Cozumel Boats Still Allow Kids Under 10 Despite Safety Ban

Cozumel, Mexico — Tourist boats operating near the Fiscal Pier in Cozumel continue boarding children under 10 years old, despite a Port Authority restriction implemented after a fatal shipwreck in June. The lack of clarity and official response following a change in leadership at the Port Authority has raised uncertainty about the enforcement of the safety measure.

Safety Measures Ignored After Deadly Incident

Following the sinking of a tourist vessel north of Cozumel last June, which resulted in one fatality, the Port Authority issued a directive prohibiting minors under 10 from boarding tourist boats. The decision came after reports confirmed at least three children were aboard the ill-fated vessel.

Commander José Alberto Rodríguez Cuevas of the Cozumel Naval Sector reaffirmed the restriction, stating, "These measures remain in effect as a standardized safety protocol. The Naval Sector emphasizes that security regulations must be followed without exceptions."

However, observations and photographic evidence reveal that boats near the Fiscal Pier continue to allow minors on board, with no apparent oversight from the Port Authority.

Confusion Over Enforcement

The Port Authority’s initial notice to tourism service providers stated:

"By order of the Port Authority and due to an incident unrelated to our operations on Monday, June 23, it has been determined that boarding will not be permitted for passengers under 10 years old until further notice."

Commander Rodríguez Cuevas reiterated, "All regulations remain in force. There is nothing extraordinary being imposed—only the minimum safety requirements must be met. These standards apply to everyone."

Despite these statements, the Port Authority has not clarified whether the restriction remains active, particularly after a change in leadership. It is also unclear if the ban applies to specific zones or times. Meanwhile, the rule continues to be disregarded near the Fiscal Pier.

The lack of enforcement has left tourism operators and passengers uncertain about compliance, raising concerns over child safety in Cozumel’s maritime tourism sector.