Royal Caribbean has announced the suspension of its cruises to Manzanillo, Mexico, following a stern Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State. This advisory highlights the rampant violent crime and kidnapping prevalent in the region, marking Manzanillo as one of the most dangerous travel destinations at the present time.
The U.S. State Department's warning succinctly states: “Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping. Violent crime and gang activity are widespread.” This advisory is the highest alert level released by the government, placing Manzanillo alongside other regions notorious for danger, including Afghanistan and North Korea.
According to the advisory, “Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.” Customers planning to visit Manzanillo should note the potential risks involved, confirming the cruise line’s careful approach to traveler safety.
Despite the levels of concern, some activities remain permitted. The advisory indicates limitations on travel for government employees, which allows them to visit only the port and tourist areas of Manzanillo, with forbiddances to venture elsewhere in Colima state.
Royal Caribbean's suspension reflects the serious risks associated with traveling to Manzanillo, particularly due to Colima state’s distressing crime statistics. With homicide rates approximately five times higher than Mexico's national average, the situation has escalated alarmingly. A report from the Latin Times cites Colima’s murder rate as among the highest globally, with 22 reported homicides per 100,000 residents.
From January to October 2024 alone, Colima noted 623 homicides, raising concerns among potential travelers and prompting Royal Caribbean to reassess its travel offerings. Just last week, notorious cartel leader Jose “El Chabelo” Isabel was killed following violent activity at a local cockfight. This deadly encounter resulted not only in the death of the cartel boss but also caused multiple injuries to innocent bystanders.
While Royal Caribbean has halted its trips, Princess Cruises - also owned by Carnival - still intends to dock at Manzanillo during its scheduled January and February port calls. Such contrasting decisions showcase the different approaches to managing travel safety amid rising crime and political instability.
Beyond Manzanillo, the U.S. Department of State has issued advisories across all 31 states of Mexico, categorizing 13 states as high-risk travel destinations. Regions afflicted by intense cartel-related violence now face warnings, with the advisory allowing for certain exceptions, particularly for the tourist zones.
The broader atmosphere of increasing violence is attributed to Mexico's role as a significant transit hub for narcotics and other illicit activities, with drug cartels perpetuating waves of crime across various states. Current election cycles also reflect disturbing trends, with political violence reaching unprecedented levels.
The travel industry remains on high alert as concerns about safety change the dynamics for cruise lines and visitors alike. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant and well-informed about their destinations before planning trips.
