Mahahual, once a small, little-known fishing village visited only by locals who enjoyed its beaches, will now become Mexico’s new international tourism hub after receiving a megaproject from the world’s second-largest cruise line operator, Royal Caribbean.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the American company has already received the green light from authorities to acquire Promociones Turísticas Mahahual (PTM) in a deal valued at $221.3 million, which includes the port and 34 adjacent properties.
With this, they will apply an additional capital injection of $600 million to develop their “Perfect Day México” water park, which will serve as an anchor service in the Riviera Maya and with which they hope to welcome travelers from all over the world.
This brings the total investment by Royal Caribbean to $821.3 million to drive this development, which will completely transform an area that only gained international fame after 2007, when it was rebuilt following the impact of Hurricane Dean.
This is the first major acquisition of tourist port infrastructure by a foreign shipping company in Mexico and sets a key precedent for future international investments in this area.
This tourism project will generate more than 8,800 jobs during its operation, as well as 1,000 temporary jobs in construction and 2,000 permanent jobs in the new development.
The operation was authorized because it was confirmed that it will result in a significant development boost for the country and, in particular, for the tourist area of Quintana Roo. An economic impact of more than $10.6 billion over 22 years is expected, with a direct impact on sales, productive chains, and an increase in the national GDP.
Kara Wallace, Royal Caribbean’s marketing director, recently spoke at a forum in New York about the importance of Mexico to its passengers and why it’s so attractive.
“The nation’s cultural vitality, spirit, food, art, and music are the biggest draw for our guests who are looking for experiences. It’s a number one international destination for Americans,” she stated at the event.
The “Perfect Day Mexico” park will occupy more than 80 hectares, including the existing port and surrounding areas in Mahahual, Quintana Roo.
Development Hub
With Royal Caribbean’s investment, Mahahual will experience significant growth and become the main cruise destination in the Mexican Caribbean, as the number of visitors will quadruple in less than a decade (from receiving one million to almost four million passengers annually), according to sources familiar with the Cofece approval.
It’s worth noting that this project also revealed commitments to sustainability and environmental protection, such as the use of renewable energy, comprehensive water and waste treatment, and the conservation of 50 percent of the land.
In addition, improvements to public infrastructure are planned, such as roads, services, and a station connected to the Mayan Train, as well as a campus for 2,500 workers and a community center.
What will Perfect Day Mexico have?
With more than 80 hectares on the Mexican Caribbean coast, Royal Caribbean said it will feature innovations in the water park industry and new versions of attractions already available elsewhere. This will be in the fall of 2027.
Highlights include:
Loco Waterpark: Adrenaline seekers can ride more than 30 slides in five towers, one of which will be the tallest in the Americas and will be called Jaguar’s Peak. At over 170 feet tall, it features two dueling slides that take riders through more than two minutes like the world’s longest roller coaster.
Splash Cove, the neighborhood hub for guests of all ages, features the world’s longest lazy river, with a loco on each side. Throughout the one-hour float, there are multiple entry and exit points and plenty of ways to stay hydrated with float bars and a cup holder in each tube. And for those who dare, an optional loco section of the river features unexpected twists and turns with waves, rapids, and turns. At the center of it all is a seemingly endless 100,000-square-foot pool, just one of more than 10 expansive pools at Perfect Day Mexico that together span the size of four football fields.
Little ones have their own adventures at Splashaway Bay, Royal Caribbean’s largest, with waterslides perfectly sized for them. The first-ever Splashaway Cabanas nearby make it the perfect base for families.
The Hideaway – In this adults-only neighborhood, those 18 and older with a day pass can have all-day fun with an easy-access pool, swim-up bar, and DJ. Those looking to celebrate in style can enjoy the party in the new 20-person Ultimate Party Cabana, complete with its own pool and bar. For unparalleled relaxation, The Hideaway offers live music, swim-up bars, and cabanas.
Costa Beach Club: Guests looking to take their beach day to the next level of exclusivity can enjoy the white-sand beaches, heated infinity pool, and premium dining at the Costa Beach Club. For an unforgettable retreat, adventurers can spend the day in a private cabana with a personal assistant, luxurious amenities, and a dedicated pool.
Chill Beach North and South: Vacationers looking to relax can enjoy Mexico’s natural beauty along nearly 3 kilometers of white-sand beaches at Chill Beach, stretching north to south from the pier. Guests can enjoy complimentary lounge chairs, umbrellas, and towels at all Perfect Day Mexico beaches and pools.
Fiesta Plaza: Arrivals area transporting tourists directly to the heart of Mexico with live music and dancing. Additionally, the world’s largest sombrero will be located atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar, where guests are welcomed with margaritas, beers, and more. https://www.milenio.com/negocios/royal-caribbean-adquires-puerto-mahahual-quintana-roo
Change of Leadership
Royal Caribbean Group recently announced that Richard Fain, Chairman of the company’s Board of Directors since 1988, will step down in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The company clarified that he will remain a member of the Board of Directors.
Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group since January 3, 2022, was elected by the Board of Directors to succeed Fain.
In addition, John Brock, a member of the Board of Directors since 2014 and current Chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, has assumed the role of Lead Independent Director.
“I am honored and humbled to have been elected and look forward to continuing to create and deliver the best vacation experience for our guests and generating high long-term value for our shareholders. Fortunately, the company and I will continue to benefit from Richard’s experience and mentorship during his tenure as a director,” said Jason Liberty. The company believes that the addition of John Brock brings invaluable experience gained during his time as Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola Enterprises and CEO of InBev, as well as strong integrity that will support the company’s continued growth and governance.
Source: milenio
