Cruise Review: The 6 Best Cruise Ports in the Gulf of Mexico

Ports in the Gulf of Mexico have become important and popular cruise ship destinations. Every port has a different feel and look. Some of the ports are well developed for tourism and others are still a work in progress. Depending on your specific interests, not all ports may be considered best for you. This is a look at some of the most popular ports currently being served by most major cruise lines.

A favorite for many cruisers is Jamaica.

While some may regard this island nation as not actually within the Gulf of Mexico, it is one of the stops on many western Caribbean cruises. Jamaica boasts itself as the birthplace of the late Bob Marley who was born in the St. Ann province. It is also home to many pirate legends and rum runners. The island claims to have a bar nearby every church in the country. The women go to church while the men go to drink. One of the most popular cruise excursions is a visit to the Dunn's River Falls. While some cruise ships go to Kingston, most go to Ocho Rios.

Just west of Jamaica is the island of GrandCayman.

Grand Cayman is a small island. The cruise ships dock at Georgetown. Tours of Georgetown are excellent and moderately priced excursions for tourists. The white sands of Grand Cayman are some of the best in the Caribbean. Snorkeling is a huge tourist draw here. You may also want to see the sea turtle farm or mail a letter from the community of Hell. The Ritz Carlton in Georgetown is worth seeing.

Cozumel is probably the most visited port in the Gulf of Mexico.

The island of Cozumel is part of Mexico. Excursions are offered to the Mayan ruins on the mainland from this port. On a clear day, you can see Cancun across the Gulf of Mexico. This is a popular place for cruisers to go to shop. Because pesos exchange at ten pesos per dollar, the conversion rate is simple to use. There is snorkeling available in Cozumel but the currents are somewhat stiff at times which can make it not as relaxing as it might otherwise be.

Belize is a port that is still being improved.

Belize City, Belize was just added as a cruise destination in the early 2000's. Because of this, it is not as developed as some other ports of call. This can be a plus for the visitors who want to be able to see more of the local culture. Stepping out the back door of Tourism Village is like a step back in time for most who cruise from the United States. Be careful about your personal safety if you choose to take a walk in this area unescorted. There will be a dozen or so cab drivers waiting to take you to any destination that you desire for a fee. The barrier reef snorkeling in Belize is excellent. There are also some interesting Mayan ruins here.

Get to Isla Roatan if you can.

While this is still a developing tourism stop, it has some of the best snorkeling of any cruise ship stop. The people are very friendly, and you can go to a nature park and get to see a lot of local wildlife and even interact with parrots and monkeys. There are plenty of shops near the pier for tourists looking to pick up a few souvenirs.

Do not overlook Key West, Florida.

While most first time cruisers might be surprised to see Key West on this list, most experienced cruisers know that many western Caribbean cruises stop here. The island looks like a living post card. It is also the long time home of Hemingway. You can head to the beach or take a look at local culture. The good news is that most cell phones work here for without extra charges. You can rent and electric car and tour the island. Key West has a lot of sites of historical interest. This port is well worth the visit.