Explore on your own rating
Serious safety advisories cover Acapulco: a ship tour is the sensible way, if you go ashore at all.
Where ships dock
- Acapulco cruise terminal (operated by Global Ports Holding) in the old part of the bay, near Fuerte de San Diego; an additional pier is planned for 2027
Getting to town
The terminal is in the historic bay area; the operator puts the centre about 500 m away. There is no shuttle. Taxis and excursion vehicles serve the terminal.
Use only taxis or tours arranged at the terminal through recognised providers or your ship. Agree the price, waiting time and return point before you set off.
Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.
Top sights nearby
- La Quebrada cliff divers
- Fuerte de San Diego (Acapulco Historical Museum)
- Zócalo and cathedral
- Costera Miguel Alemán beachfront
Beaches
- Playa Caleta and Caletilla (tour)
Safety & tips
- The U.S. State Department rates Guerrero state, including Acapulco, Level 4: Do Not Travel (crime and kidnapping). U.S. government employees may not travel there. Read the advisory before deciding to go ashore.
- If you go, stay with a ship excursion and keep valuables on board.
- Carry small peso notes.
Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.
⏰ Back to the ship on time
Ship tours return in good time; if you are on your own, be back at the terminal an hour before all-aboard.
Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.
Shore excursions that get you back on time
Prefer a guided option in Acapulco? Browse shore excursions with reviews, and pick one that returns well before all-aboard.
Find Acapulco shore excursions on Viator ↗
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Quick answers
Can you explore Acapulco on your own?
A tour is the easier choice. Serious safety advisories cover Acapulco: a ship tour is the sensible way, if you go ashore at all.
How far is it from the cruise dock to town in Acapulco?
The terminal is in the historic bay area; the operator puts the centre about 500 m away. There is no shuttle. Taxis and excursion vehicles serve the terminal.
When should I head back to the ship in Acapulco?
Ship tours return in good time; if you are on your own, be back at the terminal an hour before all-aboard.
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