Getting to Know Ensenada

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On the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Ensenada has long been a convenient port of call for ships that must call on a foreign port before returning to the U.S. (as required by the Passenger Vessel Services Act, also known as the Jones Act). But, Ensenada – located on the Baja California peninsula – is more than a convenient stop. It has a lot to offer cruise passengers, especially those who enjoy wine.

That’s because the Ensenada area has several Mediterranean-style microclimates. Warm daytime temperatures moderate when breezes come inland from the Pacific, creating temperature swings that are ideal for growing robust, flavorful grapes.

Winemaking in the area began at least 200 years ago, when Dominican priests grew grapes at the old Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe del Norte mission. Today, several valleys around Ensenada are known for their wines, include Valle de Guadalupe, the Calafia Valley, the San Vicente Valley and the Santo Tomás Valley. Valle de Guadalupe alone accounts for more than 70% of Mexico’s wine production.

If your next cruise takes you to Ensenada, there are a few different ways to explore the wine country. One is to choose a shore excursion that takes you on an off-road ATV tour through the scenic countryside to a wine tasting, accompanied by local olives and cheeses. If you really want to get your adrenaline going, slide down a thrilling zip line with views of the Pacific; at the end, you can savor your adventure with a glass of local wine. If off-roading and zip-lining isn’t your style, you can board an air-conditioned transport to a winery tour, followed by an elegant lunch with expert wine pairings.

And if wine isn’t your thing, there’s more to do and see in Ensenada. Some shore excursions focus on tastings of craft beers or tequilas. You can ride a gentle horse down the beach to see La Bufadora, one of the world’s largest ocean blowholes. Or, explore Ensenada by bike or tuk tuk, relax on the beach at Playa Hermosa, or take a food tour that highlights the area’s fresh seafood.

Whatever you’d like to do in Ensenada, make your shore excursion reservations early to ensure you can enjoy the experience of your choice. And, be sure to balance any wine, beer or tequila tastings with plenty of water. For more information about Ensenada and cruises that stop there, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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