“Perfect Day Mexico”: Environmental Authority Rejects Major Project
© Image: Royal Caribbean International
(eap) Mexico’s environmental authority SEMARNAT does not intend to grant the environmental permits required for the billion-dollar mega-project “Perfect Day Mexico”. The project, planned by cruise company Royal Caribbean as another private destination after Bahamas and Haiti, was to be developed in Mahahual in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Mexico’s Environment Minister Alicia Bárcena announced the decision this week during a press conference.
According to the authority, the concept submitted by Royal Caribbean can not be approved due to the significant environmental damage expected and a threat to the ecological balance of the Mesoamerican Reef system and the mangroves. The plans envisaged the development of an area of around 80 hectares, with the “Loco Waterpark” as its centrepiece, featuring the “tallest waterslide tower in the Americas” and the “world’s longest lazy river”.
In a statement responding to the rejection, Royal Caribbean says the company respects SEMARNAT’s decision and is prepared to provide all information required for an objective review of the project. It also stated that it intends to hold talks with the stakeholders involved. Royal Caribbean said it continues to believe in Mexico as a location and in the potential to advance its investment responsibly.
With “Perfect Day at CocoCay” in the Bahamas and “Royal Caribbean Labadee Beach” in Haiti, the cruise company already has private holiday destinations in its portfolio, while further comparable projects are currently in development (cf. EAP News of 21 May 2025). ■
