Cozumel Locals Fight Cruise Pier Threat to Reefs and Beaches

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — More than 50 boats led by fishermen, divers, and local families took to the waters off Cozumel on May 9 to protest the proposed construction of a fourth cruise ship pier on the island. The demonstration, organized by citizen groups such as Isla Cozumel and the environmental organization Conservación, Investigación y Manejo Ambiental de Cozumel (CIMAC), aims to halt a project they argue threatens the environment, public spaces, and the island’s way of life.

Concerns Over Environmental and Public Access Impacts

The maritime protest is part of growing opposition to the project, which critics say lacks a binding public consultation and an approved Environmental Impact Statement (MIA). Opponents warn that the construction would directly damage the Villablanca reef, a high-value marine ecosystem, and eliminate one of the last public beach access points in the Marina Fonatur area.

The plan reportedly includes three components: the new cruise ship pier, a private beach club called Cabo Mantarraya, and the expansion of the existing SSA pier.

Human rights lawyer Carlos Odriozola Mariscal, currently a candidate for Mexico’s Supreme Court (SCJN) and a legal advisor to the protesting groups since 2023, joined the demonstration. "This project not only endangers the Villablanca reef but also violates fundamental principles of legality, citizen participation, and environmental protection," he stated.

Legal and Political Developments

The controversy intensified after protesters lost a legal challenge against a preliminary authorization for the project. Additional demonstrations were held on April 23 at the fiscal pier and near the affected reef.

Amid mounting pressure, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated on May 7 that the federal government has not formally approved the pier’s construction. "It is a project, but any project must have its Environmental Impact Statement," she said, emphasizing that proceeding without authorization would be illegal.

Continued Resistance

Protest organizers have vowed to pursue further legal action, public forums, and peaceful demonstrations to demand sustainable development that respects Cozumel’s natural environment and residents’ rights.