The port of Ensenada, long treated as a routine West Coast call port rather than a standout destination, is poised for transformation.
On December 5th, 2025, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line, together with ITM Group and Hutchison Ports ECV, formally unveiled plans for a new waterfront complex named "Ensenada Bay Village - Treasures of Baja".
The development is envisioned to integrate resort-style entertainment with local Baja culture, departing from typical port shopping-zone layouts. Architectural designs take cues from eighteenth-century Californian and Mediterranean influences, aiming to evoke historic regional charm rather than the look of a standard cruise terminal.
Once complete, the Village will feature zip-lines, a dune-rally off-road attraction, scenic boat rides, river rides and other adventure-oriented features, alongside wellness and leisure zones such as hot-springs spas, an adults-only beach club/pool area, local wine and tequila tastings, artisan crafts, family-friendly cultural programming, and gastronomy reflecting Baja’s traditions.
The investment is estimated at over US$26 million, under a public–private partnership between the stakeholders. The alliance intends that the new destination not only enhances the guest experience, but also strengthens local tourism infrastructure and economic opportunities for the community.
Construction is expected to take approximately 24 months, placing potential completion in late 2027 or early 2028. When operational, Ensenada Bay Village could welcome up to 9,000 visitors daily, and is projected to generate a significant increase in both direct and indirect employment, while repositioning Ensenada as a leading cruise-destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast.