Holland America Line is expanding their presence in Mexico for the 2016-2017 season. They will be doing more departures and are returning a larger Vista-class ship to the area. From October to February, ms Westerdam will do a series of 13 seven-day cruises roundtrip from San Diego, including two special holiday voyages in December.
At the beginning of the season, the ship will leave from Vancouver on October 18 for an eleven-day cruise. It will visit Santa Barbara, California before calling in San Diego. She will then make her way down to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta before returning to San Diego. The sun-kissed Mexican Riviera is full of bright blue seas and lavish beaches, and it’s a perfect destination for travelers looking for rich culture, color, and cuisine. Guests who only want to take a portion of the cruise can board on October 22 in San Diego for a seven-day voyage down to Mexico.
For the rest of the season, Westerdam will sail seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises roundtrip from San Diego through February 7, 2017. The itinerary includes three days at sea and calls in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta.
Ports of Call
During the sail into San Diego, guests can gaze out of the ship at Coronado Island, Cabrillo National Monument, and Point Loma. The ship will dock near downtown, so guests can also walk on Coronado Island’s beach, visit the Old Town, or visit the San Diego Zoo.
Cabo San Lucas, located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, is one of Mexico’s most recognizable ports thanks to its unique rock arch formation. Guests will have plenty to do here, from lounging on the beach, to four-wheeling, to gray whale expeditions, and more.
Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán is where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet. It’s a haven for sportfishing and watersports, and also features historic sites and lots of nature to enjoy.
Puerto Vallarta has something for every traveler. The quaint Old Town boasts cobbled streets, open markets, and tons of flora and fauna that will leave guests amazed. There are also plenty of beaches, activities, and shops and restaurants to suite every adventurer’s desires.
Mexican Culture Aboard the Ship
Throughout the cruise, “On Location” programming will bring Mexico’s culinary tastes, local traditions, and culture to life onboard the ship. There will be a barbecue that features authentic Mexican dishes, a mariachi band performing throughout the voyage, and destination presentations. The Culinary Arts Center will also feature cooking classes, demonstrations, and a themed mixology class that features local fare. The main dining room and buffet will also showcase the many flavors of Mexico.
Featured photo: flickr/Tom Børslid
