Carnival ports reach one million guests each, boosting demand

Friday, January 5, 2024

Carnival Cruise Line, renowned for its Fun Ships that draw guests from the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, as well as California, played a significant role in propelling Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, and Ensenada, Mexico past the one millionth cruise guest mark by the end of 2023.

In late December, both destinations commemorated this milestone by honoring their one millionth visitors alongside their families as they arrived at each port. The Collier family, arriving from Mardi Gras on Dec. 20, were esteemed guests at Amber Cove, while the Andrus family, sailing aboard Carnival Radiance on Dec. 27, marked the special occasion in Ensenada. Local dignitaries, ship leaders, and other guests joined forces at each destination to celebrate these noteworthy events.

“This year, we’re celebrating that no one does fun like Carnival, and it’s also true that no cruise line drives demand and the tourism economy like Carnival! We’re delighted that our guests set these important distinctions for both Amber Cove and Ensenada,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. “Amber Cove is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean. Our guests love the relaxation and adventure they find here and that’s why many of our ships visit Amber Cove. Likewise, Ensenada is a quaint coastal town that has grown into a strong part of our West Coast offerings. Our guests love its rich history and vibrant culture, with the addition of Carnival Firenze joining our fleet this spring, plus some exciting plans under development, we see even better things ahead for the destination.”

She elaborated, stating, “Amber Cove stands as an exceptional Caribbean destination adored by our guests for its perfect mix of tranquility and thrilling adventures, making it a preferred port for many of our ships. Likewise, Ensenada, transforming from a charming coastal town into a cornerstone of our West Coast offerings, enthralls our guests with its profound history and lively culture. Anticipating the upcoming inclusion of Carnival Firenze in our fleet and the promising plans in development, we envision even more promising opportunities on the horizon for this destination.

Amber Cove, nestled on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic near Puerto Plata, welcomed its inaugural Carnival ship in 2015. Operated by Carnival Corporation & plc, the cruise port paradise boasts pools, bars, and a myriad of shore excursion opportunities like snorkeling and waterfall adventures.

David Collado, Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, congratulated the Amber Cove cruise terminal, affirming, “This achievement marks unstoppable growth for Puerto Plata and its residents who directly benefit from these milestones.”

Ensenada, one of Mexico’s original seaside retreats, has been a Carnival sailing destination for nearly thirty years. Offering historical sightseeing and thrilling ATV rides, the city enchants visitors with its delightful cuisine and nearby adventures, including insights into local traditions and exploration of the adjacent wine country.

Miguel Aguíñiga Rodríguez, Secretary of Tourism of Baja California, remarked, “This accomplishment reflects the efforts of the Ensenada Cruise Committee, the Ensenada City Council, the Ensenada National Port System Administration, and Hutchison Ports. It inspires us to continue fostering Ensenada’s position as a premier cruise destination in Mexico.”

Carnival operates cruises to Ensenada seasonally from San Francisco and year-round from Long Beach, California, where Carnival Firenze will soon introduce additional voyage options. This new ship, named after Florence, Italy, joins the fleet in April 2024, departing from Long Beach to showcase Carnival Fun Italian Style experiences with four-day cruises to Catalina Island and Ensenada, as well as five-day Mexican Riviera cruises featuring stops in Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada.

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