RCI-Royal Caribbean International has ceased itineraries to Manzanillo (Mexico) following a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory issued by the USA's Department of State.
This advisory, the most severe travel warning, highlights the risks of violent crime and kidnapping in the Colima state where Manzanillo is located. According to the advisory, widespread violent crime, gang activity, and targeted assassinations among criminal organizations pose significant threats to travelers. It further notes that American citizens and legal permanent residents (LPRs) have been victims of kidnappings in the region.
Colima, despite being one of Mexico’s smallest states, has a murder rate nearly five times the national average, with 623 intentional homicides reported from January to October 2024, according to the National Public Security System (SESNSP).
Manzanillo, the state’s largest city, is also a prominent port and tourist destination. While the advisory limits U.S. government employee travel to port and tourist areas, it imposes restrictions on other parts of Colima due to heightened safety concerns.
Royal Caribbean’s decision to withdraw from Manzanillo follows the release of this advisory, which underlines significant risks to passenger safety. However, other major cruise companies, such as Princess Cruises (owned by Carnival Corporation) still plan to include the port on itineraries, with ships scheduled to dock there in early 2025.
The U.S. Department of State has issued varying levels of travel advisories for all 31 Mexican states. While many areas fall under Level 1 or Level 2 warnings (indicating low to moderate caution), 13 states, including Colima, are flagged as high-risk destinations for travel.
Manzanillo recently made headlines after cartel leader Jose “El Chabelo” Isabel was killed during a police confrontation at a cockfight. The violent incident, which left two others dead and several injured, underscores ongoing cartel-related violence in the area.
Mexico continues to grapple with high levels of violent crime fueled by its role as a major transit point for narcotics such as cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, and marijuana. The 2024 election period further intensified violence, marking a record for political assassinations in the country’s modern history.