What Travel Advisors Would Like to See at Royal Caribbean's New Private Destination Perfect Day Mexico

Since opening in May 2019, Perfect Day at CocoCay has become Royal Caribbean's top-rated destination around the world. The colorful island in The Bahamas is so popular that the company has decided to build a second private destination in Mexico. Slated to open in 2027, Perfect Day Mexico will be situated in Mahahual, a village on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.  

Since announcing Perfect Day Mexico in October, Royal Caribbean hasn’t revealed much about the new destination—only that travelers can expect an “all-new, thrilling waterpark; jaw-dropping pools and beaches, restaurants, bars and more spots for all taste buds; music and more.” 

The cruise line says it will share more details in the coming months. But, in the meantime, we asked travel advisors to imagine their ideal Perfect Day Mexico. Here’s what they hope to see at Royal Caribbean’s new private paradise.

 

‘Respectful Homage to Mexican Heritage’

Perfect Day Mexico will be located near the Costa Maya cruise port, which Royal Caribbean has reportedly purchased and plans to redevelop. Right now, the port can be challenging for cruise travelers.

“While I personally love the Riviera Maya and recommend visiting places like Mahahual Beach or Bacalar Lagoon, many passengers hesitate to disembark due to unfamiliarity with the area, the spread-out attractions or the overly commercialized port experience that lacks authentic Mexican culture,” says Jennifer Kellum, the owner and founder of Neverland & Main Travel.

Broadly speaking, Kellum is optimistic that Perfect Day Mexico will help make Costa Maya more appealing to passengers who might not otherwise get off the ship and explore. But she also hopes Royal Caribbean will use Perfect Day Mexico as an opportunity to introduce travelers to Mexico’s vibrant culture, history and traditions. She’d like to see Royal Caribbean’s signature brand of fun throughout the private destination, but also elements that pay “respectful homage to Mexican heritage,” she says.

Beyond that, she hopes Royal Caribbean will continue to encourage travelers to venture outside of Perfect Day Mexico.

“While it provides a convenient and exciting option, it doesn’t replace the opportunity for travelers to venture beyond the port with local tour operators for more intimate excursions,” she adds. 

Immersive Cultural Activities

Kayla Smith, a travel advisor with Sojourney Travel, echoed that sentiment, adding that many travelers she works with are looking for authentic experiences in every destination they visit—and cruises are no exception.

“The Riviera Maya region of Mexico has such a rich cultural background, and I feel like Royal Caribbean definitely has the opportunity to build on this heritage as they implement Perfect Day in the region,” says Smith.

In addition to water slides and activities for children, she’d like to see Royal Caribbean offer some adult-friendly, interactive cultural experiences at Perfect Day Mexico—like cooking classes, Spanish lessons, dance classes, or arts and craft lessons taught by local artists.

“These sorts of activities would engage travelers of all ages while providing a sense of cultural immersion that is unique to the destination,” she says.

Michele Lindsay, owner of Blue Pointe Travel, also wants to see options for adults that have “a little flare to them,” she says. For example, under a covered pavilion, Royal Caribbean could offer a “salsa and salsa” class, where guests could learn how to make salsa and take salsa dancing lessons, says Lindsay.

Mexican-Inspired Design 

Several travel advisors agreed that Perfect Day Mexico should take design cues from its natural surroundings, as well as from Mexico’s long history.

“Imagine interactive installations featuring cenotes, where visitors can explore and immerse themselves in the mysterious allure of these sacred water-filled caves,” says Tiffiney Love, a travel advisor with Sojourney Travel. 

For kids, Royal Caribbean could build an expansive splash area and interactive water play zone with a Maya or jungle theme, suggests Lindsay. And an outdoor climbing wall in the shape of a Maya temple would also be “absolutely amazing” she adds.

 

Accessible and Functional Spaces

Lindsay books a lot of multigenerational families on Royal Caribbean cruises, so she always keeps accessibility top of mind. It’s important that everyone from grandparents to the youngest grandkids—and everyone in between—can access the same facilities to enjoy together.

“From a purely logistical and facilities based perspective, I do like what Disney has done at Lookout Cay with raised boardwalks,” she says. “That would give guests with mobility challenges easier access to different parts of the area.”

Robust Spa Offerings

Not all travelers are going to want to ride waterslides, swim in the pool or snorkel. For guests who want to truly unwind, Royal Caribbean could add a robust spa to Perfect Day Mexico, suggests Lori Stephens, founder and chief executive officer of Sojourney Travel.

“A unique offering, like a head spa experience, would be such an amazing way for guests to relax and indulge while enjoying the beauty of the private beach,” she says.

Authentic Food Offerings

Food is a delicious way for travelers to immerse themselves in the culture of any destination, but especially Mexico. Several travel advisors mentioned that the food (and drinks) at Perfect Day Mexico should reflect the country’s culinary prowess.

“I’d also love to see more diverse and authentic food options,” says Stephens. “Think fresh, authentic Mexican dishes alongside locally inspired seafood offerings—something that highlights the destination’s flavors and culture.”

An Overnight Option

Cruise guests typically have seven or eight hours to spend at Perfect Day at CocoCay, with ships docking early in the morning and departing in the late afternoon. But with the trendiness of late departures and overnight port calls, why not give travelers even more time at Perfect Day Mexico?

“A standout feature could be the option for an overnight stay,” says Stephens. “Guests could enjoy a private, candlelit dinner on the beach under the stars. This would truly elevate the Perfect Day concept into something unforgettable.”

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