Background on Cozumel and Mahahual
Cozumel, an island located off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, and Mahahual, a small coastal town in Quintana Roo, are both experiencing unprecedented growth in cruise ship passengers.
Cozumel’s Achievements
By the end of November, Cozumel had welcomed 4.16 million cruise passengers, with an anticipated total of 4.6 million by the end of 2025, according to Veudi Vivas Rivero, operations manager of the Integral Port Administration in Cozumel.
Mahahual’s Achievements
Mahahual, another key port in the region, had already seen 2.2 million cruise passengers by the end of November. The Quintana Roo state government projects that Mahahual will reach 2.8 million passengers, marking the highest number in Costa Maya’s history south of Quintana Roo.
Combined Impact and Growth
When combining the numbers from both Cozumel and Mahahual, Quintana Roo is expected to register 7.4 million cruise passengers by the end of 2025. This accounts for over 60% of the projected 9 million maritime visitors Mexico aims to have in 2025.
Cruise Ship Arrivals
Between the two Quintana Roo ports, there were 1,874 cruise ship arrivals, representing a 3.8% increase compared to the previous year. Cozumel hosted 1,300 ship arrivals, while Mahahual welcomed 574 cruise ships.
Government Support and Investment
This growth is supported by a state-level right that includes a $5 contribution per cruise passenger, matched equally by the Quintana Roo state government.
- Purpose: The collected funds directly improve tourism infrastructure, enhancing service quality, security, and the overall experience for both visitors and local communities.
- Governor’s Statement: “This accomplishment is the result of a clear vision driving responsible, sustainable, and ordered tourism development, focused on generating shared well-being and prosperity for the people of Quintana Roo.” – Governor Mara Lezama
