The U.S.-based cruise line has purchased the port and 34 nearby properties to build its mega-project “Perfect Day México.” The company promises to quadruple tourism in the area, create thousands of jobs, and connect to the Maya Train.
Mahahual, once a little-known fishing village visited mainly by locals for its beaches, is now set to become Mexico’s new international tourism hub with the arrival of a massive development by Royal Caribbean, the world’s second-largest cruise line operator.
According to sources close to the matter, the U.S. company has received regulatory approval to acquire Promociones Turísticas Mahahual (PTM) in a transaction valued at $221.3 million USD, which includes the port and 34 adjacent properties. An additional $600 million USD in capital will be invested to develop the waterpark “Perfect Day México,” which is intended to serve as an anchor attraction in the Riviera Maya for travelers from around the world.
This brings Royal Caribbean’s total investment to $821.3 million USD for a development that is expected to transform an area that only gained international attention after 2007, when it was rebuilt following Hurricane Dean.
This marks the first major acquisition of tourism port infrastructure in Mexico by a foreign cruise company and sets a key precedent for future international investment in this sector.
According to information obtained by Milenio, the project is expected to generate more than 8,800 operational jobs, as well as 1,000 temporary construction jobs and 2,000 permanent positions within the new development.
The acquisition was authorized after it was proven that it would significantly boost the country’s development, particularly in the tourism zone of Quintana Roo. It is projected to generate over $10.6 billion USD in economic impact over 22 years, directly influencing sales, production chains, and the national GDP.
Recently, Kara Wallace, Chief Marketing Officer at Royal Caribbean, spoke at a forum in New York about the importance of Mexico to their passengers and why the country is such an appealing destination.
“The cultural vitality of the nation, its spirit, food, art, and music are the biggest draw for our guests who are seeking meaningful experiences. It’s the number one international destination for Americans,” she said at the event.
Perfect Day México will span more than 80 hectares, including the existing port and surrounding areas in Mahahual, Quintana Roo.
Development Hub
With Royal Caribbean’s investment, Mahahual is set for significant growth and is projected to become the main cruise destination in the Mexican Caribbean. Visitor numbers are expected to quadruple in less than a decade—from 1 million to nearly 4 million passengers annually—according to sources familiar with the approval process by Mexico’s antitrust authority, COFECE.
The project also includes commitments to sustainability and environmental protection, such as the use of renewable energy, comprehensive water and waste treatment systems, and the conservation of 50% of the land.
Additionally, plans include improvements to public infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and a train station connected to the Maya Train, as well as a campus for 2,500 workers and a community center.
What Will “Perfect Day México” Offer?
Covering more than 80 hectares along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Royal Caribbean has announced that Perfect Day México will feature industry-first attractions and new versions of experiences already found at other Perfect Day locations. The project is expected to open in Fall 2027.
Highlights include:
Loco Waterpark – Adrenaline lovers can enjoy more than 30 water slides across five towers, including the tallest slide in the Americas: El Jaguar’s Peak. Standing over 170 feet tall, it features dual slides that take guests on a more than two-minute journey, similar to the world’s longest roller coaster.
Splash Cove – A central area where guests of all ages can enjoy the world’s longest lazy river, complete with surprises on each side. The hour-long float offers multiple entry and exit points, floating bars, and cup holders on every tube. For thrill-seekers, a “crazy section” of the river includes waves, rapids, and unexpected turns. At the heart of it all lies a seemingly endless 100,000-square-foot pool, one of over 10 expansive pools at Perfect Day México, collectively covering the size of four football fields.
Splashaway Bay – Designed for younger guests, this is Royal Caribbean’s largest Splashaway Bay to date, with kid-sized slides. Nearby private Splashaway Cabanas make it a perfect base for families.
The Hideaway – An adults-only neighborhood where guests aged 18 and up can enjoy all-day fun with a swim-up bar, a DJ, and a relaxed vibe. The Ultimate Party Cabana accommodates 20 guests with its own pool and bar. For ultimate relaxation, there’s live music, beachfront bars, and private cabanas.
Costa Beach Club – Guests seeking elevated beach experiences will find white-sand beaches, a heated infinity pool, and gourmet dining at Costa Beach Club. For a luxurious escape, private cabanas offer personal attendants, high-end amenities, and exclusive pools.
Chill Beach North and South – Tourists looking to unwind can enjoy nearly 3 kilometers of white sand beaches stretching north to south from the pier. Complimentary loungers, umbrellas, and towels are available at all Perfect Day México beaches and pools.
Fiesta Plaza – The arrival zone welcomes visitors to the heart of Mexico with live music and dancing. At its center is the world’s largest sombrero, crowning the Tipsy Sombrero Bar, where guests are greeted with margaritas, beer, and more.
Promociones Turísticas Mahahual (Royal Caribbean X)
Leadership Changes
Royal Caribbean Group recently announced that Richard Fain, who has served as Chairman since 1988, will step down in the fourth quarter of 2025. He will remain on the board of directors.
Jason Liberty, who has been President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group since January 3, 2022, has been chosen by the Board to succeed Fain.
Additionally, John Brock, a board member since 2014 and current chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, has taken on the role of Lead Independent Director.
“I’m honored and grateful to have been chosen and look forward to continuing to deliver the best vacation experience to our guests and long-term value to our shareholders. Fortunately, both the company and I will continue to benefit from Richard’s experience and mentorship during his time as a board member,” said Jason Liberty.
The company also highlighted that John Brock brings invaluable experience from his time as Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola Enterprises and CEO of InBev, along with a strong ethical compass that will support the company’s continued growth and governance.
