Info on Mexican Cruises and shore excusrions?

Question

I am taking a cruise to Mexico in November 2007. Ports are Cabo San Lucas, Mazetlan and Puerto Vallarta. I have never been to any of these places. Anyone know good restaurants, shopping, stuff to see or do? Also, what should I avoid (besides the water!)?

The ship is the Golden Princess - anyone ever been on it before? Any info would be great!

Last but not least, what about shore excursions? is it better to book them now, or wait until we get to the ship?

Thanks!

Answer 1

We've been on several Mexico cruises and been to these ports many times (although not on the Golden Princess), the last time in March '07.

If this is your first cruise, and/or first time to Mexico, you may wish to book the tours provided by the ship.   These cruise operators tend to be top-tier (and you're paying it) and they will be sure to get you back to the ship on time.  And yes, you might want to pre-book especially for the popular tours like swimming with the dolphins.

Be aware that in all the ports, the "condo and timeshare" companies are all in cahoots with tour operators.  They offer free tours and free trips in exchange for attending a short presentation.   Best to avoid offers TGTBT.

Cabo:  All ships use tenders which drop you off in a small marina.   There are a couple of nice restaurants there, all with outdoor seating overlooking the marina.    The snorkel/party boat tours are really popular, and they really swing, along with free booze.   I heard the restaurant called the Office is very good.

Mazatlan:  It's the shrimp export capital of Mexico.  Victor's restaurant is good.   Mazatlan is a real working town (unlike Cabo & PV which is all touristy).   Best beach is Stone Island.  Randi's Happy Horses is a popular way to enjoy horseback riding.

Puerto Vallarta:  (Our favorite: Been there twice in the last year)   They just opened another dock, so you may be able to walk off the ship.   Take a cab to the old town and walk along the oceanfront.    Many restaurants along the way.  Beware that many of the hotels immediately outside the port area are "all inclusives" that will not let you cross to get to the beach.   The newest "thing" is ziplines, where you travel along the tree tops on a harness hooked to a wire.  

PV is now a big city (there's a Walmart directly across from the port dock).   Good place for scuba/snorkeling if you go north near Nuevo Vallarta.  Restaurants:  The Blue Shrimp, Pipi's, Agave Grill, LaPalapa ($$$).

Answer 2

book shore excursions eary for the best choices and times..for a real adventure rent a golf cart at the pier in Mazetlan or para sailing in Cabo

Answer 3

Wait until you get on the ship.  There are alot of fun things to do in these ports without having the pay the shore excursion prices.

Matzalan is alot of fun.  Go to Senior Frogs - what a blast.  They have a great lunch and great drinks - entertainment too.