(1:45 p.m. EDT) -- The Mexican Riviera can't catch a break: Due to "continued security concerns," Carnival Cruise Lines has extended its decision to steer clear of Mazatlan, according to a statement provided to Cruise Critic.
The decision affects itineraries for Carnival Splendor and Carnival Spirit. Word first surfaced on the Cruise Critic boards that Carnival had adjusted its fall itineraries on the two ships; in recent months, Carnival, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line and others have canceled visits to the troubled port following a spate of violence tied to the escalating drug war. Several weeks ago, Princess Cruises took it a step further and canceled calls to Puerto Vallarta.
Both Carnival Spirit and Carnival Splendor, however, will continue to call in Puerto Vallarta.
Spirit's nine-day itineraries from San Diego and Los Angeles will also include two days in Cabo San Lucas and stops in Manzanillo and Ensenada; the season runs September 2011 to March 2012. (Note: A previously slotted stop in La Paz has been replaced with a sea day; we've asked Carnival for clarification.)
Meanwhile, Splendor -- operating seven-day voyages year-round out of Long Beach, California -- will spend two days in Cabo, in addition to the call in Puerto Vallarta.
There's no word on when -- or if -- Carnival will return to Mazatlan. According to the statement, the line "will continue to work with the Mexican government and local officials to review their security plans for Mazatlan."
--by John Deiner, Managing Editor
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