Cruise port Manta
Info for port Manta on 2 Apr 2027
Port information & tips for Manta
Manta is the vibrant gateway to Ecuador's Pacific coast and welcomes travelers as the significant "Tuna Capital of the World." The charming port city impresses with its maritime liveliness, wide sandy beaches, and warm hospitality that immediately creates an inviting holiday atmosphere. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the popular city beach Playa Murciélago, the informative Museo Centro Cultural Manta, and the authentic fish market of Tarqui, where the traditional craft of boat builders can be experienced. Cruise ships dock at the modern Terminal Portuario de Manta (TPM), which, thanks to its prime location, offers direct access to the busy Malecón Escénico waterfront promenade and makes the nearby city center easily accessible on foot or via short transfers.
Located on Ecuador's Pacific coast, Manta welcomes cruise guests with a modern and award-winning cruise terminal that, thanks to its central location, allows for convenient arrival and quick transfers. Opened in 2018, the Terminal de Cruceros Manta was recognized for its innovative design and offers a pleasant introduction to Ecuadorian hospitality with comfortable amenities. Cruise ships dock directly at the terminal, making tendering unnecessary.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is usually by plane, and an overnight stay in advance is recommended due to the long flight time. The nearest airport is Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC) in Manta itself, located only about 3 kilometers from the port and accessible via domestic flights from Quito or Guayaquil. International flights usually lead via José Joaquín de Olmedo Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil, about 2-3 hours' drive away, or Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito, from which direct flights to Manta take about 45 minutes.
Transfer to the Terminal
From Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC), you can easily reach the port by taxi in about 10-15 minutes, with costs typically around 5 US dollars. Many larger hotels in Manta also offer free shuttle services from the airport. For guests already in Manta, the port authority provides a free shuttle bus from the pier to the award-winning passenger terminal on cruise days, bridging the short 500-meter distance to the city center.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
An overnight stay before embarkation in Manta is advisable after the long-haul flight from the DACH region to start the cruise relaxed. The city offers a good selection of accommodations, including luxury options such as the Oro Verde Manta or the Wyndham Manta Sail Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, which are often located directly on the beach and provide an excellent base for exploring the city. Thanks to their central location and proximity to the airport, these hotels are ideal for a comfortable stay before departure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
Even during the journey, the following applies: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
In port on 02 Apr 2027
