Mexico Doubles the Fees in the Soccorros!!!

[divergirlLinda]

The park fees in the Socorros as DOUBLING effective January 1, 2025. This is ridiculous! I guess they are trying to make sure nobody dives there.

Socorro Marine Park Fee Increase: What You Need to Know​

Are you planning a liveaboard trip to the Socorro Islands? Recent changes to marine park fees have introduced significant updates that divers need to be aware of. Bluewater Travel is always here to guide you through these changes and ensure that your travel plans remain smooth and stress-free.

What Happened?​

Marine park fees for the Socorro Islands have increased significantly, from 1,811 to 3,622.02 Mexican pesos per diving day—approximately USD $97 to $195 (based on the 3-year average from OFX). A typical liveaboard trip with six diving days totals roughly $1,170, depending on the exchange rate used by the liveaboard. These mandatory fees apply to all visitors and are collected to support conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When is it Effective?​

The new fees will take effect on January 1, 2025, and apply to divers traveling to the Socorro Islands from that date onward, regardless of when the trip was booked.

Why the Increase?​

The Mexican government's fee increase aims to strengthen conservation efforts and protect the Revillagigedo Archipelago’s incredible marine ecosystem. Known for its giant manta rays, sharks, and other marine life, the funds will enforce illegal fishing, conduct research, and improve infrastructure.

Exceptions and Discounts​

There are some important exceptions and discounts available for specific individuals:

• Retired Individuals (60+): The fee can be waived if CONANP approves the documentation submitted in advance. The documentation must be in English or Spanish and include an official document stating "retired" or "pensioned."
• Active Students and Teachers: A 50% discount requires proof of status. A valid ID card with a photo and current date is required.

All exception documentation must be submitted at least two weeks before the trip, as it requires government approval. The diver must pay the full fee if approval is not granted in time.

 

[living4experiences]

Mexico is quite the greedy country. I am fortunate to have been to Socorro twice before the last two price hikes in these fees and will not be returning.

Starting July 1, 2025, all cruise ship passengers will pay $42 per person to visit a port in Mexico, regardless if the passenger leaves the ship or not. These are the highest port fees in all of the Caribbean ports that ships visit. The tax will not stay in the local economy but will go to fund the military. Previously, cruise ship passengers were exempt from a visitor tax because their visits were for a few hours.

Mexico's $42 cruise passenger tax delayed. Here's when it will take effect.

The change comes after pushback from the cruise industry.

www.usatoday.com

 

[Landau]

Has anyone got details on how to apply for the retiree waiver? Anyone done it successfully?