Royal Caribbean Says It Will Maintain Investments in Mexico Despite Permit Denial for Perfect Day Project

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Royal Caribbean has announced it will maintain its investments in Mexico despite the government’s decision to deny permits for its controversial Perfect Day water park project in Mahahual.

The company issued a statement expressing disappointment with the ruling by SEMARNAT, Mexico’s environmental authority, but said it respects the decision and remains committed to the country.

“We regret SEMARNAT’s decision, but we respect Mexico’s environmental authorities. Mahahual is a special place that deserves care and protection. We still believe in Mexico and are optimistic about the potential to move forward with our responsible investment,” the company said.

The statement contrasts with earlier remarks by SEMARNAT head Alicia Bárcena, who said the company was seeking to withdraw from the project when she announced the permit denial.

Royal Caribbean said it plans to engage in new dialogue with various stakeholders in the coming weeks to advance projects that generate shared prosperity through essential environmental infrastructure, thousands of local jobs, and community programs supporting the Mexican population.

The Perfect Day project has been under environmental review by SEMARNAT since January. Prior to the rejection, the agency had extended the analysis period by 60 days for a more thorough scrutiny of the project’s environmental impact.