Routes & Crossing Times
La Paz → Mazatlán
Crossing time
12–16 hours (overnight)
Frequency
~3 crossings/week (seasonal)
Vessel
Baja Star
Primary crossing for travelers heading south into Nayarit, Jalisco, and mainland Mexico.
La Paz → Topolobampo
Vehicles onlyFOOT PASSENGERS NOT ALLOWED on the Topolobampo route — vehicles only.
Crossing time
6–8 hours
Frequency
~4 crossings/week (seasonal)
Vessel
California Star
Connects to Los Mochis (Sinaloa) and the Copper Canyon railway (El Chepe). Shorter crossing but Mazatlán is still ~6–7 hrs south by road.
Schedule note: Both schedules change seasonally. Always verify current departure times directly at bajaferries.com.mx before planning travel. Do not rely on any published schedule — including this page — for exact times.
Pricing
Baja Ferries fares vary by route, date, season, and booking timing. Do not rely on any third-party pricing — always check bajaferries.com.mx for current fares before booking.
Passenger seat (reclining)
Approximately $95–147 USD (Mazatlán route, 2024 range)
Fare includes taxes and one meal
Cabin bunk
Higher — varies by cabin type
Check bajaferries.com.mx for current cabin options
Vehicle + driver ticket
Approximately $200–250 USD range
Vehicle ticket includes driver; additional passengers pay separately
Prices listed are approximate 2024 reference ranges only — verify current pricing at bajaferries.com.mx before booking.
Booking
- Book directly at bajaferries.com.mx — this is the most reliable method for current schedules and pricing.
- WhatsApp booking confirmed and responsive — contact Baja Ferries via WhatsApp, receive PDF invoice, pay online, receive PDF confirmation with QR code.
- Same-day tickets are sometimes available but not guaranteed on busy routes.
- Book in advance for peak periods: Semana Santa, summer school holidays, and major Mexican holidays.
Arrive 3 hours before departure
Confirmed for vehicle crossings. Allows time for customs/weigh station check-in and port procedures.
For Vehicles
- Go through the customs/weigh station at the port on arrival — you receive a slip with your vehicle's weight and length; present to the ticket office.
- A port tax is required for all vehicles at Pichilingue, even if not boarding that day.
- Foreign vehicles needing a TIP (Temporary Import Permit) can get it at the Banjercito office at the port.
- On Baja Ferries, passengers are NOT permitted to stay in their vehicle during the crossing — you are assigned to rooms or seating.
On Board
Baja Ferries is a passenger-cargo ferry — approach it as transportation, not a cruise experience. What to expect:
- Restaurant, bar, and cafeteria on board
- Reclining seats and private cabins (book in advance for cabins)
- One meal included with most fares
- Comfortable for what it is — adequate for an overnight crossing
- Pets not permitted (verify current policy at bajaferries.com.mx)
TMC Ferries — The Alternative
TMC Ferries is a second ferry operator running the same La Paz–Mazatlán and La Paz–Topolobampo routes. Important distinction from Baja Ferries:
TMC allows passengers to sleep in their vehicle during the crossing.
This makes TMC particularly popular with RV owners, overlanders in camper vans, and travelers with large vehicles. Trade-offs: fewer passenger amenities, clientele is largely truck drivers, noisier (refrigerator trucks running on deck), meals included but limited options.
- Best for: RV owners, camper vans, anyone who prefers sleeping in their own vehicle
- Sometimes cheaper than Baja Ferries — compare pricing before booking
- Website: tmcferries.com.mx
Compare both Baja Ferries and TMC for your specific vehicle size, travel dates, and comfort preference before booking.