This story has been updated in January of 2026
By Kevin Wilkerson, San Diego Blogger
Ferry service between San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico, is apparently moving forward and is ready to begin service in April. Not.
Back in 2025, Azteca Ferries posted on its website, Aztecaferries, that ” ferry between Ensenada and San Diego is preparing to set sail.” Yet when I checked its website under “Buy Tickets,” nothing happens. A Contact Us banner does not go to a link or e-mail address. According to the Port of San Diego (as of mid-2025; there’s been very little movement since), the ferry has yet to receive both U.S. federal and California permits to begin service, and until it does, it will not be allowed to operate.
If And There Is The Ferry Service Between SD & Ensenada
There will be two trips per day, each lasting approxiately 2 1/2 hours. Ticket prices have yet to be determined. Also not known is the location of the ferry’s arrival and depature. In San Diego, will it be along the Embarcadro near the cruise ship terminal, further down where the Hornblower boats are docked, in the Point Loma marina or elsewhere?
In 2025, it seemed as if this dream was about to become reality. But we’re still waiting.
“Kurt Honold Morales, head of Baja California’s Department of Economy and Innovation, has confirmed that Azteca Ferries will begin test trips in March, with the official launch scheduled for April, when the state will host the Tianguis Turístico 2025,” Azteca stated at the time on its website. “The ferry will be able to accommodate up to 330 passengers, though ticket prices are still undisclosed as negotiations continue with the Port of San Diego.”
San Diego to Ensenada Ferry Schedule
• 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
• 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Ensenada to San Diego Ferry Schedule
• 7-9:30 a.m.
• 3-5:30 p.m.
This means, with the current schedule, you cannot go from San Diego to Ensenada for the day. So much for leaving in the morning, whooping it up in the Ensenada cantinas and returning that evening. You must stay overnight. At least there is a late afternoon option rather than just an early-morning oine.
PubClub.com will provide any updates as we receive or become aware of them.
I need to catch a ferry from So. California to Ensenada on September 13 or September 14. Returning on September 15, if possible. Thanks!