Carnival Corporation & plc, in partnership with ITM Group and Hutchison Ports ECV, has unveiled plans for Ensenada Bay Village, a new shoreside destination designed to celebrate the culture and natural beauty of Baja California, Mexico. The announcement was made on 5 December during a formal presentation at the Ensenada Cruise Terminal attended by local, state and federal officials, cruise industry leaders and community representatives.
Developed jointly by Carnival Corporation, ITM Group and Hutchison Ports ECV — the operator of the port under concession from the Mexican government — the project reflects a shared commitment to expanding tourism offerings in Ensenada while supporting regional economic development. Senior industry executives including Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line; Mauricio Hamui, CEO of ITM Group; and Jorge Magno Lecona, managing director of Hutchison Ports Latin America, participated in the unveiling alongside representatives from Mexico’s federal government, Baja California officials and dignitaries from the City of Ensenada.
Representing an investment of more than USD 26 million, Ensenada Bay Village will be inspired by 18th-century California-style architecture and designed to complement the port’s coastal setting. The new destination will feature a mix of adventure activities, gastronomic experiences and wellness-focused amenities, from zip lines, river rides and a scenic boat attraction to the signature Dune Rally. Visitors will also be able to enjoy chocolate and tequila tastings, Valle de Guadalupe wine and cheese pairings, artisan markets, thermal springs, the Baby Beach pool area and spa services. The destination will be accessible to passengers from all cruise lines, reinforcing a commitment to inclusive tourism.
Construction is expected to take approximately 24 months. Once open, Ensenada Bay Village is projected to welcome up to 9,000 visitors per day and generate around 350 direct jobs and 800 indirect jobs. The development is anticipated to deliver more than USD 120 million in annual economic impact, further cementing the port’s importance within Baja California’s cruise tourism sector. Carnival Corporation, the market leader in Ensenada, views the project as part of a broader strategy to create culturally authentic, economically beneficial destinations across its global network.
Christine Duffy said the project embodies a long-term commitment to the community. “This presentation reflects our shared vision to create destinations that inspire pride and prosperity,” she said. “We are proud to highlight a project that celebrates Baja’s culture, supports the local community and offers guests family-friendly, authentic and memorable experiences.”
Baja California governor Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda described the development as a meaningful investment that will expand tourism and highlight the state’s cultural and natural assets. ITM Group CEO Mauricio Hamui added that the project aims to elevate Mexico’s cruise destinations through experiences rooted in sustainability and local authenticity. Jorge Magno Lecona of Hutchison Ports Latin America emphasised the importance of collaboration in driving Ensenada’s continued growth.
The presentation included mariachi and ballet folklórico performances, along with detailed visual renderings of Ensenada Bay Village inspired by Baja’s landscapes and traditions. Following the ceremony, guests were hosted at a luncheon aboard Carnival Panorama.
