The Port Authority and Maritime Affairs Unit is preparing operations to identify and detain illegal vessels offering “pirate” nautical services in northern Quintana Roo.
Francisco Fernández Millán, president of the Nautical Associations of Quintana Roo (ANQ), explained that they will support the Port Authority in locating the vessels and, if possible, providing the vessel names, models, and other details.
The ANQ president stated that there could be between 150 and 200 vessels providing “pirate” nautical services in the northern part of the state, especially in Cancún, where the main demand is generated.
He announced that the operations will begin once the association gathers the requested reports so that the authorities can proceed with the verification and, if necessary, seize the illegal vessels.
The operation against these vessels was announced after the nautical sector warned about a large number of tours offered on social media by unlicensed boat brokers or intermediaries, putting users at risk, as these boats lack third-party insurance in the event of an accident.
“It’s very common to see this on social media. They call themselves boat brokers, who are simply people dedicated to managing the private boats of owners who may not even live here,” explained Ricardo Muleiro, director of the association.
The organization had previously stated that it was impossible to know for sure how many vessels operate under these conditions, but just a glance at social media reveals that they are abundant, with no limits on their sales.
In May of this year, organized nautical associations warned that, unless there is decisive action by the authorities—including arrests and hefty fines—there will be no way to stop the operators of pirate vessels.
At the beginning of August, the Nautical Associations of Quintana Roo recorded only 40% occupancy at the end of the high holiday season. This was announced by Francisco Fernández Millán, president of the association.
Source: reportur
