Quintana Roo’s Nautical Sector Struggles With Worker Shortage

Quintana Roo, Mexico — The nautical sector in Quintana Roo continues to face a shortage of qualified personnel, with an estimated deficit of 15%, according to Francisco Fernández Millar, president of the Asociados Náuticos de Quintana Roo (ANQR).

Critical Shortages in Key Roles

Fernández Millar stated, “We lack captains, sailors, boatswains, and naval mechanics. We have to search for them and wait for them to graduate from schools before we can hire them.”

Unfulfilled Migration Proposal

Two years ago, the ANQR discussed a proposal with the National Migration Institute (INM) to grant provisional work visas to foreigners in transit, particularly members of migrant caravans crossing the country. However, the measure was never implemented and remains pending.

Sargassum Impact on Coastal Operations

The president of ANQR noted that sargassum has severely affected coastal activities such as jet ski rentals and parasailing. These operations have seen a 20% decline in performance because boats must approach the shore to pick up passengers, leading to clogged filters and propellers. As a result, maintenance costs have doubled.

Fewer Port Closures, but Reduced Capacity

Despite challenges, Fernández Millar highlighted that port closures have decreased this year, with 40 days recorded so far compared to 70 during the same period in 2024. Currently, the sector is operating at 60% capacity.

Declining Service Quality Due to Overcrowding

Addressing criticism over declining service quality in tourist trips from Puerto Juárez to Isla Mujeres, Fernández Millar acknowledged the issue. A decade ago, approximately 100 boats operated on this route, but today there are over 600. This surge has intensified competition, including unlicensed service providers, driving down costs and disrupting operations.

“If the Port Captaincy doesn’t act, we can’t do anything,” he lamented.

Rising Costs and Increased Regulations

The sector also faces a 40% increase in inspections and regulations. Fees for entry to the Costa Occidental National Park of Isla Mujeres, Punta Cancún, and Punta Nizuc have doubled, along with sanitation fees per person and payments to the Port Captaincy and Zofemat.

“We pay more than other regular businesses,” Fernández Millar said.

Call for Regulation and Training

The ANQR leader urged members to comply with regulations, manage operations responsibly, and continuously train personnel to maintain the tourist destination’s quality.