A social campaign initiated on July 21, 2025, seeks to halt the construction of a massive water park in Mahahual, Quintana Roo. Morgane Vainberg, a social anthropologist and diving instructor, leads the opposition against Royal Caribbean’s “Perfect Day México” project. The petition currently holds more than 1,500 signatures on Change.org.
The proposed development plans to build a 90-hectare aquatic facility over a protected mangrove zone in Puerto Costa Maya. Activists argue this construction threatens the ecological balance of the region where the jungle meets the sea. This area serves as a natural barrier against hurricanes and supports critical marine life.
According to the petition, the project endangers three species of sea turtles and resident manatees found in the area. It also risks the second-largest coral reef in the world, which is essential for regional biodiversity and coastal protection against climate phenomena. Environmental groups warn that such infrastructure often leads to irreversible damage in sensitive coastal ecosystems.
Local fishing communities fear the loss of access to beaches and mangroves that sustain their livelihoods and cultural identity. The campaign demands recognition of the right of residents to decide on the use of their territory and resources. Critics claim previous large-scale tourism projects have excluded locals from economic benefits. The petition highlights that access to the sea and beaches is vital for the inhabitants of Mahahual.
Sustainability concerns include the arrival of up to 20,000 tourists daily who would generate significant waste and pollution. Reports indicate the project could introduce chemical sunscreens and plastic debris into the ocean waters. Water consumption would be excessive in a region already experiencing severe water stress.
The campaign cites Royal Caribbean’s history, including videos showing wastewater dumping near Mahahual facilities. Activists reference the CocoCay project in the Bahamas as a precedent for coastal privatization and mangrove destruction. They argue benefits remain concentrated within the multinational corporation.
Royal Caribbean has not yet submitted the required Environmental Impact Manifestation to Semarnat. This absence raises questions regarding the legality and transparency of the development process. Authorities are not currently obligated to consult the local population under existing regulations. The petition underscores that mechanisms for environmental control are insufficient to protect Mahahual.
Supporters of the campaign emphasize the need for a tourism model based on sustainability and justice for all stakeholders. Aline de Cuauhtémoc highlighted the role of mangroves as natural climate regulators. Jasmin de Cancún warned against committing ecocide to protect future generations.
Specific demands include the immediate cancellation of the project in its current form. The group calls for an independent and public environmental impact assessment before proceeding. They also seek a national debate on the tourism model for Mexico.
The outcome of this campaign could influence future investment decisions in the Mexican Caribbean region. Stakeholders will watch for Semarnat’s response to any formal complaints filed regarding the environmental risks. The situation remains a test case for balancing economic growth with environmental protection.
