New York — Royal Caribbean International has announced two new destinations in Mexico: Royal Beach Club Cozumel, set to open in 2026, and Perfect Day Mexico, arriving in Mahahual by 2027. The latter will feature the world’s tallest waterslide tower, the longest lazy river, and other attractions across its 80-hectare site.
A Landmark Destination for Cruise Passengers
The project, unveiled during a media event in New York, will cater to Western Caribbean itineraries departing from Galveston, New Orleans, and Florida ports. Bookings for Perfect Day Mexico will open in fall 2025.
Kara Williams, Royal Caribbean’s marketing director, emphasized the company’s approach to cultural celebration rather than replication.
“We want to honor the culture, not recreate it. We ensure our guest experiences respect the history and heritage of the places we visit,” Williams told Milenio.
The design process included surveys and focus groups with Quintana Roo schoolchildren to incorporate local perspectives. Williams noted that 80% of Royal Caribbean’s guests are U.S. travelers, with Mexico as their top destination.
“Mexico’s cultural vitality—its spirit, food, art, and music—is the biggest draw for guests seeking immersive experiences,” she added.
Seven Neighborhoods of Adventure
Perfect Day Mexico will be divided into seven themed areas:
- Fiesta Plaza: The arrival zone with live music, dancing, and the “world’s largest sombrero” atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar.
- Splash Cove: Home to the brand’s largest Splashaway Bay, a 30,000-square-meter pool with a central sand island, and the first Splashaway Cabanas.
- Loco Waterpark: Featuring Jaguar’s Peak, North America’s tallest waterslide tower at over 50 meters, alongside five towers with 30+ slides and wave pools.
- Chill Beach Norte/Sur: Nearly three kilometers of white-sand beaches with cabanas and private pools.
- The Hideaway: An adults-only retreat with a pool, bar, DJ, and the Ultimate Party Cabana for private events.
- Costa Beach Club: A premium beach club with infinity pools and restaurants.
- Dining and Bars: Twelve regional-inspired food venues and 24 bars, including six poolside options, complemented by mariachi performances and local artisan souvenirs.
Economic Boost for Quintana Roo
Bernardo Cueto, Quintana Roo’s tourism secretary, highlighted the project’s economic impact:
“We’re proud Royal Caribbean chose our state for this investment, which will generate jobs and prosperity,” he said. The region has already attracted over $700 million in foreign direct investment annually, driven by hospitality and tourism.
Cueto added that the initiative aligns with goals to transform cruise destinations into hubs for extended visitor engagement.
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