ORIANA's Mexican call

Today finds ORIANA anchored off the Mexican port of Progreso in the state of Yucatán.
 Having spent a day at sea from her previous call in New Orleans ORIANA arrived at anchor at 7:01am local time and was joined around 20 miutes later by Carnival Cruise Lines' CARNIVAL TRIUMPH who anchored alongside ORIANA.

ORIANA and CARNIVAL TRIUMPH at anchor off the coast of Progreso

Venturing ashore via tender ORIANA's passengers are spoilt for choice how to spend their time ashore   from exploring the wharf which at 7km is the longest in Mexico, and reportedly the world, it bustles with the sound of locals coming to enjoy the white sand beaches and clear waters or enjoy the local cuisine in one of the many terraced restaurants.
However perhaps the jewel in the crown, certainly as far as history lovers are concerned are the nearby remains of Mayan cities of Uxmal and Chichen Itza, the mighty structures towering above the ground have for generations inspired all who gaze upon them from tourists like ORIANA's passengers to film makers, writers and even video game developers and each take something different away from these awesome structures.

El Castillo also known as the Temple of Kukulcan makes for an impressive sight when venturing inland.

Departing Progreso ORIANA will spend a day at sea before making her first Caribbean port of the cruise, Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Photo Copyright: Manuel de Corselas