BREAKING: MIRACLE AT MARINA FONATUR IN COZUMEL, MEXICO
After years of playing “Find That Parking Spot” and schlepping dive gear like sherpas on vacation, the impossible has happened…
Marina Fonatur has officially removed its head from its… well, you know… and opened a parking lot for divers and dive masters on the north side.
That’s right—no more parking in the next time zone, no more sweating through your wetsuit before you even hit the water.
Just pull up, park, and go blow bubbles.
Cozumel divers, mark the date. The prophecy has been fulfilled.
Background on the Cozumel Marina Dispute
The Cozumel Marina dispute has its roots in the disappearance of Fonatur, the National Fund for Tourism Promotion, which led to the transfer of its assets to various entities. As a result, Asipona, a federal body based in Progreso, Yucatan, took over the administration of Marina Cozumel, Marina Fonatur, and Caleta. This change has raised concerns among boat owners and the local community, who are seeking clarity on the impact of the transfer on their operations and livelihoods.
Parking Conflict at Marina Fonatur Cozumel Leaves Scuba Divers Stranded
It was a magnificent day; the stay-at-home order was rescinded, and the Scuba Tony dive boat was standing by to take us out for the first time in 3 months. Cozumel Island, with its area of 48 x 16 kilometers, is renowned for its unique location between the Caribbean Sea and the mainland. We headed south down Av. Rafael E Melgar with hardly a wisp of traffic. All our senses were in overdrive. We pulled up to the guard shack and gave him our names and the dive company we were diving with. We now meandered down the concrete pavement to the Marina Fonatur and the heart of Cozumel’s scuba diving community.
What appeared before us sent a chill down our spines. While we were under curfew and forced to stay in our homes, WAR was battling on at Marina Fonatur. It turns out two corporations own the marina, the marina fonatur, and marina API. One of these factions thought it would benefit themselves by barricading off and locking the entire parking lot. This will generate a significant income loss for all the marina industries. After COVID-19, it has become progressively more problematic to remain in business. Despite the ongoing conflict, visitors are encouraged to visit Marina Fonatur and experience the vibrant diving community.
This faction should not be concerned with playing petty games for personal gain. We care passionately about the vibrancy of our Diving Industry. This enterprise has put forth efforts to help revitalize Cozumel. It also works hard to keep the business community thriving.
The parking left will not support the marina. There is hardly space for 36 cars and 20 scooters now. When the divers return, where will they park? COVID-19 has hurt tourism, and we can not let this continue. This is the moment the elected officials should perform. Don’t hesitate to contact them and present your displeasure before further destruction is achieved. We can only do so much here at Stingray Villa, and we need your help fighting for our beloved island.
Impact on Scuba Divers and the Local Community
The change in administration has significant implications for scuba divers and the local community. With hundreds of boats using the Cozumel and Fonatur Marinas, the transfer of ownership may affect the availability of berths, rental fees, and access to facilities. Moreover, the local community, which relies heavily on tourism, may be impacted by disruptions to marina operations. Asipona has announced plans to meet with boat owners from Caleta to work on an agreement that will address some of these concerns.
Marina Fonatur Operations Affected
The transfer of ownership has resulted in changes to Marina Fonatur’s operations. Boat owners will now pay their marina rental fees to Asipona, which may lead to changes in payment procedures and potentially affect the marina’s revenue streams. Additionally, the transfer may impact the marina’s maintenance and upkeep as Asipona takes over responsibility for these tasks. However, Asipona has assured marina users that it will provide documentation to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruptions to operations.
Resolution and Future Plans
Asipona has announced plans to work with boat owners and the local community to resolve any issues arising from the transfer of ownership. The meeting with boat owners from Caleta is expected to result in an agreement that addresses concerns around berths, rental fees, and access to facilities. In the long term, Asipona plans to invest in the marina’s infrastructure and facilities, which is expected to enhance the overall experience for scuba divers and boat owners. The Asipona website will provide updates on the progress of these plans and any changes to marina operations.