Ensenada–San Diego Ferry Arrives This Friday
After years of whispers, delays, and more Facebook comments than we care to count, the Ensenada–San Diego ferry is finally making landfall this Friday. That’s right. The sleek new boat operated by Azteca Ferries is set to dock in Ensenada on August 1st, carrying high hopes and zero passengers—for now.
Why? Because while the vessel is here, the official start date for operations is still TBA. We know, we’re bummed too.
So… what do we actually know?
- The ferry will carry 330 passengers.
- The ride will take about 2.5 to 3 hours, give or take a few seagulls.
- Ticket prices are expected to land between $50 and $60 one-way.
- You’ll go through full airport-style customs and immigration at both ports.
- You’ll need a valid passport or visa to board from Ensenada to the U.S. Don’t be that guy who forgets.
Who said what?
According to Kurt Honold, Baja’s Secretary of Economy, it’s up to Azteca Ferries to announce the launch date. And no, it’s not this weekend. Think more “sometime after they host a press conference and finish remodeling the port.”
Until then, the ferry is basically just parking here. It’s like the new neighbor who moved in but hasn’t unpacked their boxes yet.
The port needs a makeover
Before passengers can start sailing, Ensenada’s port terminal needs upgrades. Authorities are setting up areas for customs, immigration, and security—because even sea travel needs paperwork.
Once complete, the boarding process will look more like an airport check-in than a cruise ship cocktail hour. Expect bag checks, passport scans, and probably a line of people asking if they can bring wine. (Answer: maybe, but declare it.)
No cruise, no frills—just fast(ish)
This isn’t a luxury cruise. It’s a high-speed ferry meant for people who want to ditch the border wait and still catch the sunset. Perfect for day trippers, wine lovers, and anyone allergic to car lines in San Ysidro.
According to leaked schedules, there will be two daily departures in each direction, with morning and afternoon options. But don’t quote us on that—until tickets go on sale, it’s all subject to change.
When can I ride it?
Real talk? Not this week. Not next week either. The vessel may have arrived, but permits, infrastructure, and logistics are still catching up. Think early fall or even later in 2025. Possibly in time for the Tianguis Turístico next year, but don’t hold your breath.
Azteca Ferries hasn’t opened their reservation site yet. We’ll let you know the second they do. Trust us—we’re refreshing the page hourly.
TL;DR
- Ferry arrives Friday.
- No passenger service yet.
- Port still under construction.
- Tickets? Not on sale.
- But hey, progress!
Stay tuned, Amigos. When it’s time to sail, you’ll hear it from us first. For now, maybe just drive slow, take the scenic route, and dream of tacos by the sea.
1 Comment