Chiquilá, Q.R. — The Secretary of State, Christine Torres, met with ferry personnel after one of the companies blocked the dock. On Sunday, Holbox Express reportedly blocked access to the Holbox ferry dock to prevent its competitor from docking.
Torres arrived a day later with Karla María Almanza López, Secretary of Economic Development, to talk with both sides. The meeting was held between the two state officials and owners of Holbox Express and 9 Hermanos, as well as with Chiquilá boatmen.
During their discussion, Torres pointed out the importance of “preventing tourists from being harassed” and the need to diversify the tourist market.
“What we are looking for is to diversify things so as not to all go after the same market,” she said adding that “there is work for everyone”.
Torres said she intended to review the current legal issues between the two companies to understand their roles and schedules with the Port Authority to ensure they are respected.
The meeting was held after Holbox Express placed a vessel in front of the dock to prevent its competitor from coming or going. The move created discomfort for island tourists since they were unable to cross. The move also inconvenienced local boat owners who were unable to accommodate tourists due to the shut dock.
