Cozumel Hoteliers Fight Fourth Cruise Pier Over Reef Risks

Cozumel, Mexico — The Hotel Council of the Mexican Caribbean has endorsed the stance of opponents to the construction of a fourth cruise pier in Cozumel, arguing that cruise tourism excludes local communities and harms the ecosystem. The organization has joined calls to halt the project, asserting that this form of tourism provides minimal economic benefits.

Environmental and Social Risks Highlighted

In a statement, the council emphasized that despite having sufficient capacity at the island’s three existing piers, project proponents aim to build a fourth structure over the Villablanca reef—home to hundreds of marine species and one of the few remaining free-access reef areas for Cozumel residents.

“This location is also one of the last public beaches on the western side of the island,” the organization stated.

In recent days, several prominent political figures have also voiced opposition to the project, citing significant environmental and social consequences.

Growing Resistance

Last week, opposition was primarily led by environmental groups from Quintana Roo and national and international NGOs. Rodrigo Huesca Alcántara, a vocal critic of the project, welcomed the expanding coalition against the pier.

“More sectors are joining the stance against this infrastructure. I’ve seen calls for a march by marina workers, and I know the Hotel Association, led by Beatriz Tinajero, will hold a press conference. I wouldn’t say they’re backing us—rather, this is becoming a broader issue with many voices. It’s important to emphasize that the Fourth Pier benefits no one in Cozumel,” Huesca Alcántara said.

The debate continues as stakeholders weigh the economic potential of cruise tourism against its ecological and social costs.