Mexico Rejects Royal Caribbean's 90-Hectare Water Park as 4 Million Sign Petition
Updated
Updated · Reuters · May 19
Mexico Rejects Royal Caribbean's 90-Hectare Water Park as 4 Million Sign Petition
8 articles · Updated · Reuters · May 19
Environment Minister Alicia Barcena said Mexico will not approve Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day Mexico project in Mahahual, and the company is also moving to withdraw it.
The planned 90-hectare park near the Mesoamerican Reef drew backlash over risks to reefs, protected mangroves, turtle nesting areas and other wildlife in the coastal zone.
President Claudia Sheinbaum backed the rejection, saying the area has a vital ecological balance that must not be harmed.
Royal Caribbean said it regretted the decision but respected Mexico's environmental authorities, adding it still wants to invest locally and discuss jobs and environmental infrastructure.
The setback highlights rising resistance to mass tourism projects on Mexico's Caribbean coast, where a petition launched in July 2025 has topped 4 million signatures.
How does Mexico's rejection of a mega-park align with its new policy to fast-track foreign investment?
With the water park canceled, what is the plan for sustainable economic growth in coastal communities like Mahahual?
What is the true long-term economic value of preserving the Mesoamerican Reef versus building a major tourist attraction?