Quintana Roo’s Untapped Nautical Tourism Potential

Quintana Roo, Mexico — Quintana Roo continues to face significant challenges in attracting long-stay nautical tourism, with fewer than 100 foreign vessels entering its waters annually—a stark contrast to the thriving industry in Mexico’s Pacific coast, where this sector generates substantial economic benefits.

High Spending Per Visitor, Low Participation

According to the International Traveler Survey by INEGI for the first two months of 2025, each long-stay tourist spends an average of over $1,200. Additionally, foreign towable vessels can remain in the destination for up to three months, providing steady income for local service providers.

Ricardo Muleiro López, director of Asociados Náuticos de Quintana Roo, emphasized the need for a more aggressive promotional strategy to attract this high-value market, which remains largely untapped.

Limited Infrastructure Compared to Other Destinations

Unlike Pacific destinations, Quintana Roo’s marinas face significant limitations.

“The Pacific has larger marinas and better infrastructure. Here, we only have the corresponding marina dock. We can’t compete in that regard, but we can double down on promotional efforts,” Muleiro stated.

Currently, only five ports in the state can accommodate long-stay vessels, reducing options for tourists and operators alike.

Bureaucratic Hurdles Hinder Nautical Tourism

One of the main obstacles cited by the industry is the complexity of entry procedures, which involve federal agencies such as immigration and customs.

“The Port Captaincy responds without issues, but coordination with other agencies, especially in Isla Mujeres, is complicated,” Muleiro explained.

The sector is calling for a more visitor-friendly entry process and greater cooperation from federal authorities to facilitate the arrival of foreign vessels. This lack of coordination directly discourages potential visitors.

Summer Season Brings Weather and Operational Challenges

This summer, occupancy is expected to reach a conservative 75%, similar to last year. However, weather remains a major challenge—in 2024, ports were closed for 80 days, resulting in significant economic losses.

Muleiro estimates a 15% reduction in closures this year, though weather patterns remain unpredictable. Each day of closure costs an estimated $300,000 in lost revenue across transportation, activities, food, and beverages.

More Jobs, But Unstable Incomes

The Asociación de Náuticos de Quintana Roo represents 1,500 vessels across Cancún, Isla Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, and Playa del Carmen, with 80 affiliated businesses generating approximately 5,000 direct jobs.

“Many workers have a base salary, but much of their income comes from commissions. If operations halt, they suffer direct losses,” Muleiro noted.

Urgent Need to Improve Conditions for Foreign Vessels

Muleiro stressed that excursions to Isla Mujeres remain an economic pillar for the northern part of the state. He reiterated the urgency of improving conditions to attract more foreign long-stay vessels—a high-potential market that remains underutilized.