Cozumel: Catamaran Tours To El Cielo

Travelers seeking a memorable day on the water in Cozumel will find this catamaran tour to El Cielo a fantastic choice. Priced at $87 per person for a 6-hour journey, departing from Marina Fonatur, this experience promises a blend of snorkeling, relaxation, and delicious cuisine. Led by friendly guides, it’s perfect for those who want to explore the crystal waters of Cozumel, encounter stingrays, and unwind on a luxurious vessel.

What we love most? First, the chance to say hello to stingrays in their natural habitat—an authentic and memorable moment. Second, the luxury catamaran itself, equipped with floating hammocks, mats, and plenty of shade, offers comfort and a laid-back vibe that elevates the whole experience.

A potential consideration? The entire day is centered on water activities and sun exposure, so if you’re not comfortable in the sun or prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit energetic. And it’s worth noting that you need to arrive 10 minutes early at the meeting point, so punctuality is important.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, water lovers, and those wanting a taste of authentic Caribbean beauty. If you’re after a relaxing, fun-filled day with opportunities for snorkeling and tasting local flavors, this trip offers great value.

Key Points

• Authentic water experiences: Snorkeling with stingrays and sea turtles along with paddleboarding and floating mats.
• Luxury on the water: The catamaran provides amenities like hammocks, towels, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Delicious cuisine: Enjoy homemade guacamole, fresh fruit, and a variety of beverages including beers, juice, and rum punch.
• Flexible booking: Reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later if you prefer.
• Experience diversity: Visit El Cielo, enjoy a break in the Caribbean Sea, and return to Cozumel with a full stomach and happy memories.
• Family-friendly: The tour’s relaxed pace and water-based activities make it suitable for families and groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What This Tour Offers: A Day in the Caribbean Paradise

If you’re imagining a day where the sun kisses your skin, the water is clear enough to see your toes, and the flavor of fresh ceviche and guacamole teases your taste buds, this Cozumel tour hits the mark. Starting at Marina Fonatur, the trip begins around 1:00 pm and lasts until about 7:00 pm, giving you ample time to enjoy everything on offer. You’ll be on a luxury catamaran, with the option to sip beverages or lounge in a floating hammock, both of which are included.

One thing that sets this tour apart is the combination of sightseeing and active water fun. You’ll visit El Cielo, a renowned shallow reef area famous for its starfish and stingrays, and spend significant time snorkeling in waters filled with sea turtles and other marine life. The guides, who speak both Spanish and English, make the experience accessible and engaging.

A second highlight is the culinary aspect. The tour doesn’t skimp on snacks—homemade guacamole, fresh fruit, and a variety of beverages like soda, water, beers, juices, and rum punch ensure that everyone stays refreshed. As one reviewer noted, “The food was fantastic, especially the guacamole, which was homemade and really fresh.”

However, be aware that this tour is quite active and sun-heavy. If you’re not a fan of the heat or water activities, you might find the schedule a bit too packed. Also, arriving 10 minutes early at the meeting point ensures you don’t miss the departure.

It’s a trip best suited for those who love water activities but also enjoy relaxing on a boat. Families, couples, and groups of friends will appreciate the mix of adventure and leisure.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Starting Point: Marina Fonatur

The tour kicks off here, where you’ll meet your guides and receive your t-shirts—either black or red, with the tour names like Moonshine, Starshine, or Sunshine. The process is straightforward, and the staff are friendly and organized, making check-in a breeze.

Visit to the Viewpoint (20 minutes)

After departure, your first stop is a scenic viewpoint for about 20 minutes. While brief, this gives a great chance to take photos of the coastline and get a sense of the area’s geographic beauty.

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Main Event: Cozumel and El Cielo (6 hours)

The heart of the experience is the 6 hours spent exploring Cozumel’s waters. You’ll arrive at the El Cielo reef, famous for its stellar starfish, stingrays, and sea turtles. Many reviewers highlight the authentic chance to swim with rays and turtles—a real highlight that makes this trip worth it.

Guests often mention how clear the waters are, making snorkeling a joy. “We loved the way we could see everything below us,” one reviewer shares. The guides are helpful in teaching beginners how to snorkel, making it accessible even if you’re new to it.

Lunch & Relaxation: Caribbean Sea Break (2 hours)

Mid-afternoon, the group takes a break for lunch, served onboard or at a designated spot. The homemade guacamole and fresh fruit are widely praised, with guests saying, “The food was delicious, and the drinks kept flowing.” You can lounge on the deck, float in the water using provided floating mats and hammocks, or just soak up the sun while sipping a cold beverage.

Return Journey & Reflection

As the day winds down, you’ll retrace your route back to the marina, feeling satisfied from a day filled with water adventures and good food.

Inclusions and Practicalities

The tour’s price of $87 per person covers much more than just transportation. You get a complete meal, homemade guacamole, fruit, and a variety of drinks—a significant value considering the all-day access to water activities and the luxury amenities onboard.

Towels, towels, towels are provided, which means you can dry off after snorkeling without worry. The floating hammocks and mats add a playful touch, letting you relax between dips.

Meeting Point & Equipment

The meeting point is in Marina Fonatur, and you’re advised to arrive 10 minutes early. Guides will offer T-shirts in black or red to keep you easily identifiable. The tour is conducted in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to a broad audience.

Booking & Cancellation

Travel plans can be flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. That’s handy if your schedule shifts or you want to keep options open.

Authentic Water Fun & Food

Guests often mention the quality of the snorkeling and the opportunity to see marine life firsthand, including stingrays and sea turtles. Several reviews highlight the delicious homemade guacamole and refreshing drinks—these culinary touches really elevate the experience.

The floating hammocks and mats are praised for adding a playful, relaxing element that isn’t often part of typical snorkeling tours. Imagine lounging in a hammock while bobbing in the water—it’s a small detail that makes the day special.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy being active on the water, this tour offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and floating. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups looking for a fun, relaxed day in Cozumel’s waters. Those who appreciate authentic experiences, like close encounters with marine life and tasting local-style snacks, will find this trip satisfying.

On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable in the sun or prefer a more laid-back excursion, this might feel too packed with activities. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure.

This Cozumel catamaran tour offers a well-rounded day of snorkeling, water relaxation, and flavorful food, all aboard a luxurious vessel. Its value comes from the inclusive nature—covering transportation, meals, drinks, and water toys—making it a smart choice for travelers wanting a guided, authentic experience without fuss.

The opportunity to swim with stingrays and sea turtles makes this truly memorable, especially for first-timers or those eager to connect with marine life. The luxury amenities ensure comfort, even when lounging for hours in the sun.

While the schedule is somewhat activity-packed, it’s ideal for those who want a full, fun day exploring Cozumel’s waters. The friendly guides and high-quality food add warmth and flavor to the adventure, making it more than just a snorkeling trip.

Overall, if you’re looking for a balance of adventure, authentic encounters, and leisure, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited for water lovers, families, or anyone eager for a memorable taste of Caribbean life.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 1:00 pm from Marina Fonatur, so arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in and get your T-shirt.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, giving plenty of time for water activities, snorkeling, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the full meal, homemade guacamole, fresh fruit, and a variety of drinks—water, soda, beers, juices, and rum punch—as well as towels, floating mats, hammocks, and snorkeling gear.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. Guides are helpful for teaching snorkeling, and the shallow waters at El Cielo are perfect for those new to snorkeling.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later if desired.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for tips or extras, a hat for sun protection, and perhaps sunglasses. All else is provided.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, the guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible to most travelers.

Will I get time to relax?
Absolutely. The boat is equipped with floating hammocks and mats, and many guests spend time simply soaking up the sun or floating in the water.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
You can still enjoy the boat ride, the scenery, and the food and drinks offered during the trip. Water toys are optional.

To sum it up, this Cozumel catamaran tour offers a captivating day for those eager to combine adventure with relaxation. The chance to swim with rays, enjoy delicious Caribbean fare, and lounge comfortably makes it a well-rounded choice for many travelers. Its emphasis on authentic marine encounters and comfort onboard ensures you leave with both memories and a healthy glow—whether from the sun or the thrill of the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: