Baja California officials say preparations are nearly complete for a new binational ferry connecting Ensenada with San Diego.
Kurt Ignacio Honold, Baja California’s Secretary of Economy and Innovation, told San Diego Red that the state has met all requirements for California, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and other federal agencies to approve operations. Officials are now waiting for the Mexican Navy to announce when the remodeled customs facilities will be ready so the ferry can begin service.
The ferry, operated by Azteca Ferries, will offer one-way and round-trip service between Ensenada and San Diego. The vessel can carry up to 330 passengers, with estimated fares ranging from $50 to $60 per trip, including port fees.
The ferry is a roll-on/roll-off vessel capable of completing the roughly 111-kilometer crossing in about two to two and a half hours. Tentative schedules posted by Azteca Ferries include two daily departures in each direction:
- San Diego to Ensenada: 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and 7:00–9:30 p.m.
- Ensenada to San Diego: 7:00–9:30 a.m. and 3:00–5:30 p.m.
Passengers can expect air-conditioned cabins, outdoor seating areas, Wi-Fi, a café, and restrooms. The ferry will also accommodate service animals and include accessibility features for passengers with disabilities.
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Authorities say the exact start date will be announced by the concessionaire once the final customs preparations are complete.
