The arrival of the luxury ship Explora I in Puerto Progreso (Mexico) on Saturday, December 21st, marked a significant step in positioning Yucatan as a key destination for international high-end sea travel companies seeking to offer their customers unique cultural and natural experiences.
Owned by the Mediterranean Shipping Company/MSC Group and operated by MSC's subsidiary Explora Journeys, the Explora I ship docked in Progreso for the first time, carrying 394 passengers and 643 crew. During their 12-hour stay, guests had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Mayan culture and explore the region's archaeological sites, beaches, and the emerald waters of Yucatan's coastline.
The visit was commemorated with a ceremonial exchange of plaques between the ship’s captain, Pietro Sinisi of Italy, and local authorities, including the Secretary of Tourism Development, Dario Flota Ocampo, representing the Governor of the State. Municipal and federal officials from the Port of Progreso also attended the event.
MSC Explora I is scheduled to continue serving Progreso as part of its 2024-2025 winter deployment.
The vessel embarked from Miami (Florida USA) on December 16th on an 8-day Caribbean roundtrip itinerary, with stops in Ocho Rios (Jamaica), Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Progreso.
Progreso and its surrounding areas continue to attract cruise passengers to key attractions such as the archaeological sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, the historic city of Merida, and nearby beach clubs. Yucatan's cruise sector is set to close December 2024 with the arrival of 20 ships, underscoring the region's growing appeal as a destination for cultural and leisure tourism.