Major Inconsistencies Led to Rejection of Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Project in Mahahual, Semarnat Says

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Mexico’s Environment and Natural Resources Secretariat (Semarnat) has rejected the proposed Perfect Day project by Royal Caribbean in Mahahual, citing serious inconsistencies in the environmental impact statement (MIA). Semarnat Secretary Alicia Bárcena announced the decision on May 20, noting that the company had already withdrawn its application a day earlier.

Bárcena stated that three linked projects — the Perfect Day development, a private cruise pier, and the Beach Club Perfect Day recreational park — were all rejected. Each had submitted separate MIAs, but all contained significant flaws.

Among the inconsistencies, Bárcena highlighted a major discrepancy in the announced investment. While Royal Caribbean had publicly stated a $1.5 billion investment, the MIA reported only $208 million for the Mahahual project. Two related projects in Cozumel listed investments of $40 million and $67 million, totaling just $315 million — far short of the $1.5 billion figure.

The environmental assessment also found violations of Semarnat’s NORMA 022 regarding mangrove protection, potential saline intrusion, alteration of the aquifer’s hydrological balance due to deep wells, and insufficient environmental compensation measures. The MIA was described as fragmented and lacking adequate mitigation plans.

Bárcena confirmed that Semarnat supports investment but not at the expense of the environment. She announced she will visit Mahahual in early June to inspect the area and discuss alternative projects or relocation of the development to a less ecologically sensitive site.