You’ll find Mahogany Bay, Carnival Corporation’s private cruise port, on the south shore of Isla Roatán.
For other Western Caribbean Cruise destinations check out our Western Caribbean Cruise Ship Port Guide page.
The port features a white sand beach club stretching 825 feet, where you get free chairs and access to modern facilities.
The port offers you:
- Colonial-style shopping villages
- Waterfront restaurants
- 20+ shore excursions, including snorkelling and zip-lining
- Multiple transport options, including the Magical Flying Beach Chair and taxis
For the best experience, you should:
- Arrive before 9am to avoid crowds
- Pack beach essentials
- Plan your activities in advance
The Caribbean location gives you clear waters perfect for swimming and water activities.
You can easily spend a full day exploring the port’s facilities and joining excursions around the island.
Map of Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatán, Honduras Cruise Ship Port
Port Location and Transportation Options
You’ll find Mahogany Bay on Isla Roatán‘s south shore, a private cruise port that Carnival Corporation owns. The port sits 8 miles from the main town of Coxen Hole and 19 miles from Roatán International Airport.
You can choose from several easy ways to get around:
- Take the Magical Flying Beach Chair straight to Mahogany Beach
- Book a taxi from the port’s official stand
- Rent a car from local rental companies
- Join your cruise ship’s planned excursions
- Walk along the port’s safe, paved pathways
Mahogany Bay Beach Club and Facilities
You’ll find the 825-foot private beach club at the heart of Mahogany Bay, featuring soft white sand and clear Caribbean waters. Your beach experience includes free beach chairs and hammocks under palm trees, perfect for relaxing or swimming.
The beach facilities offer everything you need:
- Modern changing rooms
- Fresh-water showers
- Clean toilets
- Beach equipment rentals
The unique “Magic Flying Beach Chair” takes you from the cruise terminal to the beach. You’ll glide above the tropical scenery in this chairlift system, reaching your destination within minutes.
Activities available to you:
- Swimming
- Snorkelling
- Sunbathing
- Beach relaxation
Shopping and Dining at Mahogany Bay Village
Experience shopping and dining at Mahogany Bay Village’s lively district, just steps from the beach. You’ll find a blend of Caribbean style and modern convenience throughout the area.
Shop at:
- Duty-free boutiques with international brands
- Local artisan stalls offering handmade crafts
- Caribbean jewellery shops
- Island souvenir markets
Dine at:
- Waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood
- Open-air cafés with harbour views
- Seaside bars offering tropical drinks
- Local eateries featuring island specialties
The village layout offers:
- Easy-to-navigate pathways
- Quiet courtyards for breaks between shopping
- Colonial-style architecture
- Modern facilities and amenities
You can explore the entire village at your own pace, discovering unique shops and eateries along the way. The tax-free shopping and authentic Caribbean atmosphere make this a distinctive destination for both shopping and dining.
Popular Shore Excursions and Activities
Mahogany Bay offers you over 20 shore excursions to explore Roatán’s nature and culture. You can enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkelling, and diving at the second-largest barrier reef in the world. The crystal-clear waters provide perfect visibility for underwater adventures.
You can choose outdoor activities that match your interests. Take a zip-line ride through the rainforest canopy, walk along nature trails, or ride horses on the beach. The local guides lead kayak tours around the coastline, showing you hidden coves and marine life.
Visit Gumbalimba Park to see native wildlife up close. You’ll spot white-faced monkeys swinging through trees and bright macaws flying overhead. The local villages welcome you to join dance lessons, taste traditional dishes, and learn crafts from skilled artisans.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Puerto Limón, Costa Rica for a different Western Caribbean Cruise destination.
Essential Tips for Cruise Passengers
Making the Most of Your Mahogany Bay Visit
You need simple preparation to enjoy your time at this Caribbean cruise port.
Pack These Essentials:
- Your ship card and photo ID
- US dollars in small denominations
- Water bottle
- Strong sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Downloaded port map
Top Tips:
- Head to Mahogany Beach early – you’ll find free chairs before they fill up
- Keep your belongings in a waterproof bag
- Save money by carrying your own water
- Use your downloaded map to navigate, as local WiFi isn’t reliable
Best Times:
- Arrive before 9am to avoid the main crowds
- Visit shops mid-morning when they’re fully open
- Return to ship before the afternoon heat peaks
The local Caribbean sun gets quite strong, so you’ll need proper protection. Your downloaded map will help you explore confidently when mobile signals become patchy.
Best Times to Visit and Weather Considerations
When to Visit Mahogany Bay
You’ll experience warm weather in Mahogany Bay all year, with temperatures between 24-29°C. The dry season runs from December to April, offering the most sunshine and least rain.
Peak Times and Costs
December to April brings perfect weather but higher prices and more visitors. Your cruise ships dock frequently during these months, making the bay quite busy.
Money-Saving Options
You can find better deals in May and November. These months sit between peak and low seasons, giving you a good balance of weather and value.
Wet Season Tips
The wet season spans June to October. You’ll see brief showers, but they clear quickly. Your benefit: fewer tourists and more peaceful visits.
Temperature Guide
- Peak season: 24-29°C
- Wet season: 24-27°C
- Water temperature: Always warm and swimmable
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Water at Mahogany Bay Safe to Drink?
Don’t drink the tap water at Mahogany Bay or surrounding areas. Your safest options are bottled water or drinks from your cruise ship. This simple precaution helps you avoid any health risks during your visit.
Are There Any Local ATMS That Accept International Debit Cards?
You can find multiple ATMs at the port that accept international debit cards. The shopping area and cruise terminal both have machines that work with most major international cards. These ATMs let you withdraw local currency without hassle.
What Is the Tipping Culture and Expected Gratuity Amounts at Mahogany Bay?
Tipping at Mahogany Bay follows these simple guidelines:
Restaurants: Tip your server 15-20% of your bill.
Tour Guides: Give ÂŁ5-10 per person in your group.
Taxi Drivers: Add 10% to your fare.
Shop Vendors: No tipping needed.
You can adjust these amounts based on service quality, but these percentages serve as reliable baselines for your visit. Keep small bills handy to make tipping easier.
Are There Medical Facilities or Pharmacies Within the Port Area?
Limited medical services are available at the port. You can access a first aid station located near the main entrance for minor health issues. For serious medical concerns, you should use either your cruise ship’s medical facilities or visit nearby city hospitals. Local pharmacies operate outside the immediate port area, typically within a 10-15 minute walk.
Can Cruise Passengers Stay Overnight at Mahogany Bay’s Accommodations?
Mahogany Bay’s accommodations are not available for cruise passengers’ overnight stays. The port facilities are reserved only for cruise staff and port employees. You must either return to your cruise ship or book separate accommodation elsewhere on Roatan island for overnight stays.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Roatán, Honduras Cruise Ship Port .
