Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Puerto Quetzal Guatemala?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re planning a cruise to Guatemala, you’ll likely make a stop at Puerto Quetzal. As the country’s primary port on its Pacific coast, this destination is a popular spot for cruise ships from around the world.

But where exactly will your ship dock when you arrive? Let’s take a closer look.

Location of Puerto Quetzal

Puerto Quetzal is located on the southwestern coast of Guatemala, near the city of San Jose, approximately 75 miles south of Guatemala City. The port serves as a gateway to many popular tourist destinations in the region, including Antigua and Lake Atitlan.

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock?

When your ship arrives in Puerto Quetzal, it will dock at one of two piers: the North Pier or the South Pier. The pier your ship uses will depend on its size and other factors such as weather conditions.

The North Pier

The North Pier is primarily used for smaller ships and tenders that can’t dock directly at the South Pier due to size restrictions. This pier is located closer to the entrance of the port and offers easy access to nearby shops and restaurants.

The South Pier

The South Pier is larger and can accommodate bigger ships with ease. This pier is located further into the port area and offers more facilities for tourists, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, bars, and lounges.

Transportation Options from Puerto Quetzal

Once you disembark from your ship, there are several transportation options available to explore nearby attractions:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside both pier areas.
  • Buses: Local buses operate near both piers and offer an affordable way to travel around.
  • Shore Excursions: Many cruise lines offer organized shore excursions, which provide transportation and a guided tour of popular attractions in the area.

Conclusion

Puerto Quetzal is an important port of call for many cruise lines traveling to Central America. Whether your ship docks at the North Pier or South Pier, you’ll have plenty of options for exploring the surrounding areas. Be sure to take advantage of the transportation options available and enjoy all that this beautiful destination has to offer!