Yucatán Welcomes Luxury Cruising: Explora I Makes Its Debut in Progreso

The luxury cruise ship Explora I made its inaugural docking at Puerto Progreso, Mexico, on December 21, 2024. This milestone is part of a broader strategy to establish Yucatan as a premier destination for high-end cruise lines, attracting travelers interested in unique cultural and natural experiences.

Operated by Explora Journeys, a subsidiary of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Explora I arrived with 394 passengers and 643 crew members on board. The ship’s 12-hour stop allowed guests to dive into the rich Mayan culture and explore archaeological landmarks, beautiful beaches, and the stunning coastline of Yucatan.

The occasion was marked by a ceremonial plaque exchange between Captain Pietro Sinisi and local officials, including Secretary of Tourism Development Dario Flota Ocampo, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting Progreso as a key cruise destination. The ship is set to return as part of its winter deployment for 2024-2025.

Starting its journey from Miami, Florida, on December 16, the Explora I is conducting an 8-day Caribbean itinerary with additional stops in Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel alongside Progreso.

Progreso boasts numerous attractions that draw cruise visitors, such as the iconic archaeological sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, the historic city of Merida, and nearby beach resorts. The region’s cruise industry is thriving, with an expected 20 ship visits by the end of December 2024, highlighting Yucatan’s growing status as a cultural and leisure tourism hotspot.

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