Tour Boat Operators in Playa del Carmen Running at 55% Capacity Due to Cold Fronts

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Tour boat operators in this coastal resort city are currently running at just 55 percent capacity due to port closures caused by recent cold fronts affecting the region.

Idelfonso Arcos Magaña, a partner in the Playa del Carmen tourist cooperative, said that while the situation is difficult, it was expected by the industry at the start of the year. He noted that this reduced operation could last another one or two weeks, as more cold fronts are forecast to impact the state.

“For this time of year, it’s normal. We’re working at 50 to 55 percent activity, and for the season, that’s fine for us. Right now, this week we have very good weather, and that’s how we’ll be for the moment,” Arcos Magaña said.

He indicated that the Carnival holiday period is generating little economic spillover for the sector, which focuses more on foreign tourism.

Arcos Magaña highlighted that the sector is already prepared to meet demand for snorkeling and fishing services during the upcoming summer vacations. “We’re prepared for that, to be able to receive that summer tourism that’s approaching. And that’s what we’re doing, offering various activities, mostly snorkeling and fishing,” he added.

Finally, the industry representative stated that diving services currently have the highest demand. He said that due to the high presence of bull sharks, demand for diving with this species has been strong so far in 2026.