Royal Caribbean cruiseship
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A new cruise terminal in Chetumal could change the fate of Mexico’s most neglected capital city

Royal Caribbean has announced the construction of a Chetumal cruise terminal.

Chetumal’s cruise terminal would be the third in Quintana Roo after Mahahual and Cozumel — Mexico’s most prominent cruise destination.

Buy why? The reasoning behind the construction of this new terminal has many locals scratching their heads. Despite facing the Caribbean Sea, Chetumal is not known as a tourism destination. 

Chetumal is mainly known for its border with Belize and the fact that despite what many believe is Quintana Roo’s capital, not Cancún. 

Ferry terminal in Chetumal, Mexico.
Activity at Chetumal’s ferry terminal is relatively slow, as boats don’t even depart daily. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gracht / Yucatán Magazine

The only ocean-faring service departing from Chetumal is a ferry to and from Belize’s islands and keys.

Activity at Chetumal’s ferry terminal is relatively slow, as boats don’t even depart daily. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gracht / Yucatán Magazine

That said, it’s not like Chetumal has nothing going for it. It’s near popular tourist destinations like Bacalar and Maya archaeological sites, including Oxtankah and Chacchoben.

Earlier: Dzibanché and the forging of the great snake dynasty

The decision to focus on tourism development in southern Quintana Roo also likely has a good deal to do with the current downturn in bookings in Cancún and Playa del Carmen — ostensibly due to safety concerns. 

“We have a lot going for us and want to develop our tourism industry further, but we don’t intend to go about it like Cancún or other destinations. Our focus is much more designed arround sustainable experiences rather than large resorts,” said Chetumal Mayor Gregorio Hernán Pastrana.

Another reason for optimism is that as the completion of the Tren Maya in the region nears closer, visitors to Chetumal will soon be able to visit once fairly inaccessible attractions like the Calakmul biosphere and its many archaeological sites.

Bay of Chetumal
Chetumal has a long way to go if it intends to compete with other destinations in the Caribbean. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gracht / Yucatán Magazine

But Chetumal must make significant strides to compete in the international tourism market.

Dining options are essential for any destination. But Chetumal has a poor reputation for gastronomy and is dominated by chain restaurants like Vips — a kind of Mexican Denny’s — or Applebees. 

About Chetumal

Chetumal is not as well-known as its neighboring destinations, yet it presents a unique experience for visitors interested in exploring a quieter part of the region.

The city’s proximity to several important Mayan archaeological sites, such as Kohunlich and Dzibanché, makes it an appealing destination for history enthusiasts. These ancient ruins provide a look into the architectural and cultural achievements of the Maya civilization. Visitors can explore temples, observe stone carvings, and walk along jungle paths in these well-preserved sites.

Chetumal’s cultural landscape reflects the influence of its location near the Belizean border. This has resulted in a blend of Mexican, Caribbean, and Mayan elements in the city’s cuisine, music, and markets. Local markets offer a variety of traditional crafts, textiles, and fresh produce that reflect this diverse cultural background.

Chetumal offers access to several natural attractions in the surrounding area. Bacalar and its “Lagoon of Seven Colors” is a popular spot. Additionally, the nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides opportunities for eco-tourism. This reserve is known for its mangroves, diverse wildlife, and coastal ecosystems.

Chetumal offers a quieter alternative to the more commercialized destinations in the region, providing opportunities for cultural, historical, and natural exploration. It serves as a gateway to both Mayan heritage and the natural landscapes of southern Quintana Roo, appealing to travelers looking for a more relaxed and authentic experience.

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