Cruisers beware: some ports may dim your vacation dreams. Discover why staying onboard at select destinations is often your best choice.
Traveling by cruise can be one of the most exhilarating experiences, promising adventure, beautiful landscapes, and luxurious onboard amenities. However, not all ports deliver the excitement we envision. Some ports become chaotic nightmares instead of paradisiacal stops. For cruise enthusiasts planning their next journey, knowing which ports to skip can mean the difference between thrilled memories and frustrating experiences.
The Hallmarks of the Worst Ports of Call
Identifying the worst cruise ports is essential for avoiding vacation letdowns. Here are several alarming characteristics travelers typically encounter
- Overcrowding: Too many ships docked simultaneously can lead to bustling streets overwhelmed with tourists.
- Unattractive Industrial Settings: Some ports offer little in terms of aesthetics or tourist-friendly options, leaving travelers uninspired.
- High Crime Rates: Petty theft and scams frequently plague certain locations, making them less than safe for visitors.
- Aggressive Vendors: Tourists can find themselves pressured by persistent sales pitches, which can be especially off-putting.
- Poor Infrastructure: Many ports lack basic amenities and facilities, making excursions less enjoyable.
Staying on the cruise ship instead of venturing into a stressful port can provide an opportunity to enjoy onboard luxuries such as spas, pools, and restaurants.
Prince Rupert, Canada
The Verdict: Skip this stop.
Amid stunning landscapes, Prince Rupert often disappoints with uninspiring attractions. Many passengers describe the port as "boring," making it solely a stop for customs clearance. If you hear recommendations that the best places to visit are the local supermarket chains, it’s a reliable sign to remain onboard and delight in your cruise's amenities instead.
Belize City, Belize
The Verdict: Book a tour or stay onboard.
Despite its exotic allure, Belize City can feel overwhelming due to chaotic street conditions and aggressive local vendors. Travelers often champion Belize City tours for safety, advising fellow cruisers to have a structured plan before disembarking. "Unless you have a specific plan, it's better to stay onboard," noted one seasoned traveler—wise words worth heeding.
Ensenada, Mexico
The Verdict: Relax on the ship.
Locals in Ensenada often joke, "stay on the ship"—and for good reason. With shabby streets, visible poverty, and heavy military presence, many find that the ship's onboard spa or pool is a far more peaceful option compared to venturing into the port chaos. If you do decide to explore, remember these Ensenada travel tips for a safer experience.
Colón, Panama
The Verdict: Skip exploring solo.
Renowned for its industrial aura, Colón fails to encapsulate the natural beauty Panama offers. Descriptions of the port’s environment often feature words like "dirty," "unsafe," and "uninviting." Travelers have voiced concerns about seeing armed locals from the ship, suggesting that unless you are on a pre-arranged tour, staying onboard is the wiser route. This is particularly relevant given concerns about Colón Panama safety.
Santa Marta, Colombia
The Verdict: Book a nature tour or skip it entirely.
Santa Marta is plagued by descriptions of chaotic crowds and industrial vibes, leading many to recommend exploring the nearby natural attractions only if you book safe excursions. The untouched beauty of Tayrona National Park offers breathtaking views, but the city’s hustle tends to overshadow its allure.
Santos, Brazil
The Verdict: Save your energy.
With Santos offering long bus rides and traffic jams to visit São Paulo, many cruisers quickly realize that a visit here might not be worth the hassle. Even local excursions garner lackluster reviews. A relaxing day onboard indulging in cruise ship amenities quickly becomes the preferred choice for many.
Alexandria, Egypt
The Verdict: Prepare for chaos or stay aboard.
While Alexandria holds significant cultural importance, it’s often described as chaotic. Stress from busy traffic, crowded attractions, and cultural intimidation can drain your vacation spirit. A seasoned cruiser remarked that it is not worth the stress if you're unprepared to handle the bustling atmosphere.
Casablanca, Morocco
The Verdict: Visit via excursion or skip it.
Many returning travelers label Casablanca as a disappointing stop due to aggressive vendors and underwhelming sites. Instead of exploring, consider enjoying the ship’s amenities or booking an excursion to the architectural charms of nearby Rabat or Marrakech.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
The Verdict: Be cautious or stay onboard.
Cultural restrictions in Jeddah, coupled with sparse tourist infrastructure, can make this port a challenging destination. Strict dress codes and the absence of alcohol contribute to a less than welcoming atmosphere. Many choose to enjoy the comfort of the ship, indulging in onboard offerings instead.
Sihanoukville, Cambodia
The Verdict: Avoid unless necessary.
Once a quaint fishing village, Sihanoukville has transformed into a chaotic urban area, littered with garbage and poor infrastructure. The cumbersome visa cost and disembarkation process deter many cruisers. Given these challenges, it’s easy to favor return to the ship as a far more alluring choice.
The Takeaway
Cruise itineraries promise exciting adventures, but research reveals that some ports may be better to avoid altogether. Knowing when to enjoy the ship's amenities instead helps maximize your cruise experience, allowing you to bask in comfort while steering clear of disappointment. Remember, a well-planned trip can shift focus from worries to the joys of cruising.