. Mexico cruises from Galveston, New Orleans and even Mobile, Alabama, focus on the country's Caribbean shores.

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10 Cheap Cruises Ranked By Their 2024 Prices

• Cruising offers an affordable and all-inclusive vacation option, with prices as low as $27.25 per person per night.
• Travelers can explore beautiful destinations like Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas on budget-friendly cruises.
• These cheap cruises provide luxury amenities, including open bars, water parks, multiple restaurants, and entertainment options.

The cruising world is one that travelers find hard to leave. With 24/7 food and restaurant opportunities, water parks, gyms, infinity pools, casinos, bars, and more, cruising is like going to a floating, all-inclusive hotel. While some cruise lines can be expensive, there are a few out there with some unbelievable deals that take their passengers on cruise ship voyages through Iceland's untamed beauty , cruises in the U.S. Virgin Islands , unique cruises in Greece , and the Caribbean's best-kept secrets, just to name a few.

The average cost per hotel room (excluding food) is predicted to be around $155 per person, per night, in 2024 . Still, in the land of cruising, travelers can enjoy an all-inclusive vacation for just $27.25 per person per night (the cheapest cruise on this list) or $95 per night (the most expensive 'cheap' cruise on this list).

For travelers looking to set sail and explore the world on a budget, these are the cheapest cruises to go on in 2024 (ranked by their 2024 prices), listed from cheap to 'super cheap'.

Related: 20 Biggest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2023

7-Night Alaska Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $669.

This 7-night cruise departs from Seattle, Washington, and takes its passengers to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, Ketchikan (Ward Cove), and Victoria, British Columbia. This is the cheapest cruise on offer for exploring the Alaskan waters.

The Norwegian Encore cruise line is one of the only ships that offer an open bar as part of the total price. It boasts an impressive 16 passenger decks, making it a cheap yet luxurious Alaskan vacation alternative.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Encore
• Book it here: 7 Night Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau on Norwegian Encore

10-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total cost per person for 10 nights: $509.

This 10-night cruise is the ultimate Caribbean getaway; offering the cheapest way to experience the length of the Eastern Caribbean, including stops in Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (the Cruiseline Private Island), Grand Turk Island in Turks & Caicos, and Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic.

This cruise comes in at just $51 per night, making it one of the cheapest Caribbean cruises (and vacations) to go on. The Carnival Venezia also offers more restaurants (8), outside rooms (1249), and passenger decks (15) than other cruise ships for the same price, making it one of the most cost-effective options.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Venezia
• Book it here: 10 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Related: Three Super Cheap Cruises Worth Booking In 2024

7-Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $479.

This 7-night Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel cruise around the Caribbean is the cheapest cruise line with an all-inclusive mini-water park in 2024.

The ship houses 2 pools and 5 whirlpools, a Kids Aqua Park, which includes a kid-size pool and slide, splash area, fountains and sprays, and 3 multi-story water slides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge.

• Cruise Ship: Norwegian Epic Cruise Line
• Book it here: 7 Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Cozumel

7-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

Total cost per person for 7 nights: $469.

This 7-night Mexican Riviera Cruise that takes passengers to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico is the cheapest cruise departing from California.

The average price to visit and tour Mexico is $997 per person for 7 days , making this cruise an excellent all-inclusive alternative, costing half of the average price, with luxury amenities.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Panorama
• Book it here: 7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise

The cheapest cabin for this cruise is the interior cabin - bear this in mind when booking.

6-Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Total cost per person for 6 nights: $451.

This 6-night Pacific Coastal Cruise is another one of the cheapest 2024 cruises; it takes its passengers on a cost-effective journey one-way to discover the West Coast of Canada and the United States from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Los Angeles, California. The cruise explores sights in Vancouver before moving on to Victoria, British Columbia, San Francisco, California, Catalina Island, California, and ending in Los Angeles, California.

On the route, this affordable cruise ensures that entertainment, food, exercise, and more are all covered with its state-of-the-art facilities that aim to cost less than what passengers usually spend at home.

• Cruise Ship: Brilliance of the Seas
• Book it here: 6 Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Related: 10 Luxury Cruise Lines, Ranked By Passenger Review

11-Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

Total price per person for 11 nights: $369.

Easily rivaling even the best Caribbean island hopping cruises , this cheap, extensive cruise takes its passengers to Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Cozumel, Mexico, Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas (a Cruise Line Private Island) and Miami, Florida for just $34 per person per night.

Dining, entertainment, bars, and sports zones are all included in the price, making it one of the amazing yet cheap family cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Meraviglia
• Book it here: 11 Night Caribbean & Bahamas Cruise

5-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Total for 5 days per person: $349.

This cheap almost-week-long Eastern Caribbean voyage takes passengers from Port Canaveral in Orlando to Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands before heading to Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and ending back in Port Canaveral.

The cruise includes amazing stage shows, live musical performances, stand-up comedy, clubs, bars, and lounges featuring DJs spinning, karaoke, piano sing-alongs, and more. On board, guests can also enjoy parties, game shows, and trivia contests.

There are also great options for all six meals — breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and late-night snacks at the full-service Main Dining Room or the casual Lido Restaurant. These amenities make it one of the cheapest entertainment-filled cruises for 2024.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Freedom
• Book it here: 5 Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise

4-Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

Total cost for four days per person: $229.

The Carnival Radiance takes its passengers on the cheapest trip to Mexico from Los Angeles they'll ever find. Stops along the way include Catalina Island, Ensenada, and Long Beach in Los Angeles.

From endless taco trains to never-ending burrito buffets and all-one-can-drink tequila, this all-inclusive Mexican fiesta is the cheapest way to spend a vacation in Mexico.

• Cruise Ship: Carnival Radiance
• Book it here: 4- Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Los Angeles

2-Night Margaritaville At Sea Paradise Cruise

Total cost for 2 nights per person: $148.50.

This 2-night cruise through the Florida seas departs from Palm Beach, Florida, and takes its passengers on an all-inclusive, relaxing getaway. This cruise doesn't have any island extras that passengers need to budget for, making it one of the cheapest cruises to book in 2024.

Passengers won't need to worry about paying for anything more once they're on board.

• Cruise Ship: Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
• Book it here: 2-Night Florida Cruise 2024

4-Night MSC Bahamas Cruise

Total cost for 4 nights per person: $109.

Not only is this one of the most affordable Bahamas cruises , but it also comes in as the cheapest cruise for 2024. This ultimate budget-friendly cruise is the 4-night MSC Seashore Bahamas Cruise, which takes its passengers on a journey to the luscious Bahamas. The ship departs from Miami and stops over at Nassau and Freeport before heading back to Miami.

The only thing not included in this all-inclusive vacation is a Wi-Fi and on-board credit package. The MSC Seashore is one of the biggest MSC cruise ships, with multiple amenities while also being the cheapest to offer such amenities.

• Cruise Ship: MSC Seashore
• Book it here: 4-Night Bahamas Cruise 2024

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