New Cruise Passenger Fee in Mexico: What You Need to Know for 2025 and Beyond
Starting July 1, 2025, cruise passengers visiting Mexico will be subject to a new “non-resident” tourism fee. Initially set at $5 per person, this fee is scheduled to increase incrementally over the next few years, reaching $21 by August 2028. This development follows extensive negotiations between the Mexican government and the cruise industry, resulting in a significant reduction from the originally proposed $42 fee.
What to Expect
The revised fee structure is as follows:
- $5 per passenger starting July 1, 2025
- $10 per passenger beginning August 1, 2026
- $15 per passenger starting July 1, 2027
- $21 per passenger beginning August 1, 2028
These fees will be collected by cruise lines and included in the total fare, eliminating the need for passengers to make separate payments.
Broader Context and Industry Response
The original $42 fee proposal faced strong opposition from the cruise industry, which argued that such a high fee could deter visitors and negatively impact local economies dependent on cruise tourism. The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), representing a significant portion of cruise capacity in the region, played a pivotal role in negotiating the reduced fee structure. In exchange for the lower fees, cruise lines have agreed to increase the number of port calls in Mexico and support local infrastructure projects, such as the development of a fourth pier in Cozumel. Additionally, there is an emphasis on sourcing more Mexican products for sale aboard cruise ships, aiming to bolster local economies.
Key Takeaways for Cruise Passengers
As the cruise industry and Mexican authorities continue to collaborate, these changes aim to balance the growth of tourism with the sustainability and development of local communities. Before departure, verify with your cruise line whether the new fees are included in your fare or listed separately. Also, consider participating in local excursions and purchasing local products to contribute positively to the communities you visit. Viator now offers shore excursions with a return to ship guarantee. Click the link to see what they have to offer at your next port of call. Support Local Shore Excursion Suppliers
