Ultramar Ferry Fares to Rise on Key Quintana Roo Routes

Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo — The ferry operator Ultramar has requested authorization to raise fares on two of its most heavily trafficked routes: Puerto Juárez-Isla Mujeres and Playa del Carmen-Cozumel, as well as for cargo shipments supplying both islands. The proposed increase comes amid persistent rumors of a price hike during the peak Easter travel season, though the exact percentage remains undisclosed.

Uncertainty Over Approval and Timing

A senior executive at Ultramar stated over the weekend, "We have not yet been informed of any authorization," denying speculation that the adjustment would take effect on Wednesday, April 16. The increase is expected to be approved later this semester, pending evaluation by the tariff division of Mexico’s Secretariat of the Navy (Semar).

Current round-trip fares for the Puerto Juárez-Isla Mujeres route stand at 580 pesos for adults and 440 pesos for minors. Quintana Roo residents pay 200 pesos (adults) and 132 pesos (minors), while seniors and municipal residents are charged 200 pesos and 110 pesos, respectively. These prices include a 34.95-peso Environmental Sanitation Fee.

Port Authority Adjusts Dock and Passenger Fees

Digital platforms have reported that the Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (Apiqroo) received approval to raise fees for docking, mooring, and passenger boarding/disembarkation by nearly 5%. Under the new rates, ferry operators will pay 1,273.15 pesos per docking operation (for up to two hours), while passenger boarding or disembarkation will cost 6.36 pesos per person. Combined, these adjustments will bring the total cost per operation to 3,476.28 pesos.

Local Apiqroo officials in charge of commercial and operational matters confirmed they have not received any official notification about the potential changes. Similarly, the Port Captaincy declined to comment when approached for clarification.

Previous Increases and Passenger Concerns

Last year, Ultramar raised fares by 10% for Isla Mujeres residents, increasing the round-trip ticket from 100 to 110 pesos. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, visitor fares have nearly doubled, while cargo rates saw two adjustments during the health crisis, culminating in a 50% total increase.

The proposed hike has drawn criticism from travelers, who have previously reported issues with Ultramar, including stranded passengers and alleged overcharging. Competitor Grupo Xcaret, which operates on the same routes, has not publicly addressed the potential fare changes.

Related Incidents Highlight Passenger Frustrations

• In March 2025, Ultramar left over 600 passengers stranded at Puerto Juárez due to operational disruptions.
• Tourists have filed complaints against the company for failing to adhere to scheduled departure times.
• Visitors reported being overcharged, with some paying 2,194 pesos for trips that should have cost 1,160 pesos, which the company attributed to a "misunderstanding."

As the high season continues, travelers and residents await further updates on whether the fare adjustments will be implemented.