Teri West
Three months after a setback, Royal Caribbean Group continues to work toward regaining approval for its Perfect Day Mexico destination at the port of Costa Maya.
In an update during the company's Q2 earnings call, CEO Jason Liberty said Royal Caribbean is still working "to develop a tourism destination that will create long-term opportunities for the region, for Mexico and for our guests."
He described dialogue between the government, Royal Caribbean and community members as ongoing.
Perfect Day Mexico was designed to be similar to the company's popular Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, complete with a waterpark and close to two miles of beaches.
The Mexican government blocked the project from continuing in May after pushback, including millions of digital petitions primarily focused on environmental concerns.
Mahahual, the town where Perfect Day Mexico was slated, is along the Mesoamerican Reef, the world's second-largest barrier reef.
Liberty said that the Mexican government's engagement with community stakeholders "will take some time and is expected to affect our previously planned timeline."
An indication that Royal Caribbean is aiming to build goodwill is a webpage it crafted about Mahahual that appears tailored to address concerns raised by those opposed to the project.
An FAQ section includes questions such as "How is Royal Caribbean addressing environmental concerns in Mahahual?" and "How does Royal Caribbean listen to the local community?"
The company is also promoting its investment in a new community center in Mahahual. The building will house workshops, sports and other community events.
Liberty called Royal Caribbean's involvement in the project a representation of the "long-term partnership we want to continue building here."