Roatán Cruise Ports: Mahogany Bay (Isla Tropicale) vs Port of Roatán
Roatán has two different cruise terminals, and confusing them is the single most common mistake cruise passengers make. This guide explains the difference between Mahogany Bay — now branded Isla Tropicale — and the Port of Roatán in Coxen Hole, so you arrive at the correct dock.
Two terminals, not one
Mahogany Bay Cruise Terminal (Isla Tropicale) is Carnival Corporation's private cruise port on the south shore of Roatán, in the Dixon Cove area. The Port of Roatán, sometimes called Coxen Hole Cruise Port, is a separate, publicly run terminal located in Coxen Hole town on the island's north-east side. They are operated by different companies and sit several kilometres apart.
Which ships dock where
Mahogany Bay / Isla Tropicale primarily serves Carnival Corporation brands — Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. The Port of Roatán in Coxen Hole handles most other lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, Celebrity and Disney. Always check your specific ship's itinerary, because the assigned terminal can change.
Distance and location
The Port of Roatán is close to Coxen Hole town and about 10–15 minutes from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB). Mahogany Bay / Isla Tropicale is further south in Dixon Cove, roughly 20–30 minutes from the airport depending on traffic. Both are on Roatán but on opposite sides of the island.
Beach and facilities
Mahogany Bay has its own private beach (Mahogany Beach), a shopping village, pools, beach clubs and the Magical Flying Beach Chair lift, all inside the gated port. The Port of Roatán has a smaller terminal and no private beach — visitors take a taxi, shuttle or water taxi to West Bay or West End for sand and snorkelling.
How to choose and get between them
You don't really choose the terminal — your ship does. If you want to explore beyond your port, taxis and tour operators connect both terminals to West Bay, West End and the rest of the island. If your ship is at Mahogany Bay but you want the town-centre port area, budget about 15–20 minutes of transfer time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Mahogany Bay and the Port of Roatán the same place?
No. They are two separate cruise terminals on Roatán run by different operators. Mahogany Bay (Isla Tropicale) is Carnival's private port in Dixon Cove; the Port of Roatán is in Coxen Hole town.
Which port does Carnival use at Roatán?
Carnival Corporation brands — Carnival, Holland America and Princess — dock at Mahogany Bay, now branded Isla Tropicale.
Which port does Royal Caribbean, Norwegian or MSC use?
These and most other non-Carnival lines typically dock at the Port of Roatán in Coxen Hole, not at Mahogany Bay.
How far apart are the two ports?
They are on opposite sides of Roatán and are roughly a 15–30 minute drive apart, depending on traffic and exact route.
Can I visit Mahogany Bay beach if I dock at Coxen Hole?
Yes. Taxis and organised shore excursions can take you from the Port of Roatán to Mahogany Bay and other beaches, but Mahogany Beach amenities are oriented toward cruise guests at that port.