In a tragic maritime incident on the evening of January 29, 2024, a boat transporting 19 individuals, including 17 tourists and two crew members, capsized in the waters between Cancún, and Isla Mujeres, a popular tourist destination in the Caribbean coast state of Quintana Roo, Mexico.

The accident led to the deaths of four Mexican tourists, including one woman, two men, and a ten-year-old boy. 

The remaining passengers, all Mexican, had to be rescued from the water by the Mexican Navy and other local agencies. Some were taken to be treated at local hospitals. Their conditions remain unknown. 

The boat, named Diosa del Mar (Goddess of the Sea), was returning to Cancún from Isla Mujeres, where the passengers had dined at a restaurant. 

Preliminary investigations by authorities, including the state attorney general Raciel López, are focused on determining whether the boat was overcrowded or if adverse weather conditions contributed to the accident. It was reported that the boat had a passenger capacity of 16 but was carrying 19 people at the time of the incident. There is also speculation about the impact on the boat from the wake of a larger vessel. Safety concerns regarding boats in the area have been raised, with emphasis on the adherence to passenger capacity and the use of life jackets, which was unclear in this incident. The captain of the boat has been detained for further investigation into the cause of the accident.

The narrow strait between Isla Mujeres and Cancún is known for its heavy traffic, including ferries, private pleasure craft, and small charter boats. 

This area has witnessed several accidents in the past. In 2022, two American divers lost their lives in these waters when a dive boat moved over them despite visible warning signs. 

In 2018, an explosion on a passenger ferry at Playa del Carmen slightly injured around two dozen tourists, including foreigners. 

In 2000, British singer Kirsty MacColl tragically died when struck by a boat propeller while diving at Cozumel, across from Playa del Carmen.

Local authorities have implemented new regulations regarding boat anchoring off Playa Norte in Isla Mujeres, in response to ongoing complaints. 

These new regulations include the installation of a resistant buoy line to restrict boat access to the popular beach area and a fee for using mooring points along the 800-meter-long line. Signs warn swimmers about crossing into the boat area and boats against anchoring within 10 meters of the line. The harbor master’s office monitors the area and enforces sanctions for violations.