Riviera Maya Cruises

Experience the Vibrancy of Riviera Maya with Cruise1st

Riviera Maya is a stunning stretch of Caribbean coastline located in Mexico, known for its lush jungles, white-sand beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins. This tropical paradise offers an exciting blend of adventure and relaxation, making it the perfect destination for cruisers looking to soak up the sun while enjoying rich cultural experiences. Fun fact: the Riviera Maya is home to some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving sites, particularly in the Great Maya Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world! A cruise to the Riviera Maya allows you to experience the magic of this region, from vibrant local markets to breathtaking archaeological sites, all while surrounded by the azure waters of the Caribbean.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Riviera Maya Itineraries

• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a fleet of 29, Royal Caribbean boasts a remarkable 21 ships that visit Riviera Maya, including Rhapsody of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas. Renowned for their innovative onboard amenities, including rock climbing walls and ice-skating rinks, these ships provide an action-packed holiday experience. Most cruises to Riviera Maya depart from Tampa or Galveston, offering cruisers plenty of options for a perfect getaway!
• Carnival Cruise Line: Featuring a fleet of 27, Carnival has 15 ships sailing to Riviera Maya, with Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle being the top choices. Known for their fun and vibrant atmosphere, these ships cater especially to families and party-goers alike. Cruises to Riviera Maya often depart from Galveston or Tampa, making them accessible starting points for your adventure in Mexico.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess sails 8 ships to Riviera Maya, including Regal Princess and Majestic Princess. Guests appreciate the line's focus on service and destination immersion, from onboard activities to enriching excursions. Regular departures from Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral provide easy access to the vibrant attractions of the Riviera Maya.
• MSC Cruises: Having a fleet size of 23, MSC operates 7 ships that frequent Riviera Maya, notably MSC Seashore and MSC Seaside. Onboard, guests can enjoy luxurious amenities that reflect a taste of European elegance. Cruises often depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, seamlessly blending travel with the excitement of discovering new cultures.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With 20 ships in total, Norwegian has 14 that head to Riviera Maya, including Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Jade. These ships are known for their ‘freestyle cruising’ concept, providing passengers the flexibility to dine and explore at their own pace. Departure points include Miami or New Orleans, allowing cruisers to kick off their adventure in style.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Riviera Maya

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, Oceania sails 5 ships to Riviera Maya, with Insignia and Vista leading in itineraries. Famous for their exceptional culinary experiences, these ships are perfect for food and travel enthusiasts. Departures typically occur from Miami or Tampa, ensuring a smooth transition to unforgettable coastal experiences.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II sail to Riviera Maya, focusing on tailored experiences and modern luxury. Each ship integrates wellness and sustainable practices into their offerings. Departures frequently happen from Miami or San Juan, paving the way for a remarkable cruise experience.
• Silversea: Featuring a fleet of 12, Silversea operates 2 ships to Riviera Maya, including Silver Ray and Silver Moon. Renowned for their all-inclusive luxury, these ships provide tailored experiences for discerning travellers. Cruises often depart from Fort Lauderdale or Bridgetown, highlighting their commitment to exceptional service.
• Azamara Cruises: Operating a smaller fleet of 4, Azamara features Azamara Journey sailing to Riviera Maya. With a strong focus on destination immersion, Azamara offers unique onboard experiences. Departures are from Fuerte Amador, ensuring an exotic start to their journey into the heart of the Caribbean.

Top Harbours to Explore in Riviera Maya

• Cozumel, Mexico: Known as one of the top diving destinations worldwide, Cozumel is famous for its rich marine biodiversity. Cruise passengers can explore vibrant coral reefs, take a snorkeling adventure, or relax on beautiful beaches. Don’t miss out on visiting the historic San Gervasio Ruins for a touch of Mayan heritage or sampling local delicacies at the bustling San Miguel market.
• Costa Maya, Mexico: This vibrant port town offers a unique mix of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can explore the Mayan ruins of Chacchoben, venture on thrilling zip-lining experiences, or unwind at gorgeous beach clubs. Costa Maya also features local shops for unique souvenirs, and plenty of opportunities to try traditional Mexican cuisine.
• Belize City, Belize: A stop in Belize City is a dream for adventure seekers! You can explore the Great Blue Hole, perfect for diving enthusiasts, or take a scenic river tour to see the local wildlife. For history buffs, a visit to the ancient Mayan ruins of Altun Ha offers a glimpse into a magnificent civilization.
• Miami, Florida: While not directly in Riviera Maya, Miami is a hub for cruises heading to the region. Famous for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and diverse culture, passengers can take a day to enjoy attractions like South Beach, the Art Deco District, or Little Havana before embarking on their Caribbean adventure.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Another popular departure port, Fort Lauderdale, is known for its boating canals and stunning beaches. Guests can explore the stunning Hugh Taylor Birch State Park or take a stroll along Las Olas Boulevard, packed with shops and restaurants. It’s a perfect spot to familiarise yourself with the vibrant coastal culture before cruising to Riviera Maya.

Best Times to Cruise to Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. From January to March, temperatures typically range between 20-27°C, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and exploring centuries-old ruins. April to June brings warmth, with average temperatures around 25-30°C, perfect for lounging on the beach. July to August can get quite hot, averaging around 28-32°C, but it’s great for water activities! With the onset of fall (September to November), temperatures stabilize around 25-28°C, with fewer crowds present, making it a serene time to explore.

Cost Insights for Your Riviera Maya Cruise

A week-long cruise to Riviera Maya generally costs between $1,400 and $2,200 AUD, while a two-week journey can cost between $2,800 and $4,500 AUD. Luxury cruises often start around $5,000 AUD for a week, climbing as high as $10,500 AUD for two weeks of indulgence. On land, local meals typically run between $15 and $35 AUD, depending on the venue, and drinks at bars or restaurants might cost around $8-15 AUD each, ensuring you can enjoy vibrant flavors without overspending.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you’re thinking about cruising to the Riviera Maya, take a look at these alternate regions worth exploring:

• Caribbean: With its stunning beaches, vibrant cultures, and relaxed vibe, the Caribbean is the ultimate destination for sunseekers and adventure lovers alike.
• Bahamas: Known for beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Bahamas offers fantastic water sports and lively nightlife.
• Cuba: For a rich cultural integration, Cuba presents a unique experience with its colorful streets, classic cars, and exceptional music.
• Central America: This region is brimming with diverse landscapes, colorful wildlife, and vibrant cultures, inviting travellers to explore every corner.
• Belize: Ideal for adventure seekers, Belize offers majestic marine life, ancient ruins, and lush rainforests, making it a fantastic alternative for outdoor enthusiasts.

Are you ready to embrace the allure of the Riviera Maya? Cruise1st is here to help you embark on an unforgettable journey filled with sun, culture, and adventure!