Cruise company drops famous Mexican resort from its itinerary because of growing violence in the region
Carnival Corporation’s Holland America line has scrapped Acapulco as a destination for 2017 and 2018
AN American-British cruise line has pulled Acapulco from its itineraries because of concerns about violent crime in the area.
Carnival Corporation’s Holland America line runs eight different cruises that stop in Mexican locations, but the famous resort has been scrapped for both 2017 and 2018, because of security fears.
Holland America released a statement which read: “Due to recent security concerns, Holland America Line has replaced calls at Acapulco, Mexico, with alternative Mexican ports on eight scheduled 2017/2018 cruises.
“Itineraries include seven Panama Canal [sailings] and one South America cruise.
“Guests on affected cruises have been notified of the change. At Holland America Line, the safety of our guests is our top priority.”
Acapulco is a city and major seaport in the state of Guerrero on the Pacific coast of Mexico that has long been popular with holidaymakers.
It became famous as a luxury destination in the 1950s for Hollywood stars.
It was immortalised in the 1988 hit song by the Four Tops, that was written and produced by Phil Collins and Lamont Dozier for the soundtrack to the film Buster.
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In the film, Buster, who is played by Phil Collins, flees to Acapulco after taking part in a robbery in London.
Since then millions of Brits have flocked to the beautiful beaches in the region.
But the area in Mexico has been marred by violence in recent years.
A message on the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) reads: “Due to an increase in violent crime in recent months, you should exercise a high degree of caution in Acapulco and surrounding areas.”
Although Carnival has dropped Acapulco from its itinerary, other cruise companies including Norwegian Cruise Line Holding and Silversea Cruises are continuing to operate in the area.
A spokesperson for Acapulco Destination Marketing said: "Acapulco is ready to receive 28 cruise ships, which have been confirmed for 2017, compared to 18 cruise ships during 2016, representing a 64 percent increase for this upcoming season despite Holland America’s announcement about their route adjustment.
"Therefore, meetings have been established with Holland America’s executives to present them with ongoing security advances at the port."