Carnival and Partners Unveil New Shoreside Village to Attract More Tourists to Ensenada

Published on December 10, 2025

Carnival Corporation & plc, in partnership with ITM Group and Hutchison Ports ECV, has announced plans to develop a new shoreside village at the Ensenada cruise terminal. The new destination, named Ensenada Bay Village, is designed to enhance the experience for cruise passengers visiting the popular port town. Set to open in 2026, the project is expected to provide a wide range of amenities and attractions for both tourists and locals, further boosting Ensenada’s appeal as a key stop on the West Coast cruise route.

This development comes as part of Carnival’s ongoing efforts to expand and improve the cruise experience in Mexico and throughout the Caribbean. The collaboration with ITM Group and Hutchison Ports ECV, the operator of the Ensenada cruise terminal, marks a significant step in modernizing the city’s cruise infrastructure, ensuring that visitors have a memorable time both aboard and ashore.

A New Hub for Cruise Tourists

Ensenada Bay Village will serve as a vibrant hub for cruise tourists, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, all designed to complement the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The project aims to create a welcoming environment for visitors from around the world, making it easier for them to explore the area’s attractions while enjoying modern facilities.

As one of Mexico’s most popular cruise destinations, Ensenada has long been known for its picturesque coastline, lively local culture, and close proximity to the United States, particularly California. The addition of a dedicated shoreside village will further enhance the city’s reputation as a leading destination for cruise tourism, offering passengers an elevated arrival and departure experience.

The new development will not only improve the facilities at the Ensenada cruise terminal but will also feature a wide array of amenities aimed at catering to the growing number of cruise passengers visiting the city. This includes open-air shopping areas, entertainment venues, and local dining experiences designed to showcase the flavors and culture of Baja California.

Expanding Ensenada’s Tourism Appeal

Ensenada is already well known for its wine tours, beautiful beaches, and cultural landmarks such as La Bufadora, one of the largest marine geysers in the world. The new shoreside village will be strategically located at the cruise terminal, providing passengers with immediate access to the city’s attractions. As cruise passengers disembark, they will be able to enjoy everything from shopping and dining to guided excursions showcasing the region’s rich history and landscape.

The project is expected to boost tourism to the region by offering a more seamless transition for cruise visitors from ship to shore. By adding a modern, dedicated village space, the city aims to increase visitor satisfaction and encourage passengers to spend more time exploring Ensenada. The development will also likely drive economic growth in the region, creating jobs in retail, hospitality, and tourism services.

In addition to benefiting cruise passengers, the new village will support local businesses by attracting more foot traffic and giving tourists a place to experience authentic Mexican culture. With its vibrant mix of local shops, dining establishments, and entertainment venues, Ensenada Bay Village is set to become an integral part of the city’s tourism infrastructure.

Partnership with Key Stakeholders

The development of Ensenada Bay Village is a joint venture between three major entities: Carnival Corporation & plc, ITM Group, and Hutchison Ports ECV. Carnival Corporation, one of the world’s largest cruise companies, operates several cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line, among others. The company’s partnership with ITM Group, a renowned global player in the cruise and tourism infrastructure sector, and Hutchison Ports ECV, the operator of the Ensenada cruise terminal, ensures that the new village will be built to the highest standards.

This collaboration is part of a broader trend in the cruise industry, where cruise operators are increasingly investing in shoreside infrastructure to improve the overall passenger experience. By creating bespoke, immersive shore experiences, cruise lines are looking to enhance the destinations they visit and provide guests with more opportunities to engage with local culture and communities.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

While the primary focus of the Ensenada Bay Village is on providing a world-class experience for cruise passengers, sustainability will also be an important aspect of the development. Efforts will be made to ensure that the project aligns with responsible tourism practices, emphasizing eco-friendly design and operations. This is in line with Carnival’s commitment to sustainability and its broader goals to reduce the environmental impact of cruise tourism.

Ensenada itself has long been an advocate for responsible tourism, with local authorities working to preserve the region’s natural resources and promote sustainable development. The new shoreside village will incorporate green building practices and design elements aimed at minimizing its environmental footprint. This includes waste reduction measures, energy-efficient technologies, and an emphasis on supporting local artisans and businesses.

Enhancing Mexico’s Cruise Tourism

Mexico has long been a favorite destination for cruise tourists, with ports like Cozumel, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas attracting millions of visitors each year. Ensenada is no exception, drawing tourists with its coastal beauty, proximity to California, and rich cultural offerings. The development of Ensenada Bay Village is set to enhance the cruise tourism experience in the region, providing a new focal point for tourists while supporting local economies.

As the global cruise industry continues to grow, destinations like Ensenada are poised to see even greater numbers of visitors. By investing in modern, engaging shoreside developments like Ensenada Bay Village, the city is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for cruise passengers traveling along the West Coast.

Conclusion

The introduction of Ensenada Bay Village marks an exciting new chapter for the city’s cruise tourism sector. With its focus on modern amenities, local culture, and enhanced passenger experiences, the village will serve as a vibrant gateway to Ensenada’s rich attractions. Set to open in 2026, this new shoreside destination will provide a seamless and memorable start or end to a cruise journey, further solidifying Ensenada’s place as one of Mexico’s premier cruise destinations.