Mexico's environmental authority, SEMARNAT, officially rejected Royal Caribbean's plans for Perfect Day Mexico during a press conference on May 19, 2026, citing the site's proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. The cruise line had already invested $292 million to acquire the Costa Maya cruise port and surrounding land and had committed an additional $529 million toward construction, with a fall 2027 opening announced.
Authorities denied three permits tied to the project, including a key pier permit, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the current proposed site near the small port village of Mahahual is no longer viable. Rather than receive a flat rejection, Royal Caribbean withdrew the proposal, preserving its ability to reapply at a different location in the future.
Royal Caribbean Group said in a statement that it is "disappointed by SEMARNAT's decision" but intends to "re-engage stakeholders" to pursue a responsible investment in Mexico. The line has indicated it still owns the port and has not abandoned ambitions in the region. Costa Maya regular port calls continue as normal, with the port having welcomed 2.8 million guests in 2025.