Kurt Honold, Baja California’s Secretary of Economy and Innovation, confirmed that planning is already underway for what officials are calling the second and third phases of the binational ferry initiative. The next stage would introduce service from Popotla in Playas de Rosarito, followed by a potential third phase expanding departures from Playas de Tijuana.
Earlier this year, Governor Marina del Pilar requested support from Mexico’s Navy (SEMAR) to evaluate the feasibility of the maritime link. The strategy is to begin with the Ensenada–San Diego corridor and, pending its success, quickly scale to include Rosarito and Tijuana.
Key details remain under wraps. The operational costs, ticket prices, and exact departure locations have not yet been disclosed, though officials indicate that this information will be released soon.
Ensenada-San Diego Route Ferry Has Already Docked
The ferry intended for the inaugural Ensenada–San Diego route arrived in Ensenada on August 12, 2025, after a journey from Seattle. Its arrival was hailed as a historic milestone for regional mobility.
The ship is currently docked and undergoing a final series of inspections and renovations slated to begin on September 12. If all goes according to plan, the first passengers could be setting sail by the end of 2025.
This multi-phase ferry plan represents a bold step toward decongesting one of the world’s busiest international borders while offering a new, picturesque travel alternative for tourists and daily commuters alike. As Baja California pushes forward with these plans, all eyes will be on the launch of the first route, and the promise of a more connected future.
