Star of the Seas Arrives in Costa Maya

MAHAHUAL, Quintana Roo — The port of Costa Maya in Mahahual witnessed a historic event with the arrival of the Star of the Seas, considered the largest cruise ship in the world. This arrival is part of its inaugural Caribbean route and reinforces the positioning of Quintana Roo as one of the preferred destinations for the international tourism and shipping industry.

Captain Rob Hempstead, a representative of the company Royal Caribbean, led the traditional plaque exchange ceremony with state government authorities. Veudi Manuel Vivas Rivero, operations manager of the Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (Apiqroo), participated in the ceremony. The U.S. Consul in Mérida, Justen A. Thomas, and business leaders from Mahahual attended as guests of honor.

During the event, a symbolic delivery of the keys to the port of Costa Maya was also conducted, a gesture symbolizing the joint work between the cruise line and the state to attract more visitors.

The Star of the Seas, along with its sister ship Icon of the Seas, is one of the most impressive recreational ships on the planet. This state-of-the-art vessel measures 365 meters in length and 66 meters in width, featuring 20 decks with a capacity for 5,610 passengers and 2,650 crew members. Its inaugural voyage began on August 31 from Port Canaveral, Florida, where it generated significant expectation due to its innovative design and wide range of entertainment offerings.

Among its main attractions is the Aquadome, a monumental structure of steel and glass where diving shows are performed at sea. Furthermore, it offers its passengers more than 20 bars and restaurants, five water slides, ten jacuzzis, mini golf courses, and multiple swimming pools, making it a floating luxury destination.

Navigating the different decks, from the top with its aquatic amenities, to its midsection featuring a botanical garden with more than 20 live plants, and down to its shopping and entertainment center, is a unique experience for the thousands of tourists traveling on a seven-day journey through the Caribbean Sea.

Daniela Hoffman, associate vice president of product development for Royal Caribbean, emphasized that Mahahual is key to the company's strategy.

"Whenever we present a new ship, we seek to innovate and compete in entertainment, gastronomy, and unique experiences. Mahahual has a lot to offer and we want to enhance it with projects like Perfect Day México, which will allow visitors to enjoy a world-class water park, exclusive beaches, and the best of Costa Maya," she stated.