Kurt Honold, Baja California’s Secretary of Economy and Innovation, announced that the first stage of the binational ferry operated by Azteca Ferries is nearly ready to launch. The service will initially connect Ensenada with San Diego, with plans already underway to extend future routes from Rosarito and Tijuana.
“The project began with Governor Marina del Pilar’s request to the Mexican Navy for a ferry service that would first connect Ensenada to San Diego. If successful, the plan is to later expand with routes from Rosarito and, ultimately, Tijuana to San Diego,” Honold explained in comments to San Diego Red.
While the ferry is expected to serve as a major attraction for tourism, it also seeks to provide a practical alternative to traditional border crossings, especially during peak times when lines at the ports of entry can stretch for hours.
“Tijuana and San Diego will continue growing together. We have to think about the future and what other crossing options exist. By sea, I believe we can make things easier,” Honold added.
The concept would function similarly to the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) terminal at the Tijuana Airport, but applied to maritime travel. The project has already been well received by U.S. authorities, clearing the way for final preparations.
Azteca Ferries is currently finishing the remodeling of seating, interiors, and exterior paint on its vessels. The company has committed to the state government that the first official voyage will take place before the end of 2025.
