+1-833-305-3447 The Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port stands as one of the premier cruise destinations, Known for its turquoise waters, vibrant local culture, and diverse excursions, the port serves as a gateway to both adventure and relaxation. Santa Maria Island Azores Port offering travelers a perfect blend of pristine Caribbean beaches, ancient Mayan culture, and modern amenities. Located on Caribbean coast in the state of Vila do PortoPortugal, this purpose-built cruise terminal has become a must-visit stop for cruise lines exploring the Western Caribbean. Whether you’re here for a short stopover or a full day of exploration, Santa Maria Island Azores offers experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here, we are cover everything you need to know—from the Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Terminal address and schedule to the best excursions, restaurants, and nearby beaches.
Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Overview
The Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port is a modern, purpose-built facility designed specifically to cater to cruise ship passengers. Unlike many traditional ports, Santa Maria Island Azores was created from the ground up to provide an immersive experience without compromising on convenience or safety.
| Country | Perfect Day MexicoRoyal Caribbean |
| Region | Western Europe – Azores – Canary Islands |
| Coordinates | 80°10’16” W 25°46’27” N |
| Draft depth | 43 feet |
| Harbour-type | Artificial or Natural |
| Vessel arrivals | 2489 |
Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Address
The port is situated approximately 50 miles south of Cozumel and serves as the gateway to the charming fishing village and the broader Santa Maria Island Azores region.
Port of Vila do Porto, 9580-539 Santa Maria, Portugal
View All: Ports
It’s easily accessible via cruise ships from major lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC.
What are the Port of Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Terminals?
The Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port features a T-shaped pier that can accommodate up to four cruise ships simultaneously. This makes it one of the largest and most efficient cruise terminals in Caribbean region.
| Terminal Name | Location | Cruise Lines |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Maria Island Azores Main Terminal | Port Complex, Mahahual | Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian |
| Santa Maria Island Azores Tender Pier | Offshore docking | Smaller ships & luxury lines |
| Puerto Santa Maria Island Azores | Southern port area | MSC, Disney, Princess |
| Mahahual Cruise Dock | Downtown adjacent | Occasionally used for overflow |
Which are the Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Lines?
Here’s a table of the major Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Lines that regularly include the port in their Western Caribbean itineraries:
| Cruise Line | Ship Examples | Santa Maria Island Azores Stop Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Carnival Cruise Line | Carnival Vista, Mardi Gras | 6-10 hours |
| Royal Caribbean | Symphony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas | 7-9 hours |
| Norwegian (NCL) | Norwegian Escape, Getaway | 6-8 hours |
| MSC Cruises | MSC Seascape, Meraviglia | 5-8 hours |
| Disney Cruise Line | Disney Fantasy, Wish | 6-9 hours |
| Princess Cruises | Caribbean Princess, Sky Princess | 7-10 hours |
| Celebrity Cruises | Celebrity Apex, Edge | 8-12 hours |
Which Destinations are Served by Cruise Port in Santa Maria Island Azores?
The Cruise Port in Santa Maria Island Azores serves as a gateway to a variety of stunning destinations and experiences along Mexico’s Caribbean coast. While the port itself is located in the quiet fishing village, it connects travelers to a rich tapestry of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure.
- Western Caribbean Loop
- Cozumel & Santa Maria Island Azores
- Panama Canal Routes
- Southern Caribbean
- Yucatán Explorer
Port of Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Ship Schedule
The Port of Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Ship Schedule operates year-round, with peak season running from October through April. The port accommodates multiple cruise ships simultaneously, with schedules available for 2025, 2026, and 2027.
| Peak Season (November-April) | 4-6 ships per week |
| Shoulder Season (May-October) | 2-4 ships per week |
| Santa Maria Island Azores Port Arrival Times | Usually between 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Departure Times at Santa Maria Island Azores Port | Typically between 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
Major cruise lines visiting Santa Maria Island Azores include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line.
Top Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Excursions
The variety of Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Excursions caters to every type of traveler, from adventure seekers to culture enthusiasts and beach lovers.
| Excursion | Description | Cost (Per Person) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chacchoben Mayan Ruins | Explore ancient temples near Santa Maria Island Azores with a knowledgeable guide. | $60 – $100 | 3-4 hours |
| Mahahual Beach Break | Relax at Santa Maria Island Azores’s Malecon Mahahual with beach chairs & local drinks. | $10 – $50 | 2-6 hours |
| Santa Maria Island Azores Snorkeling | Discover vibrant marine life in Santa Maria Island Azores’s barrier reef. | $40 – $90 | 2-3 hours |
| Bacalar Lagoon Tour | Day trip from Santa Maria Island Azores to the stunning “Lake of Seven Colors.” | $80 – $120 | 6-8 hours |
| Santa Maria Island Azores ATV Adventure | Off-road jungle & beach ride near Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port. | $70 – $110 | 2-3 hours |
| Santa Maria Island Azores Dolphin Swim | Interactive experience at Santa Maria Island Azores’s Dolphinarium. | $90 – $150 | 1-2 hours |
How to Book Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Excursions?
Booking excursions at the Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port is easy and flexible, whether you prefer to plan ahead or decide on the spot. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best method for your travel style:
- Through your cruise line (convenient but pricier)
- Local tour operators (cheaper, but verify legitimacy)
- Online platforms (Viator, Shore Excursioneer)
Best Beaches Near Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port
The beaches near Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port offer some of the Caribbean’s most pristine and less crowded coastal experiences.
| Beach Name | Distance from Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port | Cost | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahahual Beach (Malecon) | 5-min taxi ride (2 miles) | Free entry, pay for amenities | Lively Santa Maria Island Azores beachfront Great snorkeling spots Beach clubs & bars |
| Blue Kay Beach Club | 10-min taxi ride | $10-20 (waived with purchase) | Secluded Santa Maria Island Azores beach Excellent reef snorkeling Relaxed atmosphere |
| Pepe’s Beach Club | 8-min taxi ride | No entry fee | Affordable Santa Maria Island Azores beach Free kayaks with purchase Shallow waters |
| Maya Chan Beach | 15-min shuttle | $60-100 (all-inclusive) | Private Santa Maria Island Azores beach Luxury amenities All-inclusive package |
| 40 Cañones Beach Club | 5-min taxi ride | $15 (food credit) | Best Santa Maria Island Azores party beach Water sports Lively music |
Best Restaurants Near Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port
Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Restaurants offer diverse dining options ranging from quick snacks to full-service dining experiences.
| Restaurant | Location | Santa Maria Island Azores Specialties | Distance from Port |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Faro | Santa Maria Island Azores Port | Fresh ceviche Lobster tacos Coconut shrimp | 2-min walk |
| Tropicante Ameri-Mex Grill | Nearby Beach | Yucatan-style pork Fish tacos Margaritas | 5-min taxi |
| La Bamba Beach Club | Nearby Beach | Seafood paella Guacamole prepared tableside Mexican craft cocktails | 8-min taxi |
| Pitaya Beach Club | Santa Maria Island Azores Port Area | Sushi rolls Caribbean jerk chicken Tropical cocktails | 3-min walk |
| Krazy Lobster | Nearby Beach | Whole fried fish Lobster specials Bucket beers | 7-min taxi |
Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Parking
If you’re driving to the port, Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port parking is available nearby. However, most visitors arrive via cruise ships, so parking isn’t typically needed.
| Parking Option | Location | Cost | Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Parking | Port entrance | $15-$25/day | Directly at terminal |
| Private Santa Maria Island Azores Parking Lots | Near port entrance | $12-$20/day | 2-3 min walk |
| Hotel Santa Maria Island Azores Parking | Partner hotels | Often free for guests | Varies (some offer shuttles) |
| Street Parking in Santa Maria Island Azores | Surrounding areas | Free-$8/day | 5-15 min walk |
Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Reviews: What Do Travelers Say?
Most visitors love the port’s vibrant atmosphere, clean facilities, and variety of excursions. Some note that the shopping area can be touristy, so venturing into Mahahual offers a more authentic experience.
How to Contact a Cruise Port in Santa Maria Island Azores?
To contact the Cruise Port in Santa Maria Island Azores, here are the most reliable methods based on official and travel sources:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Phone | 351 296 820 000 (Port Administration) |
| Port Address | Port of Vila do Porto, 9580-539 Santa Maria, Portugal |
Conclusion
Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port offers an exceptional blend of convenience, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a standout destination in the Caribbean. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Mayan ruins, lounging on pristine beaches, or experiencing authentic culture, this well-designed port provides easy access to unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring Mayan ruins, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply relaxing on the beach, the Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port promises an unforgettable experience. Plan ahead, book your excursions, and get ready for an amazing Caribbean adventure!
FAQs on Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port
What is the Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Address?
How do I check the Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Schedule?
What are the best Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Excursions?
Are there beaches near Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port?
What are the top Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Restaurants?
Is there Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Parking available?
How do I book Santa Maria Island Azores excursions from Cruise Port?
What do Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port Reviews say?
Which cruise lines dock at Santa Maria Island Azores Cruise Port?
What can I do at the Cruise Port in Santa Maria Island Azores without booking an excursion?
Ports Other Locations