Unprecedented Sargassum Seaweed Crisis Triggers Price Slashes in Caribbean Hotels
The Caribbean tourism industry is grappling with the most severe sargassum seaweed crisis in recorded history. According to data from the University of South Florida, nearly every region of the Caribbean and Gulf experienced record-high levels of sargassum in May. Experts predict these volumes will surge even more in June, potentially making 2026 the worst year since monitoring began.
Particularly affected by this unprecedented influx of brown seaweed are the Caribbean hotels, especially those in Mexico’s Quintana Roo region. The environmental crisis has compelled these establishments to reduce their prices by up to 40% as occupancy rates plummet year-over-year. Early statistics from May 2026 reveal a significant dip in bookings compared to the previous year. Tourist hotspots such as Cancun, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya are bearing the brunt of this crisis.
The surge in sargassum levels is attributed to climate change and nutrient pollution. The seaweed, when washed ashore and left to decompose, releases a pungent rotten-egg smell due to the emission of hydrogen sulfide gas. This unpleasant odor not only deters tourists but also disrupts beach resort operations. Local authorities have initiated containment measures, including deploying Mexican Navy vessels for collection. However, the magnitude of the bloom is overwhelming the cleanup capacity.
In response to the escalating crisis, the Mexican government has significantly ramped up its efforts for 2026. Despite this, forecasts suggest that a staggering total of 130,000 tonnes of seaweed could potentially reach the coastline throughout the year, a significant increase from the 96,000 tonnes recorded in 2025.
Source: Skift