Catamaran in Cozumel with snorkeling at El Cielo and open Bar

A Relaxing Day on the Water: Cozumel’s Catamaran Snorkel Tour with El Cielo and Open Bar

Imagine sailing on a double-deck catamaran across Cozumel’s shimmering waters, with a lively crew welcoming you aboard. This tour, costing around $38.50 per person, offers about five hours of sunshine, snorkeling, and good vibes. You’ll visit El Cielo, Mexico’s famous starfish sanctuary, snorkel at a vibrant reef, and relax on the shallow sands of El Cielito, where manta rays sometimes glide by. The open bar, filled with margaritas, beer, and soft drinks, keeps the party lively, while the delicious onboard meal wraps up the day.

What we particularly like about this experience are the intimate, authentic feel of the stops—especially the chance to snorkel among colorful fish and gentle starfish—and the fun, friendly atmosphere created by the crew and music. It’s a tour that combines relaxing scenery with engaging marine life.

One thing we’d suggest keeping in mind is the cost of the dock fee (M.X.N. 500 per person), which isn’t included in the base price and can catch some travelers by surprise if they’re not prepared. But overall, the value for such an accessible, well-organized day is high—especially considering the food, drinks, and guided snorkeling are included.

This tour suits those who appreciate a laid-back, social experience with a mix of nature and fun, particularly if you’re comfortable with a group of up to 35 travelers and want to enjoy a taste of local marine life along with some well-earned drinks.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling at a pristine reef and El Cielo, Mexico’s starfish sanctuary
• Open bar with margaritas, beer, and soft drinks—only for adults
• Meals include grilled chicken, rice, and seasonal fruit
• Tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with lively guides and entertainers
• Not including the docking fee of M.X.N. 500 per person
• Small groups enhance the intimate, relaxed vibe

An In-Depth Look at the Cozumel Catamaran Experience

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do and Why It Matters

Our day starts at 1:00 PM at the Cozumel Muelle, where the crew prepares to welcome you aboard. Setting sail around this time optimizes your afternoon, balancing the warm sun with a gentle breeze. As we settle into the boat, it’s impossible not to notice the upbeat music and festive atmosphere, which immediately signals this is a fun, social cruise.

The first highlight is the snorkeling stop at a virgin reef. Here, you can expect a vibrant underwater world teeming with tropical fish and crystal-clear waters. The 35-minute snorkel time is enough to appreciate the marine life without feeling rushed, and snorkeling gear is provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. As one reviewer noted, the “ship was clean” and the guides were “professional,” which adds confidence that you’ll have a quality experience.

Next, the group moves to El Cielo, Mexico’s best-known starfish sanctuary. This 20-minute swim is truly the star of the tour—literally. Here, you’ll drift in shallow waters (about 1.2 meters deep), where colorful fish and gentle starfish rest on the sandy bottom. The peaceful ambiance combined with the chance to see friendly manta rays makes this stop distinctive. One traveler described it as “shallow turquoise bliss,” which reflects the calming, picture-perfect setting.

Then, we head to El Cielito, a shallow sandbank where manta rays are known to visit. The 40-60 minutes spent here offer a more laid-back experience—perfect for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. The drinks keep flowing and the music continues, creating a party-like atmosphere even in this serene landscape.

Finally, back on the boat, a delicious onboard meal awaits. The grilled chicken, rice, and fresh seasonal fruit provide a satisfying end to a day in paradise. The generous food portion ensures you’re well-fed after your aquatic adventures, and the friendly crew makes sure everyone feels comfortable.

Snorkeling and Marine Life: What You’ll See

The snorkeling aspect is a big draw. We loved the way the guides emphasize respecting the environment while giving you a close-up look at marine creatures. From vibrant tropical fish darting around coral to the glowing starfish in El Cielo, it’s a visual feast. One review mentions that “the reef is alive with color,” highlighting how well the marine life is preserved and accessible.

The starfish sanctuary is especially unique. Unlike typical snorkeling stops, here you get to stand and gently observe these fascinating creatures at close range. This is a highlight for many, especially those looking for a more interactive experience with marine wildlife.

The Crew, Guides, and Atmosphere

Throughout our journey, the crew was knowledgeable and friendly—a point praised by several reviewers. Their professionalism and enthusiasm help create a fun and safe environment, which is crucial when snorkeling in unfamiliar waters.

Music and entertainment are also part of the experience, adding to the festive, carefree vibe. It’s a tour that appeals to travelers who want a lively, social setting but also value guardian-like guidance and marine education.

Food and Drinks: An Onboard Feast

The meal may seem simple—grilled chicken, rice, and seasonal fruit—but it hits the spot after a day of swimming and sightseeing. The unlimited margaritas, beer, and soft drinks are a real perk, especially for those wanting to toast the day’s adventures or simply relax with a beverage. One guest described the ship as “clean and professional,” which extends to the food and drinks service, ensuring you stay refreshed and satisfied.

Practical Aspects: What Travelers Should Know

The tour duration of around five hours makes it a comfortable half-day activity—meaning you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon without feeling rushed. Boarding starts at 1:00 PM, so plan your arrival accordingly.

The group size, capped at 35, strikes a good balance between intimacy and lively atmosphere. Smaller groups tend to offer more personal attention from guides, while larger groups provide a lively camaraderie.

A key consideration is the dock fee of M.X.N. 500 per person, which is not included in the ticket price. Travelers should be prepared for this additional cost.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but adults only should be aware that the open bar is for +18. For families or those with children, it’s worth noting that the beverages are adults-only.

Authenticity and Value

The tour’s authentic local vibe shines through in the natural beauty of the stops and the friendly attitude of the crew. For the price, it offers a well-rounded experience—snorkeling, relaxing in stunning scenery, and enjoying good food and drinks—all within a manageable timeframe.

While some travelers experienced difficulty finding the check-in point (noted in reviews), the signs are plentiful, and arriving a little early can help avoid confusion. The free cancellation policy is generous—cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund—which is a good safety net in case your plans change.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This catamaran tour is perfect for relaxed travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere with the chance to see marine wildlife up close. It’s ideal for adults who appreciate drinks on the water and a delicious meal after snorkeling. The stops are relatively shallow and calm, making it suitable for less experienced snorkelers or those simply wanting to float and soak in the scenery. It’s also a good option for groups or couples looking for a fun, all-in-one day without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

Final Thoughts

This Cozumel catamaran tour offers a combination of beautiful scenery, engaging marine life, lively atmosphere, and tasty food at a reasonable price. Its highlights—snorkeling at El Cielo, relaxing at El Cielito, and the open bar—make it a memorable way to spend an afternoon. While it may not include every luxury, its authentic, friendly vibe and well-organized stops make it a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy Cozumel’s natural beauty in a relaxed, social setting.

FAQ

Is the snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer it.

What is the best time to join this tour?
The tour starts at 1:00 PM, making it ideal for an afternoon outing, especially on a clear, sunny day.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The open bar is only for adults (+18), so children can join but won’t be able to drink. Check with the operator for any age restrictions on snorkeling.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll snorkel at the reef for about 35 minutes, swim at El Cielo for around 20 minutes, and spend roughly 40 to 60 minutes at El Cielito.

Is there a safety or environmental focus?
The guides are trained to ensure safety and to help protect the marine environment, especially at sensitive sites like El Cielo.

What additional costs should I be aware of?
The dock fee of M.X.N. 500 per person is not included in the tour price.

In summary, this Cozumel catamaran adventure offers a fantastic balance of fun, relaxation, and sightseeing. It’s best suited for those who want a lively, informal day in the water, with plenty of opportunities to see beautiful marine life and enjoy the company of fellow travelers.