Carnival Spirit’s First Visit Boosts Yucatán Cruise Tourism

Progreso, Yucatán — The cruise ship Carnival Spirit arrived for the first time at the Port of Progreso with 2,133 passengers and 926 crew members, reinforcing Yucatán's position as one of the most attractive and reliable cruise tourism destinations in the Mexican southeast.

Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, accompanied by the Honorary President of DIF Yucatán, Mtra. Wendy Méndez Naal, led the welcome ceremony. During the event, a commemorative plaque exchange took place with the ship's captain, Massimiliano Roja, in the presence of representatives from the cruise line, as well as state and municipal authorities, to strengthen ties of friendship and commemorate the occasion.

The arrival of this cruise ship is the result of efforts made by the Governor during his most recent trip to Florida, in the United States, where he held various meetings to promote the state as an international tourist attraction.

"In our recent working visit to Florida, we met with Carnival executives to continue providing facilities and promote the arrival of more cruise ships," explained the state leader. "Today, our state is consolidated as the leading destination for cruise ship arrivals in the Mexican southeast. We will continue working so that, with the dredging and modernization of the Port of Progreso, larger cruise ships will come, economic spillover will grow, and there will be greater well-being for Yucatán families."

For his part, the cruise ship captain, Massimiliano Roja, expressed his satisfaction at returning to Yucatán, which he described as a welcoming destination of great beauty and hospitality, noting that he has previously had the opportunity to visit this port while commanding other vessels.

Following the ceremony, the Governor took a tour of the deck areas, restaurants, theater, and other spaces, where he learned about the operation of this ship, which was built in 2001.

The Carnival Spirit arrived at its second stop at the Port of Progreso with 2,133 passengers and 926 crew members, having departed from the island of Cozumel. It was scheduled to continue and conclude its route at its port of origin in Alabama, United States.

The arrival of this vessel helps boost the economy of Yucatán thanks to the economic spillover from tourists and crew members at local businesses. Furthermore, it strengthens the tourist promotion of Yucatán and reaffirms the relevance of this port for the tourism and cruise sector.