Retire Early Lifestyle
Retirement; like your parents, but way cooler

In 1991 Billy and Akaisha Kaderli retired at the age of 38. Now, into their 4th decade of this financially independent lifestyle, they invite you to take advantage of their wisdom and experience.

The Deep Sea Port of Manzanillo, Mexico

Billy and Akaisha Kaderli

The modern port of Manzanillo was established in 1971 and is located in the state of Colima on the west coast of Mexico. But it's history dates back to pre-Columbian times, when the area was inhabited by various indigenous groups.

These peoples used the area's natural harbors as a base for fishing and trade.

The first recorded European contact with the area occurred in 1522, when the Spanish explorer Gonzalo de Sandoval arrived in the region. However, it wasn't until the 16th century that the Spanish established a permanent presence in the area, with the founding of the town of Santiago de la Buena Esperanza (now known as Manzanillo).

Enjoy our modern-day pictorial of this deep sea port below.

A list of deep sea ports in Mexico

Puerto de Manzanillo, when measured by volume of cargo, is México's busiest port. Although, when we were there, it didn't seem nearly as active as Porto Veracruz.

Serving 15 states within México there are 26 shipping lines that utilize this seaport bound for 74 other harbors around the world.

This maritime transport area is the main Pacific gateway for international trade. It has access to Mexico's most important industrial and commercial corridor in the country's western and central regions.

The colorful letters spelling out Manzanillo

Many towns and cities throughout Mexico have the eye-catching tourist attraction of the letters of the city's name being spelled out. It's common for visitors to have their photos taken in front of these letters with the obvious being stated - "I was here!"

Manzanillo is known for its blue, blue water. It’s this very water that attracts the beautiful Sailfish, which of course is why Manzanillo is known as the Sailfish capital of the world!

Stacked up shipping containers

This port handles a wide variety of containerized cargoes. You name it, it runs through this port from many countries shipped to many countries.

July 5, 2016, the port administration of Manzanillo received the Shippings Award, given by the Federal Counsel for Environmental Protection. This award is the first one that this Council gave to a Mexican port.

In the late 19th century, the arrival of foreign investors and the expansion of the Pacific Railroad created significant growth and development of this port.

Billy and Akaisha at Porto Manzanillo

In 2003, the deep seaport of Manzanillo became the first port in the world to use a remote-controlled robot to handle cargo. The robot, which is operated by remote control from a central control room, is used to load and unload containers from ships.

Can you imagine?

HUGE sailfish art

You can see how big this artistic sailfish is. I am dwarfed by it!

The waters surrounding the port of Manzanillo are home to a diverse range of marine life, including whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of fish species, making it a prime location for deep sea fishing.

Scuba divers and snorkelers come here to explore the underwater world.

The waters are also known for their abundant sailfish populations, making it a popular destination for sports fishing enthusiasts.

The sailfish is one of the fastest fish in the ocean and can weigh up to 200 pounds.

Ridgebury John B Ship

In 2008, The Puerto de Manzanillo handled 22.3 million tons of cargo and 33 cruise ships called here. They welcomed almost 80.5 thousand passengers that year!

Shipping cranes lined up

The port of Manzanillo is strategically located near major trade routes and has excellent infrastructure. This includes deep-water access for ships to easily dock here as well as modern container-handling equipment.

Connected to major highways and rail networks,  this efficient transportation of goods to and from the port is a dream set up.

Costco container ship

However, the port of Manzanillo is located in a region that is highly susceptible to earthquakes and other natural disasters. And, it is located near the Colima Volcano, one of Mexico's most active volcanoes.

In 1995, a major earthquake struck the area, causing significant damage to the port and the surrounding infrastructure.

Several tugboats wait to help ships in and out of the port

The port of Manzanillo is home to the world's largest operational car terminal, which can handle up to 500,000 vehicles per year.

Manzanillo also has a significant tourism industry.

This area has beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, and a rich history.

Bronze statue of a fisherman

The area to the left outside this photo is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.

The blue water and the blue sky is really remarkable.

Small craft harbor

Walking along the nearly mile-long malecon, we came across this beautiful small craft harbor and some fishermen on the wharf.

Mexico has such a beautiful Pacific Coastline. So many of the beaches along this area are worth a visit.

For more photos, stories and information about  Mexico, CLICK HERE

VIDEOS, VIDEOS, VIDEOS See Mexico for yourself! Beaches, Bars, Babes, Great Food, Live Music.

Retire Early Lifestyle appeals to a different kind of person – the person who prizes their independence, values their time, and who doesn’t want to mindlessly follow the crowd.

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