Royal Caribbean International plans to build another private destination, and this time it's a Perfect Day experience in Mexico.
Named Perfect Day Mexico, the private destination is expected to open in 2027 adjacent to the port of Costa Maya, near Mahahual in the state of Quintana Roo. And like Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, the private destination will include a water park, pools with ocean views, restaurants and bars, plus locally influenced elements like artisan shops and food and drink inspired by the region.
Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group said, "Perfect Day at CocoCay has been a gamechanger for both our guests and our business. With travelers prioritizing unique experiences and destinations driving their booking decisions, we're excited to expand our Perfect Day collection."
The destination will be next to the Costa Maya cruise port, which Royal Caribbean Group has purchased and plans to redevelop. Royal ships will dock at the port alongside ships from other lines. As all guests walk along a pier with the same ambience as that of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal passengers will find a turn-off to Perfect Day Mexico. Or, guests can head toward a transportation hub for shore excursions and taxis offering access to local attractions.
The 200-acre project includes redeveloping the cruise port, developing a transportation hub and the Perfect Day Mexico destination. The acreage measures twice the size of Perfect Day at CocoCay, although about half that acreage will be set aside for conservation, according to a spokesperson.
The development creates new opportunities for Royal Caribbean's Western Caribbean itineraries, especially for long and short cruises out of Galveston, where the line opened a new terminal in 2022.
Like Perfect Day at CocoCay, access to Perfect Day Mexico will be included in the cruise fare.
Royal Caribbean said it is working with the local community, the government of Quintana Roo and businesses to preserve the natural beauty of the coast and build in shared economic opportunity for the region.
Private islands have become increasingly important for cruise lines. Perfect Day Mexico will be the latest private destination for Royal Caribbean international: It operates Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas and has reopened Labadee, its private beach in Haiti.
It also plans to open two beach clubs that require an additional fee to access but would be exclusive to Royal guests: a Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island in Nassau next year and and a Royal Beach Club in Cozumel in 2026.
This report has been updated to include information about the location of the destination near Costa Maya.