The debate surrounding the construction of the mega tourism project “Perfect Day México” in Mahahual has reached the National Palace amid a social media campaign demanding that state and federal authorities protect the coral reefs and marine ecosystems of the Caribbean Sea.
On the morning of May 18, after being questioned about the issue, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that she had asked Alicia Bárcena, head of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), to conduct a thorough review of the case.
Recognizing that “there have been many protests” and that “many people are against” the construction of the tourist complex by Royal Caribbean, the president stated:
“We must not do anything that affects this area, which has a very important ecological balance, especially for the reefs. (…) We are not going to do anything that puts the balance of this region at risk.”
Although the project has been under planning for several years, it has gained major attention on social media in recent weeks.
“Perfect Day México”: The Tourist Complex Royal Caribbean Wants to Build
In October 2024, Royal Caribbean, headquartered in Miami, Florida, announced a new exclusive destination designed primarily for international tourists.
The project includes 30 water slides, six swimming pools, three beaches, “the world’s longest lazy river,” 12 restaurants, and 24 bars in the municipality of Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo.
According to the company:
“In 2027, vacationers will be able to enjoy Mexico’s popular Caribbean coast in Mahahual, a slice of paradise that combines Royal Caribbean’s signature adrenaline-filled experiences and relaxation opportunities with the beauty and vibrant charm of Mexico.”
The initial investment announced by the company was 600 million dollars, a figure highlighted by Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama.
Construction was expected to begin no later than 2025, with the goal of opening the complex in 2027. Until then, the project appeared to face few obstacles.
Profepa Suspends Construction of “Perfect Day”
On January 30, 2026, during early construction activities, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) announced the suspension of the “Perfect Day México” project.
According to the agency, the suspension followed a complaint filed on January 28, prompting environmental inspectors to carry out an inspection in Mahahual.
During the field inspection, conducted across approximately 79,426 square meters, authorities documented landfilling and compaction work on a rustic road within a coastal vegetation area containing low jungle and mangrove ecosystems. Inspectors also identified demolition activities and debris removal carried out without environmental impact authorization.
“The affected area covers 17,115 square meters,” Profepa reported.
Mariana Boy Tamborrell emphasized that environmental impact authorization issued by federal authorities is “an essential requirement” for any construction project that may affect ecosystems.
The Court Ruling That Put Mahahual in the Spotlight
On April 30, 2026, the First Collegiate Court of the XXVII Circuit in Quintana Roo dismissed an injunction filed by an environmental civil organization. The injunction, together with Profepa’s suspension order, had temporarily halted the project.
Following the dismissal, Royal Caribbean regained the ability to resume procedures to obtain the missing permits, sparking renewed concern among environmental organizations and activists regarding the long-term impact of the project.
According to environmental groups such as Greenpeace Mexico, the potential risks associated with the construction of “Perfect Day” include:
- Transformation of sensitive coastal zones
- Damage to coral reefs and marine ecosystems
- Pressure on mangroves and coastal jungles
- Increased environmental stress on the region
Greenpeace Protest at Bellas Artes
On May 12, 2026, activists from Greenpeace Mexico demonstrated at the Palace of Fine Arts in protest against the construction of “Perfect Day” in Mahahual.
That day, activists unfurled a giant banner across scaffolding placed in front of the cultural venue. The banner read:
“Semarnat presents: Perfect Day, The Decision. Water Slides or Environmental Protection — that is the question.”
Hours later, Semarnat released an official statement.
What Has Semarnat Said About “Perfect Day”?
On May 12, Semarnat stated that the “Perfect Day” project in Mahahual remains under environmental evaluation and has not received authorization for development, construction, or operation.
The agency explained that it is conducting a comprehensive review of the Environmental Impact Assessment (MIA) submitted by Royal Caribbean.
According to Semarnat:
“As part of the technical process, Semarnat has identified several elements that require specialized analysis, including observations related to proposed infrastructure, environmental mitigation measures, and possible impacts on coastal and marine ecosystems.”
Semarnat also stated that it is considering more than 14,000 public comments submitted during the consultation process, along with technical information presented by communities, specialists, and environmental organizations, including Greenpeace Mexico.
Protest Planned at Semarnat Headquarters
On May 16, the environmental organization Selvame called for a protest against the construction of Royal Caribbean’s tourist complex.
The demonstration is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, at 9:00 a.m. outside Semarnat offices located in the Anáhuac I Sección neighborhood of Mexico City’s Miguel Hidalgo borough.
Selvame emphasized that the protest is intended to remain peaceful.
Source: milenio
