Puerto Vallarta is due to open a new cruise ship terminal this summer.
According to Carlos Gerard, founder of Puerto Magico, the company responsible for building the new cruise terminal, their main objective was "to become more competitive as a port destination,” noting the project would allow Puerto Vallarta and other ports on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, to become more competitive worldwide.
The new terminal is planned to be set on Pier 1, that handles around 80% of cruise visits to Puerto Vallarta. The hacienda-style architecture is meant to reflect local traditions.
Constanza Suarez, director of Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port, said that the federal government wanted to improve all of the ports and strengthen their identity.
That will include incorporating accents and materials that harmonize with the style of Porto Vallarta, such as tile, bougainvillea, and iron.
Plans include a spacious welcome center of more than 30,000 square feet (2,787 square meters), as well as several shops selling local products. A new aquarium is also expected, although no official opening date has been announced yet.
The new facility will make a debut as Puerto Vallarta is continuing to grow its cruise visits. Last year saw a total of 134 calls, while for 2019, the destination has 180 confirmed visits.