Nautical Associates Secure Agreements with Key Maritime Authorities

The Nautical Associates of Quintana Roo (ANQR) have unveiled a series of agreements on technical, regulatory, and procedural matters. These were negotiated during their visits to the Unit of Port Captaincies and Maritime Affairs in Mexico City, and the General Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine.

Francisco Fernández Millán, the president of ANQR, detailed the agreements and topics of discussion. One major point was the alteration of the Port Captaincy's boundary between Puerto Juarez and Puerto Morelos. This limit had been shifted from the Moon Palace area to Punta Nizuc, but has now been restored to its original state.

Discussions also took place with the Navy Secretariat about regulations concerning the El Meco reef port area. The aim is to ensure ANQR users and members understand their responsibilities, particularly as the association now holds the concession for this area. The focus is on reinforcing regulations and certification for vessels entering this natural area. This will prevent unauthorized vessels from accessing the reef and ensure the safety and wellbeing of the approximately 5,000 daily visitors. Plans are also underway to install buoys to mark the snorkeling zone.

In collaboration with the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp), ANQR announced plans to sink new artificial habitats in the coming weeks. This will involve a seven-piece module for the Punta Nizuc area, adding to the three previously sunk in the El Meco area. These artificial habitats, which cost around 25,000 pesos for the seven pieces, attract more vegetation and fish. The sinking process adds an additional cost of approximately 200,000 pesos.

Finally, Millán noted that nautical activity remains at 35 to 40 percent operation. This is a concern for nautical businesses, as they require occupancy rates of 60 to 70 percent to cover operational costs. This is a significant drop compared to 2022 and 2023 when they operated at 90 to 100 percent capacity.