Wine Tasting Tour ONLY for Cruise Ship Visitors. ALL INCLUSIVE!

A Private Wine Tasting Experience Designed for Cruise Ship Visitors in Ensenada

If you’re arriving in Ensenada on a cruise and want to make the most of your limited time, this all-inclusive private wine tour offers an excellent way to explore Mexico’s renowned Valle de Guadalupe wine region. For around $220 per person, you’ll enjoy a 4-6 hour journey that takes you from the cruise port to two boutique wineries and a local brewery, with delicious Mexican brunch tacos included. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a relaxed, intimate experience away from the crowds, with the safety of a carefully planned schedule that ensures you’ll return to your ship on time.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines authentic wine tasting at sustainable boutique wineries with a taste of local cuisine and craft beer — all in a private group setting. It’s a perfect mix for those who value personalized attention and small-group intimacy, allowing you to ask questions, learn about Mexican wines, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Plus, the tour’s convenient pickup starting just outside the cruise terminal makes logistics straightforward.

A possible consideration is that walking to the pickup point from the cruise dock might be a bit of a strain for some, especially with luggage or mobility issues. However, the comfort of private transportation and the well-paced itinerary help mitigate this inconvenience.

We think this tour is best suited for cruise travelers who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Baja’s wine scene without the hassle of organizing their own transport or tours. If you’re looking for a small-group experience with plenty of time to savor wines and enjoy the local flavor, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic boutique wineries: Experience the unique architecture and sustainable practices of Clos de Tres Cantos and Sol y Barro.
• All-inclusive convenience: Tasting fees, brunch tacos, and crafts beers are covered, making it hassle-free.
• Private, small-group setting: Ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Perfect for cruise visitors: Tour is designed to fit within your limited time with reliable transportation.
• Authentic regional flavors: Enjoy locally crafted wines, Mexican tacos, and Mexican craft beers.
• Knowledgeable guides: Local guides know the area well and share insights beyond the usual tourist spots.

An In-Depth Look at the Ensenada Wine Tasting Tour

This tour is carefully crafted for cruise ship visitors craving a taste of Baja California’s acclaimed wine country, Valle de Guadalupe, just a short drive from the port of Ensenada. Priced at $220.73 per person, it seems like a fair investment considering the all-inclusive nature—covering wine tastings, a Mexican brunch, craft beer, bottled water, and private transportation. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances quality, convenience, and authenticity.

From the moment you step out of your cruise ship, the logistics are straightforward. You exit the dock, walk a short block to a designated meeting point near a 7-11, and then hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with your group. Our experience shows that small groups and personalized guides elevate the visit, and the reviews confirm this; one guest mentioned, “Small group, took us to places the larger tours can’t go,” which highlights the tour’s intimate, flexible nature.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

Stop 1: Centro Social, Civico y Cultural Riviera de Ensenada
Your journey begins just outside the cruise port. It’s a quick walk, about 10 minutes, passing by the last checkpoint, making it easy to coordinate and ensuring no extra waiting time. This initial step is mainly logistical—getting everyone together and ready for your private ride.

Stop 2: Clos de Tres Cantos
Your first winery is Clos de Tres Cantos, a sustainable boutique winery designed by Mexican architect Alejandro D’Acosta. This place stands out for its striking architecture—a true visual treat—plus its emphasis on eco-friendly practices. Here, you’ll sample four wines, with the tasting included in the tour. The guide’s insights about the winery’s sustainability and design add depth, and the small group setting allows for more meaningful conversations.

A guest, Steven_R, called this stop “a great place with great wines” and appreciated the unique architecture. The winery’s emphasis on quality and sustainability makes it more than just a tasting stop—it’s an introduction to Baja’s innovative wine scene.

Stop 3: Cavas Sol Y Barro
Next, the tour moves to Cavas Sol y Barro, which translates to Sun and Clay. Built by owner Aimee Deponds from Switzerland, this cozy boutique winery is very personal—constructed by the owner himself. You’ll taste another four wines, with a focus on how the clay soil and sun influence the wines’ character. The setting offers a peaceful, intimate vibe, perfect for savoring the flavors and asking questions.

Guests often comment on the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the owner’s hands-on approach. It’s a chance to see how small-scale wineries in Baja are innovating while staying rooted in tradition.

Stop 4: Cervecería Transpeninsular
Your final stop is a local brewery renowned for its craft beers—a nice change of pace after wine tasting. Here, you’ll enjoy an ice-cold craft beer, choosing from a variety, and Mexican tacos (three) for a relaxed, flavorful lunch. This stop adds a casual, social element to the tour and highlights Baja’s thriving craft beer scene.

Timing is well-structured—you start at 9:30 am and finish around 3:15 pm, giving you enough time to return to your ship comfortably. The tour is designed to maximize your tasting experiences without feeling rushed, and you’ll be back in time to enjoy the rest of your day in Ensenada or to catch your cruise’s departure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group size and local guides are consistently praised, with one review stating, “The guides know the area well,” enabling a richer, more personalized experience. The authenticity of visiting boutique wineries—places larger tours often bypass—means you’ll get a genuine taste of Baja’s wine culture. Plus, the scenic drives through the Valle de Guadalupe are as beautiful as the wines themselves, providing ample opportunities for photos and quiet moments.

Practical Details You’ll Appreciate

• Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicles ensure comfort and flexibility.
• Walkability: The initial walk from the cruise dock is short and simple, just a matter of a few minutes.
• Inclusions: Wineries’ tasting fees, Mexican tacos, craft beer, bottled water, and transportation make this a straightforward, all-in-one experience.
• Flexibility: The tour is exclusive to your group, so your guide can tailor the experience slightly if needed.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration might be the walk from your cruise ship to the pick-up point—though just a few minutes, it could be inconvenient for travelers with heavy luggage or mobility challenges. Otherwise, the timing and pace are well-planned, and the private nature of the tour allows for a relaxed experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private wine tasting journey is best suited for cruise travelers seeking a personalized, authentic Baja wine experience that fits within a limited schedule. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, enjoy boutique wineries, and want a balanced mix of wine, local food, and craft beer. If you’re looking to avoid crowded tours and prefer a more in-depth, relaxed experience, this tour checks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

This Ensenada wine tour offers a combination of quality, authenticity, and convenience that’s hard to beat when pressed for time. It’s more than just a tasting—it’s a chance to learn about Baja’s innovative wine scene from passionate guides and to enjoy beautiful scenery while sampling some of Mexico’s finest boutique wines.

The all-inclusive package simplifies logistics and ensures you won’t be caught off guard by hidden costs, making it a smart choice for cruise visitors eager to savor Baja’s flavors without fuss. With a small-group setting and carefully curated stops, you’ll find this tour offers both value and genuine local charm—an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.

FAQ

How do I find the pickup point from the cruise port?
You exit the cruise ship dock, turn right, walk about one block until the end of the street, and you’ll see a 7-11. The guide will meet you nearby.

What is included in the tour price?
Your fee covers wine tastings at two boutique wineries, craft beer at the brewery, Mexican tacos (3) with a glass of beer, bottled water, and private transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am and finishing around 3:15 pm, giving you plenty of time to return to your cruise.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate; it’s designed for those who can walk short distances and enjoy small-group experiences. Service animals are also allowed.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included. Tipping is always appreciated for guides and service staff if you’re pleased with their service.

Can I buy bottles of wine or other beverages?
Purchases are not included in the tour price and are at your own expense.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample 4 wines at each winery—likely a mix of reds and whites, reflecting Baja’s boutique wine styles.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made later aren’t refundable.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private, air-conditioned transportation is included, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the day.

Can I bring friends or family who aren’t on the tour?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, making it perfect for family or friends traveling together.

Embark on this private wine adventure and discover the best of Baja’s boutique wines, stunning scenery, and authentic flavors—all tailored for cruise visitors seeking a relaxed, memorable day in Ensenada.