Costa Maya (Mahahual)
Beautiful Costa Maya, an ancient maritime trading post of the Mayan Empire, is home to no less than five of the region's ancient Mayan cities, all of which remain largely unspoiled -- with some still in the process of being rediscovered. Among the options for history buffs are Chetumal, the capital of the state of Quintano Roo -- home to one of the Yucatan's best museums of the Mayan culture. Impressive Mayan ruins can be found at Oxtankah, the first Mayan city, which dates back to 350 A.D. Chakchoben, largely unexplored until last year, dates back to 360 A.D. when it played an important role as one of the principal distribution centers for the region's precious woods and jades. This new port of call begins at the recently built cruise port of Mahahual, on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, just south of Cancun. From here passengers can explore the historic sites, beaches and coral reefs of this Mexican Riviera. Off shore, Chincorro, a dramatic coral reef the size of Cozumel Island, offers one of the greatest snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the Caribbean - traces of shipwrecks from 16th century pirate vessels can still be found here.
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