costa cruises valencia

Valencia, Spain

Everyone who visits Valencia must try the famous specialty of the area, paella, a saffron-flavored Spanish dish made with varying combinations of rice, vegetables, meat, chicken and seafood. Sights of the town include the Cathedral and Chapel of the Holy Chalice, Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados, the city hall, the old "Casa Ensenanza" and the Central Market.

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Cruises out of Valencia

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Located on the southeast coast of Spain, Valencia is known for its pristine beaches and year-round warm weather. Valencia’s Institute of Modern Art is a paradise for every art lover, as it shelters some of the best contemporary art pieces. The coastal city is also home to several historical landmarks, some of which are Torres Serranos, Mercado Central, and La Lonja. Along with being a mesmerizing tourist city, Valencia is also a top choice for cruise lines , offering itineraries to various destinations . You can find some of the best cruise lines that offer cruises from Valencia.

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2 nights | western mediterranean | msc cruises | msc lirica.

• Interior $128.15
• Oceanview $188.15
• Balcony $318.15
• Suite $398.15

3 Nights | Western Mediterranean | MSC Cruises | MSC Fantasia

• Oceanview $323.69
• Balcony $383.69
• Suite $653.69

4 Nights | Transatlantic | MSC Cruises | MSC Magnifica

• Balcony $438.77
• Suite $918.77

7 Nights | Western Mediterranean | MSC Cruises | MSC Lirica

• Interior $488.58
• Oceanview $608.58
• Balcony $908.58
• Suite $1,238.58

3 Nights | Western Mediterranean | Costa Cruises | Costa Pacifica

• Interior $517.51
• Oceanview $567.51
• Balcony $697.51

Top Cruise Lines from Valencia

Following are some of the cruise lines you can consider if you want to book a cruise from Valencia: 

Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises is known to provide cruising experiences in a sustainable, relaxing way with a range of suitable amenities. The cruise line offers a new experience every day, with savory dishes, thrilling entertainment, and rejuvenating services. 

• Restaurants and Bars:  At Costa Cruises, you can experience unique flavors and delicacies prepared by world-class chefs. Onboard restaurants like Archipelago, Teppanyaki, and Sushino at Costa offer a wide range of dishes. You can also find several bars and ice cream parlors on the cruises, some of which are Nutella at Costa, Aperol Spritz Bar, and Birreria. 
• Entertainment:  Entertainment programs at Costa Cruises are designed to cater to every age group, from toddlers to adults. You can find energetic activities at the Rope Garden Adventure Park. Other activities include a minigolf, an outdoor soccer table, and a Peppa Pig Area. You can also find several entertainment options for your evenings on board. These include exclusive theater shows, a casino, an arcade games room, and CoDe Museum. 
• Spa and Wellness:  Costa Cruises offers multiple options to its guests when it comes to spas and wellness. The cruises involve onboard spas and well-equipped sundecks. The exclusive beauty spa Solemio offers rejuvenating beauty treatments and massages. The onboard solarium is an ideal place to sunbathe and spend some quality time with your friends and family. 
• Fitness:  The gyms at Costa Cruises are furnished with the best equipment. You can also exercise at the outdoor gym and jogging track, provided with the best view of the sea. 

MSC Cruises

With over 20 cruises under its fleet, MSC Cruises provides the finest hospitality to its guests. The cruise line is known to have experienced crew members, who offer fine dining, entertainment options, and spa services, allowing the guests to make cherishable memories while onboard. 

• Restaurants and Dining:  The cruise line offers cuisines from all over the world, from traditional Mediterranean to international dishes. You can choose from a range of dining venues and dishes, including buffets, specialty dining, children’s dining, as well as special menus and diets. Some of the exclusive dining venues of the cruise line include Meat Carvery, Pasta Station, Daily Special Corner, Wellness Corner, and Ethnic Corner. 
• Entertainment:  MSC Cruises offers entertainment options that include enrichment activities as well as evening shows. Exciting activities like MSC Formula Racer and Arcade games would offer you a thrilling experience. You can also watch a movie screening at the immersive 4D Cinema or indulge in a game of Casino, Billiards, and several sports tournaments. 
• Spa and Beauty Treatment:  The onboard MSC Aurea Spa involves the latest equipment and professionals who offer the best beauty treatments. Some of the best treatments offered at the spa include Balinese Massage, Sauna Therapy, and a variety of body scrubs and facials. You can also get aesthetic treatments at the onboard beauty salons, hair salons, and barber shops. 
• Sports and Fitness:  A voyage with MSC Cruises would also allow you to keep your fitness regimen in check with its state-of-the-art Sports Centre. You can also indulge in workout sessions like aerobics, pilates, step training, and stretching. 

The Valencia Port offers an extensive network of several luxury cruise lines. Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises are two of the cruise lines that offer cruises from Valencia. These cruises offer the best services to their guests, including a plethora of dining venues, entertainment options, and rejuvenating spa and fitness amenities.

FAQs for Cruises From Valencia

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Valencia cruise port

Mediterranean - black sea.

• Coordinates 39.454, -0.327
• LOCODE ESVLC
• Local Time 2024-08-23 09:00

Valencia cruise ship schedule

• Temperature

6 Fabulous Experiences Cruising With Costa In Europe

A re you ready to hear about some amazing cruise offerings on a lesser-known cruise line? I was the guest of two almost back-to-back European Costa Cruises. To say it was the opportunity of a lifetime would be an understatement.

First, I explored the wonders of Turkey and Greece with my husband. The rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine left us in awe. But the excitement didn’t end there. Shortly after, I hopped on the Italian line’s newest flagship vessel, Costa Toscana , accompanied by my daughter and business partner, Taylor. With Rome as our starting point, we set sail for an extraordinary journey through France and Spain.

Get ready for an immersive European experience like no other. Let’s delve into six fabulous experiences while cruising with Costa in Europe — which was the adventure of a lifetime!

1. Pre- And Post-Cruising Fun In Rome And Vatican City

It takes so long to get to Europe from the United States that I always travel at least a day before the cruise embarks and stay for a few days after disembarking. You will most likely arrive early in the morning after a whole night of flying from the U.S., so devise a plan to drop your luggage and see as much of Rome as possible.

Having been there a few times, I grabbed a cab and went to the popular neighborhoods to see the biggies like Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Vatican City. Costa Cruises uses the Starhotels Michelangelo Rome , an easy walk to all three, for pre- and post-cruise nights. Either way, before or after your cruise, you will typically arrive in Rome or disembark the ship early in the morning, so you have the whole day to explore.

You must have a timed entry ticket to get into the Vatican Museum . My daughter and I bought ours from a street vendor near the entrance to St. Peter’s Square. We also bought hop-on/hop-off bus tickets and went for the entire loop, which had a multi-language narrated tour. We’d hop off to get food and see something specific. The restaurants near the Michelangelo hotel were close, tasty, and affordable.

• The Rome–Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) and Civitavecchia, the cruise port, are almost an hour apart. Save yourself the headache and price of private transportation and book the cruise line transfers. 
• Vatican City is less crowded toward the end of the day. Book your ticket for then.

2. Seeing Sorrento On Our Own

The first excursion on our Costa Toscana trip was to Sorrento, Italy — a first for me. This city, famous for its juicy lemons and other citrus fruits, is a real gem. Our cruise docked in Naples, and though every driver at the port insisted we go to the Amalfi Coast , Taylor and I hired a cab driver to take us to Sorrento. We had been to the Amalfi Coast in the past, and we wanted to see something new. We chose Sorrento for the scenery and photo ops, which were as good as the Amalfi Coast, but cheaper and closer.

After negotiating a price and standing firm on what I was willing to pay, our cab driver gave us a guided tour along the way, stopping at many pull-outs for us to take pictures. We allowed a few hours to see Sorrento on our own, which included eating a local lunch at Sedil Dominova Bar 2000 and roaming the pedestrian-only streets. Stepping inside the lovely Cathedral of Saints Philip and James is a must. Even the novice traveler could do this Sorrento excursion.

Pro Tip: We paid around $75 per person for 5–6 hours of a private guided tour.

3. Getting My Gaudi On In Barcelona 

I’m a repeat visitor to Barcelona, so the only thing I wanted to do on my trip was see the Antoni Gaudi architectural sites again and get better pictures. Done. I went on a Costa Cruises excursion to the three biggies: Park Güell, Casa Milà, and La Sagrada Familia , which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tickets were provided for entry to the park and Casa Milà, so we didn’t have to wait in lines.

Note: This is an Italian cruise line . Not many Americans are on board, so the English-speaking tours are limited. Some tours have dual groups, such as an English-speaking group as well as tours in Spanish, Italian, or German. If you are concerned about what Costa offers, you can always buy external tours through a third-party site, like Viator, which I’ve used a dozen times or more. 

We could stay with the group in Park Güell , or wander on our own, so I chose the latter. Due to overcrowding, the park’s Zona Monumental is limited in the number of patrons per hour through access points. Apparently, this has been in practice for years, so know before you go. I wandered as much of the 12-hectare property as possible.

This tour was great for those who wish to delve deeper into the incredible works of Gaudi, the greatest architect of Catalan Modernism. We also had about 30 minutes to roam around La Sagrada Familia , allowing time for a coffee and pastry, plus picking up postcards.

Pro Tip: The traffic is thick and congested in Barcelona. It takes quite a bit of time to get to and from the cruise ship port. Keep that in mind if you consider doing a day on your own.

4. Discovering Valencia

I was excited to find Valencia on my Costa cruise itinerary, and I took another organized cruise line excursion to explore this city famous for its paella. We boarded a bus for our ride to Valencia, enjoying the gorgeous flowers and highly ornate architecture along the way. 

Our first stop was a bathroom and snack break at the Mercado de Colón , an Art Nouveau public market that is breathtaking. At Horchatería Daniel , we had a refreshing horchata drink and fartons — confectionery sweets typical of Alboraya, Spain, with a sugary glaze. 

Get ready to explore Valencia and capture some unforgettable moments! This charming city offers a stunning landscape that’s perfect for taking amazing photos. From elegant clock towers to whimsically painted benches and picturesque fountains, you’ll find yourself immersed in beauty at every turn. And that’s not all — be prepared to encounter Disney and Marvel characters posing for paid photo opportunities. Wander through a variety of shops where you can find anything from records to yarn and cheesy souvenirs to exquisite artwork. Valencia truly is a captivating blend of old and new, with a touch of touristy charm and sophisticated flair.

5. Impressed With Aix-En-Provence

Aix-en-Provence, France, wasn’t super crowded when we arrived; it had a comfortable vibe and interesting things to see. We had a stop at the cathedral and walked a mile or more with our guide to learn more about the city’s unique history.

When we broke off for free time, I went straight to the shops to have a meal. By this time of the day, it was getting hectic; we counted four weddings on our walk, so a reprieve of cooling off was necessary. I found, of all places, a cute little American-style hamburger place ( Blend ) that was air-conditioned (it was sweltering that day, and most restaurants only offer sidewalk cafes) and had free Wi-Fi, so I was set. A smash burger and Diet Coke later, I was ready to get back to seeing Aix-en-Provence. 

You’ll find the best selection of pastries, gourmet foods, and candies in Aix-en-Provence. I recommend calissons (diamond-shaped fondant sweets) from Léonard Parli confectionery, for yourself or those you are taking something home to. 

6. Falling In Love With Finalborgo And Noli

European geography is not a specialty of mine, so when my Costa Cruises cruise itinerary mentioned the Savona seaport, I had to look online to even know that it was in Italy. It is also near the city of Genoa. Since I had no expectations or ideas of what to see or do here, I let the cruise line decide for me. 

I ended up on “Finalborgo and Noli, the Middle Ages in Miniature.” I had no idea what that meant, so imagine my surprise when we first stopped at Finalborgo, a historic village in western Liguria with the sweeping sea on one side and medieval walls on the other. It was darling!

Taylor and I strolled around the cobblestoned streets, soaking up the beauty in all the little nooks and crannies. I feasted on a sinfully delicious waffle ice cream sundae and Italian coffee. This is one Italian city you won’t want to miss. And wait, there’s more.

The next stop was to Noli, one of the cutest European beach towns I’ve ever seen. The beaches were full of families and pet owners enjoying their holiday and the warm sunshine. Across the street was a web of curvy roads that led to boutiques, coffee shops, tourist stands, and great people-watching opportunities. 

I couldn’t decipher a bit of what this excursion meant on paper, but it was my favorite stop on this Mediterranean cruise itinerary.

FYI: There are naturist beaches (Punta Crane between Noli and Varigotti, for one) in the area, so be on the lookout, or don’t be — your choice. I’m just alerting you.

Related Reading:

• 10 Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines Our Readers Love
• 11 Reasons Why We Love River Cruises In Europe
• 8 Best Cruise Lines According To Our Readers

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 best kids sail free cruises for 2025 & beyond.

Save on your family cruise with these kids sail free deals.

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

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If you're angling for an affordable family cruise , you'll be happy to know that several major cruise lines let children sail for free (either regularly or during special promotions). Read on to discover which lines cater to families with kids sail free offers.

Cruise lines where kids sail free

Holland america line, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international, costa cruises, msc cruises.

Find your perfect cruise

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Deal: Holland America Line is offering a "Kids Cruise Free" promotion on select itineraries in 2025. The offer applies to several itineraries including Hawaii , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal; to qualify, children must be 18 or younger and cruising as third and/or fourth guests in the same cabin as adults. As with similar promotions, taxes and port fees are still required for each child's sailing.

Additionally, kids ages 12 and under eat for half off in specialty restaurants or for free from a dedicated kids menu. Reduced children's rates for shore excursions are also available.

Family-friendly perks: Amenities onboard Holland America ships include kids clubs and youth programs, as well as shore excursions oriented to families with little ones in tow. Plenty of stateroom options can also accommodate larger bookings. The Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam ships, in particular, feature oversized staterooms with beds for four, a large sitting area and a spacious veranda.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Deal: Norwegian Cruise Line often lets third and fourth guests cruise free on select itineraries. During other promotions, the cruise line will let the third through eighth passengers sail free. Cruises to which this promotion applies are offered all over the world, including Bermuda , the Caribbean and Canada .

Some of the itineraries that qualify for free third and fourth guests also come with complimentary amenities like an unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursions and/or complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, some of the itineraries include generous discounts on the total cruise cost , as well as free airfare for a second guest (when booked through the cruise line).

Family-friendly perks: With Norwegian's all-ages kids clubs, family dining, entertainment and activities included in one bundled rate, planning a kid-approved vacation with the cruise line is a breeze. Many Norwegian ships also feature an array of family-friendly staterooms with plenty of extra space. For example, the luxurious Norwegian Prima offers a two-bedroom family villa with a large balcony in "The Haven" – its exclusive area for VIP guests.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Deal: Royal Caribbean offers a "Kids Sail Free" deal several times each year, allowing children 12 or younger to cruise free provided they are the third guests (or beyond) staying in the same cabin as at least two paying adults. Typically, the deal applies to sailings of four nights or longer. The only catch is that blackout dates apply – typically during holiday and school breaks.

Family-friendly perks: There's a reason so many families choose Royal Caribbean ; kid-friendly amenities range from age-specific programming to zip lining at sea. The line's  exclusive island for cruisers , Perfect Day at CocoCay in  the Bahamas , is also a big hit with young passengers thanks to its waterslides and splash areas.

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Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Deal: Costa Cruises may not be as popular as some other cruise lines on our list, but it's a worthwhile option for cruisers looking to sail through Europe, the Middle East or South America. The cruise line allows kids traveling as third or fourth guests to sail for free with two adults in the same cabin, and this promotion applies to passengers ages 2 to 17. This offer is valid on all sailings offered by the line, many of which feature destinations in desirable ports along the Mediterranean such as Barcelona , Marseille and Rome .

Family-friendly perks: Costa Cruises vessels offer abundant family-friendly amenities, from water parks to arcades to mini golf. Kids clubs are available for children ages 3 to 11, and they provide entertainment like arts and crafts, themed parties, and games galore. A teen zone also hosts cruisers ages 12 to 17 who want to mingle, sing karaoke and play group sports when ships aren't in port.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Deal: MSC Cruises lets children 17 and younger cruise for free on select itineraries, depending on the ship's capacity. (Other exclusions or eligibility requirements may apply.) Kids must be the third or fourth guests traveling in the same cabin as their parents (at least two adults) for the deal to be valid; note that any port fees and taxes still apply to children's fares.

Family-friendly perks: MSC Cruises offers a variety of leisure activities and amenities designed specifically for kids. On board, youngsters can take advantage of perks from water parks with slides and swimming pools to Broadway-style shows and interactive dinners. The line also hosts a variety of exclusive Lego experiences, including Lego-themed parades and a Lego Family Game Show. In addition, there are a myriad of amenities for parents to enjoy while the youngest passengers are occupied by a variety of dedicated kids clubs.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a seasoned travel writer who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries, and her many trips have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruises for Teens
• The Top Cruises for Babies & Toddlers
• Do You Need a Passport to Cruise?
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Costa Maya cruise port guide: How to spend your day ashore

Mexico is no stranger to bustling cruise ports, most of which you've likely heard of. Cozumel , for example, is the most popular cruise destination in Mexico, but sea-faring travelers have likely also heard of cruise hot spots like Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.

Tucked along the southern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, practically kissing the border of Belize, is the Costa Maya cruise port, a destination in Mexico you may have yet to hear of but, oddly enough, is the second-most popular cruise port in Mexico after Cozumel. Costa Maya is scheduled to welcome nearly 600 cruise ships in 2024, with visits from Carnival Cruise Line , Princess Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises , Royal Caribbean and others. However, don't feel bad if you've never heard of Costa Maya — it's less of a destination cruisers seek out on an itinerary and more of a pleasant surprise once they discover it exists.

Costa Maya is a dreamy destination that offers cruisers a blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural enrichment, but you'll have to go outside the port to find it. Almost at the southernmost point of the state of Quintana Roo, hours past Tulum, Costa Maya offers white sand beaches, turquoise waters, a sleepy fishing village vibe and lots of Mayan history.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The Costa Maya cruise port is dressed up much more than other ports in Mexico because the land outside of the cruise port is dominated by quiet beaches, remote roads, small villages and thick jungles. To entertain cruisers, the port was built almost like a theme park with amusement rides, animal encounters, souvenir shops and beach clubs.

What makes cruising to this part of Mexico so special is that because it is so remote, cruisers have easier access to attractions and beaches that see far less foot traffic than Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancun. With a unique mix of archaeological ruins, jungle wildlife, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, restaurants, bars and beach clubs, this coastal slice of Mexico provides an alternative to the more crowded cruise destinations in the country.

Whether you're looking to sunbathe on a stretch of sand, zip line through the jungle canopy or walk in the footsteps of the ancient Maya, you can find your ideal diversion in Costa Maya during your Caribbean Mexican cruise.

Related: Caribbean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Costa Maya cruise port overview

3 things TPG loves about Costa Maya

• Sun-bleached beaches and calm, turquoise water make the area between the port and nearby Mahahual one of the prettiest spots in the Mexican Caribbean.
• The sparsely populated area jolts into action when cruise ships are in town, offering cruisers lots of options from easy-to-access beach clubs and restaurants to more off-the-beaten-path activities like archaeological ruins and local beaches.
• The cruise port provides easy access to harder-to-reach attractions in this more remote part of Mexico.

What we could do without

• The closest beaches are actually in the town of Mahahual, a 45-minute walk or an $8 taxi ride away.
• The port area was developed with cruising in mind, so it's a bit culturally limited unless you go on an excursion.
• It's a long walk down the pier to the terminal, but there is a shuttle that can take passengers back and forth.

Costa Maya cruise port fast facts

Address : Av. P. del Puerto, 77976 Mahahual, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Language : Spanish, though English is widely spoken

Currency : Mexican pesos, though many businesses accept dollars

Top things to do in Costa Maya cruise port

For a typically less visited part of Mexico, the port of Costa Maya has an impressive number of things for cruisers to do. The cruise port was built specifically for cruise tourism, so most of the attractions in the port are in a contained area directly at the end of the pier. For travelers who want to stick close to the pier and skip the excursions, here are the best things to do right in the Costa Maya cruise port.

Take a dip in the saltwater pool

While the port area itself does not have a beachfront, it does have a large resort-style pool that is the main focal point of the port. Walk from where the ship docks at the end of the pier toward the mainland, and it's impossible to miss. Cruise passengers love the complimentary lounge chairs and swimming facilities, including a swim-up bar.

Encounter exotic birds at Aviarius

Like most attractions within the port area, Aviarius is within walking distance of the pier — turn left after Cafe Mexico. This is a fun, immersive nature experience for people who want to learn about exotic birds. A series of rope bridges suspends visitors above the Costa Maya port. Visitors meander the sky-high bridges, all the while observing the rich display of tropical birds in various displays. Entry costs $14 for adults and $12 for children.

Watch the Danza de los Voladores

One of the most popular things to do at Puerto Costa Maya is to watch the Danza de los Voladores. This traditional performance is popular all around the country and involves a flying performance by the Papantla Flyers from the top of a very tall pole. You can find them right in the center of the cruise port's square, and it's free to watch.

Get soaked at Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom

Families love this archaeology-inspired water and adventure park, which is part of the overall cruise port complex. The center of the park is the Great Pyramid, and all around you are activities like zip lining, ropes courses and suspension bridges. Tons of waterfalls twist their way around the pyramid, including one that descends an impressive 78 feet. For those who want a little less excitement, the Jaguar Lazy River is a relaxing meander through jungle scenery. Entry is $120 for adults 13 and older and $115 for kids ages 6 to 12.

Walk around Mahahual

The largest town near the cruise port is the sleepy fishing village of Mahahual. Featuring a sandy strip of casual beach bars and restaurants, Mahahual is one of the most laid-back destinations in Quintana Roo. The addition of the cruise port in the 1990s brought a mixed bag of results. When the cruise ship is in town, it's booming for business, and cruisers will feel like they have the run of the place. But standing on the typically quiet beaches of Mahahual and looking left to the cruise port, the mega construction can feel a bit out of place for an otherwise quiet town.

Related: 9 best cruise ports for repeat visits

Popular Costa Maya excursions

While the cruise port has much to offer passengers, Costa Maya packs a punch for travelers interested in history, culture and nature.

Visit Mayan ruins

The Yucatan Peninsula is a treasure trove of ruggedly beautiful Mayan ruins and jungle-shrouded archaeological sites. If you're interested in Mexico's Indigenous history, the Costa Maya cruise port is the ideal jumping-off point for an excursion to three stunning historic centers: Chacchoben, Dzibanche and Kohunlich. Some of the archaeological site excursions also include Mayan cultural experiences like locally prepared meals in a family's home.

The ruins of Chacchoben date back more than 3,000 years. Its most famous structure is its Gran Basement, the most important ritual plaza. To this day, only a small portion of the massive complex is open to the public, while its many other structures are shrouded in wildlife-rich jungles.

The Dzibanche archaeological zone is a remarkable example of architecture and urban planning. The complex includes plazas, palaces, platforms and tombs. The name Dzibanche means "writing on wood" and refers to wood bearing eight glyphs that date back to the seventh century.

Finally, Kohunlich is spread across 21 acres and is known for its many beautifully preserved structures. The Temple of the Masks is its most famous. The pyramid features a central staircase decorated by gorgeously carved stucco masks.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Travel to Laguna de Bacalar

Once one of southern Mexico's best-kept secrets, Laguna de Bacalar is fast becoming one of the hottest destinations in the country. Known as the Lake of Seven Colors, this spectacular freshwater lake dazzles with turquoise blues, eco-friendly hotels, lakefront restaurants and a small, artistic town also known as Bacalar.

Group tours leave from Costa Maya and make the hourlong trip to Bacalar, where cruisers can explore the art-splashed streets or post up at a lake club for lunch and stand-up paddleboarding. The lagoon is one of Mexico's most beautiful natural attractions, and the thriving community is quickly rising in popularity among low-key travelers who want to skip the busyness of Tulum.

Scuba diving and snorkeling

The waters just off the coast of Puerto Costa Maya happen to be part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef. Scuba divers and snorkelers have a veritable kaleidoscope of color awaiting them beneath the surface of the waves.

Unplug at a beach club

If it's a Mexican beach town, chances are there's a great beach club to match. Costa Maya is no exception. There are several beach day clubs near the port in neighboring Mahahual.

Malecon21 Beach Club serves up a chic, boho aesthetic with nest-inspired lanterns, bamboo daybeds and a palapa-topped beachfront bar. The shore here forms a natural pool protected by the nearby reef and rocks, making it a great place for swimming. Visitors can choose a variety of packages, which include sunbeds, Wi-Fi, food and beverages, ranging from $40 per person to $120 per person. Platinum is the most expensive package and includes unlimited drinks, one meal from the menu (including the splurgy lobster), a beach bed and Wi-Fi. You can dial it up with massages that range from $60 to $90.

Chunky Monkey Beach Club is less about the chic scene and more about bright splashes of color and a more rustic, castaway vibe. The oceanfront club has a swath of fine white sand and a shady restaurant and bar area serving cold drinks and freshly caught seafood.

A third beach club is Pez Quadro, a buzzy beach hangout with lounge chairs, food, drinks, massages and fishing trips or snorkeling excursions.

Best Costa Maya beaches near the cruise port

Some of Mexico's most beautiful beaches are along the Costa Maya. They're known for their powdery soft white sand, turquoise water and groves of gently swaying palm trees. Puerto Costa Maya is short on beaches but is blessed with spectacularly tranquil beaches within a short taxi ride from the pier.

Playa Mahahual

A quick taxi ride from the cruise port puts you in the heart of Mahahual and its most famous beach, Playa Mahahual. This lively beach fills up with tourists when cruise ships are in town, as it's peppered with restaurants, bars and beach clubs.

Maya Chan Beach

About 4 miles from the cruise port, Maya Chan Beach is another lovely white sand beach spot that is popular with cruisers. You can book a trip to this beach as part of a shore excursion. When you've checked in, you'll enjoy lounge chairs, a restaurant and snorkel equipment to get up close and personal with the abundant marine life.

Although it's not near the cruise port, if you're willing to put in a bit of legwork, Xcalak is a beach destination worth traveling for. About an hour and 15 minutes south of the cruise port, Xcalak is about as far south as you can go in Quintana Roo before you hit Belize. The bite-size fishing village has fluffy white sand beaches, spectacular fishing and diving, and a handful of casual restaurants. It also serves as the entrance to Xcalak National Reef Park.

How to get around Costa Maya on your own

On foot : Many of Costa Maya's attractions, from beach clubs and shops to restaurants and the adventure park, are directly in the cruise port. While the pier from the ship to shore is a lot longer than it looks, a complimentary shuttle chauffeurs passengers back and forth.

Taxi : Plenty of taxis wait at the port to take passengers around the area. The closest spot you'll visit is the village of Mahahual, about an $8 cab ride away. You can also take a taxi to visit destinations like Xcalak, Bacalar and the archaeological sites, which cost more. A taxi to Xcalak is about $20. The fare to Bacalar costs about $30.

Costa Maya restaurants near the cruise port

Costa Maya's cuisine is rooted in seafood dishes and a fusion of traditional Mexican and Mayan cuisine, but because it's a cruise destination and a beach spot beloved by international travelers, cruisers can look forward to a (growing) variety of international options.

You'll find most of the restaurants in the cruise port and Mahahual. The restaurants within the cruise port are within walking distance, while the ones in Mahahual may require a quick taxi ride. You can walk into Mahahual, but the walk is roughly 45 minutes.

Most restaurants are scattered along the coastline, whether in the form of beach clubs or restaurants. Malecon21 Beach Club's restaurant is consistently a fan favorite thanks to its vibe and seafood. La Chilangaloense Beach Club is another highly rated beach club for food and atmosphere.

Along the beachfront in Mahahual are a variety of charming seafood restaurants, coffee shops and bars — most of which offer ocean views.

Foods to try in Costa Maya

"Mexican food" means many things. In the Costa Maya region of Mexico, the emphasis is on seafood, from ceviche and lobster to whole grilled fish and shrimp. But you'll be able to find many popular Mexican dishes, including guacamole, quesadillas and tacos. Thanks to the sizable Italian population in this part of the country, you can find great Italian dishes as well.

Costa Maya cruise port shopping

Because Puerto Costa Maya was built for cruising, you won't find much in terms of authentic shopping outside the cruise terminal. Mahahual is a beach town, so you'll find plenty of beach souvenirs, but the options are limited when it comes to locally made artisanal products.

However, some of the things to look for when shopping in port are traditional Mexican specialties like chocolate, vanilla, local spices and hot sauces, woven hammocks and Mayan-inspired crafts and artwork.

Free things to do in Costa Maya cruise port

• Walk El Malecon in Mahahual for people-watching and window shopping.
• Although you'll have to pay for a taxi ride (around $8) or endure a 45-minute walk to get there, the beaches of Mahahual are free to use.

Bottom line

Costa Maya is one of the more unique cruise port destinations in Mexico because of how remote it is from most major tourist destinations. Far fewer visitors come down to this part of the country unless they are on a cruise, and it's interesting to note that when cruise ships are not in town, the area is incredibly quiet. But what most travelers miss out on by skipping this part of Mexico is unspoiled beaches, rich Mayan history and colorful towns. If you have the opportunity to visit this part of Mexico, it's one that you should not pass up.

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Carnival announces 16-day cruise from Mobile to Seattle in 2026

• Updated: Aug. 20, 2024, 1:20 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 20, 2024, 1:09 p.m.

The upper deck of the Carnival Spirit. On Friday, the Spirit began sailing from Mobile, and it will sail from October to March. (Photo by Margaret Kates/AL.com)

• John Sharp | [email protected]

Carnival Cruise Line will offer, for the first-time ever, a cruise from Mobile to Seattle starting in 2026.

The 16-day Carnival Journeys cruise will take the Carnival Spirit from its Mobile homeport on April 12, for a journey that will end up in Seattle by April 28, 2026. The cruise is selling for $1,519 per person for an interior room, or $3,038 for two people. Bookings are currently online via carnival.com.

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* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Norwegian Cruise Line® Offers More Options for Port-Immersive Europe Itineraries for its 2026 Spring/Summer Season

The Brand Offers Guests a Wide Variety of Seven-Day Europe Cruises with No Sea Days Along with Longer Voyages Visiting Ports Nearly Every Day 

Norwegian Sun ® Will Offer a Full Baltic Season with Seven- and Nine-Day Open-Jaw Sailings from Copenhagen, Denmark, and for the First-Time Helsinki, as a New Homeport for NCL  

Among the 225 New Voyages, Featuring 150 Unique Ports of Call, NCL ® Will Make its Debut in Portree, Scotland; Leirvik (Stord), Norway; and Palamós, Spain  

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Norwegian Cruise Line ® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, has open for sale additional cruises for its 2026 spring/summer season with more port-immersive Europe sailings across Northern Europe , the Mediterranean , and Greek Isles across eight ships providing cruisers a variety of sailing lengths and embarkation ports to plan their dream European vacation; in addition to bucket-list itineraries through the South Pacific, warm weather summer voyages through the Western Caribbean, journeys to Canada and New England for the fall season, among other fascinating destinations. 

As part of NCL's guest-centric itinerary planning, the Brand is offering more seven-day itineraries throughout Europe with many voyages that include limited or no sea days, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves into each destination. Select seven-to-14-day sailings also offer overnight stays in Reykjavik, Iceland; Copenhagen, Denmark; Istanbul, Turkey and more. There are a total of 22 overnights in Europe this season, where cruisers can choose to enjoy late night dinners and nightlife on shore. With 11 unique embarkation ports offering voyages across 10 different European countries, including Helsinki -  a brand-new homeport for NCL - the company is providing travelers the opportunity to begin and end their vacation in the destination that best fulfils their European travel desires. Among the newly open for sale Europe cruises, NCL will call to Portree, Scotland; Leirvik (Stord), Norway; and Palamós, Spain for the very first time.  

"At NCL, we take pride in offering our guests various options to plan where they want to vacation," said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Whether they choose our seven-day sailings, longer immersive voyages, or cruises that begin and end in a new destination, we make it so our guests can vacation with ease with us from start to finish. From transportation, air programming and so much more, we strive to offer the best service all around.""

At NCL, we take pride in offering our guests various options to plan where they want to vacation. Whether they choose our seven-day sailings, longer immersive voyages, or cruises that begin and end in a new destination, we make it so our guests can vacation with ease with us from start to finish. From transportation, air programming and so much more, we strive to offer the best service all around.

Additional highlights from the 225 new and available sailings include:

NORTHERN EUROPE

From June through October 2026, Norwegian Sun will offer a full Baltic season with seven- to 10-day sailings where guests can embark in Copenhagen, Denmark or Helsinki, and visit a port nearly every day including towns in Norway, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Sweden and more. On select nine-day voyages from Helsinki, Norwegian Sun's itinerary includes an overnight stay in Copenhagen, Denmark where guests can explore the history of the city, visit the famous entertainment district of Nyhavn; or stroll down Stroget, one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe.

Norwegian Sky ® will commence her second full Europe season on April 19, 2026 with four unique seven-day open-jaw sailings to the Northern Capitals embarking in Le Havre, France and Copenhagen, Denmark, offering an overnight stay in Hamburg, Germany and visiting Zeebruge, Belgium; Tilbury, United Kingdom; and Ijmuiden, Netherlands. The vessel will then cruise a series of 10- and 11-day British Isles voyages from May through Sept. 2026 where NCL will make its debut in Portree, Scotland on its May 17, 2026 sailing.

Travelers looking to take advantage of the long hours of summer daylight in Iceland can embark on one of Norwegian Star’s ® 10- or 11-day Extraordinary Journeys between May and September 2026 embarking in Reykjavik, Iceland or Southampton, UK. With these open-jaw sailings, guests can choose to extend their vacation on land pre- or post-cruise. During the May 21, 2026 voyage, NCL will cruise to Leirvik (Stord), Norway for the very first time, and revisit the port on select 10-day cruises. Known for its attractive harbor, travelers can explore Leirvik's Sunnhordlandstunet, an open-air museum featuring several historical courtyards, and much more. Norwegian Star's 11-day Iceland sailings also offer a unique opportunity - an overnight stay in Reykjavik, Iceland - providing more time in destination to explore nature's wonders.

MEDITERRANEAN AND GREEK ISLES

Beginning April 2026 and through October 2026, NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva ® , will cruise nine and 10-day Western Mediterranean and Greek Isles voyages. To further provide guests with more port time, a selection of the Greek Isles voyages will also include an overnight stay in Istanbul, Turkey for guests to discover the city late into the night. Perfect for those searching for a warm European escape, the itineraries visit popular towns in Turkey, Malta, Italy, Greece, Montenegro and Croatia. These unique open-jaw cruises provide travelers more embarkation and disembarkation port options to choose from including Barcelona, Spain; Venice (Ravenna), Italy; Istanbul, Turkey; and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, allowing them the opportunity to continue their vacation with loved ones on land.

Amongst the new seven-day Western Mediterranean sailings are:

• Norwegian Epic ® : Sailing a variety of open-jaw voyages to and from Barcelona, Spain and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy between May 2026 and October 2026, with calls to Nice/Monaco (Villefranche) and Marseille, France; as well as Messina, Salerno and late-night departures from Livorno, Italy, offering between 10 to 17 hours in port to enjoy a longer shore excursion day trip into a nearby town such as Florence or Pisa, Italy.  
• Norwegian Dawn ® : These port-intensive open-jaw cruises between April 2026 and October 2026 offer no sea days and embark and disembark in Barcelona, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal. Ports of call include late departures from Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza, Spain allowing more time for guests to enjoy popular beach clubs on these Mediterranean islands; as well as visits to Portimao, Portugal; Gibraltar; and more.
• Norwegian Gem ® : On May 10, 2026, the ship will start her Europe season with a sailing from Barcelona, Spain where NCL will make its debut in Palamós, Spain, known for scenic hiking paths and beautiful beaches, during the ship’s voyage. Norwegian Gem will also call for the first time in Salerno, Italy and Nice/Monaco (Villefranche), France. Following this sailing, the ship will then embark on a series of cruises to and from Venice (Ravenna) and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy with no sea days calling to Greece; Montenegro; and Croatia, where guests can fully enjoy Dubrovnik, Croatia as select itineraries offer a departure late into the evening.  

Norwegian Pearl’s ® seven-day Greek Isles voyages from May 2026 through October 2026 is the ideal cruise for guests looking to island hop through picturesque Greece. Cruisers have the option to choose from varied itineraries with late departures in Santorini and Mykonos, Greece; as well as Dubrovnik, Croatia; to fully immerse themselves in the destination to enjoy a beautiful sunset, indulge in a lively evening dinner, and more. Embarkation and disembarking ports for these voyages alternate between Venice (Ravenna), Italy and Athens (Piraeus), Greece providing guests greater vacation choices.

WESTERN CARIBBEAN, AND CANADA & NEW ENGLAND

Norwegian Escape ® will offer guests seven-day roundtrip sailings to the Western Caribbean from New Orleans between April 12, 2026 through May 10, 2026, followed by seven-day roundtrip sailings from Miami between May 24, 2026 and Aug. 9, 2026. Both itineraries will visit Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatán (Bay Islands), Honduras; and Harvest Caye, NCL's 75-acre resort-style destination in Southern Belize.

To kick off her fall season, Norwegian Escape will offer a selection of seven-day roundtrip Canada & New England voyages from New York City between August 2026 and October 2026. During her Aug. 28, 2026 sailing, the ship will call to Boston for the very first time, making it the first Breakaway Plus class ship to visit the city. The itinerary takes guests through a journey to Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia in Canada; to enjoy the fall foliage and bask in the cool fall weather.

IMMERSIVE VOYAGES WITH NORWEGIAN SPIRIT ®

From April 22, 2026 through July 3, 2026 and Sept. 17, 2026 through Nov. 17, 2026, Norwegian Spirit ® will offer a variety of open-jaw South Pacific sailings between 11- and 13-day voyages calling to New Caledonia; Fiji; Samoa Islands; French Polynesia and the Hawaii islands. Guests have a variety of embarkation ports to choose from including Sydney; Papeete, French Polynesia; Honolulu; and Lautoka, Fiji - a brand new embarkation port for Norwegian Spirit.

For travelers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime cruising experience to explore Alaska and Hawaii , affectionately named NCL’s “Fire and Ice” voyages, Norwegian Spirit will offer four unique 16-day sailings starting July 15, 2026 through Sept. 1, 2026. The voyages offer embarkation in Honolulu or Vancouver, Canada and visit bucket-list destinations such as the dreamlike and warm-weather islands of Kahului (Maui), Hilo and Nawiliwili (Kauai), Hawaii; as well as the majestic and cool-weather towns of Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau, Alaska.

For B-roll of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, please click here .

For full details about the Company's spring and summer 2026 worldwide itineraries and its award-winning 19-ship fleet, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com .