Guatemala Cruises

Explore the Wonders of Guatemala with CruiseAway

Ready to discover a land rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes? Welcome to **Guatemala**, a vibrant jewel in Central America. Cruising to Guatemala offers adventurers and casual travellers alike a unique experience where ancient Mayan ruins meet stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking up the slopes of a volcano or diving into the local culinary scene, there’s so much to see and do. Fun fact: Guatemala is home to some of the world’s most impressive Mayan ruins, including the famous Tikal, which was once a powerful city-state. With its warm climate and diverse ecosystems, cruising here ensures adventures that you will treasure for years.

Top Harbours to Visit in Guatemala

When you embark on a cruise to Guatemala, you’re likely to visit a number of engaging harbours. Here are five must-see ports:

• Puerto Quetzal: As the main cruise port in Guatemala, Puerto Quetzal is your gateway to stunning sights. From here, you can embark on an excursion to **Antigua**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. While in Antigua, stroll through the picturesque streets, visit the **Santa Catalina Arch**, and take in the views of the surrounding volcanoes. Insider tip: Try to catch a local cooking class to make authentic Guatemalan dishes!
• Antigua: A short drive from Puerto Quetzal, this historic city is a highlight for cruisers. Explore the cobblestone streets filled with vibrant colours and charming cafes. Don’t miss a visit to the **Market of Antigua** for handmade crafts and local flavours! Catch the sunset from **Cerro de la Cruz**, which provides stunning views of the entire city. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll want to explore every nook and cranny of this enchanting town!
• Livingston: Nestled on the Caribbean coast, Livingston is a uniquely beautiful port accessed mainly by boat. The town is a melting pot of cultures and is known for its Garifuna heritage. Take a guided tour through the lush **Rio Dulce** to see diverse wildlife, or relax on the stunning beaches. Insider tip: Don’t leave without trying the “tapado,” a rich seafood soup that reflects local culinary traditions!
• Atitlán Lake: Often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Lake Atitlán is surrounded by stunning villages and volcanoes. Hop on a boat and visit towns like **San Pedro** or **Santiago** to experience the local lifestyle and vibrant culture. Be sure to try coffee from local plantations, as the region is known for its high-quality beans. Insider tip: Bring your camera; the views are breathtaking, especially during sunrise!
• Quetzaltenango (Xela): Known as the cultural hub of Guatemala, Xela is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in local society. Visit ancient churches like **La Catedral del Espíritu Santo** or take a language immersion class to get a taste of Guatemalan culture. Pro tip: Make sure to stop by a local café for tasty pastries and traditional coffee while you’re exploring!

The Best Times to Cruise Guatemala

Timing your visit to Guatemala can make a difference in your experience. The ideal time to cruise is during the **dry season**, which runs from **November to April**. This is when temperatures range from **18°C to 28°C**, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing and adventure. The rainy season, from **May to October**, brings tropical rains and higher humidity but can also provide a lush landscape for those who enjoy nature. Just remember, the rain often falls in short bursts and can lead to fewer crowds at popular attractions.

The Costs of Cruising in Guatemala

When budgeting for your trip, a one-week cruise to Guatemala averages around **$1,200 to $2,500**, while a two-week option can range from **$3,000 to $5,000**. For luxury cruises, prices typically start around **$5,000**. The cheapest times to sail typically coincide with the shoulder seasons in late autumn or early spring, while peak travel occurs during winter and summer months, driving prices higher. Typical food costs could range from **$10 to $30** per meal in local eateries, giving you plenty of options to indulge in Guatemalan delights without breaking the bank!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Adventures to Guatemala

• Holland America Line: With **11 ships**, **five** of which cruise to Guatemala and feature **Eurodam** and **Nieuw Amsterdam**, this line regularly departs from **Fort Lauderdale** and **San Diego**. Holland America is renowned for promoting immersive experiences at each port of call, focusing on local culture, history, and sustainable initiatives.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of **20 ships**, **five** make their way to Guatemala, including the **Norwegian Encore** and **Norwegian Joy**. Departures typically occur from **Miami** or **Los Angeles**. Known for its “freestyle cruising” concept, Norwegian offers guests flexibility to enjoy onboard amenities while exploring at their own pace on land.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring a fleet size of **17 ships**, **11** are dedicated to the scenic routes that include Guatemala. The **Island Princess** and **Coral Princess** often depart from **Fort Lauderdale** or **San Francisco**. Princess is famous for its unique dining options and enriching experiences that encourage deeper engagement with port destinations.
• Cunard: With only **four ships** in its fleet, only **one** visits Guatemala, the **Queen Anne**, with departures coming mostly from **New York** or **Southampton**. Cunard provides a unique experience filled with elegance and tradition, with sophisticated dining and enriching programs onboard.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a total fleet of **29 ships**, **two** cruise to Guatemala, including **Radiance of the Seas** and **Serenade of the Seas**. These typically depart from ports including **San Diego** or **Fort Lauderdale**. Royal Caribbean boasts thrilling onboard activities complemented by exciting shore excursions, perfect for adventurers and families alike.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line features **eight ships**, with **seven** sailing to Guatemala, including the **Vista** and **Insignia**. Most departures happen from **Miami** or **Los Angeles**, and Oceania is known for its culinary-focused experience onboard, with menus crafted by top chefs and local flavours integrated into each cruise.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With **six ships** in their fleet, **three** service itineraries that include Guatemala, notably the **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departing most often from **Miami** or **Los Angeles**, Regent is well known for lavish service and all-inclusive luxury, allowing guests to feel pampered throughout the journey.
• Seabourn: Featuring **six ships**, **three** sail to Guatemala, including **Seabourn Sojourn** and **Seabourn Encore**. Commonly departing from **Miami** or **Long Beach**, they promise an ultra-luxurious experience focused on personalized service and exclusive shore excursions that let you discover the best of each destination.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of **four ships**, **two** are dedicated to travels that include Guatemala, particularly the **Azamara Journey** and **Azamara Onward**. Departing mainly from **Fuerte Amador** or **Miami**, Azamara provides an immersive travel experience, emphasizing authentic local engagement at each port of call.
• Explora Journeys: A newer player in the cruise market, their fleet consists of **two ships**, with **EXPLORA I** offering itineraries that include Guatemala. Departures mainly occur from **Miami**, and they focus on sustainable luxury with a commitment to preserving local cultures, making your cruise experience impactful and responsible.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re intrigued by the beauty of Guatemala but are also interested in exploring other regions, consider these alternatives:

• Central America: This region offers diverse ecosystems and vibrant cultures, exploring sites like Costa Rica or Panama, renowned for their natural beauty and adventure sports.
• Caribbean: Known for its azure waters and idyllic beaches, the Caribbean provides a relaxing escape filled with diverse cultures and stunning landscapes.
• Mexico: Rich in history and culinary delights, Mexico is a fantastic alternative with beautiful coastal cities, ancient ruins, and delicious street food to try.
• Florida: With its beautiful coastlines and exciting theme parks, Florida offers a different charm, welcoming cruisers to enjoy sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife.
• Southern Caribbean: Offering stunning island hopping experiences, the Southern Caribbean is filled with paradise islands perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Guatemala is a treasure trove of culture, history, and adventures waiting to unfurl before you. Don’t miss the chance to explore this fascinating country—book your cruise with **CruiseAway** today, and set sail for an unforgettable journey!