cozumel snorkeling boat tour

If you want to enjoy a snorkeling experience of a lifetime in one of the world’s most impressive coral reefs then THIS is for YOU …

Discover The Forbidden Location Where You'll Enjoy An Exclusive Snorkeling Experience In Cozumel!

Imagine snorkeling in the warm waters of a Spectacular Coral Reef - entry to which is Forbidden to Most Snorkelers …

…that teems with the richest possible variety of marine life – both brilliantly colored marine plants and tropical fish.

And, imagine being able to enjoy this amazing spectacle, without even getting wet (if you choose) because everything is visible within a few feet through the glass at the bottom of your boat.

Does that sound too good to be true?

That’s what Amy O'Connor from PORTLAND, Oregon thought – until she experienced our service …

Amy O'Connor​

Portland, Oregon

We've gone on Snorkeling Tours before - But never enjoyed such a High Level of Personal Service"

Make sure to book your snorkel adventure with these guys!

I can't tell you how much we were taken care of from the time we stepped out of the transportation until the time we departed!

We obviously were experienced snorkelers that had gone on snorkel tours but we never the same personal customer service and we were very thankful for that!

We went to 3 different locations with our guide Alberto and Captain Santiago. I can't say enough about these guys! They are awesome and if you get a chance to be able to request these guys please do they will take great care of you and you will have a awesome experience with them!

We really had a great time.

I wouldn't book a trip with anyone else in Cozumel! Make sure to book with them!

And tell Alberto and Captain Santiago, we said hello!

INTRODUCING… The Famous 3 Reefs Cozumel Snorkeling Tour

You’ll be astonished at the sheer volume and variety of the colorful tropical fish swimming among the impressive reefs of both hard and soft coral (we actually feed the fish to encourage them to stay in the reefs).

If you’re really lucky, you might enjoy a glimpse of a clawless lobster, turtles or a graceful ray with its graceful wave-like motion.

The most spectacular reefs in the area lie within the protected Cozumel Marine Park area .

But, because we are one of the very few businesses who have invested in the high quality glass-bottomed boats, with the latest environmentally friendly engines, to meet the very strict ecological requirements needed to preserve this marine wonderland, you will enjoy a spectacular trip of a lifetime with us.

YOU'll visit a total of 3 Snorkeling Reefs . Which – needless to say – are 3 of the most astonishing among a whole area of spectacular reefs .

The first of these is the aptly named ‘Paradise Reef’…

The reef packs with sea fans, brain corals, star corals, gorgonians, and sponges. If you are planning on using your GoPro camera while you are on this snorkeling tour, you can rest assured that you will take some fantastic photos and videos.

It’s also worth mentioning that this is the area where you will probably see the famous, endemic Cozumel Splendid toadfish.

Generally speaking, this is a shallow reef which is perfect for novice snorkelers.

Then you’ll visit the ‘Villablanca Gardens Reef’…

Which is no less beautiful. Both reefs are a mix of hard and soft coral, each type of coral having its own indigenous marine plant life.

Villa Blanca Reef Cozumel is one of the ideal places for snorkeling, diving and swimming in Cozumel. This reef has everything that a modern snorkeler, regardless of his or her experience, needs.

There is abundant marine life, the place is not very shallow, but not very deep either, there are organized tours to this place, and there are some attractions around that you can enjoy too; this is the reason why severe snorkelers highly recommend Villa Blanca Reef.

Then – as a grand finale – you'll visit probably the most magnificent of the three reefs, the ‘Dzul-Ha Reef’…

That means ‘Royal Water’ in the ancient Mayan language.

There are many stunning corals and unique fish in abundance. It is easy to get carried away and stay here for hours.

Even if you are not a seasoned snorkeler, you can rest assured that you will see at least some of the living beings found there like serpent stars, anemones, sea fans, and some other tropical fish and corals.

Even though it's not guaranteed, you can see some turtles too.

If you're looking for the El Cielo Snorkeling Tour then click this link…

You'll be surprised to see the Most Amazing Sea Life - as many of our delighted regular customers will attest...

Samuel Williams​​

Seattle, Washington

This was the Best Reef I have ever experienced in the three years I've been to Mexico"

Booking this excursion was quick and easy, we booked the Cozumel Snorkeling Tour which was 3 stops at different shallow Reefs.

The moment Fernando met us, he was most informational on everything we would want to know about Cozumel. Made the short 20 boat ride to the first stop Paradise Reef a bit quicker :)

I must say this was the best Reef I have ever experienced in the three years I've been to Mexico.

We saw so many awesome fish and I have no idea what the names of any of them are! Fernando was awesome about getting us included in some photos.

You'll be escorted by fully Licensed & English Speaking Guides...

All the boat Captains and Snorkeling Guides (mostly my uncles and cousins) are certified snorkeling guides with at least eight year’s experience and Speak excellent English , so your memorable day won’t be spoilt by having to struggle to understand what they are saying.

In fact, that is one risk you really cannot afford to take...

Because – in situations like this, when safety has to be top priority – it’s vital you understand every word the instant your crew says it , without a second’s doubt or hesitation.

Over the years we have thrilled many thousands of snorkelers with the sheer excitement of the experience we provide and many become firm friends and return again and again to snorkel in our beautiful coral reef – second only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

‘Cozumel Snorkeling Tours’ is a family-owned business...

Hola … my name is Alberto Novelo and I and my close family have been providing snorkeling tours in Cozumel for 23 years (since 1995). So, when you take our tour you’ll know you are dealing with a family owned and staffed business, because we will look after you far more attentively than a business staffed by mere employees.

And it’s important for you to know that – whether I or my brother, Jorge or my cousin, Sandy is your Snorkeling Guide, you are being served by one of the owners of the business – not merely a disinterested employee.

That means we are very proud of our reputation and will work extremely hard to ensure your total satisfaction and enjoyment.

Snorkeling or Not - You'll enjoy the ride on our Glass-Bottomed Boats with plenty of Shade, Seating & Drinks…

As part of our Premium Service our Boats are all Glass-Bottomed with ample shade and plenty of comfortable seating...

So if you can’t swim (or simply don’t want to get wet) you will still enjoy the glorious sights in the crystal clear tropical waters below the boat from the comfort of your seat, shaded from the sun, with a cold drink at your elbow.

And if you are planning on snorkeling, then, during the short trip to the reefs, our guide will demonstrate exactly how to use the snorkeling equipment and how to snorkel for maximum comfort and safety.

You'll enjoy an Excursion full of Adventures & Excitement, but Easy & Relaxing at the same time just like our client Jennifer...

Jennifer Lanane

Toronto, Ontario

More than a Snorkeling Adventure - Friendly Personalized Tour"

We have had two great tours with Alberto. Everything was well arranged, from the booking through the website to the snorkel gear.

Snorkeling on the reefs and with the turtles was lots of fun. Alberto is a professional tour guide, who knows the spots to see the most amazing sea life and is able to tell everything about them.

We had such a great time the whole tour! It was full of adventures and excitement, but easy and relaxing at the same time, thanks to Alberto!

It was a nice mix of activities and the perfect amount of time for us. He took fantastic pictures during the whole trip. We came home with them so we can relive it anytime we want to!

It really was the best part of our whole trip!

We would highly recommend to book a tour with Cozumel snorkeling Tours when you are in the Island!

Alberto, thanks again for a Great Experience!

Absolutely no overcrowding – ever!

So determined are we to ensure you enjoy the best possible experience on this wonderful day, we strictly limit our 22 person capacity boats to a maximum of 10 or 12 passengers.

This means we can give each and every one of you the sort of personal attention you deserve as our valued guests, particularly if this is your first time swimming underwater.

Steve & Nancy Miller​

Homosassa, Florida

We saw boats with 20 people. That many Snorkeling in a small area wouldn't be the Best Experience Ever"

Based on reviews, we booked our tours with Cozumel Snorkeling Tours before leaving the States.

In addition to having a great personality and very proud of his country, he's a wealth of information on the area and the sea life.

Both tours were excellent, we spent about 40-45 minutes on each one of the 3 Reefs. We saw eels, barracudas, lobster, conch and all your typical reef dwelling fish.

In both cases, we were just a small group and on the first day it was just the 6 of us. It made for a much better snorkeling experience. We were passed by boats with as many as 20 people on them. That many people snorkeling in a small area wouldn't be the best experience. We were very happy that we booked in advance with Cozumel Snorkeling Tours.

What’s more, if you are a party of 10 or more, you can …

Enjoy a FREE upgrade to a ‘Private Boat For Your Group Only’

Because I’ll be delighted to give you a FREE upgrade to a totally private boat trip where you’ll enjoy all the facilities and comforts of our standard PREMIUM boats – with the added benefit that you won’t be sharing your boat with anyone else.

You can also choose to start your trip at your desired time rather than the regular start times we have thru the day.

There is no extra charge for this – you simply have to select this option when making your booking.

Our TOUR IN NUMBERS

Years in Business

Customers Served

Client Satisfaction

What sets us apart from other Snorkeling tours in Cozumel?

Several important aspects...

• My company is one of very few licensed to enter the restricted rich marine life protected area forming Cozumel’s spectacular underwater wonderland – The Cozumel Marine Park.
• All our Staff speak fluent English and our Guides are fully Licensed by PADI.
• You can enjoy our unique ‘Welcome Pack’ on board our Boats with Beers, Softdrinks, and Bottles of Purified Water completely free of charge.
• Your comfort and enjoyment comes first, so we rarely take more than 12 passengers on a trip. That means you have the room to spread yourself on the boat and we can give you a really personal service.
• Our glass-bottomed boats are all equipped with ample shade and plenty of comfortable seating . So if you can’t swim (or simply don’t want to snorkel) you can still enjoy the glorious sights in the shallow, crystal clear tropical waters below the boat.
• We are a family owned business and all of our Guides & Captains are family members . This means we are far more motivated to make your day wonderful in a way no employee could ever be.

You're in GOOD COMPANY WITH US

Even if this is your first time snorkeling, you will enjoy an exceptional experience that few other tours can match.

And if you are planning on snorkeling for the first time, our English speaking guide will demonstrate exactly how to use the snorkeling equipment and how to snorkel for maximum comfort and safety, during the short trip to the reefs.

Unlike many snorkeling companies operating out of Cozumel, we supply a brand new snorkel tube, free of charge, for your exclusive use.

So you can be confident that you – AND ONLY YOU – will have had this tube in your mouth. After your trip we carefully dispose of every tube in a totally eco-friendly way.

And that's Because we specialize in Families with Kids & Beginner Snorkelers...

Jeff Edmondson​

Plymouth, Devon

The shallow reefs were Amazing! - Can't believe the amount of fish we saw"

My partner and I had no snorkelling experience and after reading numerous reviews decided to book our first snorkel with Cozumel Snorkeling Tours!

We arrived and were given equipment and a little talk about our trip then practice in shallow water which was good.

We were in a small group with 2 other couples, Captain Santiago and Guide Alberto, so only 8 people in total and never felt crowded, was perfect size.

The Shallow Reefs were amazing and couldn't believe the amount of fish we saw.

This may be because we were beginners and have no other experience but we were amazed!! Saw many turtles and even a huge one which they said was rare to see!

Then back to our Cruise Ship. Really good morning trip and would thoroughly recommend for any beginners!

The TOUR OVERVIEW

• All snorkeling gear (Fins, Goggles, Life Jacket, & Disposable Snorkeling Tube).
• Softdrinks and beer onboard (Beer, Soda, Purified Water).
• Boat ride in our Glass Bottom Boats.
• Professional and English speaking Snorkel Guides.
• Snorkeling in 3 reefs in Cozumel’s Marine Park (VillaBlanca Gardens Reef, Paradise Shallows Reef & Dzul-Ha Reef).
• Marine Park conservation fee.
• Ground transportation from your Cruise Pier or Hotel to our meeting point.
• Ferry transportation when coming from Mainland (Playa del Carmen or Cancun).
• Gratuities – optional, of course.
• 3 different stops (3 Shallow Reefs inside Cozumel’s Marine Park).
• No previous Snorkeling experience necessary.
• Instructions and assistance with all aspects of Snorkeling gear and safety.
• Small groups with personal attention.
• Our meeting point is next door to the Cruise Pier.
• Yes, our Guides speak English.
• Your choice of 5 convenient start times: 9:30am, 10:30am, 12pm (noon), 1pm, and 3pm.
• Our Trips in two words: No Worries.
• Paradise Shallows Reef.
• VillaBlanca Gardens Reef.
• All these are inside Cozumel Marine Park (Protected Area).

The DEPARTURE HOURS

A convenient time for all Cruisers & Visitors

Your choice of time

• For Groups of 10 or more people, we offer Private Charter Trips at no extra cost.
• You get to choose your own depart time.

If you are arriving on a Cruise ship, then allow 30 minutes from docking to cover any delay in embarkation.

If you are coming from Playa del Carmen, the Ferry ride to Cozumel lasts 30 minutes, and costs only $6usd each way. Ferries depart every hour both ways starting at 7am until 11pm.

Make sure to catch a Ferry at least 1 hour before your scheduled depart time.

Your tour lasts approximately 2 ½ hours.

The MEETING POINT

Meeting up could not be easier – no matter where you’re coming from ...

We meet at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel (located directly next door to the Cruise Pier), a very well known Hotel by the Cruise Pier area.

• Coming in on a Cruise Ship? You’ll arrive at the Cruise Pier, which is just across the street from our meeting point (about 100 yards from both Puerta Maya, and TMM International Cruise Piers).
• If you are staying in Cozumel: Everyone - including the staff at the hotel you’re staying at – knows where the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel (located directly next door to the Cruise Pier) is and will happily give you directions. Or you can just hop in a taxi, because all the taxi drivers know the way!
• Coming from Playa del Carmen? Perfect, because you’ll arrive at the Cozumel Ferry Pier, which is just a few minutes away from our meeting point by taxi (and all the taxi drivers know where the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel is).

Wherever you’re coming from, you’ll receive full directions with your Confirmation Email that will be instantly sent to you when you book your snorkel tour.

The PROGRAM

Here's what you can expect from this Awesome Excursion:

Meeting up for your Snorkeling Tour

You’ll find our Meeting Point at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel, located next to the Cruise Ship Pier.

We have our Boats moored at the Pier of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel, conveniently located just steps from the Cruise Piers.

On our Way to the First Reef

During the 10 mins boat ride, Your guide will explain how to use snorkeling equipment, and you’ll feel your excitement start to rise.

We visit a total of three reefs.

Paradise Reef (the first stop)

The first of these are the aptly named ‘Paradise Reef’. Located in the western part of Cozumel, Paradise Reef is one of the most visited spots for snorkeling tours and scuba diving on this island because it offers breathtaking snorkeling spots.

Villablanca Reef

Then we’ll visit the ‘Villablanca Gardens Reef’, which is no less beautiful. Both reefs are a mix of hard and soft coral, each type of coral having its own indigenous marine plant life.

Dzul-Ha Reef

As a grand finale, we visit probably the most magnificent of the three reefs: the ‘Dzul-Ha Reef’. That means ‘Royal Water’ in the ancient Mayan language.

These reefs are just eight feet deep from the water surface to the sandy bottom, and so enjoys full sunlight and is a most impressive sight, even when viewed through the glass bottom of your boat.

On our way back to the Pier

Can we really have packed so much excitement and lifetime memories in two hours?

Relax on board between dives, with ample shade provided while you sip a cool soft drink, beer or water with our compliments, and excitedly swap experiences with your fellow divers.

All too soon, it’s time to head back to the pier.

Back at the Meeting Point

Once the Tour is over, we’ll go back to our original Meeting Location at the El Cid La Ceiba Hotel (next door to the Cruise Pier) the Place where we first met you in the morning.

From here you can walk back to your Cruise Ship, or take a Taxi back to your Hotel is you’re staying in Cozumel.

TOUR PRICING

You get all this – and much more for just...

By booking direct with us and cutting out the middleman, you immediately slash your investment in a trip of a lifetime by as much as 40%.

What’s more because you enjoy direct contact with us, we can plan the very best tour for you (such as giving you a free upgrade to a private charter if your party is ten or more).

And by booking online, you’ll save even more AND enjoy the advantage of being able to instantly check if the day you want is still available.

What’s more, many of the items that other operators might charge you for – such as the one time only use snorkeling tube, the entry fee to the protected Marine Park and the beer, soft drinks and water are all included in your fee.

Kids (age 1-12)

Adults (age 13+)

• Cozumel Marine Park Conservation Fee is INCLUDED in the Price.
• All Fees & Taxes included. No surprises.

Immediately after your payment is processed you’ll receive a Confirmation Email with full directions to our meeting point , and all your Reservation details.

If you can’t print the Confirmation Email because you don’t have access to a printer, simply make a note of the directions and arrive at our meeting point with your passport or any other photo ID.

And don’t worry about bad weather stopping our boat from leaving the harbor. In that unlikely event, I will immediately refund every penny of your payment or, if it suits you better, we can quickly reschedule for another day.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

My Refund Policy has you covered:

• If there's bad weather on the day of your trip and the harbour master shuts down the port for small boats like mine. I will give you a FULL REFUND.
• If you are coming to Cozumel via Cruise Ship, and your Cruise gets re-routed off Cozumel for any reason. I will give you a FULL REFUND.
• No questions asked.

The CLOCK IS TICKING

As you now know, access to the fragile ecosystems that make up the protected Cozumel Marine Park is severely limited.

But because of our high end glass-bottomed boats are so eco-friendly, we are allowed to operate 3 boats ONLY.

However, despite being licensed to take 22 passengers, we restrict most parties to 12 so you enjoy maximum comfort and close personal attention at all times, particularly when snorkeling.

And, because we are one of very few businesses able to provide the highest quality snorkeling experience and most of our clients come from the cruise ships, bringing in around 20,000 cruise visitors daily when we have a maximum capacity of just 36 seats - we tend to get booked up lightening fast for every day of the week, including Sundays.

So you now have to make a decision FAST

You can either stop to ‘think about it’ - only to come back later and be dismayed to see your choice of day has been taken.

That means, if you only have that one particular day for your trip, you’ll either have to forgo the trip entirely or have to settle for a second rate trip which will NOT include snorkeling among the very best marine life rich reefs of the Paradise Reef, the Villablanca Gardens or the Dzul-Ha Reef.

Instead, you will have to make do with the relatively barren reefs that most tour companies visit which were not considered spectacular enough to be part of the ecology-rich Marine Park that we are licensed to visit.

What’s more, the general tourist area is not protected like the Marine Park, so there is a quite marked difference in the quality and quantity of the marine life.

And the chances are high you will be crammed onto a boat (that might not even have a glass bottom) with 20 or more other folks, severely limiting your enjoyment and perhaps you’ll struggle to understand your guide’s broken English.

You can make the smart move and decide right now which day you want to become the memory of a lifetime by booking our premier Cozumel Snorkelling Tour that visits the awesome Cozumel Marine Park with all its glorious marine life.

Once you’ve made your booking, you can relax and look forward to that magical moment when you step onto our boat.

I and all my family are eagerly looking forward to welcoming you to Cozumel and showing you our wonderful Marine Park reefs first hand!

Alberto Novelo

Certified snorkeling guide, the excursion summary.

Why should the best be reserved for others & not you?

Haven’t you worked hard to afford this trip to Cozumel and so don’t you deserve the best that is on offer?

Because of our small fleet of boats and our strict limit on passenger numbers, designed to give you the best possible personal experience, we often have difficulty coping with all the bookings coming from the 20,000 cruise passengers that arrive in Cozumel daily.

So, now you know what a wonderland the Cozumel Marine Park is, I’d hate it if your hesitation in booking your tour with us condemned you to having to settle for a second best tour that does not take you into the protected, marine life rich Marine Park, but puts you – and up to 20 others - into the crowded poor quality reefs outside the park.

So I strongly suggest you check the availability on your chosen day - RIGHT NOW – and then go ahead and book your seats before it's too late.

I’ll leave the last words to Michael Amber & Sally Durer …

Michael Amber

Lancaster, New York

Excellent Tour for Cruisers like us"

We booked the Cozumel Snorkeling Tour for 2 people. Fernando met us on time and was a great host the entire day.

During the boat ride to the first Reef, he shared tons of history and background of the area as well as the sad truth about the deterioration of the natural wildlife.

There was one other couple on the trip, so it was a very small group. It was roughly 20 minutes to get to the first reef named Paradise Reef where we were provided with snorkel gear and a life jacket.

The equipment was high quality and worked well. Do not apply sunscreen to your face before this trip, otherwise it will be difficult to create a good seal with the mask.

After sharing some ground rules, Fernando led us into the water thru the boat's side ladder. It was an overcast day but visibility was still great.

Sally Durer

Carson City, Nevada

The Sea Creatures were Amazing, the Captain and the Guide were Awesome"

My boyfriend and I booked the snorkeling tour which includes 2 shallow reefs locations and a shallower one at a crystal clear site. For our tour, the guide offered us the option to substitute one of the locations with a shallow one that has sea turtles, so we went that route.

Our guide was Fernando and our captain was Javier. They were amazing and perfect guides for our tour. They were extremely caring and went the extra mile to make sure we were comfortable, had everything we needed, and knew everything we needed to know before and during our tour.

I would highly recommend Cozumel Snorkeling Tours. The sea creatures were amazing, the captain and guide were awesome, and the owner was extremely friendly. Whenever we go back to Cozumel, we will most likely do the same tour rather than trying a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions

The meeting point for cruise passengers is located directly next door from the Cruise Pier at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel.

You will arrive at the Ferry Pier, which is next door from our meeting point at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel. You will receive full directions with the confirmation of your booking.

Our meeting point is at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel and you will receive full directions to there with the confirmation of your booking.

We set off at 9.30 am, 11 am, 12 pm (noon), 1.00 pm or 3.00 pm seven days a week and the tour lasts approximately two and a half hours.

All three of our top quality glass-bottomed boats have a capacity of 22 passengers, but to guarantee your total comfort and personal attention we rarely exceed 12 passengers.

That ensures you have a wide choice of seating and you receive personal attention at all times.

But this does mean we get booked up very quickly.

So booking your seats without delay is the best way to be certain of securing your trip of a lifetime.

And, if you have 10 or more in your party, we will be delighted to give you a free upgrade to a PRIVATE TOUR for you and your party alone – just mention this at the time of booking.

You can check our website at any time, night or day, and get a constantly updated completely accurate picture of our availability.

But please note, that can change in a heartbeat.

So – if you see a slot you want – book it right away. Because, with 80% of our bookings coming from the 20,000 daily cruise visitors, available slots tend to get taken up lightening fast.

As you are coming by cruise ship, please remember there will be plenty of other folks all trying to disembark at the same time as you. So – even though our meeting point is only 50 yards from the Cruise Pier - pick a departure time at least 30 MINUTES AFTER you are scheduled to dock to allow for the inevitable delays in embarkation.

You will need to catch a ferry at least ONE HOUR BEFORE our scheduled departure time. Bear in mind our meeting point is about a mile from the Ferry Pier, which is where you will arrive on Cozumel.

You will receive full directions with your emailed booking confirmation and taxis are available right outside the Ferry Pier for the short trip to the Marti Sporting Goods Store.

NO. Unlike other tour companies, the cost of your disposable one time use snorkel tube plus the Marine Park entry fee and the beach party meal of freshly prepared guacamole, salsa, french fries and drinks are all provided, with our compliments, free of extra charge.

NO. This is one expense you will have to carry, because it would not be fair to the roughly 80% of our clients who only have a 50 yard walk to our meeting point if we were to add the cost of your ferry trip to our prices.

NO. This is one expense you will have to carry, because it would not be fair to the roughly 80% of our clients who only have a 50 yard walk to our meeting point if we were to add the cost of your taxi fare to our prices.

In that very rare event, we would immediately issue you with a full refund or make an alternative booking if that’s convenient for you.

Cozumel Snorkel Tour & El Cielo Cozumel

Tour Time: 9:30AM, 10:30AM & 1:30PM *FLEXIBLE TIMES AVAIL.*

Price:  $50 & Kids: $40

Duration:  4-4½ hours

Transportion:   INCLUDED

Snorkeling Cozumel with the #1 Rated Family tour operator

We are a small family tour operator in Cozumel that has been providing our famous Cozumel Snorkel excursion for over 25 years with over 2,500 reviews. Rated the #1 Snorkel tour operator in Cozumel for many years. What makes our snorkel tours unique, is the fact that we only provide small group tours for our guests. We place around 12 snorkel guests in our snorkel boats that can fit 18 comfortably. But we do accommodate large groups of up to 50 guests. This allows for a more comfortable snorkel experience, and more personalized experience for our guests with our professionally certified guides. If you have more than 8 people in your group, you may ask for a private boat at no additional cost. No hidden fees. Snorkel gear, specialized snorkel lifevests and and marine park passes included.   WE ARE THE ONLY LICENSED TOUR OPERATOR WHO PROVIDES TRANSPORTATION FROM CRUISE PIERS, RESORTS/HOTELS (within cozumel) & FERRY AT NO ADDITIONAL COST.

What's  included in our Cozumel Snorkeling Tour

3 of the best reefs in cozumel.

El Cielo Cozumel Sandbar

​ Transportation Included & No  Hidden fees

What will you see?

Our family offers the best Cozumel snorkeling experience, taking you to the most breathtaking reefs in the area, including Palancar Reef and Colombia Reef. Unlike other operators who only provide a 2-hour tour, our Cozumel snorkeling adventure lasts over 4 hours, giving you ample time to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of each coral reef. We also take you to a secret location in Cozumel where you can snorkel in a shallow reef filled with vibrant sea fans and other colorful marine life. You may even have the chance to swim alongside a sea turtle! Our small group tours, led by certified guides, provide a personalized and comfortable experience for all guests.

After experiencing the best snorkeling spots in Cozumel, we like to treat our guests to a visit to El Cielo Cozumel. This shallow area in the Caribbean, located about a half mile from the Cozumel shore, boasts crystal-clear waters and soft white sand that feels like a massage with every step you take. It's the perfect place to unwind and relax after your snorkeling adventure in Cozumel.

Starfish Beach Cozumel is the perfect spot to relax and unwind after an exciting snorkeling tour in Cozumel. The water at this beach reaches your waist and offers the ideal place to cool off and enjoy some refreshments and delicious food. Spend your day at Starfish Beach Cozumel and create unforgettable memories.

Watch as we prepare our famous guacamole right in front of you. We offer a variety of drinks such as soda, beer (including Corona, Sol, etc.), liquor (including Tequila, etc.), and iced cold water. Our guests are welcome to have as many drinks as they want, and we always ensure that there is plenty of food and drinks on board. In addition, we serve freshly cut delicious fruits to our guests.

We want to make sure that our guests have the best possible experience on our snorkel tour, so if you have any special requests for food or drinks, please let us know in the additional comments section on the reservation page. We are happy to accommodate your requests, including birthday celebrations or any other special event, to ensure that you have an unforgettable time on our Cozumel snorkel tour.

We provide transportation, and located next to the cruise piers where we use the dock there to pick up our guests. Marine park fees included. Make sure that the tour operator has Marine Park permits, because many do not and are pirates and are not allowed to snorkel/dive in the Marine Park, which includes Palancar Reef, Colombia Reef & El Cielo Sandbar. 80% of boats do not have these, so make sure they do. They no longer provide permits, and if you are on a boat that doesn't, it could ruin your day in Cozumel if they are stopped. So avoid purchasing tours from vendors outside cruise ship piers and ferry. 

With Cozumel being one of the best snorkeling and diving destinations, the opportunities to observe sea creatures are endless. Our team of professional snorkel guides have been working with us for many years and are highly experienced in navigating the reef system to find specific sea creatures. It's common for us to encounter sea turtles, as Cozumel has an excellent ecosystem for them. If you have any specific requests for sea creatures you'd like to see, feel free to ask and we will take you to the best location to spot them. Our Cozumel snorkeling tours take you to the most beautiful and exclusive locations, including the breathtaking El Cielo Cozumel bay (also known as Starfish Cozumel) where you can truly experience paradise during your visit.

If you want a stunning vacation memory that will stay with you forever, then our PREMIUM El Cielo Snorkeling Tour is for YOU, because …

The Day You Visit This ‘Heaven On Earth’ Will Be Seared Into Your Memory Forever!

The Spanish name, ‘El Cielo’, translates into English as ‘Heaven on Earth’ and never was a location more aptly named.

Imagine snorkeling in the Most Beautiful part of Cozumel’s Marine Park - within a closely protected area - entry to which is Forbidden to Most Snorkelers …

Because of that, it absolutely teems with a rich variety of marine life - in stark contrast to the relatively barren reefs which most of the snorkeling tours have to settle for, with far fewer fish and other species.

But we are in a privileged elite as one of the very few licensed operators to fulfill the very strict ecological demands by operating ultra eco-friendly boats.

And thus are allowed to enter the restricted marine life rich protected area forming Cozumel’s underwater wonderland – The Marine Park - in our glass-bottomed boats.

Does that sound too good to be true?

That’s what Carol Bell from Lincoln, Nebraska thought – until she experienced our service …

Carol​ ​Bell

Lincoln, Nebraska

When I'm back on the island I'm booking again!"

When we arrived at our meeting point just across the street from our cruise pier we were welcomed as if we were family and immediately boarded the boat and the fun began right away.

We snorkeled two reefs to see amazing marine life and the grand finale was a place called El Cielo, the most beautiful place in the world.

When I'm back on the island I'll be booking again. Thanks Alberto and Pancho for a fabulous time.

The FAMOUS El Cielo, Palancar & Colombia Snorkeling Tour…

When you slip gently into the warm, crystal clear tropical water...

You’ll enter a different world of turquoise colored silence with the wonderful feeling of weightlessness – just as if you were flying. And, if this is your first time snorkeling in these protected waters, you’ll be stunned at the sheer volume and variety of the colorful tropical fish swimming among the impressive reefs of both hard and soft coral. We encourage this desirable state of affairs by feeding the fish!

The Most Spectacular Snorkeling Reefs in the area lie within the protected Cozumel Marine Park area .

But, because we are one of the very few businesses who have invested in the high quality glass-bottomed boats, with the latest environmentally friendly engines, to meet the very strict ecological requirements needed to preserve this marine wonderland, you will enjoy a spectacular trip of a lifetime with us.

YOU'll visit a total of 3 different Snorkeling Locations . Which – needless to say – are 3 of the most astonishing among a whole area of spectacular reefs .

The first of these is the aptly named ‘Palancar Gardens Reef’…

Palancar Garden Reef is an impressive reef that consists of many different life forms. Many people who want to learn how to snorkel land in this spot.

What makes this reef unique is the presence of very high coral systems that have many different living beings on them. As we already said, this is a picture that you will remember forever.

While you are underwater, you will notice the beautiful sea turtles. They are very common in Palancar Gardens Reef. Besides, you will probably have a chance to see some butterflyfish, angelfish, black groupers and even some green moray eels too.

Generally speaking, this is a shallow reef which is perfect for novice snorkelers.

Then you’ll visit the ‘Colombia Shallows Reef’…

It is tough to say which reef in Cozumel is the best, but some things make this reef ideal for snorkelers.

For starters, this reef is in an area that looks like a natural bay. As the name suggests, the water is not very deep, and the experience level needed for snorkeling in this area is beginner/novice.

When it comes to marine life, this area blesses with extraordinary life forms. For instance, hawksbill sea turtles, as well as the green sea turtle, are probably the first thing you will notice in the waters.

You'll also see moray eels, barracuda, octopuses, starfish, angelfish, grouper and other species of exotic fish.

This colorful reef will spice up your holiday in Cozumel. That's for sure.

Lastly - the highlight of the day - ‘El Cielo Beach’…

After you’ve had ample time to enjoy a breathtaking snorkel trip around both the Palancar Gardens Reef and the Colombia Shallow Reef, we travel the short distance to the sandbar of ‘El Cielo’ – ‘Heaven On Earth’ - for our beach party finale!

There you’ll be able to quickly understand why this magical spot is so aptly named as you drink in the magnificent beauty so readily visible in just four feet of beautiful turquoise, crystal clear water.

At the same time your mouth will be watering in anticipation of the feast to come as your guides prepare fresh guacamole for you to savor.

You'll enjoy an exceptional El Cielo Snorkeling excursion that is second to none - as many past customers will attest…

Sherry​ ​Carson

Groveland, Massachusetts

Ended the tour at El Cielo - White Sandy Beach, Blue Sky, Great Guacamole, Fruit, Beer and Drinks while listening to music"

Boat was there promptly to pick us up, smiles and good vibes from the crew that knows service is their game.

The ride to the first snorkeling reef was about 20 minutes there we saw turtles, a ray and barracudas.

The second spot was a shallow reef Alberto refers to as his "sacred garden" - kind a cute name for a place.

We ended the tour at "El Cielo" a white sand, sky blue beach where we had great guacamole, fruits, beer and drinks while listening to music, playing on the water and making acquaintances with the rest of the group.

Every day is a good day with Alberto!

You'll be escorted by fully Licensed & English Speaking Guides…

Every boat Captain and Snorkeling Guide (mostly my uncles and cousins) are Certified Snorkeling Guides and Speak excellent English , so your spectacular trip won’t be spoilt by having to struggle to understand what they are saying.

In fact, that is one risk you really cannot afford to take

Because – in situations like this, when safety must be paramount – it’s vital you immediately understand every word your crew says, without a second’s doubt or hesitation.

‘El Cielo Cozumel Tours’ is a family-owned business…

Hi … my name is Alberto Novelo and I and my close family have been providing snorkeling tours in Cozumel for well over 20 years .

During that time, we have delighted multiple thousands of snorkelers, many of whom return again and again and have become firm friends.

What’s more, because this is a family business – not staffed by disinterested employees – every single member of my family is dedicated to making your snorkeling trip a memory you will cherish.

Snorkeling or Not - You'll enjoy the ride on our Glass-Bottomed Boats with plenty of Shade, Seating & Drinks…

As part of our Premium Service our Boats are all Glass-Bottomed with ample shade and plenty of comfortable seating...

So if you can’t swim (or simply don’t want to get wet) you will still enjoy the glorious sights in the crystal clear tropical waters below the boat from the comfort of your seat, shaded from the sun, with a cold drink at your elbow.

And if you are planning on snorkeling, then, during the short trip to the reefs, our guide will demonstrate exactly how to use the snorkeling equipment and how to snorkel for maximum comfort and safety.

Absolutely no overcrowding – ever!

So determined are we to ensure you enjoy the best possible experience on this wonderful day, we strictly limit our 22 person capacity boats to a maximum of 12 passengers.

This means we can give each and every one of you the personal attention you deserve as our VIP guests, particularly if this is your first time swimming underwater.

Robert Harris

Traverse City, Michigan

We saw another boat with over 20 people and I was relieved to be on a trip that was more attentive and organized"

Alberto was a great guide, very positive, funny, energetic and a great diver. He pointed out stingrays, conches, sea cucumbers, starfish, and many types of colorful fish.

The water is gorgeous and the reefs are amazing.

Pancho was a skilled boat driver.

We saw another boat with over 20 people on the snorkel trip and I was relieved to be on a trip that was more attentive and organized.

Alberto also sent me pics from the trip since I did not bring an underwater camera. I recommend bringing an underwater camera since there is so much to see.

I wouldn't hesitate to book a trip with these guys again! Thank you! Highly recommended!

What’s more, if you are a party of 10 or more, you can get a…

FREE upgrade to a ‘Private Boat Tour For Your Group Only’

Because I’ll be delighted to give you a FREE upgrade to a totally private boat tour where you’ll enjoy all the facilities and comforts of our standard PREMIUM boats – with the added benefit that you won’t be sharing your boat with anyone else.

You can also choose to start your trip at your desired time rather than the regular start time of 9:30 am. or 10:30am

There is no extra charge for this – you simply have to select 10+ passengers when making your booking online. And you'll get the Private Tour automatically.

Our TOUR IN NUMBERS

Years in Business

Customers Served

Client Satisfaction

What sets us apart from other El Cielo tours in Cozumel?

Four important things …

• We are a family run and staffed business - and thus so far more interested in making your day wonderful in a way no employee could ever manage.
• We are one of the elite few tour companies authorized to visit the most stunning reefs, which are located inside the protected area of the Cozumel Marine Park . That is Palancar Garden Reef, Colombia Shallow Reef, and the famous El Cielo sandbar.
• Although our boats are designed to safely transport 22 people, we set a limit of 12 passengers, so we can give every one of our VIP guests a five star service and they have ample room to relax on our comfortable seating, which is carefully shaded for your maximum comfort.
• We not only allow you to bring your infants, aged one and upwards, we also allow your children aged 3 and upwards to snorkel. They must all be supervised by one of your party at all time, however, a member of our crew will also be close at hand when under the water for extra safety.

You're in GOOD COMPANY WITH US

Nervous about snorkeling for the first time.

So was Christine Morgan and her party from Fairview, Illinois. Read what happened next …

Christine​ ​Morgan

Fairview, Illinois

First Time Snorkeling, so we were a bit nervous - But from the moment we stepped on Alberto's boat all apprehensions vanished"

As it was the first time we’d snorkeled, we were a bit nervous. But from the moment we stepped on his boat, all apprehensions subsided.

Such a caring, fun and upbeat crew to be with on his boat. Laughter was constant and drinks were plentiful! Alberto and his crew consistently ensured that we were comfortable, laughing and well taken care of.

Another crew member was constantly taking pictures so that we could solely enjoy the snorkeling experience.

El Cielo Tours was great in every way. Their website, their responsiveness, and especially the owner/guide Alberto, who was just outstanding.

Even if this is your First Time Snorkeling, YOU will enjoy an Extraordinary Adventure that few other excursions can match!

And if you are planning on snorkeling for the first time, our English speaking guide will demonstrate exactly how to use the snorkeling equipment and how to snorkel for maximum comfort and safety, during the short trip to the reefs.

Unlike many snorkeling companies operating out of Cozumel, we supply a brand new snorkel tube, free of charge, for your exclusive use.

So you can be confident that you – AND ONLY YOU – will have had this tube in your mouth. After your trip we carefully dispose of every tube in a totally eco-friendly way.

And that's Because we specialize in Families with Children & Beginner Snorkelers...

Steve​ ​Edwards

Dallas, Texas

This was one friend's First Time Snorkeling, so Pancho stayed with her the whole time and made sure she was Safe"

I just want to say what a great time we had with Alberto and his crew.

The weather was fantastic and the water just as amazing as I remembered from last year.

This was one friend’s first time snorkeling, so Pancho stayed with her the whole time and made sure she was safe.

We saw a shark, ray and sea turtle among a lot of other beautiful fish.

At El Cielo the guacamole was delicious as were the Coronas. I totally recommend this if you like to snorkel and have a great time.

The TOUR OVERVIEW

• All snorkeling gear (Fins, Goggles, Life Jacket, & Disposable Snorkeling Tube).
• Softdrinks and beer onboard (Beer, Soda, Purified Water).
• Fresh Fruit.
• Guacamole, Salsa (Pico de Gallo), & Chips.
• Boat ride in our Glass Bottom Boats.
• Professional and English speaking Snorkel Guides.
• Snorkeling in 2 reefs in Cozumel's Marine Park (Colombia Reef & Palancar Gardens Reef).
• Swim Party at Famous El Cielo sandbar.
• Marine Park conservation fee.
• Ground transportation from your Cruise Pier or hotel to our meeting point.
• Ferry transportation when coming from the mainland (Playa del Carmen or Cancun).
• Gratuities – optional, of course.
• 3 different stops (2 Shallow Reefs + El Cielo sandbar).
• No previous Snorkeling experience necessary.
• Instructions and assistance with all aspects of Snorkeling gear and safety.
• Small groups with personal attention.
• Our meeting point is next door to the Cruise Pier.
• Yes, our Dive Instructors speak English.
• Your choice of 2 convenient start times: 9:30am and 10:30am.
• Our Trips in two words: No Worries.
• Colombia Shallows Reef.
• Palancar Gardens Reef.
• El Cielo sandbar.
• All these are inside Cozumel Marine Park (Protected Area).

The DEPARTURE HOURS

A convenient time for all Cruisers & Visitors

Your choice of time

• For Groups of 10 or more people, we offer Private Tours at no extra cost.
• You get to choose your own depart time.

If you are arriving on a Cruise ship, then allow 30 minutes from docking to cover any delay in embarkation.

If you are coming from Playa del Carmen, the Ferry ride to Cozumel lasts 30 minutes, and costs only $6usd each way. Ferries depart every hour both ways starting at 7am until 11pm.

Make sure to catch a Ferry at least 1 hour before your scheduled depart time.

Your tour lasts approximately 4 ½ hours.

The MEETING POINT

Meeting up could not be easier – no matter where you’re coming from ...

We meet at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel (located directly next door to the Cruise Pier), a very well known Hotel by the Cruise Pier area.

• Coming in on a Cruise Ship? You’ll arrive at the Cruise Pier, which is just across the street from our meeting point (about 100 yards from both Puerta Maya, and TMM International Cruise Piers).
• If you are staying in Cozumel: Everyone - including the staff at the hotel you’re staying at – knows where Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel (located directly next door to the Cruise Pier) is and will happily give you directions. Or you can just hop in a taxi, because all the taxi drivers know the way!
• Coming from Playa del Carmen or elsewhere on the mainland? Perfect, because you’ll arrive at the Cozumel Ferry Pier, which is just a few minutes away from our meeting point by taxi (and all the taxi drivers know where the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel is).

Wherever you’re coming from, you’ll receive full directions with your Confirmation Email that will be instantly sent to you when you book your snorkel tour.

You'll find us conveniently located near the Cruise Port...

Paul​ ​Bailey

Palm Harbor, Florida

We literally just walked 50 yards to our meeting point where these guys were waiting us"

These guys definitely live up to the reviews on Trip Advisor.

We arrived in Cozumel and literally just walked 50 yards to our meeting point where these guys were waiting on us.

Pancho, and Alberto did a wonderful job as our guides. We saw sea turtles, many tropical fish and even a baby shark.

After snorkeling, we headed to the one of the most beautiful natural swimming pools on earth, El Cielo, for a pleasantly relaxing time with drinks and fresh guacamole dip made by Pancho and Alberto.

I will definitely recommend to family and friends a future excursion to Cozumel.

Thank you Pancho!

The PROGRAM

Here's what you can expect from this Awesome Excursion:

Meeting up for your Snorkeling Tour

You’ll find our Meeting Point at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel, located next to the Cruise Ship Pier.

We have our Boats moored at the Pier of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel, conveniently located just steps from the Cruise Piers.

On our Way to the First Reef

Feel your excitement explode as the powerful eco-friendly engine revs up and we cast off to begin your adventure of a lifetime!

You hardly notice the short trip to the Marine Park because you’re absorbed in the crew’s demonstration of how to use the high-quality snorkeling equipment.

We visit a total of three spots.

Palancar Gardens Reef (the first stop)

Colombia shallows reef.

When it comes to marine life, this area is blessed with extraordinary life forms. For instance, hawksbill sea turtles, as well as the green sea turtle, are probably the first thing you will notice in the waters.

El Cielo Beach (Heaven on Earth as most travelers call it)

On our way back to the pier.

Can we really have packed so much excitement and lifetime memories in just four hours?

Relax on board between dives, with ample shade provided while you sip a cool soft drink, beer or water with our compliments, and excitedly swap experiences with your fellow divers.

All too soon, it’s time to head back to the pier.

Back at the Meeting Point

Once the Tour is over, we’ll go back to our original Meeting Location at the El Cid La Ceiba Hotel (next door to the Cruise Pier) the Place where we first met you in the morning.

From here you can walk back to your Cruise Ship, or take a Taxi back to your Hotel is you’re staying in Cozumel.

As a result, you’re probably already planning your next trip with us, like so many others before you, who return again and again.

TOUR PRICING

You get all this – and much more for just...

By booking Online directly with us, we are able to keep your fees down to rock bottom, while providing you with a true five-star experience.

• Cozumel Marine Park Conservation Fee is INCLUDED in the Price.
• All Fees & Taxes included. No surprises.

Immediately after your payment is processed you’ll receive a Confirmation Email with full directions to our meeting point , and all your Reservation details.

If you can’t print the Confirmation Email because you don’t have access to a printer, simply make a note of the directions and arrive at our meeting point with your passport or any other photo ID.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

My Refund Policy has you covered:

• If there's bad weather on the day of your trip and the harbour master shuts down the port for small boats like mine. I will give you a FULL REFUND.
• If you are coming to Cozumel via Cruise Ship, and your Cruise gets re-routed off Cozumel for any reason. I will give you a FULL REFUND.
• No questions asked.

The CLOCK IS TICKING

As I’ve already mentioned, access to the fragile ecosystems that make up the protected Cozumel Marine Park is severely limited.

Despite this, the eco-friendly nature of our high end glass-bottomed boats, fully equipped with shading and comfortable seating for 22 qualify us to operate ONLY 3 boats.

However, despite being licensed to take 22 passengers, we restrict most parties to 12 so you enjoy maximum comfort and close personal attention at all times, particularly when snorkeling. It’s almost like a private charter.

So, between our 3 boats, we can take a total of 36 passengers.

And, because we are one of very few businesses able to provide the highest quality snorkeling experience and most of our clients come from the cruise ships, bringing in around 20,000 cruise visitors daily - we tend to get booked up lightening fast for every day of the week.

So you now have to come to a fast decision

You can either pause and take ages to ‘think about it’ only to come back later and be dismayed to see your choice of day has been taken.

That means, if you only have that one day for your trip, you’ll either have to forgo the trip entirely or have to settle for a second rate trip which will NOT include the marine life rich reefs of Palancar Gardens and Colombia Shallow Reefs plus the beach party on the beautiful ‘El Cielo’ sandbar.

Instead, you will have to make do with the relatively barren reefs that most tour companies visit which were not considered spectacular enough to be part of the ecology-rich Marine Park that we are licensed to visit.

What’s more, the general tourist area is not protected like the Marine Park, so there is a quite marked difference in the quality and quantity of the marine life.

And the chances are high you will be crammed onto a boat (that might not even have a glass bottom) with 20 or more other folks, severely limiting your enjoyment and perhaps you’ll struggle to understand your guide’s broken English.

You can make the smart move and decide right now which day you want to become the memory of a lifetime by booking our El Cielo Snorkeling Tour that visits the awesome Cozumel Marine Park with its spectacular marine life and finishes in a setting to die for – the aptly named ‘Heaven On Earth’.

Then, once you’ve made your booking, you’ll experience a wonderful feeling of calm, because you’ll know you’ve made the right choice.

So you can relax and look forward to that magical moment when you step onto our boat.

I and all my family are eagerly looking forward to welcoming you to Cozumel and showing you our wonderful Marine Park first hand!

Alberto Novelo

El cielo cozumel snorkeling tour, the excursion summary.

• Yes, our Guides speak English.
• Your choice of 2 convenient start times: 9:30am; and 10:30am.

Why should the best be reserved for others & not you?

Haven’t you worked hard to afford this trip to Cozumel and so don’t you deserve the best that is on offer?

But, despite enjoying our fair share of the very limited licenses empowering us to enter the beautiful protected area of the Cozumel Marine Park, we often have difficulty coping with all the bookings from the 20,000 cruise passengers that arrive in Cozumel daily.

I’d bitterly regret it if – now you know what a wonderland the Marine Park is – your hesitation in booking means you are denied the full experience only a PREMIUM snorkeling service like ours can provide and you have to settle for second best.

So I strongly suggest you check the availability on your chosen day - RIGHT NOW – and then go ahead and book your seats before it's too late.

I’ll leave the last words to Michelle Johnson …

Michelle​ ​Johnson

Nashville, Tennessee

When you get back you want to go back out the next day!"

Alberto provides an excursion like few others. He takes care of the details so you enjoy a carefree day of snorkeling and basking in the clear blue waters off Cozumel.

So, if you are looking for relaxation and the chance to see things you only imagine or see on TV this is your guide.

Alberto makes it fun and when you get back you want to go back out the next day...with Alberto... Enjoy the trip. Can't tell you all we saw but we saw a lot including a nurse shark and sea turtles.

Frequently Asked Questions

YES. The meeting point for cruise passengers is located directly next door from the Cruise Pier at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel.

You will arrive at the Ferry Pier, which is next door from our meeting point at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel. You will receive full directions with the confirmation of your booking.

Our meeting point is at the Motor Lobby of El Cid La Ceiba Hotel and you will receive full directions to there with the confirmation of your booking.

We set off at 9.30 am seven days a week and the tour last approximately four and a half hours.

However, if your party has a minimum of ten people, we can make a special trip, by prior arrangement, if you prefer at 1.30 pm any day of the week.

All three of our top quality glass-bottomed boats have a capacity of 22 passengers, but to guarantee your total comfort and personal attention we rarely exceed 12 passengers.

That ensures you have a wide choice of seating and you receive personal attention at all times.

But this does mean we get booked up very quickly.

So booking your seats without delay is the best way to be certain of securing your trip of a lifetime.

You can check our website at any time, night or day, and get a constantly updated completely accurate picture of our availability.

But please note, that can change in a heartbeat.

So – if you see a slot you want – book it right away. Because, with 80% of our bookings coming from the 20,000 daily cruise visitors, available slots tend to disappear as fast as a puddle in the desert.

As you are coming by cruise ship, please remember there will be plenty of other folks all trying to disembark at the same time as you. So pick a departure time at least 30 MINUTES AFTER you are supposed to dock to allow for the delays in embarkation.

You will need to catch a ferry at least ONE HOUR BEFORE our scheduled departure time. Bear in mind our meeting point is about a mile from the Ferry Pier, which is where you will arrive on Cozumel.

You will receive full directions with your emailed booking confirmation.

NO. Unlike other tour companies, the cost of your disposable one time use snorkel tube plus the Marine Park entry fee and the beach party meal of freshly prepared guacamole, salsa, french fries and drinks are all provided, with our compliments, free of extra charge.

NO. This is one expense you will have to carry, because it would not be fair to the roughly 80% of our clients who only have a 50 yard walk to our meeting point if we were to add the cost of your ferry trip to our prices.

NO. This is one expense you will have to carry, because it would not be fair to the roughly 80% of our clients who only have a 50 yard walk to our meeting point if we were to add the cost of your taxi fare to our prices.

In that very rare event, we would immediately issue you with a full refund.

How are you traveling

To cozumel.

Best Cozumel Snorkeling Tours

Yes, we offer a variety of Cozumel snorkeling tours for individuals and groups. If you are just tagging along with scuba diving friends, or you wish to charter the entire boat for your Cozumel Mexico snorkeling, we can provide you with the best snorkeling Cozumel has to offer. Snorkeling in Cozumel is your entry point into a whole new world. You can experience the beauty of the underwater world with minimal training and a high-quality snorkeling system gives you a comfortable way to see and explore the wonders of the ocean. You can relax and enjoy the sensations that only snorkeling can provide, temporarily becoming a part of the world beneath the sea. Snorkeling is easy to learn, and the exercises are fun. If you don’t see what you want here, contact us ! We are ready to provide you with the experience of a lifetime!

Go Snorkeling in Cozumel Mexico

Without a doubt the most requested location to go snorkeling in Cozumel Mexico is Palancar reef. This is not without excellent reason as the Palancar reef system is world class. Salty Endeavors is primarily a scuba diving center, but our boats are going to the reefs and we are happy to let any snorkelers tag along. Yes, of course, you can snorkel Palancar reef, but we also visit many other dive sites . Colombia Shallows, Paradise Reef, and Casitas are just a few of the other reefs in Cozumel which are ideal for snorkeling.

If you are coming in by Cozumel cruise , fear not we can get you snorkeling as well. Most snorkeling companies serving the cruise ships offer very quick tours to the very closest of reefs. If that is what you are after, we are not your snorkel operator for Cozumel. As our focus is on divers, our boats head south deep into the Cozumel Marine Park. Our divers are underwater for up to 60 minutes on the reef. For you, this means long snorkel times on the best reefs in Cozumel Mexico.

But because we know you want to snorkel Cozumel on Palancar Reef, we’ve written a blog just for you. Check out our blog on Palancar Reef .

Don’t forget that any snorkeler can go scuba diving the same day! No experience is necessary to scuba. Even if you have one day in Cozumel and never have been scuba diving previously, consider skipping the snorkeling and give our Discover Scuba a try.

Half Day Snorkel

• Shared seats are combined with our scuba divers
• 1:30pm departure only for shared seats

Half Day Snorkel Private Charter

• $400 for up to 6 snorkelers
• Prices also available for 8, 12, and 24 passenger boats

* Prices listed are without Mexico IVA

If you have any questions or prefer to complete your reservation with asisstance just click this box to send us an email.

Prefer to call us?

Call from USA (312) 757 - 6167 From Mexico dial 987 - 119 - 3731 WhatsApp Free International text and calling +521 - 987 - 119 - 3731

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10 Best Cozumel Snorkeling Tours in 2024

Looking for the best Cozumel Mexico snorkeling tours? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that lives in nearby Playa del Carmen , I’ve been to Cozumel countless times for snorkeling tours and excursions.

With its abundant coral reefs and crystal clear waters, Cozumel offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities in the Yucatan Peninsula.

But with so many incredible snorkeling tours in Cozumel to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one to go on.

MY TOP PICK

⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?

The best Cozumel snorkeling tour is this Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs with more than 600 5-star reviews!

That’s why I’ve compiled this list of my top recommendations for the best Cozumel snorkeling tours –each offering an incredible underwater experience.

So whether you’re staying on the island, are visiting Cozumel on a cruise ship shore excursion, or just visiting on a day trip, I’ve got you covered!

Ready to find out which of these best snorkeling tours in Cozumel is right for you? Let’s get started!

Top 3 Picks: Best Cozumel Snorkeling Tours

Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs

✅ 600+ 5-Star Reviews ✅ Starfish Snorkeling

Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat

✅ Glass-Bottom Boat ✅ Reef Snorkeling

The Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour

✅ Sea Turtles ✅ El Cielo Snorkeling

Best Cozumel Snorkeling Tours

These are the best snorkeling tours Cozumel has to offer whether you’re staying on the island, stopping there on a cruise, or are visiting on a Cozumel day trip from Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya.

1. Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs

• ⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 600 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION:  4 hours
• 🎟  HOW TO BOOK:   Check prices and availability here →

Why book this tour?

This El Cielo Cozumel Snorkeling Tour is definitely my top recommendation for the best snorkeling excursion in Cozumel!

El Cielo (“Heaven” in Spanish) is the best place to snorkel in Cozumel, known for its bright turquoise water and giant starfish.

The water there is unbelievably clear! And the water is shallow enough that you can dive down to get an up close view of the starfish.

Our guide Christian was amazing! He was so informative and knowledgeable. We saw sea turtles, many starfish, sting rays, and gorgeous fish. The waters were so beautiful. Captain Roman knew how to navigate perfectly. We definitely recommend this snorkeling tour! –DANA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

And aside from El Cielo Beach Cozumel you’ll also get to snorkel at Palancar and Columbia reefs–which are known for their vibrant coral and sea life.

And you’ll finish the tour at El Cielito (“Little Heaven”), a shallow beach area where you’ll enjoy drinks and snacks while relaxing in the water. Plus, all of the snorkeling gear and a knowledgeable guide is included.

I’ve personally been on the El Cielo tour and it’s one of my all time favorite tours in Riviera Maya–you can read my full El Cielo guide for all the details!

What’s included in the El Cielo Cozumel Snorkeling Tour :

• Visit to Palancar and Columbia Reefs, El Cielo Sandbar, and El Cielito Beach
• Guided snorkeling tour
• Beers, water, and soda
• Snorkel gear: Vest, mask, new tube
• Insured shaded boat
• Experienced trained guides

2. Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat

• ⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 355 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION:  2 hours

This Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat Tour is perfect for first-time visitors or cruise ship passengers with limited time.

You’ll board a traditional glass bottom boat and explore the clear waters off Cozumel’s coast. The boat will stop at shallow underwater reefs, so you can snorkel and see colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and sea turtles.

Had such an amazing experience snorkeling with the team. They took us to 3 different Cozumel snorkeling sites with crystal blue water and we saw so many fish, corals and even a green sea turtle. Would 100% recommend –SARAH ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

The tour offers easy boat transportation, and all the snorkeling equipment and chilled beers, soft drinks, and water are provided.

Plus, one of the best things about this Cozumel glass bottom boat snorkeling tour is that you can just sit back and enjoy a stress-free excursion, with everything taken care of for you.

What’s included in the Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat :

• Glass Bottom Boat Tour
• Snorkeling
• Beer (available after the snorkeling activity)
• Soft drinks and bottled water
• Bilingual guide
• Snorkel tube (free to take as souvenir)
• Use of snorkel equipment (fins, mask and life vest)

3. The Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour

• ⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 285 5-star reviews)

This Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour is one of the best Cozumel tours and excursions, where you can explore Cozumel’s underwater world and learn about local conservation efforts.

The tour starts with a visit to Cozumel’s turtle sanctuary, where you can snorkel among green turtles in their natural habitat. It’s an incredible experience and one of the top things to do in Cozumel !

The best snorkeling experience that I’ve had! They took us to four different locations where we saw star fish, large sea turtles, massive coral reefs, and even sting rays! At the end they made us guacamole from scratch with ceviche and chips, it was delicious and the guides were so much fun. We truly enjoyed this experience. –ALYSSA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

You’ll then continue on to explore El Cielo, a shallow sandbar that offers some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel where you can snorkel with giant starfish in crystal clear waters.

Then, you’ll end the tour at El Cielito, a shallow beach where you can enjoy freshly prepared snacks and drinks.

What’s included in the Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour :

• Snorkeling at the Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary
• Snorkeling at El Cielo
• Visit to El Cielito
•  Use of Snorkeling equipment
• Alcoholic beverages
• Bottled water

4. El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience

• ⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 190 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION:  5 hours

This El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience offers an energetic Cozumel Mexico snorkeling tour with a fun party experience too.

The tour combines a 65-foot catamaran cruise, snorkeling excursion, and beach party–allowing you to experience multiple island highlights in one day.

This was a great experience. We loved every minute of it. You were able to snorkel in beautiful waters and see many different kinds of fish. My family loved it. The crew were very energetic and helpful when asked questions. I would recommend this excursion for anyone that wants a beautiful view of the island. –SUSAN ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

You’ll cruise along Cozumel’s coastline and experience a guided snorkeling tour at Palancar Reef with a knowledgeable guide, seeing coral formations, tropical fish, and maybe even sea turtles and stingrays.

Then on this Cozumel catamaran snorkeling excursion, you’ll head to El Cielo, a shallow sandbar where you can easily spot giant starfish in the crystal clear waters.

After exploring the waters off Cozumel’s shore, you’ll head to shore an island-style beach party with music, beer, margaritas, cheeseburgers, and beach volleyball.

What’s included in the El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience :

•  65 ft sailing catamaran
• Snorkeling at Palancar Reef
• Beach Party
• Entrance fee to National Parks
• Certified snorkel and safety guide
• Snorkel and safety equipment
• Angus cheeseburger
• Aqua park with water floats, slides, and trampolines for all ages
• Private beach cabanas, lounge chairs, and hammocks
• Volleyball, kayak, and stand up paddle-boards

5. El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club

This El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club Adventure is the perfect combination of snorkeling and relaxation.

You’ll board a motor-powered catamaran and explore Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo reefs using provided snorkeling gear.

Never a dull moment on or off the boat. We saw turtles, rays and lots of fish. The tour guide, the chef, and the DJ were so fun and friendly. We would definitely do it again and absolutely recommend this to anyone who is up for an adventure. –CHRISSY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Then, you’ll get exclusive pool, lounger, and umbrella access at a Cozumel beach club where you’ll also enjoy snacks and alcoholic drinks such as beer, margaritas, and rum punch.

The tour takes you to some of the coastline’s most spectacular underwater reef scenery, with vibrant coral formations, tropical fish, stingrays, and sea turtles.

What’s included in the El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club :

•  Guided catamaran snorkeling tour
• Palancar and Columbia reefs and El Cielo Beach stops
• Guacamole, chips, and fish ceviche
• Drinks aboard – Beer, margaritas, bottled water, soft drinks
• Beach club access with pools, lounge chairs, umbrellas, showers, and dressing rooms
• Free wifi at beach club

6. ATV Mud Kicking and Snorkeling by Boat in Cozumel

• ⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 175 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION:  5.5 hours

This ATV Mud Kicking and Snorkeling tour is one of the best Cozumel ATV tours and a great combo tour for those looking for an adrenaline rush.

With your guide, you’ll cruise through the trails on an ATV, and then make your way to Jade Cenote where you can cool off with a dip in the middle of the jungle.

And if you’re brave enough, you can even do some cliff jumping at Jade Cenote for the ultimate adrenaline rush!

We had a blast! We started with the snorkeling and resort area. Loved the inflatables on water at the resort. The boat for snorkeling was nice and well maintained and had everything needed for snorkeling. The ATV ride was fun and loved going to see a cenote. –TAMARA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Afterwards, you’ll make your way to Tortugas Beach Club (one of the best water parks in Cozumel ), where you’ll get to enjoy lunch, an open bar, and fun water sports and activities.

Then, hop on a boat for snorkeling on Cozumel’s crystal-clear waters, where you’ll get to see tropical fish, coral reefs, and marine life.

Plus, this Cozumel ATV beach adventure includes a knowledgable local guide to show you the way and all gear is provided!

What’s included in the ATV Mud Kicking and Snorkeling by Boat in Cozumel :

•  ATV riding in Cozumel
• Snorkel by boat
• Soft drinks
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Use of water park at Tortugas Beach Club
• Free wifi at Tortugas Beach Club

7. Invisible Boat Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel

• ⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 170 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION:  1 hr 45 min

This Invisible Boat Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel is so unique–you’ll board a clear boat that’s completely transparent on all sides.

Unlike traditional glass-bottom boats, this vessel is entirely transparent, giving you an unobstructed view of the incredible underwater world around Cozumel.

This tour also includes optional snorkeling as well, where you’ll get to snorkel close to shore and see tropical fish and coral reefs.

Tour was amazing! Entire boat was clear!! Our tour guides were amazing! Offered us drinks often and cleaned up any water so we could see better. Snorkeling was great they fed the fish so there were fish all around us! –DIANA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Plus, you can choose from several start times to suit your schedule and the group size is limited to 16 people, so you can get a more personalized experience.

I personally went on the Clear Boat in Cozumel and thought it was so cool! The snorkeling wasn’t the most spectacular but it’s great for kids or first timers and the real highlight is the clear boat!

What’s included in the Invisible Boat Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel :

•  Invisible Boat Ride
• Reef snorkeling stop and guided tour
• Snorkel gear, vest, fins, mask, and snorkel
• Drinks – Beers, water, and sodas
• Certified captain and crew
• Insured 100% crystal-clear boat

8. El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat

• ⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 175 5-star reviews)

This El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat is perfect for those looking for a private Cozumel snorkeling experience.

This Cozumel private snorkel tour is basically just like the El Cielo Tour listed above–only on your own private boat!

After getting picked up on your private speedboat, you’ll get to do some snorkeling at some of Cozumel’s most famous snorkeling sites including El Cielo.

Our group had a perfect snorkeling experience thanks to the crew. We were guided along numerous scenic locations with clear safety instructions and were able to enjoy the excursion with the added comfort of privacy. The ceviche and drinks served were very delicious! –STEVEN ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Then, you’ll visit a pristine white sandy beach where you can enjoy some delicious fish ceviche and cold margaritas away from the crowds.

Group tours to El Cielo can often feel a bit crowded so this private El Cielo tour is the perfect option if you want a more relaxed and personalized experience.

What’s included in the El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat :

•  Private snorkeling tour to El Cielo and nearby reefs
• Soda and bottled water
• Professional certified staff

9. Bavarian Fiesta Snorkel Activity in Glass Bottom Boat

• ⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 75 5-star reviews)

This Bavarian Fiesta Snorkel Activity in Glass Bottom Boat is one of the most unique snorkeling tours in Cozumel.

You’ll board a boat known as the “Bavarian Fiesta” in San Miguel de Cozumel and explore the waters around the island of Cozumel, with stops to snorkel at two shipwrecks, one reef, and El Cielito and El Cielo sites.

We had a great experience! The captain took us to many different Cozumel snorkeling spots. We saw turtles, fish, stingrays and sea stars. They made us guacamole and pico de gallo for a snack and it was delicious. They took really good care of us and made sure we were happy and having a good time. –JESSICA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

But that’s not all–this tour also includes a Bavarian Fiesta with freshly made snacks, Mexican drinks, and German beer.

Plus, you’ll have a knowledgable guide to point out all the best Cozumel snorkeling locations and the small group size of no more than 16 people ensures a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the Bavarian Fiesta Snorkel Activity :

• Snorkeling at 2 shipwrecks, 1 reef, and El Cielo sandbar
• Knowledgeable guide

10. E-Bike Adventure in Cozumel – West Side Ride N’ Snorkel

• ⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 65 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION:  3 hours

This E-Bike Adventure in Cozumel is the perfect way to explore the less developed west side of Cozumel while bike riding and snorkeling.

You’ll get to ride around on a Pedego electric bike and learn about the history, culture, and nature of Cozumel from your knowledgeable guide.

Plus, the tour includes a stop at a freshwater cenote, where you can take a dip and cool off before heading to your snorkeling spot.

Our tour guide was fantastic! He was polite, professional, fun and treated us very well. E-bikes were a blast to ride and our stop at Sky Reef was so much fun! –JOSH ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

The snorkeling activity occurs at Skyreef Beach Club, which has the closest to-shore reef on Cozumel.

Here, you’ll get to snorkel with a knowledgeable guide and see colorful fish swimming among coral formations. Plus, drinks and Mexican food are available for purchase.

What’s included in the E-Bike Adventure in Cozumel :

• Electric bike tour of Cozumel
• Visit to a freshwater cenote
• Snorkeling at Skyreef Beach Club
•  Local guide
• Use of bicycle
• Use of helmet
• Snorkel equipment

Snorkeling Tours in Cozumel Mexico: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Cozumel snorkel tours:

Regular sunscreen is prohibited on Cozumel snorkeling excursions so you’ll want to bring biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen . Also, be sure to bring a beach towel , a change of clothes, and cash for tips. Snorkeling gear will be provided but you can also consider bringing your own snorkel set to ensure the best fit and cleanliness.

It’s recommended to wear a swimsuit with comfortable clothes or a coverup over your swimsuit. And you’ll want to wear sandals or flip flops that can easily be removed before boarding the boat. I usually prefer to wear a one-piece swimsuit as they provide the most coverage when dealing with life vests and snorkel equipment.

On snorkel tours in Cozumel, you’ll typically be able to see colorful fish, coral formations, starfish, sea turtles, and stingrays. The amount and variety of marine life you’ll get to see depends on the snorkeling location and sea conditions. But in general, Cozumel is known for having some of the best snorkeling in Mexico.

No, it’s possible to snorkel off the beach and many of the resorts in Cozumel offer snorkeling activities. However, the best coral reefs in Cozumel are typically only accessible by boat and so you’ll need to book a snorkeling tour to get there.

Yes, Cozumel shore snorkeling can be done on your own. However, the most popular and best snorkel spots are typically only accessible by boat, so if you want to get the full experience and see the best coral reefs in Cozumel, it’s recommended to book a snorkeling tour. Plus, Cozumel snorkeling trips also include use of equipment and the presence of a knowledgeable guide.

No, if you have your own snorkel set , snorkeling off the beach is possible in Cozumel but depending on the location, you may need to pay for access to a beach club or resort.

When comparing Cozumel vs Cancun , Cozumel is known for having much better snorkeling than Cancun because Cozumel is an island that is surrounded by an extensive coral reef system. Snorkeling at Cozumel’s coral reefs is usually more diverse and colorful than the snorkeling in Cancun.

Final Thoughts: Snorkeling Cozumel Guide

I hope this Cozumel snorkeling tour guide has helped you decide which tour is right for you!

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out on the water or an adventure-filled day exploring Cozumel’s coral reefs, there are plenty of great snorkeling tours to choose from.

My top recommendation for the best snorkeling tour in Cozumel is the El Cielo Snorkeling Tour , where you’ll get to snorkel with giant starfish in bright turquoise waters.

The water there is so clear–it’s really unforgettable! It’s one of the best places to snorkel in Cozumel and one of the most memorable Riviera Maya tours I’ve done.

But no matter which of these best Cozumel island snorkeling tours you choose, you’re sure to have an amazing experience getting an up close view of Cozumel’s vibrant underwater world.

• El Cielo Cozumel Tour Guide
• Best Things to Do in Cozumel
• Clear Boat Cozumel Review
• Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Review
• The Ultimate San Miguel de Cozumel Guide
• Best ATV Tours in Cozumel

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

🤿 The 5 Best Cozumel Snorkel Tours [2024 Reviews]

Enjoy these incredible snorkel tours when you visit cozumel.

Cozumel is a tourist’s paradise. You won’t be able to pack all of the fun things you can do here into a week, or even two, so you might just have to plan for several vacations to this sunny destination. But every time you go, make sure you plan time for a snorkeling tour.

You don’t want to miss out on the wonderful underwater sights of Cozumel. It is a snorkeler’s destination dream and you will soon find out why when you don your gear and splash into the shallows to see for yourself.

When you go to Cozumel and want to spend some time in the water snorkeling, you want to make sure the snorkeling tour you go on is one of the best, right?

Any of these 5 snorkeling tours in Cozumel will excite as you explore the underwater world around this wonderful place. Each is different in its own right and offers different features.

Best Snorkel Tours in Cozumel

Quick answer: the 5 best rated snorkeling tours in cozumel.

• El Cielo reef by Catamaran with Beach Club
• Cozumel El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat
• Snorkeling Tour & Cozumel Beach Party
• The Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour
• Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and Cielo Reefs

So let’s get to it, here are our top Cozumel snorkel tours. Be sure to see our reviews of Cozumel ATV & Jeep Tours .

Cozumel Snorkeling Tour Reviews

1. el cielo reef by catamaran with beach club.

If you feel like both sailing and snorkeling in Cozumel, this is the snorkeling tour for you. On this 3-hour tour, you will sail on the only sailing catamaran on Cozumel and enjoy two different snorkeling stops, each approximately 45-minutes long each.

All snorkeling equipment needed for your adventure is provided by the tour company. At the first snorkeling stop you will enjoy a reef with abundant marine life including tropical fish, crustaceans, and more.

The second stop is actually to the second-largest barrier reef in the world and you will encounter species of fish and other marine life you won’t see anywhere else.

The FE Catamaran is equipped with both restrooms as well as freshwater showers for comfort and convenience. The stairs that allow you access to the water for your snorkeling adventures are ergonomically designed for ease of use.

While aboard the catamaran after your second underwater adventure, you will be able to enjoy complimentary drinks – including cold beer, tequila shots, rum punch, cold waters, and soft drinks – as well as salsa and homemade guacamole with chips.

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Enjoy all this food and beverage delight as you listen to great music and recant tales of your snorkeling fun with your group.

You will be picked up in a centrally located Cozumel location and dropped off at the same spot after your trip. You can take your Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Tour at either a 9:30 am or 1:00 pm departure time.

Be sure to let the reservationist know which time works better for your group.

You will be able to purchase souvenir photos after your trip for an additional purchase but these are a great memento of your adventure and also great to show off to family and friends back home.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. cozumel el cielo snorkel by private boat.

Are you wishing to spend the whole day in the water with only the people in your party? If the answer is a definite YES! then you need the El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat. For the same money to have four people on a group tour, you can do this one for the same money and have your own boat!

You will have a one-hour guided tour and then you can spend as much time as you’d like snorkeling the area with your group. This is ideal for groups or families that want to spend time together doing a fun activity.

You will be instructed in snorkeling, shown your gear and how to use it properly and fitted with it. Your mask and brand new snorkel tube, life jacket, and fins will all be provided to you as part of the snorkeling tour. Be sure to bring a camera as well!

The reef you will be exploring is not too far from the beach and you can spend the whole day there. Well, except for when you come back to enjoy the lunch at the restaurant or bar.

You can also use the beach as much as you’d like for the day for relaxing, spending time with your group or family, or just relaxing.

If you’d like to bring along a few family members who just want to use the beach and not snorkel, they are more than welcome.

You arrive at the beach at 10 am and can stay as long as you want, going back to your cruise ship or hotel by taxi when you are ready.

3. El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience

There’s nothing quite like a Cozumel beach party and you will get to enjoy one while meeting great new people after snorkeling from a custom-made catamaran if you choose this Snorkeling Tour & Cozumel Beach Party.

You will get to snorkel the world renowned Palancar reefs as well as one other reef as you sail the waters around Cozumel on a catamaran.

While aboard this catamaran you can enjoy beer, margaritas, sodas, or water once you are done enjoying the marine life of Cozumel. This marine life includes coral, tropical fish, turtles and more.

The beach party is the real fun though. There’s the “Aqua Jump” trampoline on the water, barbeque food like hamburgers, beach chairs and hammocks to relax in as you enjoy the shade or sun – your choice.

You can even have some fun with your new friends with a competitive game of volleyball.

Then you can enjoy more drinks and sun on your way back to the marina onboard the catamaran as you recount the stories of your snorkeling, sailing, and beach party fun.

This snorkeling adventure comes with a lot more than just enjoying the marine life – party on the beach and sail the Cozumel waters, South of the Border style!

4. The Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour

You won’t get the whole beach party atmosphere with this one, but if you are looking to see marine life, (especially turtles), enjoy the sun, some good food, and some good company as well as a great snorkeling adventure in Cozumel, then this is the Cozumel snorkeling tour for you.

Snorkeling in Cozumel is like no other and you will enjoy your time exploring underwater. With this tour, you will explore four different reefs.

You start off the tour at the Playa del Carmen. You’ll meet your guide and get a quick intro to what you’ll be doing to the tour. Quickly get the group outfitted with your mask, fins and snorkel and the instructions for snorkeling will be given.

You will start your adventure at El Cielo which is the best known reef here, then onto Cielito, which is known for its natural starfish.

Perhaps the highlight of the tour is the green turtle sanctuary. Here you can snorkel alongside these huge majestic turtles.

Don’t worry if you haven’t done any snorkeling in the past because you will be shown everything you need to do and you will even get a practice session on the beach and in the shallows until you are comfortable with what you will be doing and with all of your gear.

After your snorkeling session, seeing wonderful marine life in the waters of Cozumel, you can come back to the beach to enjoy lunch.

The Mexican food at the bar is superb and the cost is included in your reservation – a vegetarian option is available for those who wish it.

Then use the beach access as much as you want until 9pm. This exclusive beach is only open to those who have snorkeled with the tour and purchased the beach access so it’s not overrun with people. Simply enjoy!

5. Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and Cielo Reefs

Through a glass-bottom boat you can see some wonderful marine life and that’s just what you can experience with the Cozumel Snorkeling Tour that takes a guided tour around Cozumel and surrounding areas like Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park and El Cielo.

You will also be able to snorkel through these wonderful areas like Palancar Reef as well. There’s nothing quite like experiencing the marine life around Cozumel first hand.

While on the glass-bottom boat, enjoying the scenery as you drift by, you can enjoy your choice of refreshments from beer, juice, or water and those beverages are bottomless in between the snorkeling stops.

Your snorkeling stops are: El Cielo, where you will spend about 20 minutes in shallow waters with a sandy ocean floor; Columbia Reef, where the visibility is nearly always clear and you can see up to 200 feet, to see sea turtles, coral, and tropical fish.

You will spend about 30 minutes here; and Palancar Reef, which is at Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park (or Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel), where you can see rays, turtles, coral, nurse sharks, tropical fish, moray eels, and even different types of crustaceans.

You can choose to depart in the morning or the afternoon, whichever is more convenient for you or your party. The morning group will depart at 9 am and the afternoon group will depart at 1 pm.

You will need to check-in at Marina Fonatur at least 30 minutes prior to departing on the glass-bottom boat.

Your Cozumel Snorkeling Tour will include all snorkeling gear required as well as the professional guide that is familiar with all local attractions.

The areas you will be snorkeling, the marine life you see while snorkeling or through the glass-bottom boat and more. Your tour will last approximately 4 hours.

Your Guide to the Best Snorkeling in Cozumel

It’s not just snorkeling that you can enjoy in Cozumel, but there are some details about a vacation in this sun-lover’s dreamland that you should know before you start buying plane tickets and booking accommodations. Let’s look at when you should go, how you can get around, and more.

When to Visit Cozumel

Getting around cozumel, staying safe in cozumel, what to pack for your trip to cozumel, saving money while in cozumel, knowing local customs.

The best time to visit Cozumel is between mid-February and mid-July. During this time, the temperatures aren’t scorching but you will see plenty of sunshine and warmth. You will also be avoiding hurricane season and the rainy season.

During the warm, dry season mentioned above that you want to visit during, there are some time periods you want to avoid, however. Of course, if you can only stay a few days, try to stay mid-week as prices will be lower and you can avoid weekend crowds. Also, try to avoid the Spring Break rush of college students in the area.

While you can choose to rent a car, if you’d like, the expense really isn’t necessary and if you aren’t familiar with the area, it can be a bit hectic trying to get around in an unfamiliar city in an unfamiliar country via car.

If you want wheeled transportation, you can always take taxis, which are very popular, or if you are trying to sightsee, there are many moped rentals since they are widespread around hotels and especially around attractions.

However, the best way to get around Cozumel is still going to be on foot. You can take your time to look around, take in the many sights, sounds, and wonder food smells of the city and take as many pictures as you would like. So, be sure to bring good walking shoes and wear them often.

Whenever you are on vacation to a hot tourist spot in another country, you want to take certain safety precautions.

Always keep your head about you: this means partaking in adult beverages to have fun but not going overboard so that you can keep your wits, not showing off expensive cameras or flashy jewelry, and always having identification on you.

If you will be enjoying the snorkeling tours and other outdoor sports, it is a good idea to also invest in traveler’s health insurance just in case of accidental injury or if someone in your family or group gets sick.

You want to know that you can be seen by a local doctor or at a hospital and not end up with a medical bill for a simple visit.

Be sure to bring walking shoes as well as sandals for the beach. You also want to bring a beach bag that can get sand in it or is made of mesh so it won’t hold sand at all. Have beach clothes as well as everyday walking around clothes.

You might also want to bring a set or two of nicer clothes in case you want to visit a nicer restaurant or two or even one of the many clubs around Cozumel.

Most attractions, restaurants, small vendors, and more will take both pesos, which is the local currency in Cozumel, as well as the American dollar. However, if you pay in pesos, you will most likely be getting a better deal.

If you take money out at an ATM, you will be getting pesos anyway so there’s no need to change them over to dollars even though you may be more comfortable paying for things that way and will know more about how much you are paying for things.

The best bet is to download an easy-to-use app onto your smartphone that will allow you to quickly convert pesos to your currency of choice so you know exactly how much you are spending on things in a currency you are familiar with.

Try to avoid spending money on the piers as most of them are tourist traps. Because all of the cruise lines unload on the piers, most of those tourists spend a lot of money there and the locals know this so the prices are higher.

You’re better off spending money closer to downtown. However, when on your snorkeling tours, this might not be avoided so bring as much as you can with you, like your sunscreen, sunglasses, etc. Most of them will provide snacks and drinks or a way to purchase them.

Because this is a tourist spot, most locals know English, or at least enough to communicate with the tourists. However, it will really help if you can know at least a few phrases.

• Hola – Hello
• Adios – Goodbye
• Please – Por favor
• Thank you – Gracias

Knowing a few local phrases will help put you in the good graces, so to speak, with the locals you interact with, even if you are just buying a bottle of water.

This area is very conservative so you won’t find any nude beaches. Even untying the strings on the back of your bikini so you don’t have tan lines is frowned on. This is even if you are lying face down and tie them before getting back up. Make sure you are decent at all times.

It’s not really a custom but tourists shouldn’t drink the tap water. You can get very sick. Even use bottled water to brush your teeth.

It’s Time to Pack Your Trip to Cozumel!

Are you ready to spend some time in the sun? The resorts, beaches, fun attractions… and yes, even your snorkeling tour adventure… is awaiting you in Cozumel.If you have some extra time be sure to take a ferry ride over to Cancun. There are lots of sightseeing tours you can do. If you go be sure to see the Tulum Mayan ruins , or the beautiful Cenotes . There is nothing else like them, be sure to snorkel them!

So, get packing!

I hope this guide was helpful for finding the best Cozumel snorkel tours to fit your needs. If you want to comment or recommend a tour I didn’t include, please use my contact form to get in touch. If you plan on spending any time in Cozumel, be sure to see our guide on How To Snorkel .

Remember; be safe, and stay within your limits and most of all enjoy your time in Cancun!

Tour Guides

The Catamaran Sail & Snorkel Tour in Cozumel is our top pick for the best snorkeling tour

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 8 best maui & molokini snorkel tours [2024 reviews], 🚁 the 7 best oahu helicopter tours [2024 reviews], top 15 things to do in maui, top 15 things to do in oahu.

SNORKELING TOUR COZUMEL

Clear boat cozumel.

Set sail aboard our clear-bottom crystal boat, snorkel in beautiful reefs, and relax at the beach. Watch the fish and marine life below your feet, and explore the impressive marine life hidden in Cozumel and what lies beneath the island while we cruise by the diver's monument. See sunken ships and abundant colorful and tropical fish aboard our transparent boat. Next, we will stop at Lego Reefs, where you will enjoy your snorkeling activity and encounter a wide variety of marine life. After snorkeling, relax with a couple of beers served by the crew on the way back to the marina. Don't want to snorkel? No problem, you can join us and watch the action through the clear boat.

• Watch tropical fish and other marine life cruising by below you, through your crystal clear boat !
• Snorkel on Lego reefs and discover a huge variety of marine life!
• Then it's time to kick back and relax with beers as you complete your day of fun in the sun!

When: Four Times Daily at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM.

Where: Aldora Pier. Exact Directions Will Accompany Your Confirmation.

• Friendly English-Speaking Crew
• Snorkeling Equipment
• 2 Beers After Snorkeling
• Soft Drinks and Water

• Biodegradable Sunblock
• Change of Clothes
• Identification Document
• Extra Cash for Dock Fees and Pier Access.(Aprox $6.65 USD per person)
• Extra Cash for Pictures, Tips, etc.

Kids: 6 years old and up. Kids are the same price as adults. Kids under 6 years old are not allowed to board the boat.

Restrictions: You must present an official ID on the tour day and wear life jackets on the boat. For the safety of all passengers, we'll serve the beers after the snorkeling activity. Kids under 4 years old, pregnant women or senior citizens with mobility issues cannot participate in this excursion. Maximum capacity per boat is 11 people, including kids  . If your group is bigger we will split the participants into different boats. Be there 30 minutes before the tour begins for check in. No glass bottles allowed.

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AquaDream Catamaran

An epic sailing adventure, with snorkelling & private beaches, the aquadream catamaran tour.

The AquaDream is an epic 6-hour, all-inclusive tour of Cozumel. Visit some of the most beautiful areas that the Caribbean has to offer with one of our trusted partners.

Sailing Monday to Saturday, departing from the Cozumel Ferry Terminal. Check-in at 10:15AM. Departs 11AM.

All times shown are for Cozumel’s local timezone, which may differ to your cruise ship timezone. Check before booking.

What you get:

• Six hours exploring the best snorkel sites and beaches of Cozumel
• All the necessary equipment
• Access to the Playa Mia beach club and full usage of kayaks, water bikes, sunbeds, bathrooms, swimming pools and slides
• International buffet and beverages at Playa Mia
• Open bar on-board after the water activities
• English and Spanish speaking staff
• Full insurance for the duration of the trip

You can modify or cancel your booking up to 24 hours before your scheduled sailing time.

Read the full terms

The tour...

Columbia reef & el cielo.

Your adventure starts heading out to the spectacular Columbia Reef for a guided snorkelling activity to take in the amazing corals and tropical fish that Cozumel is known for.

After, you’ll visit El Cielo (“Heaven”), which provides sanctuary for hundreds of brightly coloured starfish. Due to it’s unique location, the water is shallow (~8ft or 2m) and nearly always crystal clear.

This is also nearby to El Cielito…

The not-so-little brother of El Cielo, with equally stunning blues, white sand beach, and water shallow enough to stand.

The fun doesn’t end here; you’ll then head to the Playa Mia Grand Beach park – enjoying a variety of refreshing drinks and cocktails from the open bar along the way…

All aboard...

The AquaDream catamaran is fully equipped with safety features, powerful well-maintained engines, and staffed by experienced crew. We depart from the Cozumel Ferry Terminal (Muelle Fiscal) at 11AM each morning. We recommend you arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time to get checked-in and comfortably on board.

Please don’t bring your own food, or any glass containers. Only certified coral-safe sunscreen is allowed; please help us to conserve the delicate reef ecosystem.

Not recommended for people with back problems, heart conditions, recent surgery, pregnancy, breathing conditions, or other cardivascular conditions. If in doubt, consult a medical professional before booking.

The equipment

You’ll be provided with everything you need to enjoy the tour with AquaDream; just turn up and enjoy the ride!

You'll be provided with:

Food & drink, included in the tour:.

• International buffet and beverages available at Playa Mia beach club
• On-board bar, including beer and other alcoholic drinks (available after the water activities)
• Water throughout the trip

*Please advise us of any allergies or dietary requirements in advance

Special requests?

We understand everyone’s needs are different, and strive to provide the best experiences of Cozumel to all our visitors.

We fully believe in making our tours as accessible as possible to all individuals, and we’d be happy to try and accommodate any specific requests or requirements you may have ahead of time.

Simply reach out and we will try our best to make it happen!

Clear Boat Cozumel Review: Is It Worth It in 2024?

Are you interested in the Clear Boat Cozumel excursion and wondering if it’s worth it? You’ve come to the right place!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , I have had the chance to go on the Cozumel invisible boat adventure and I’m here to give you all the details!

The innovative Cozumel transparent boat experience takes you on a journey of the island’s crystal clear waters, with the opportunity to observe incredible marine life right beneath your feet!

In this post, I’m sharing my honest review of the Clear Boat Cozumel experience including what it is, pros and cons, practical info, and tips for making the most of your excursion.

So if you’re visiting Cozumel on vacation, on a day trip from the mainland, or are looking for a cruise ship shore excursion, I’ve got you covered in this comprehensive review.

Ready to find out if the Cozumel Invisible Boat is right for you? Let’s dive in!

Is the Clear Boat in Cozumel Worth It?

From my experience, the Clear Boat in Cozumel is definitely worth it if you’re looking for a more low-key activity in Cozumel.

It’s one of the the only clear boats in the Caribbean, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. The boat is so cool and you can see the marine life right beneath your feet!

The tour guides are also super friendly and knowledgeable, providing a well-organized and on-time tour.

However, if you’re looking for an active or adrenaline-pumping activity, this may not be the best fit. It’s more of a leisurely experience with some snorkeling involved.

But at less than 2 hours, it’s a quick and affordable excursion that’s great for families or those that are short on time.

Overall, I really enjoyed my experience on the Clear Boat in Cozumel and highly recommend it for a fun and unique activity in Cozumel!

↳ Check prices and availability for the Clear Boat Cozumel excursion here

What is the Clear Boat Cozumel Like?

The Clear Boat Excursion in Cozumel, Mexico offers a totally unique and different experience for travelers who want to explore the island’s stunning marine life.

This excursion offers a one-of-a-kind ride aboard a Clear Boat, also known as the Invisible Boat. The boat is made entirely of plexiglass, making it completely transparent on all sides.

This allows passengers to enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree views of the crystal-clear waters and the vibrant marine ecosystem that Cozumel is famous for.

With the Clear Boat Excursion, visitors can see everything from schools of colorful fish to exotic coral formations, all from the comfort of a boat that feels like it’s floating on air.

Where is the Clear Boat in Cozumel?

The Clear Boat experience in Cozumel departs from a private dock, which is located next to Carlota Beach Club.

This location is about 10 minutes south of the Cozumel ferry and downtown San Miguel de Cozumel .

You’ll check in at the tour desk which is just across the street from the beach club entrance.

If you’re visiting on a day trip from Playa del Carmen , taxis can be easily hailed from the ferry terminal to get to the meeting point, and costs around $100 pesos (~$5 USD) each way.

For those staying at resorts in Cozumel , taxis can be arranged from your resort and taxi drivers are familiar with the Carlota Beach Club location.

Additionally, cruise ship passengers on shore excursions can easily hail a taxi to get there from the cruise ship ports.

Why Book the Clear Boat Excursion in Cozumel?

The Clear Boat Excursion is one of the top things to do in Cozumel , and a one-of-a-kind experience that offers stunning views of the island’s marine life.

The transparent plexiglass design of the boat provides uninterrupted 360-degree views, making it an unforgettable way to see the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine ecosystem.

Compared to traditional glass-bottom boats, the clear boat offers a more immersive experience due to its fully transparent design.

Whether you’re a family looking for a fun and unique activity or a first-time snorkeler wanting to get a feel for Cozumel’s underwater world, the Clear Boat Excursion is one of the best Cozumel tours.

Additionally, this activity is perfect for those that might be short on time since it takes less than 2 hours to complete the tour.

Clear Boat Cozumel Pros & Cons

Here are some of the pros and cons of the invisible boat experience that I’ll discuss further in this post:

Pros of the Cozumel Clear Boat

• Totally unique excursion
• Small group experience (maximum 16 pax)
• Reasonably priced
• Suitable for all ages

Cons of the Cozumel Clear Boat

• Short excursion
• Snorkeling could be better
• More low-key activity
• Photo package is expensive

Clear Boat Cozumel: Practical Info

Here is some of the practical info to know when booking your Clear Boat tour in Cozumel:

Cozumel Clear Boat: Tour Times & Availability

The Clear Boat excursion is available everyday of the week at the following times:

Cozumel Clear Boat: Duration

The Clear Boat Cozumel excursion lasts for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes , giving you plenty of time to take in the spectacular sights of Cozumel’s clear waters.

The tour starts on the clear boat where you will get a guided tour from the captain and guide, learning about the local marine life and underwater sights.

After that, you will make a stop at a nearby reef where you can snorkel and explore the clear waters up close.

Cozumel Clear Boat: Age Restrictions

The Clear Boat Cozumel excursion is suitable for all ages . Kids over 4 years of age are considered adults and kids 3 and under are free .

This makes it a great family-friendly option for those visiting Cozumel with kids, or multi-generational groups with grandparents.

Cozumel Clear Boat: Prices

The cost of the clear boat excursion can fluctuate depending on the season but typically is less than $60 USD per person.

This Clear Boat price includes all necessary equipment such as life jackets and snorkeling gear, as well as refreshments including bottled water, soda, and beer.

↳ Check current prices for the Clear Boat Cozumel excursion here

What’s Included in the Clear Boat Cozumel Excursion

Here’s everything that’s included in the Invisible Boat Tour in Cozumel :

• Guided boat tour and reef snorkeling stop
• Snorkel gear including a life jacket, mask and snorkel
• Drinks including beers, bottled water, and sodas
• Certified captain and crew
• Insured 100% transparent crystal clear boat
• All taxes and fees

How to Book the Clear Boat Cozumel Excursion

The Clear Boat in Cozumel can be booked online here .

I would highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance as this small-group tour has limited seats and can fill up quickly.

↳ Book your Cozumel Clear Boat tickets online here

Who is the Invisible Boat Cozumel best suited for?

The Cozumel Clear Boat excursion is an ideal activity for a wide range of travelers, including families, first-time snorkelers, and those looking for a quick, unique, and low-key activity in Cozumel.

Families with children will love the clear boat’s unique design, which allows them to see the marine life up close and personal without getting wet.

First-time snorkelers can get a feel for Cozumel’s underwater world from the comfort of the boat, giving them the confidence they need to explore further.

And for those looking for a more relaxed activity, the Clear Boat Excursion provides a comfortable and enjoyable ride that requires little physical effort.

Overall, the Clear Boat Excursion is a great way to experience the wonders of Cozumel’s marine life in a fun and accessible way.

Who is the Invisible Boat Cozumel NOT suited for?

While the Cozumel Clear Boat excursion is a great activity for many types of travelers, it may not be suited for those seeking more adventurous activities.

The Clear Boat Excursion is a more low-key and relaxing activity, perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Cozumel’s marine life without getting in the water or exerting too much effort.

If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled experience, like jeep tours or ATV tours , then the Clear Boat excursion may not be the best fit for you.

Additionally, if you’re an avid scuba diver, you may find that the coral reefs and marine life on the Clear Boat tour Cozumel are not as diverse or plentiful as those found on deeper dives.

However, for those looking for a unique and relaxing way to explore the island’s marine world, the Clear Boat Excursion is a great option.

Clear Boat Cozumel Experience

Here’s what to expect on the Clear Boat Cozumel adventure:

Arrival and Boarding

When you first arrive at the meeting point, you’ll be directed to the check-in counter to register.

It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check-in and get settled.

Once you have checked-in and received your wristband, you’ll cross the road to get suited up with your life jacket.

The tour guide will then lead the group to the invisible boat where the crew will assist with getting everyone on board.

Clear Boat Excursion

Once on board, the clear boat will set sail along Cozumel’s coastline. Along the way, you’ll get to experience Cozumel’s clear waters, colorful reefs, and lush marine life up close.

You’ll pass over a few different coral reefs where you’ll see a variety of marine life in clear detail under the boat.

On our tour, we saw tropical fish, large starfish, coral reefs, and even an eagle ray!

But the real highlight is probably passing over two small sunken ships, which were sunk as artificial coral reefs. These shipwreck sites are very cool to see and the clear boat gives you a unique view of them from above.

And during the entire transparent boat ride, the tour guide and captain will give informative commentary (in both Spanish and English) so you can learn more about Cozumel’s marine life and underwater sights.

Photo Session

During the excursion, you’ll also have the opportunity for a short photo shoot, where the tour guide will take professional photos of each person with a GoPro camera at the front of the boat.

The clear boat provides a great photo op and the guide knows all the best poses so you can be sure you’re getting a great shot!

I was actually pleasantly surprised with the quality of the photos – you can see some of them throughout this post!

After the initial boat ride on the invisible ship, the captain will make a stop at a coral reef closer to shore to allow passengers to go snorkeling. This is an optional activity so you can stay on the boat if you’re not up for it.

All necessary snorkeling equipment is provided included snorkel masks and life jackets. You’ll even get to use a full-face snorkel mask.

Of all the Riviera Maya tours I’ve done, this is the only one that has provided full-face snorkel masks so that was a treat to try it out for the first time!

To be honest, the snorkeling on this tour was okay, but it wasn’t anything special. There were plenty of fish and some coral reef formations but nothing spectacular.

But at the same time, we had a first-time snorkeler on our boat and she had a great time so it was perfect for her.

Travelista Tip: For a more impressive snorkeling tour in Cozumel , consider a snorkel tour to El Cielo , where you can snorkel with giant starfish.

Return Boat Ride

After the snorkeling part of the tour, you’ll make your way back to the clear boat and enjoy one last ride along Cozumel’s coastline.

During this time, the guide will pass out beers, waters, or soft drinks to all the passengers. It’s a quick ride back so you’ll need to down your drinks quickly!

Once you reach the dock, you’ll disembark and can get changed in the restrooms at the tour office if needed.

You’ll also be able to review your professional photos and purchase the photo package if desired.

What to Wear on the Invisible Boat Excursion Cozumel

Here’s what I would recommend wearing on the Invisible Boat excursion:

• Swimsuit: If you plan to snorkel, make sure to wear your swimsuit underneath your clothing. A life jacket will be provided and is required to wear onboard.
• Coverup or shorts: Wear a light swimsuit coverup or shorts that can easily be removed when you’re ready to snorkel.
• Sandals or flip flops: Wear sandals or flip flops that can easily be removed as you’ll be required to remove them before boarding the boat. Be prepared to be barefoot while onboard.

What to Bring on the Invisible Boat Excursion Cozumel

Here’s what you’ll want to bring on the Invisible Boat tour:

• Towel: Be sure to bring a beach towel to dry off after the snorkeling excursion. These microfiber beach towels are a great option as they are lightweight and dry quickly.
• Biodegradable sunscreen: Regular sunscreen is prohibited so be sure to bring reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself and the environment.
• GoPro or waterproof camera: If you want to capture photos or videos of your clear boat snorkeling adventure, be sure to bring a GoPro (or the less expensive Akaso Brave) along with a floating handgrip.
• Sunglasses: Bring sunglasses along for the boat ride as it will likely be very sunny! Although the boat is covered, you will still get some sun.
• Cash for tips: Don’t forget to bring some cash (pesos or USD) to tip the tour guides. Tipping is not required but it’s customary to leave a tip for the guides at the end of the excursion. They were excellent!
• Change of clothes: Bring along a change of dry clothes to change into after the reef snorkeling as you won’t have much time to dry off before the end of the tour. There are restrooms at the tour location where you can change your clothes.

Tips for the Cozumel Invisible Boat Excursion

Follow these tips to make the most of your invisible boat snorkeling adventure in Cozumel:

• Book an early tour: I would recommend booking the earliest excursion possible so you still have time for additional activities in Cozumel after the tour.
• Take advantage of the photo session: The tour guide is a great photographer and knows all the best poses for the clear boat excursion. So be sure to take advantage of the photo session and get some great shots!
• Put your phone on the floor of the boat to take photos and videos: For the best photos and videos, set your phone directly on the floor of the boat. It’s clear enough that you’ll be able to capture some great photos and videos!
• Stay close to the tour guide during snorkeling: The tour guide has fish food so all of the fish will be swimming close to him! Stay close to the guide to see the most fish!

Cozumel Clear Boat: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Clear Boat Tour:

How long does the Cozumel Invisible Boat tour last?

The clear boat tour in Cozumel lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and departs from Carlota Beach Club just south of downtown Cozumel.

Can you bring kids on the Cozumel Invisible Boat?

Yes, the clear boat tour is suitable for all ages and kids are welcome to come along. Plus, kids ages 3 and under are free. Snorkeling is optional so kids and parents can stay on board if desired for this portion of the tour.

Does the Clear Boat get dirty?

Not really. The plexi glass boat remained pretty clear even with handprints and footprints. The crew does have a mop that they occasionally use to make sure it remains as clear as possible.

How many people can go on the Cozumel Clear Boat at once?

The Clear Boat excursion is a small-group tour and has a maximum of 16 passengers.

What kind of equipment is provided on the Cozumel Clear Boat tour?

Life jackets and full-face snorkel masks are provided for each passenger on the tour.

Final Thoughts: Clear Boat Cozumel Review

So, is the Clear Boat Cozumel worth it? Absolutely!

This Cozumel Invisible Boat tour offers an unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else. In fact, it’s one of the only clear boats in the Caribbean.

I really enjoyed my experience and found the boat to be so unique and it was honestly so clear!

Plus, the tour guides are super friendly and knowledgeable. And everything was on-time and very well-organized.

But it’s important to know that it’s more of a low-key activity so if you’re looking for something more active or adrenaline-pumping, this may not be the best fit.

And if you’re looking for an amazing snorkeling tour in Cozumel , this probably isn’t the best option. The clear boat excursion is more of a leisurely experience with some snorkeling thrown in.

But overall the Clear Boat is the real highlight and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed by getting to see marine life underneath your feet!

And at less than 2 hours, it’s a quick excursion so it’s perfect for those that are short on time or want to pack multiple Cozumel activities into one day.

So, what do you think? Are you ready to see the clear boat for yourself?!

↳ Book your Cozumel Clear Boat tickets here

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