Azure Abyss – Merida & Riviera Maya

About this cruise

5 nights, 2 ports, one very easy decision. This one heads out of New Orleans on August 22, 2026 and visits Cozumel and Progreso (Mérida). Sea days bookend the port visits. You settle in, see the ports, then have time to wind down before heading home. Snorkelling, palm trees, rum. Each stop does it a bit differently. Most ports give you about 8 hours, so you can do more than just tick off the main sights. As for the ship itself, Carnival Valor takes the food seriously, with 12 restaurants to choose from. 9 are included, and the rest are worth the splurge. Good for anyone who can't take two weeks off but still wants the cruise experience. Pro tip: fly in the day before. New Orleans has plenty to offer, and you'll board relaxed instead of rushed. It's peak season, so the weather is at its best and the ship will be full. That's part of the fun. If you've been thinking about a cruise, this 5-night sailing is a strong place to start.