Are Royal Caribbean's Western Caribbean Ports Worth Visiting?
Do you need to book excursions on your Western Caribbean cruise? Let’s check out the port towns to see what there is to see and do on your own.
Are you considering a Western Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean? Stick around to see what the ports of call are like and if they are even worth visiting!' It’s coming up right now on…
A 7-night Western Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean usually includes two stops in Mexico - Cozumel and Costa Maya plus a stop at Roatan, Honduras.
Like most experienced cruisers, we look forward to port days because we pretty much have the ship to ourselves. This means no long lines at Flowrider, the Ultimate Abyss slide, and plenty of seating by the pool.
But we are on vacation and in a foreign country, so it can still be fun to get off the ship and do a little exploring. But what is there to do? And is there anything you need to be careful of?
I’ll take you on a tour of the 3 most popular ports of call so you can see for yourself.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, Mexico
We were on Wonder of the Seas from Orlando so our first stop was Cozumel, Mexico. Cozumel is the most authentic port I’ve seen in the Caribbean.
See, most of the Caribbean ports you visit whether it be Mexico, Jamaica, or St. Thomas, and so on, are all manufactured ports.
These are not rlittle towns that exist naturally. They are full-blown tourist traps. But that’s ok, we’re tourists. Orlando, Dollywood, and Las Vegas, all follow the same principles.
These fake little towns are in a high-security compound, so you’ll only find fellow cruise passengers here and licensed vendors.
The first thing you’ll notice about Cozumel is that it’s a bustling city - a real city. After getting off the ship you’ll stop for a quick security screening and then you're inside the port complex.
There are several bars like Margaritaville and Senor Frogs. Their main draw is that they promise a party atmosphere - similar to a college frat party. If this is your thing, more power to you, but they are famous for overpriced drinks, allowing people to get drunk rather quickly, and serving lousy food.
On our visit, we kept walking past the bars and entered the outdoor shopping district.
I like Cozumel in particular because the area is generally well kept and they have a lot to look at. Almost all of the stores sell the same things like t-shirts and Mexican-themed souvenirs. Other stores sell diamonds, silver jewelry, and leather goods.
I like to look for stores that might have something unique. Maybe they have someone making personalized souvenirs or offering hair braiding.
Now don’t be weirded out if the store owners call out to you. This is customary in Mexican culture. I saw some people get super offended by this and began yelling back.
Others stopped to offer an excuse. It’s perfectly ok to ignore them and just keep walking.
This is cultural and you will not hurt their feelings if you just walk by.
We continued walking and found a covered shopping area as well. The stores in here seemed to be a little nicer but still offered the same kinds of things.
I did a little research before our cruise and saw on a map that there was an additional shopping area across the street. It was a little hard to find the back exit, but eventually we got there.
I liked being out here because it felt to me like we were getting away from the fake Mexico and getting into more authentic territory - but without straying too far.
There was another outdoorsy mall but hardly anyone was there and some of the shops were closed. It looked like this was a failed attempt at expanding the port. But it was a nice area, maybe someday it will come back.
As we reached the end of the shopping area, we found ourselves across the street from a small resort right next to the harbor. I went to look around, I love to explore hotels. I spoke with the front desk staff and it turns out they sell day passes to use their pool and facilities.
There was a massage area and a restaurant. I wouldn’t go here if you’re looking to swim at the beach because you’ll be swimming in the harbor,
but the beach and pool are nice places to relax and get some great views of the ship. There are plenty of beach resorts if you want to book an excursion, but if you’re just looking to stay near the ship, this place would be great.
It’s called the El Cid Resort - and for about $65 US per adult, $33 US per child, you’ll get unlimited food and drinks, free WiFi, an open bar, 90 minutes of snorkeling and use of the facilities and pool.
There’s also a $25 package that includes wifi, use of the pool, 90 min. Or snorkeling. So basically it doesn’t include the food or drinks. Children on this package are $13 US.
Now being in Mexico, I wanted to see if I could find an authentic taco.
I live in Orlando the capital of chain restaurants. So I wanted tacos not one from the tourist areas, but a local place.
I had read about a guy who sells tacos out of a blue truck but didn’t know if it was any good.
I asked the bellman at the hotel where I could find authentic tacos. He told me to go see the guy in the blue truck two blocks away. Ok so now I know this guy must be legit.
It was a leap of faith because we had to leave the tourist area to walk down a busy road with barely a sidewalk. But Sure enough, we saw the blue truck.
He makes tacos in the bed of an old pickup truck. When we got there, the guy was using a machete to chop vegetables.
Now I must warn you, this is the ultimate Mexican street food ok, not the most sanitary so you need to be willing to overlook a few things.
But if I wanted to know what I’m missing when I go to Chipotle. This is what I was looking for - street food in Mexico.
The chicken tacos were awesome I watched him make them on a flat top. There were no cruise passengers around and the Locals were so happy that we were there.
They couldn’t stop talking about how good the tacos were. Everyone was very friendly. Oh, and he takes American money. Now if you want to find him, just search Google for Blue Taco Truck in Cozumel - you’ll find it.
After a couple of hours in Cozumel, we walked back to ship and enjoyed a really quiet day at the pool.
Roatan, Honduras
Day 2 was Roatan Honduras. Roatan is a large island just off the mainland of Honduras. It’s the smallest port town on Royal Caribbean’s Western Itinerary and it was recently refurbished to look like a small village.
The most popular excursions here are to visit the animal sanctuaries, ATV tours through tropical rainforests, and beach passes. Keep in mind that the cruise lines use different ports in Honduras. So if you’re on Royal Caribbean, be sure you look up Coxen Hole.
Other cruisers have told me this is one of their favorite ports of call and that may be true if you have an excursion, but if you’re just planning on getting off the ship to check out the port, I’m afraid it’s a little disappointing.
When I say the port is small, I mean it’s actually smaller than the cruise ship. There are just a handful of souvenir shops but they are still fun to walk through. I found them to be well-kept and organized. Most will take American money and credit cards.
The refurbishment added tiki huts and some water features, plus a few nice restaurants and bars. But you can walk through here in less than an hour..
Just for a little adventure, I wanted to see what was beyond the port complex like I had done in Cozumel. That’s where things took an interesting turn.
As soon as we left the secure boundary of the port, we were immediately swarmed with dozens of people asking if we wanted a ride.
They were negotiating and outbidding each other and I hadn’t even said I wanted a ride. I felt like Indiana Jones returning to the village after the quest.
There were so many guys, that it was nearly impossible to keep walking, it was not a great position to be in.
I found it disturbing that they had to post signs all over reminding us that human trafficking is a crime.
Hopeful that things would get better once we got away from the taxi drivers, we ventured out a little further. But several guys began following us and some approached us asking if we wanted a walking guide.
While everyone was friendly, I just got bad vibes.
The immediate area surrounding the port was not great - there were no sidewalks and there wasn’t anything to see.
We turned around and went back into the secure port.
My advice is to stay within the boundary of the port. If you do want to book an excursion, book it through directly Royal Caribbean so you know they are vetted and reliable.
We had a very short day in Roatan. Other passengers were telling me how much fun they on their excursions. But my advice is that Roatan is not a do-it-yourself port of call.
Costa Maya, Mexico
On Day 3 we returned to Mexico, this time Costa Maya. Of the 3 ports, this was our favorite. If you’ve been to Disney World and enjoy themed entertainment, you’ll like Costa Maya.
The port is quite large and oval-shaped, so you can walk around and return to the same place you started. There are a few side streets with additional shops within the compound as well.
Inside, there’s a resort-style swimming pool, but I don’t think it looks very appealing. Granted on the day I was filming it was raining, but even on previous trips, I hardly ever see anyone in the water.
You’d be surrounded by tourists and shoppers, not quite the best pool atmosphere.
There’s an elevated bird aviary that takes you above the rooftops, this is a popular activity, especially with kids. You’ll also find a few performances from mariachi bands and ancient Mayan dances.
If you would like to swim with dolphins without straying far from the ship, you can do that here right in the port.
The shops pretty much sell all the same things. Just like Cozumel, look for shops that have something a little unique or one that offers personalized souvenirs.
My son wanted a leather bracelet with his name on it. Watching it be made was pretty entertaining. It’s amazing to see the craftsmanship and how fast they can work.
By now you know I was on a quest for great tacos. On a previous trip, I found a great taco stand inside the port, so I was on a mission to go there once again. It’s located in the back, down a little alley. This one is clean and well-kept, not located in the back of a pickup truck.
The vendors here take American money and credit cards. The atmosphere is pretty relaxed here you won't have vendors calling out to you like Cozumel.
Now, if you didn’t book an excursion here in advance, but would like to, there are kiosks located in the port. On a previous trip, we rented a golf cart and drove it down to the beach where we found additional shops, bars, and restaurants. You can also take a taxi, but a golf cart is way more fun.
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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Icon of the Seas Officially Joins Royal Caribbean Fleet
After 900 days of construction, Icon of the Seas will join the Royal Caribbean International fleet to just two months before its January 2024 debut.
After 900 days of construction, Icon of the Seas will join the Royal Caribbean fleet just two months before its January 2024 debut.
During more than two years of construction, we witnessed the installation of the AquaDome, the single largest glass and steel structure to be lifted onto a cruise ship, the engineering of more water on board than ever before across seven pools, six record-breaking waterslides, and more.
Icon of the Seas will sail from Turku to Cadiz, Spain, where the cruise line will start to put the finishing touches on the ship before it heads to Miami.
Starting Wednesday, Nov. 29, travelers can follow Icon’s journey by visiting Royal Caribbean’s website.
Whether “family vacation” means getting away as a family, couple or friends, Icon will feature firsts and next-level favorites for everyone to make memories their way every day across eight neighborhoods.
There are adrenaline-pumping thrills, unrivaled ways to chill, more than 40 ways to dine and drink, cutting-edge entertainment across the cruise line’s four signature stages—air, ice, water, and theater—and more.
There are also 28 different stateroom categories, including the new three-level Ultimate Family Townhouse; rooms are thoughtfully designed for every type of vacationer.
The five brand-new neighborhoods and three reimagined favorites are destinations in themselves filled with a variety of experiences, live entertainment, restaurants and bars, including:
Thrill Island:
The new center of thrill features
Category 6 - the largest waterpark at sea, with six record-breaking slides
Crown’s Edge - part skywalk, part ropes course, and part thrill ride on which adventurers swing 154 feet above the ocean
FlowRider simulator
Lost Dunes minigolf course and more.
Chill Island:
Four of the seven pools on Icon are at this three-deck neighborhood, each with a unique vibe and prime ocean views: the lively Swim & Tonic, the cruise line’s first swim-up bar at sea; Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea; Cloud 17, an adults-only retreat; and the infinity-edge Cove Pool.
With different tunes from live bands and DJs, and poolside spots for drinks and quick, casual food—such as The Lime & Coconut and its new frozen cocktail bar, and El Loco Fresh & Cantina Fresca—vacationers can chill day and night.
Surfside:
Introducing the first neighborhood made for young families.
Adults and kids can stay and play all day between ways to splash, like at the new Water’s Edge pool for grownups nearby Baby Bay and the Splashaway Bay aquapark for kids, and new dedicated dining options such as the Surfside Eatery buffet, Pier 7 for all-day brunch.
AquaDome:
A tranquil oasis by day and a vibrant hot spot at night, the new neighborhood is filled with wraparound ocean views, new and returning restaurants and bars, a 55-foot-tall water curtain, and the next-level AquaTheater, which will introduce the first cast of robots, skateboarders, divers and more.
This area includes Royal Caribbean’s first food hall, AquaDome Market, and Rye & Bean—a new bar for lattes and coffee-infused cocktails—plus a new Overlook bar and pods, and the cruise line’s marquee aqua shows.
The Hideaway:
Tucked away and sitting 135 feet above the ocean is a new neighborhood that combines the good vibes of beach club scenes around the world.
The first suspended infinity pool at sea is at the center of it all, and it has 180-degree ocean views that make it the perfect place to watch sunsets from the point of view only a cruise can offer as vacationers enjoy the dedicated DJ and bar.
Royal Promenade:
The heartbeat of Icon, this neighborhood has more than 15 restaurants, bars and lounges, including Dueling Pianos, Royal Caribbean’s first dueling pianos bar; the new 1400 Lobby Bar, inspired by the history of shipbuilding, with an ocean-facing terrace that opens the reimagined neighborhood to the outdoors for the first time ever.
Central Park:
Lusher and livelier than ever, this open-air neighborhood is reimagined with more ways to dine, drink, and be entertained. Thousands of real plants line new experiences and favorites include the popular Izumi, with a new location and a walkup window; and American steakhouse Chops Grille.
Making their debut are spots like Empire Supper Club, an extravagant experience that pairs eight courses with wine, cocktails and music; and Lou’s Jazz ‘n Blues, for live performances of soulful jazz, jazzy pop music and more.
Suite Neighborhood:
Spanning four decks, Royal Caribbean’s most expansive Suite Neighborhood features larger suites, including the new Grove Suite Sun Deck, complete with a private pool, whirlpool, and dedicated Mediterranean dining; and a new two-level Coastal Kitchen with views of the AquaDome and the ocean.
Icon is also the cruise line’s first ship that can be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a transitional fuel.
The dual-fuel engines will work alongside a lineup of energy efficiency initiatives and industry-leading environmental programs on board, like the first waste-to-energy plant at sea.
Twenty-four percent more energy efficient than the standards required for ships being designed today, Icon is Royal Caribbean’s most sustainable ship, marking the next step in parent company Royal Caribbean Group's journey to introduce a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Icon of the Seas Offers Unique Ways to Have Fun at Night
From the Overlook Pods to Casino Royale, you’ll have a night out like never before onboard Icon of the Seas
A night out on Icon of the Seas will be a totally unique experience. Turn up the volume on unforgettable with rockin' set lists. Make it a party for two with starlit sips set to the soundtrack of soulful classics. Or fuel your whole team’s competitive spirit with a rousing round of darts, brews over billiards, and retro arcade classics
Check out Exclusive Offers for Icon of the Seas here ▸
Icon of the Seas will be completed in early 2024
“Thank you so much for being so patient with us. We had a great first cruise. Your advice was spot on especially with the dining package. ”
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Icon of the Seas Shatters Records
SPOTLIGHT: All the ways Icon of the Seas is shattering records
Icon of the Seas is a first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean adventure where you’ll have the time of your life, multiple times a day.
This cruise ship offers thrills you never dared to imagine and next-level chill you never dreamed possible.
And it’s shattering records in big, bold ways that will change the way you vacation — forever.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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This is my experience on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas.