Royal Caribbean is planning to completely overhaul the port of Costa Maya in Mexico and that's gotten the attention of locals who have concerns.
Earlier this summer, the cruise line revealed plans to construct its biggest private destination yet. In fact, the footprint is as large as the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.
The ambitious plans were received with astonishment from the public for all the fun activities, but some people are worried about the impact it will have on the area.
An online petition has collected over 200,000 signatures asking for the project to stop the project.
The creator of the petition claims Perfect Day Mexico will be restrictive and disruptive to the people and environment.
This project directly threatens our rights of access and use of the sea, beaches, and mangroves, our local identity, our way of life, our freedom to live here, and above all, the survival of unique and threatened ecosystems
Royal Caribbean defended its plans, and promises to be transparent and open as it moves forward with the project.
"Careful planning and open dialogue"
The petition caught the attention of Royal Caribbean, as they want to be as open about their plans as possible.
Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer Jay Schneider issued a statement to Riviera Maya News that explains their approach and why their plans are not what's being characterized by the online petition.
According to the statement, the development will be "characterized by transparency and a profound respect for the local community and the environment."
It's true the cruise line bought the Port of Costa Maya in July, but it's merely the first step in a journey that will take many years, "Perfect Day Mexico is designed to generate a positive and lasting impact on the economy, the local community, and the environment."
Royal Caribbean is aware of the concerns locals have regarding the impact the project will have on the environment, local resources, and small businesses.
In response, Royal Caribbean said it has been meeting with stakeholders, "Since we recently took on responsibility for managing the port, we have worked closely with employees, local operators, and authorities to listen, identify, and understand their priorities. This collaborative approach ensures the creation of opportunities that benefit everyone."
Environment
In response to the strong concerns about how Perfect Day Mexico could be problematic to the ecosystem in the greater Mahahual area, Royal Caribbean pledged to do everything it can to protect it.
"As part of our ongoing environmental commitment, we will preserve 45 hectares of existing mangroves," the statement said.
Additionally, they promised to ensure natural water flow is not changed, "we will actively participate in restoring water flow throughout the ecosystem and work to reverse existing degradation in aquifer layers, allowing the mangroves to thrive in a healthy natural habitat."
Furthermore, Mr. Schneider stressed construction would not begin until environmental permits are secured and a community meeting has been held, "construction and renovation activities will only begin once we have obtained the necessary environmental permits from the competent authorities."
Another pledge Royal Caribbean has made is to Perfect Day Mexico will be a green operation.
By 2040, the entire area will operate on 100% green energy, "Our commitment to using 100% green energy to supply our site by 2040 is based on a holistic approach to sustainable development that balances economic growth, community inclusion, and environmental protection."
Protecting the sea turtles
Royal Caribbean said it will work with environmental associations to protect native species, including sea turtle nesting sites.
Mr. Schneider said that more than 95% of wastewater generated today in Mahahual is untreated.
According to the company, reef structures will remain untouched, and new waste management systems will be put in place to prevent further contamination.
Royal Caribbean's approach includes:
- A wastewater treatment plant
- A solid waste management facility serving both tourists and residents
- Programs to eliminate single-use plastics
"This new facility will represent a transformative change for the region and reduce its environmental impact."
"We will also collaborate with environmental associations to enhance the area, leaving existing reef structures intact, and implementing sustainable solutions to manage waste and coastal resources. We are committed to protecting native species, including sea turtle nesting sites and coastal flora."
What about small businesses?
In addition to the environment, a number of companies that cater to cruise tourists today are worried about being driven out of business.
Royal Caribbean responded by saying the development will include, "Training programs for local employees, access to educational and healthcare services, as well as the integration of advanced technologies in energy and mobility that will significantly reduce carbon emissions in the area."
He also reiterated that direct and open dialogue with nearby communities will continue throughout the process, calling transparency "a practice that we will continue as part of our commitment."
What Royal Caribbean has planned
It will take two years for Costa Maya to be converted into Perfect Day Mexico, and the cruise port will remain open in the meantime.
The port will continue to allow other cruise lines to stop at the Port of Costa Maya, allowing their passengers to enjoy the excursions and activities around Mahahual. The actual Perfect Day Mexico property will be exclusive to Royal Caribbean guests (although they are free to do go out and do other tours too).
Over $600 million will be invested in building a water park, beach clubs, a lazy river, shopping areas, and lots of dining. In fact, it will have 30 slides and the longest lazy river in the world.
Perfect Day Mexico is expected to open for Royal Caribbean guests in Fall 2027.
