Heaven Snorkeling on a Private Boat with Champagne and Lunch

A Private Snorkeling Day Around Cozumel with Champagne, Lunch, and Marine Encounters

If you’re after a relaxing, personalized day on the water that combines snorkeling, exquisite food, and a touch of luxury, this Heaven Snorkeling tour might just be your ideal escape. For about $799 per group, up to eight friends or family members can spend roughly five hours exploring Cozumel’s stunning reefs aboard your own private boat. The trip includes snorkeling at two beautiful spots, a floating lunch at El Cielo with ceviche and drinks, and plenty of time for sunbathing or just soaking up the Caribbean’s tranquility.

What we especially like about this experience is how it balances adventure and relaxation. Having a private boat means you won’t be stuck in a crowded group and can tailor your time at each location — whether that’s swimming with stingrays or lounging with a drink in hand. Plus, the lunch served in a floating basket at El Cielo offers a quirky, memorable dining experience you won’t find everywhere. The open bar and snacks help keep the mood light and fun.

On the flip side, consider that this tour requires a full group of up to 8 people, so if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it might seem like less bang for your buck unless you can fill the boat. Also, since the tour depends heavily on good weather, you might want to check the forecast to avoid disappointment.

This trip suits travelers who value customization, quality marine experiences, and enjoy luxurious yet informal days at sea. Families, small groups of friends, or couples looking for intimacy and exclusivity will find this particularly appealing based on the glowing reviews.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Tailor your day without crowds and enjoy personalized service.
• Marine Encounters: Snorkel at Colombian reef with opportunities to see starfish and stingrays.
• Unique Lunch Setting: Enjoy ceviche and drinks served in a floating basket at El Cielo.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Snacks and open bar included for a relaxed pace.
• Ideal Group Size: Designed for up to 8 people, perfect for small gatherings.
• Weather-Dependent: Tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible with bad conditions.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This half-day adventure begins with pickup at a designated meeting point in Cozumel — specifically at Puerto de Abrigo — making logistics straightforward for hotel or dock pickups. Once aboard your private boat, the journey starts with a comfortable 20-minute sail to the first snorkeling spot, the Colombian reef. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to explore the underwater world teeming with marine life such as starfish, stingrays, and colorful fish.

The appeal of having your own boat is clear: you’ll avoid the crowded, more commercial tours. Instead, you can take your time, dive at your own pace, and enjoy the marine scenery in peace. The reviews confirm this, with travelers like Jason R describing how the hosts “took us away from the crowds” and made it “a memorable day.”

After snorkeling, your boat will cruise for roughly 10 more minutes to reach El Cielo, a sandbar renowned for its tranquility and starfish population. Here, the real highlight — aside from the stunning scenery — is the lunch served in a floating basket. Imagine sitting in the water, eating ceviche freshly prepared with the catch of the day, while stingrays glide nearby. Amy L. calls this experience “heaven,” and other reviews echo her enthusiasm, mentioning the “amazing lunch,” “great snorkeling,” and “stingrays swimming near us.”

The floating lunch isn’t just about the food; it’s about the experience of dining in the water, surrounded by natural beauty. The ceviche, made from fresh ingredients, adds to the sense of authenticity and freshness. Plus, with an open bar and snacks, you can sip drinks or nibble while soaking up the sun or watching marine life.

The tour wraps up after about five hours back at the original meeting point. The entire trip is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences, but the itinerary ensures you get a good taste of both reef snorkeling and the serene sandbar experience, making it a well-rounded day.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour is operated by El Cielo Cozumel Tours, who emphasize full transparency — your booking includes admission tickets, snorkeling gear, and lunch with drinks. Pickups are offered, which simplifies transportation logistics, especially if you’re staying in Cozumel’s hotel zone or near the docks.

The cost of $799 per group is reasonable when considering it’s for up to 8 people, making it a good value for a private, luxury experience. The positive reviews highlight how the hosts — Marco, Hugo, and David — go out of their way to customize the trip and cater to your preferences. Many travelers appreciated the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, noting how they made the experience memorable.

Bookings typically happen about 42 days in advance, so if you’re planning ahead, securing your spot is straightforward. The tour operates daily from 8:00AM to 3:00PM, giving most travelers ample flexibility to fit it into their schedule.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is perfect if you’re seeking an intimate, exclusive experience rather than a large-group boat trip. Families with children comfortable with snorkeling, small groups of friends, or romantic couples will find a lot to love here. If you enjoy relaxed days with quality food, marine wildlife, and the chance to customize your itinerary, this is a fantastic choice.

However, if you’re traveling solo or as a couple and hoping to save money, you might find other options more budget-friendly, as this is designed for small groups of eight. Also, since weather plays a big role, it’s wise to be flexible and prepared for possibly rescheduling.

Summary

This Heaven Snorkeling tour around Cozumel offers a rare combination of personalized service, stunning natural beauty, and gourmet lunch. The private boat experience means no crowds, and the tour’s focus on both marine exploration and relaxing dining makes for a well-rounded day. The floating ceviche lunch at El Cielo, with rays and starfish nearby, is a highlight that travelers remember fondly. The all-inclusive setup — snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks — simplifies planning and enriches the day.

For travelers craving small-group intimacy, high-quality marine sights, and a luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere, this tour delivers on all counts. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a personalized, memorable day at sea with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and fun.

FAQ

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 8 people can join, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the private boat, snorkeling equipment, lunch in a floating basket, and an open bar with snacks.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately five hours from start to finish, including travel time, snorkeling, and lunch.

Is pickup service available?
Yes, pickup is offered from select locations, making it easier to coordinate your day.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you may bring your own if preferred.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the trip?
Yes, many reviews mention how the hosts tailor the experience to your preferences, whether that’s more snorkeling or relaxing on the boat.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 42 days in advance is typical, especially during peak seasons.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers with children comfortable with snorkeling will enjoy it, but always check with the operator about age restrictions or limitations.

This private Cozumel snorkeling trip combines the best of marine adventure and laid-back luxury — perfect for those who want a memorable, customizable experience with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a water lover or simply seeking a peaceful day in beautiful surroundings, this tour has plenty to offer.