Carnival Builds $26M Cruise Port in Ensenada

Carnival Corp has joined hands with with ITM Group and Hutchison Ports ECV to unveil a new shoreside leisure destination beside Ensenada Cruise Terminal.

A large Carnival cruise ship is docked at the Ensenada Cruise Port, with numerous sailboats and palm trees lining the marina. The marina extends into the blue ocean, surrounded by breakwaters and landscaped pathways.

Named Ensenada Bay Village, this new destination represents an investment of over $26 million, and is expected to be operational in about two years.

Cruise line executives were joined by community leaders and local, state and federal officials to formally announce the project. The development aims to enhance the visitor experience at Ensenada with an array of activities, dining and leisure amenities.

Varied Range of Leisure Activities Planned

People are relaxing in a resort-style outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees at the Ensenada cruise port. Some are sitting on the edge, others are swimming, and a couple is talking near the poolside under a sunny sky.

It will feature zip lines, river rides, a scenic boat ride, and Dune Rally, plus chocolate and tequila tastings, and Valle de Guadalupe wine and cheese pairings.

There will be relaxation and wellness amenities including thermal springs, alongside the Baby Beach adult pool and family friendly areas. Ensenada Bay Village will also welcome guests from other cruise lines.

“Together with our partners we are proud to highlight a project that celebrates Baja’s culture, supports the local community, and offers guests family-friendly, authentic experiences,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line during a preview event at Ensenada Cruise Terminal.

The destination will incorporate 18th-century California-style architectural design offering local Bajan artisan crafts. Construction is expected to take two years. The development will generate around 350 direct jobs and more than US$120 million in annual economic impact when operational.

Two people ride bicycles on a high zipline above a sandy path near Ensenada’s cruise port, where an off-road vehicle drives, raising dust. Palm trees, desert plants, and a stone building are visible under a clear sky.

“Ensenada Bay Village represents meaningful investment in Baja California. This project supports local jobs, expands tourism, and highlights the state’s culture and natural beauty,” said Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda, governor of Baja California.

The presentation event featured cultural performances, including mariachi and ballet folklórico, showcasing the region’s heritage and hospitality. Invited guests were able to view renderings of Ensenada Bay Village and were served luncheon onboard Carnival Panorama.

Ensenada Bay Village will be able to handle more than 9,000 visitors per day and two simultaneous ship visits.

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Frank M

Frank is a seasoned travel journalist with over a decade of experience covering hospitality, cruise, and air travel. He has traveled extensively by land, sea, and air, collaborating with industry giants like Marriott, Hyatt, Disney, and Carnival Corp. His work has been featured in major international and industry publications across four continents.
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