Cozumel ferries.

Prices for the ferry to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen could be reduced in the future, as a result of a new investigation into competition between transport providers, announced last Friday.

The Mexican Federal Competition Commission said in the government's Daily Official Journal that it will review pricing and possible maritime transport monopolies in the state of Quintana Roo.

Among the routes that could be investigated is the passenger ferry run by two companies between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen.

Reports have also suggested that Cozumel’s mayor, Juan Carlos González Hernández, wants a third company to increase competition and has raised the issue with federal transport officials.

The Competition Commission will look into contracts, agreements and arrangements between the providers of commercial and passenger maritime services, seeking any conditions that may fix, raise or manipulate ticket prices.

Mexico Waterjets and Ultramar are the two companies that currently operate the route between the island and the mainland.

Both firms charge the same price, which has more than doubled in the last 6 years. A one way ticket now costs about 140 pesos ($11), although local residents can apply for a discount card.

Visit our Tourist Information pages for more information about Cozumel ferries.