Confusion at Cabo Marina as Change of Ownership Takes Place

Cabo Marina underwent a sudden change of ownership recently, causing alarm and concern among boaters. According to the Gringo Gazette, Mexican navy personnel, national guard and state police arrived at the docks and secured the area with chains, and instructed boat owners to relocate their vessels. The Gazette reported that the Mexican government did not renew its lease agreement with former owners Fonatur and the Island Global Yachting (IGY) company. “This changeover marks a new chapter for the marina, promising a different management style and possibly new regulations.” But by the end of the day, the marina was back in business under the administration of an organization known as ASIPONA.

According to Megayacht News, the Mexican newspaper Diario El Independiente reported, “a siren sounded in the marina the morning of April 11. The siren reportedly alerted those in the marina that the docks were closed.” The Independiente also reported that the Mexican government had officially published news of ASIPONA’s receiving the concession for a 50-year period on March 22.

In digging deeper, Megayacht News contacted an IGY Marina spokesperson, who declined to comment. IGY is owned by MarineMax, which reportedly “believes that the takeover of Cabo Marina’s facilities is illegal and that the alleged violations underlying the sanctions proceedings against Cabo Marina are illegitimate.” Megayacht News reports, “MarineMax says it’s working with both American and Mexican government officials to resolve the situation.”

This sounds like a messy situation that may take a while to sort out. In the meantime, our understanding is that boaters already in Cabo Marina are allowed to stay and that prior bookings are being honored. BOAT International writes, “Since the initial filing, Mexican newspaper Diario El Independiente reported that normal operations appeared to resume on Friday morning (19 April) at the marina, but that the dispute had yet to be resolved. McGowan [Kitty McGowan, president of the US Superyacht Association] added that the marina is not accepting any new dockage requests at this time, but it will honor all previous bookings. ‘I have been told that a number of captains were pleased with the professional conduct of the government officials who have asked for patience in this transition,’ she said. ‘Despite what the rumor mill might be grinding, the area continues to be safe and secure for visiting superyachts. There are no vessels or companies being seized.'”

The Baja Ha-Ha’s Grand Poobah says, “… in November marina management told us it was going to happen.” He adds that while he can’t be sure, he doubts it will have much effect on the Baja Ha-Ha.

We suggest that if you’re heading to Cabo, check before you go and update yourself on the situation. As of this writing, Cabo Marina’s website looks unchanged, still indicating it is operated by IGY.