Cruises · 2019 · Enhanced edition

Carnival Triumph: Cozumel & Progreso from New Orleans

One of our most memorable cruises combined New Orleans sail-away, a Cozumel dolphin experience, and a food-and-drink tour through Yucatán.

Trip at a glance

Ship: Carnival Triumph
Departure: New Orleans
Ports: Cozumel and Progreso
Highlights: Dolphins, kayaking, snorkeling, and a Yucatán tasting tour

Biloxi and the road to New Orleans

We began at Palace Casino Resort in Biloxi, where quarter virtual roulette and muscadine wine made an entertaining pre-cruise stop. A two-hour backroad drive through swamp country brought us to New Orleans and the ship.

Once aboard, I returned to my smoked-salmon bagel ritual. Sailing down the Mississippi gave embarkation a character no other homeport had matched, and family members joined us for cards and the cruise routine.

Cozumel: Dolphins and time in the water

Our Cozumel day combined a dolphin interaction with sea kayaking and snorkeling in a protected inlet. A buffet and included drinks rounded out the excursion, and we shopped for local liquor before returning to the ship.

Progreso: Eating and drinking through Yucatán

The Yucatán tour began with chips, salsa, and Corona by the beach. Patito sports bar followed with sausages and beers, then La Negrita introduced us to local food and three more samples. Mezcal with chili powder and a hidden speakeasy added two final tastings before a Dos Equis on the bus.

Seafood and the long way home

A seafood feast closed the final sea day. Then rain followed us through an 11-to-12-hour drive home.

Final thoughts

The mix of family time, a hands-on Cozumel excursion, and Yucatán flavors made this one of our most memorable cruises. Progreso especially rewarded us for looking beyond the port entrance.

Plan your own trip

Cozumel & Progreso Cruise Guide

Use Cozumel for a polished water or wildlife excursion and Progreso for Yucatán food, culture, beaches, or inland history.

Start with the right base

Review the current itinerary, port times, documentation, and excursion requirements before booking. A pre-cruise hotel night protects the trip from a long drive or travel delay.

Port plan

Before you go

In Cozumel, review animal-welfare and water-activity details; in Progreso, account for the long pier and inland transfer; hydrate during tasting tours; use ship excursions when return timing is tight.

Keep it balanced

Choose one priority experience, one flexible stop, and enough unscheduled time for meals, weather changes, and discoveries along the way.

Official planning information

Use our trip as a starting point

The original story shows what worked for us and what we would change. Prices, hours, menus, ships, excursion operators, and attraction features may be different now, so verify the details that matter to your group.