If you travel with Carnival, Princess or Holland America, your ship will probably dock at Carnival’s own port in Roatan. For years it was known as Mahogany Bay; in 2026, after a big renovation, it took the new name of Isla Tropicale. This is the second port article we promised in our story of Roatan and the cruise ships; the first one is about the Port of Roatan in Coxen Hole.
A port built for a day at the beach
The port is in Dixon Cove, on the south coast, a few minutes east of Coxen Hole. It opened in 2009, built by Carnival Corporation with local partners, and its two berths are reserved for ships of the Carnival Corporation brands. Unlike the port in Coxen Hole, it was designed as a small resort: you can spend the whole day there without leaving the property.
What you will find
- Mahogany Beach, the port’s private beach, which you can reach on foot or with the famous chairlift that flies over the trees (it has its own ticket).
- Mangrove Bay, the new pool area opened with the Isla Tropicale renovation: a large pool with a swim-up bar, a splash area for children and cabanas and daybeds to rent.
- Dozens of shops and kiosks of local artisans, restaurants and bars.
Prices of loungers, cabanas and the chairlift change by season and by sailing, so it is worth checking them on board or in your cruise line’s app.
Stay at the port or explore the island?
Isla Tropicale is comfortable and easy, perfect if you just want to relax. But it is still a port: the real Roatan is outside. In a few minutes by road you can reach West Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches of the Caribbean (read our guide), the colorful village of West End, or Sandy Bay, where you can meet the dolphins at Anthony’s Key.
Tips for your day
- Check your all-aboard time and plan to be back at least one hour earlier.
- Agree on taxi prices before getting in, per person or per car.
- Carry small US dollar bills and reef-safe sunscreen.
- If several ships are in port, start early: the most popular places fill up fast.
Our tours from Isla Tropicale
We plan every excursion around your ship’s schedule, with local guides and times calculated to bring you back on board on time: the Dolphin Encounter, the glass bottom boat, parasailing or the 4 Stops Boat Tour. Write to us with your ship and date, and we will help you plan your day.
See also our practical guide to both Roatan cruise ports: which one your ship uses, distances and where we meet you.
