Royal Caribbean Suspends Cruise Calls to Manzanillo Following USA Travel Advisory

RCI-Royal Caribbean International has halted its cruise itineraries to Manzanillo, Mexico, following a severe Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory from the U.S. Department of State. This advisory, the most serious category, warns about the heightened risks of violent crime and kidnapping in the Colima state where Manzanillo is located.

The advisory highlights widespread violent crime, gang activity, and targeted assassinations among criminal organizations as significant dangers for travelers. Notably, American citizens and legal permanent residents have been victims of kidnappings in the area. Colima, despite being one of Mexico’s smallest states, has a murder rate that is nearly five times the national average, with 623 intentional homicides reported from January to October 2024, according to the National Public Security System.

Manzanillo, the largest city in Colima, serves as a major port and tourist destination. The advisory restricts U.S. government employee travel to tourist areas but imposes additional limitations on other parts of Colima due to safety concerns.

In response to the travel advisory, Royal Caribbean has chosen to refrain from visiting Manzanillo, reflecting significant concerns for passenger safety. However, other cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, are still scheduled to dock in the port in early 2025.

The U.S. Department of State has issued varied travel advisories for all 31 states in Mexico. While many areas are under Level 1 or Level 2 warnings, indicating low to moderate risk, 13 states, including Colima, are identified as high-risk travel destinations.

Manzanillo has recently gained media attention due to the violent death of cartel leader Jose “El Chabelo” Isabel during a police encounter, which resulted in numerous casualties, highlighting the ongoing cartel-related violence in the region.

The country continues to face severe issues with violent crime, largely attributed to its pivotal role in drug trafficking for substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl. The electoral period in 2024 has exacerbated violence, leading to record levels of political assassinations in contemporary Mexican history.

For further information on travel advisories or cruise plans, you may visit Royal Caribbean or check updates from the U.S. Department of State.

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