Chetumal Opens New Maritime Portal to Boost Tourism

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa inaugurated the Portal Marítimo de Chetumal on Monday, transforming the city’s fiscal pier into a modern tourist attraction.

The project, managed by the Quintana Roo Integral Port Administration (Apiqroo), includes a monumental arch over 7 meters high, a 157-square-meter seaside viewpoint, and a 260-meter-long walkway with programmable LED lighting that syncs with music.

Officials said the renovation aims to revitalize the pier, a popular spot for runners, families, and sunset viewers, and to boost local tourism and economic activity. The investment totaled nearly 4 million pesos (about $200,000).

During the ceremony, Lezama unveiled a plaque and activated the lighting system. She said the project recovers the coastal identity of the state capital and benefits over 233,000 residents of Othón P. Blanco municipality.

“With the Portal Marítimo, we contribute to projecting Chetumal as a more active, orderly, and attractive city,” Lezama said. “We are betting on public spaces that strengthen coexistence and well-being.”

The portal features the word “Welcome” in 12 languages, including Spanish, English, French, Chinese, Japanese, Maya, Russian, Arabic, Hindi, Hebrew, and Portuguese, highlighting the inclusion of the Maya language as a nod to cultural identity.

Authorities said the project also aims to make the Chetumal–San Pedro, Belize route more attractive, encouraging more visitors and strengthening regional tourism and trade.

Attendees included Verónica Lezama Espinosa, honorary president of the DIF Quintana Roo system; Othón P. Blanco Mayor Yensunni Martínez Hernández; and representatives from the navy, army, and National Guard.