Cruise Companies Reroute Ships as Security Situation Unfolds in Mexico – February 2026

In late February 2026, several major cruise lines adjusted their itineraries along Mexico's Pacific coast following security concerns linked to unrest after the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, known as "El Mencho." Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and other operators implemented precautionary route changes to protect passenger safety, with Puerto Vallarta emerging as the primary affected port.

The situation triggered localized clashes, road blockades, and heightened security activity in parts of western Mexico. Multiple governments issued travel advisories, and regional transportation disruptions extended to airlines suspending flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara.

Affected vessels and routes

• Norwegian Bliss (Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings) omitted its scheduled port call at Puerto Vallarta.
• Royal Princess (Princess Cruises / Carnival Corporation) bypassed Puerto Vallarta and extended its stay at Cabo San Lucas before continuing toward Mazatlán.
• A Holland America Line vessel redirected its itinerary to include an additional day at sea rather than calling at the Mexican Riviera port.

Cruise Line statements

• Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings indicated that safety considerations prompted the omission of Puerto Vallarta and advised passengers that further itinerary changes would be communicated directly if necessary.
• Royal Caribbean Group stated that its ships had not yet altered their published itineraries but would notify guests and travel agents if changes became necessary.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the primary cruise ports along Mexico's Pacific coast. The security situation in western Mexico led to broader transportation disruptions, with airlines reportedly suspending or canceling flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. Temporary itinerary changes are a common precaution used by cruise lines when regional security conditions or infrastructure disruptions could affect passenger safety.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• No rescue operations required; all passengers remained safely onboard their vessels.

As of late February 2026, cruise lines continued to monitor the security situation in western Mexico and were prepared to implement further itinerary adjustments if conditions warranted. Passengers booked on affected sailings were notified of changes and offered alternative routing or rebooking options by their respective operators.