Now, you've probably never heard of Progreso, Mexico. I hadn't either until I went on a Carnival Cruise that stopped there. Progreso is "around the corner" of the Yucatan Peninsula from Cozumel, so they share the same blue waters and inland destinations. This port is more authentic than Cozumel, and less "westernized", meaning there are not as many main stream shops and it relies more on local markets and vendors.
The Port of Progreso is quickly growing as it's welcoming more and more Carnival Cruise ships. The first time we cruised there, the pier was extremely long, and the coast seemed deserted. From what I've researched, the pier has changed and the port is more developed.
Don't let this lesser known Cruise stop fool you. It's another way to experience the Yucatan Peninsula and see more of the beautiful inland country. In order to have a good experience in Progreso, you MUST book an excursion! There's not enough to do right off the pier, so book an excursion early through the cruise line. Everyone I've talked to who has been to Progreso, has nothing good to say about it. However, when I ask them what they did in Progreso, if they booked an excursion, they say no. So, let that be a lesson to you. If you want to have a good experience in Progreso, BOOK AN EXCURSION! I would save a beach experience for Cozumel, and use Progreso as a time to visit Mayan ruins.
Keep Calm & Cruise
XOXO
Kathie
