Mexican authorities have rejected a major development proposal by Royal Caribbean to build a large water park and resort in the coastal town of Mahahual, Quintana Roo. The decision follows sustained opposition from local residents and environmental groups who argued the project would harm the region’s fragile ecosystem, particularly its proximity to the Mesoamerican Reef—the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. Alicia Bárcena, Mexico’s secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources, confirmed the project would not be approved, echoing concerns raised by President Claudia Sheinbaum about preserving ecological balance.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico project, first announced in October 2024, was envisioned as a sustainable destination featuring water parks, beaches, dining, and entertainment, with an expected 2027 opening. The company expressed disappointment but said it respects Mexico’s environmental review process and remains committed to responsible investment. Despite promoting the project as eco-friendly, critics pointed to irreversible risks to mangroves, marine access, and the cultural identity of the fishing-based community.

A Change.org petition against the project gathered over 4.8 million signatures, emphasizing Mahahual as one of the last unspoiled stretches of the Mexican Caribbean. The outcome contrasts with Royal Caribbean’s successful CocoCay resort in the Bahamas, which draws over two million visitors annually. The decision underscores growing public scrutiny over large-scale tourism developments in ecologically sensitive regions.