Last week, Royal Caribbean ignited excitement across the cruise community with the announcement of their acquisition of a popular cruise port along with 200 acres of land surrounding it.
The cruise line invested $600 million to revamp Costa Maya into what will be known as Perfect Day Mexico, set to open in 2027.
The growing cruise line recognizes the success of Perfect Day at CocoCay and aims to replicate that experience in other ports.
Having visited Costa Maya multiple times over the past few years, I’m aware that the port could greatly benefit from renovations.
The port currently lacks direct beach access, and the main pool becomes overcrowded when three ships are docked. Many amenities are showing their age.
From the dolphin habitat to the bird aviary with walkways suspended above the port, I’ve enjoyed most of what the central area has to offer.
However, for those who typically venture outside the port to experience the Lost Mayan Kingdom water park and zip line course, this option may soon be off the table—at least that seems likely.
Royal Caribbean is acquiring the land occupied by the Lost Mayan Kingdom.
Considering the impressive water parks at Perfect Day or Icon of the Seas, it’s reasonable to anticipate ambitious plans for this location as well.
What About Other Cruise Lines?
Royal Caribbean has assured that other cruise lines, including competitors, will still be welcome to dock at the port.
In fact, improvements and enhancements are expected for the primary port area once the project is complete.
Anne Kalosh from Seatrade recently noted that “ships from other cruise lines will continue to be welcomed at Costa Maya, and Royal Caribbean indicated the experience for all passengers will improve with its redevelopment.”
What can we expect from this transformation?
While specifics are still pending from Royal Caribbean, it seems likely that their passengers will enjoy exclusive access to Perfect Day Mexico, while the central port area remains open to other cruise lines.
A major advantage for Royal Caribbean will be the awareness among passengers from competing ships of the “exclusive area” they cannot access.
This could create a sensation similar to what guests of Norwegian Cruise Line experience when viewing Perfect Day at CocoCay from Great Stirrup Cay, which lies less than 2 miles away.
It’s worth mentioning that Great Stirrup Cay was the pioneer of private islands, having opened in 1977. Kudos to Norwegian for envisioning this concept.
As the area around the Costa Maya pier undergoes updates and potentially a complete overhaul, the appeal of an exclusive resort just feet away is bound to attract attention from other cruise passengers.
Read more: “Don’t swim here!”: Cruise Passenger Warns After Port Official Demands Ship Card in Costa Maya
Could Other Cruise Lines Find Alternatives?
Royal Caribbean’s acquisition of Costa Maya and the adjacent land has sparked speculation that other cruise lines may seek alternative ports.
After all, no one wants the competition siphoning off their passengers.
Cozumel, located 100 miles north of Costa Maya, is already a well-frequented cruise port; however, it’s doubtful that the many ports on the island could accommodate all the ships displaced from Costa Maya.
Major players like Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises must now consider their options. Carnival, for instance, is developing its own private destination, Celebration Key, set to open next year on Grand Bahama.
This marks Carnival’s most ambitious private destination to date and highlights that private islands—whether liked or disliked—are becoming integral to the cruise industry’s future.
It’s unclear how aggressively Royal Caribbean will market Perfect Day Mexico at the port, but it wouldn’t be surprising if rival cruise lines explore other destination options.
Additionally, other cruise companies may start offering distinctive shore excursions and experiences outside the port by collaborating with local businesses to create exclusive activities.
Bottom Line
How will cruisers respond to the concept of a “two-ports-in-one” experience? As we await further details regarding Perfect Day Mexico, it’s crucial to acknowledge that not every cruise passenger is seeking a “Perfect Day” experience.
While many activities and dining options are included in the cruise fare, the add-on expenses can accumulate swiftly. Furthermore, crowds can become an issue, especially when multiple ships are docked.
Private islands cater to leisure seekers and lack the cultural authenticity that cruises with destination-focused itineraries provide.
Nevertheless, Royal Caribbean enthusiasts who enjoy the Perfect Day experience are likely thrilled by this development. Moreover, residents of Galveston will find that a port in Mexico will enable shorter sailings to the private destination as well.
