Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Cozumel’s cruise industry continues its upward trajectory, with 817 ships and nearly 3 million passengers recorded through July 26, 2026, reinforcing the island’s position as one of Mexico’s top maritime tourism destinations.
The number of arrivals represents an 8.9% increase compared with the same period in 2025, according to Vagner Elbiorn Vega, director general of the Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (Apiqroo).
Between January and July 26, Cozumel welcomed 2,999,047 cruise passengers, up from 2,724,236 during the same stretch last year — a 10.1% jump.
Projections for the full year point to 1,377 ship arrivals and 4,762,850 passengers, surpassing the 1,300 vessels and 4,732,250 visitors recorded in 2025.
The growth aligns with a broader global trend. According to Ipsos, 36% of travelers worldwide are considering a cruise, river voyage or expedition in 2026.
The surge in cruise activity benefits local businesses including restaurants, shops, transportation providers and tour operators, and helps cement Quintana Roo’s standing as a competitive player in the Caribbean tourism market.
More Tourism
- Cancún’s Protected Natural Areas See Tourism Slump, With 600,000 Visitors Expected in 2026
- Cancún Bets on Health Tourism With New Forum
- Quintana Roo Expects 25% Surge in Cancún Flights Starting October
- Tourist Boat Traffic Plunges 30% in Quintana Roo Ports
- Tulum Tour Guides Pin Recovery Hopes on Cruise Ships and Year-End Holidays
More Cozumel
- Cozumel Opens Applications for 2027 Carnival Kings and Queens
- Cozumel Opens Registration for Day of the Dead Catrina Costume Contest
- Cozumel to Welcome More Than 2,500 Triathletes for Ironman 70.3
- Cozumel Hotel Tips Dispute Escalates to Federal Court as CTM Challenges CROC
- Quintana Roo Tightens Rules for Scuba Divers Arriving With Specialized Gear
