Port information & tips for Zihuatanejo (Ixtapa)
Zihuatanejo on the Mexican Riviera is a picturesque gem that has preserved the authentic charm of a former fishing village. Nestled in a protected bay, the town captivates with its relaxed atmosphere and a dreamlike backdrop of golden beaches and lush hills. Visitors enjoy the scenic Paseo del Pescador along the waterfront and discover cultural treasures at the Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande, as well as the idyllic ambiance of the nearby Playa La Madera. As cruise ships anchor in the bay, guests can reach the central Muelle Principal conveniently by tender boat and, thanks to the prime location, find themselves directly in the heart of the charming old town with its lively markets and first-class restaurants.
Zihuatanejo (Ixtapa) in Mexico is a picturesque cruise port on the Pacific coast, primarily reached by plane. Since cruise ships anchor in the bay, arrival at the charming city center of Zihuatanejo is by tender boats, which dock directly at the El Malecon waterfront promenade.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), located about 15 to 17 minutes' drive from Zihuatanejo. This airport offers domestic connections within Mexico as well as seasonal direct flights from the USA and Canada, especially during the peak season from December to April. For travelers from the DACH region, a flight with a layover in Mexico City (MEX) or a major US hub is generally recommended.
Transfer & Shuttle
Numerous convenient transfer options are available from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH). Taxis are plentiful and will take you quickly to your hotel in Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa. Additionally, various private transfer companies offer shuttle services with vans or SUVs, transporting you directly to your accommodation or a meeting point for embarkation. The journey to the center of Zihuatanejo takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and to ensure a relaxed start to your cruise, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel in Zihuatanejo or nearby Ixtapa is highly recommended. Ixtapa is only about 5 kilometers away and easily reachable by taxi. Many hotels in the region also offer flexible transfer services to and from the airport, further simplifying travel planning.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will typically 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 keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
