Popular cruise line's giant beach park blocked by Mexico after local backlash erupts

Critics of the cruise line's project argued the development threatened the region's fragile ecosystem and the character of the small coastal community of Mahahual.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, May 19, Alicia Bárcena, Mexico's secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), responded to questions about the development.

"I'd like to inform you that Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day project will not be approved," the official said. 

"The company is also looking to withdraw the project, but we at SEMARNAT will not approve it."

"We must not do anything that affects that area, which has a very important ecological balance, and is particularly important for the reefs," she said, as Reuters reported.

The spokesperson said the company plans to "re-engage stakeholders" as it works to develop "essential environmental infrastructure, the creation of thousands of local jobs, and community programs that support the people of Mexico."

The cruise line promoted the development as a "sustainable destination."

The decision follows mounting criticism from environmental advocates and residents about the project's potential ramifications. A Change.org petition demanding the "immediate cancellation" of the development drew more than 4.8 million signatures.

"This project directly threatens [our] rights to access and use the sea, the beaches, and the mangroves, our local identity, our way of life, our freedom to live here," the petition says.

The petition goes on to describe Mahahual as "one of the last free strongholds of the Mexican Caribbean, while Playa del Carmen and Tulum have already succumbed to the logic of profit."

Royal Caribbean fans had mixed reactions on Reddit forums.

One person applauded the decision, saying, "Good for Mexico."

Another said, "I can see the concerns here, but no doubt some folks will be disappointed."

CocoCay has been a huge success for the company, drawing over 2 million visitors annually, according to Cruise Industry News.

The coastal town has increasingly attracted scuba divers and tourists looking to experience marine ecosystems, coral formations, tropical fish and other sea life.