CANCUN

• MXCUN
• Latitude: 21.2003
• Longitude: -86.807
• Gulf of Mexico
• Port in Mexico

Location: Mexico

Cancun, located on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, is primarily known as a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural history. While Cancun doesn't have a large commercial marine port like some other major cities, it does feature certain port facilities that cater to various marine activities, including cruise ships, local ferries, and private yachts.

Port Facilities in Cancun:

1. Puerto Juárez:

   • Location: Just north of downtown Cancun.
   • Functions: Primarily serves as a ferry terminal for trips to Isla Mujeres.
   • Facilities: Features multiple ferry operators offering frequent services, a passenger terminal with waiting areas, ticketing offices, small shops, and eateries.

2. Marinas:

   • Marina Hacienda del Mar:
     • Location: Located in the Hotel Zone.
     • Services: Offers mooring for private yachts and boats, fuel station, maintenance services, and provisions.
   • Marina Las Velas:
     • Location: Within the Hotel Zone.
     • Services: Provides docking for private yachts, boat rentals, and various water sports activities.
   • Marina Punta Sam:
     • Location: Positioned just north of Cancun.
     • Services: Acts as a departure point for ferries to Isla Mujeres and offers docking services for private vessels.

3. Cruise Ship Terminal:

   • While Cancun itself doesn't have a dedicated large-scale cruise terminal, nearby ports like Puerto Morelos and Cozumel handle significant cruise ship traffic. Tourists visiting Cancun often arrive at these nearby ports and travel overland to Cancun.

Specifications & Services:

• Depth: Varies by location but generally sufficient for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Navigation: Entry to port areas is generally straightforward, suitable for ferries, smaller commercial vessels, and private yachts.
• Security: Ensures safety for visitors and vessels with regular patrolling.
• Customs & Immigration: Available at designated points for international arrivals, primarily handled through nearby larger ports if arriving by cruise ship.
• Anchorage: Generally calm waters protected by Isla Mujeres and the reef system.

Other Information:

• Tourism Focus: Cancun’s marine activities are largely tourism-oriented, offering scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing charters, sailing excursions, and more.
• Transport Links: Well-connected with Cancun International Airport (one of the busiest in Mexico) and a comprehensive road network for overland transfers.
• Environmental Considerations: The region is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef system, leading to efforts to protect the marine environment.

Highlights:

• Passenger Services: Regular ferry services to Isla Mujeres, providing an easy way for tourists to explore nearby islands.
• Yacht & Boat Services: Well-equipped marinas catering to private vessels with various amenities.
• Proximity to Major Attractions: Easy access to Mayan ruins such as Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza for visitors arriving by sea.

Though Cancun's port facilities are not geared toward large-scale container shipping or heavy commercial maritime traffic, the region's focus on tourism makes it an essential hub for maritime activities centered around pleasure, recreation, and passenger transport.