Cruise arrivals in Baja California Sur surged in 2025, but industry leaders warn that a new federal tax could slow growth. While ports like Los Cabos and Loreto saw record passenger numbers, La Paz was the only destination to register a decline.
Cruise Growth in Baja California Sur
According to the Mexican Cruise Association, nearly all ports in Baja California Sur experienced significant increases in passenger arrivals last year:
- Los Cabos: 1,057,758 passengers (+46% vs. 2024)
- Pichilingue: 133,269 passengers (+211%)
- Loreto: 33,412 passengers (+22.3%)
- Santa Rosalía: 594 passengers (+18.6%)
Only La Paz saw a drop, with arrivals falling 12.5% to 1,359 passengers.
Industry leaders attribute the overall growth to global route changes, with Mexico’s Pacific coast benefiting from security concerns elsewhere.
Federal Tax Concerns
Arturo Musi Ganem, president of the association, cautioned that the $42 federal tax per cruise passenger introduced last year has made Mexican ports among the most expensive worldwide. He argued that while the sector grew naturally by 7–10% annually, the tax prevented even greater expansion.
“This extraordinary year was due to industry growth, not promotion,” Musi said. “But with these taxes, Mexico risks discouraging cruise lines from docking here.”
Future Outlook
Business leaders insist that competitive tariffs and better infrastructure could double arrivals. Without adjustments, however, Mexico may lose its advantage as a premier cruise destination.
The debate highlights the tension between generating federal revenue and sustaining tourism growth in Baja California Sur.
Source: OEM
