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Royal Caribbean Confirms $292 Million Deal for Port of Costa Maya

By Cruise Radio

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Frank M

The Royal Caribbean Group has confirmed the Port of Costa Maya acquisition in Mexico. In a recent SEC filing, the company said it will pay $292 million. The deal includes adjacent land in Mahahual, Quintana Roo.

Perfect Day Mexico Opening in 2027

(Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)

It is still pending regulatory approval and is expected to close in mid-2025. The cruise company recently unveiled its “Perfect Day Mexico” plans at Mahahual. Royal Caribbean’s second Perfect Day resort experience is slated to open in 2027.

Chief marketing officer Kara Wallace said Perfect Day Mexico will feature a water park, beaches, restaurants, and pools, although few specifics have been shared yet. Royal Caribbean is also opening Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026.

Wallace said Perfect Day Mexico—a sister private destination to Perfect Day CocoCay—will be a scheduled call on Western Caribbean cruises departing from Galveston, the Gulf, and Florida.

“We’re still in the design and planning process for Perfect Day in Mexico,” Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty said during the recent earnings call. The company said there will be “an unparalleled lineup of experiences and locally inspired twists across the design, flavors and spirit.”

Rival Lines Will Get Port Access

A thatched-roof building in Costa Maya stands beside a turquoise swimming pool. Several chairs and tables are set under the structure, perfect for cruisers lounging nearby. The pool curves around the building, with palm trees swaying under a clear blue sky.

Several major cruise lines use the Port of Costa Maya, including Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, Princess Cruises, and MSC Cruises.

While Perfect Day Mexico will be exclusive to its cruise guests, Royal Caribbean said other cruise lines will still have access to the Port of Costa Maya.

The main port will have a separate entrance, giving access to Perfect Day Mexico for Royal Caribbean guests.

The port facilities and supporting infrastructure will likely be redeveloped, but how this will impact other cruise lines is unknown.

“Everything gets an uplift,” a Royal Caribbean spokesperson told Seatrade Cruise News. The Costa Maya port experience as it exists today will no longer be.” The future of the Lost Mayan Kingdom water park, which sits on land Royal Caribbean is buying, is also unclear.

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