Mexican officials announced their decision to reject the proposal by Royal Caribbean to construct a large water park along the Caribbean coast. The decision followed strong opposition from local residents and environmental advocates who expressed concerns about the potential harm to the region’s delicate ecosystem and the community of Mahahual.
At a press conference on May 19, Alicia Bárcena, Mexico’s Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), addressed questions regarding the cruise line’s planned development. She stated that Royal Caribbean’s ‘Perfect Day’ project would not receive approval. She also noted that the company was considering withdrawing the project. SEMARNAT will not approve the proposal regardless.
“We must not do anything that affects that area,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum remarked, emphasizing the ecological importance of the reefs in the region, as reported by Reuters.
A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean expressed disappointment but stated that the company respects Mexico’s environmental authorities. The spokesperson added that Mahahual is a unique location deserving care and protection. They also mentioned the company’s intentions to re-engage stakeholders to develop essential infrastructure, create local jobs, and support community programs.
The Mahahual site in Quintana Roo was set to feature a state-of-the-art water park with pools, beaches, dining facilities, and bars. This was to be part of Royal Caribbean’s expanding list of destinations.
The proposed development was promoted as a ‘sustainable destination,’ yet a Change.org petition garnered over 4.8 million signatures, calling for the project’s cancellation. Petitioners argued that Mahahual is not an amusement park but a fishing town with local communities relying on the sea for their livelihoods.
The petition stated, “This project directly threatens our rights to access and use the sea, the beaches, and the mangroves, as well as our local identity and way of life.”
On social media, opinions varied, with some applauding Mexico’s decision, while others expressed disappointment. The development at CocoCay in the Bahamas, similar to the Mahahual proposal, successfully draws over two million visitors per year, according to Cruise Industry News.
Mahahual is celebrated for its proximity to the Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second-largest barrier reef system, attracting scuba divers and eco-tourists interested in exploring marine life.
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