yes it "appears" they are stopping at places to give the locals a boost in their economy! However, the choices are limited for excursions. I usually decline ship excursions as I get more from local vendors, but this cruise ship stops in places that I cannot in general shop around. Maybe it is a safety iissue? The only 2 excursions in Santa Rosalia are$169 each for 5 hours...pretty steep....and try as I may I cannot find alternate tours offered from the port. Live and learn.......