18/07/2026
As dive business owners with more than 20 years of experience in Cozumel, we want you to know that we share your concern and frustration.
Licensed dive operators in Cozumel are legally established businesses. We create jobs, pay taxes, comply with all regulations, and hold the required permits to operate within the Cozumel National Marine Park. Our livelihoods—and those of thousands of island families—depend on providing visitors with a safe, welcoming, and world-class diving experience.
As soon as we became aware of these incidents, we submitted an official statement to the appropriate authorities. That document is now on the Governor's desk, and yesterday she took decisive action by ordering the removal of the Director of Customs in Cozumel.
We know this is only the first step. What truly matters is ensuring that these situations never happen again.
Every diver who visits Cozumel contributes far beyond a dive trip. They stay in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, use transportation services, visit local businesses, and support countless families throughout our community. The economic impact of dive tourism reaches every corner of the island.
We stand with you in firmly rejecting any practice that damages the trust of our visitors. We sincerely apologize to those who have experienced this unacceptable situation. We understand that you save, plan, and choose Cozumel because you want to support our island and enjoy everything it has to offer.
Today we raise our voices and respectfully, but urgently, call on the appropriate authorities to take immediate action to ensure this never happens again. The consequences for Cozumel's dive industry and our local economy could be devastating if this issue is not fully addressed.
For decades, Cozumel has earned its reputation as one of the world's premier diving destinations. Together, we must protect that legacy.
