Planning a day in Cozumel that balances relaxation with adventure? Look no further than this private 4-hour tour that whisks you to the pristine, little-visited beaches of the island’s north side. For $545 per group, up to six people, you get a personalized experience that combines snorkeling, scenic sights, and plenty of good eats. Our guide, Jessica (or Víctor or Aurora), was friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to tailor the trip to our wishes.
What we really loved: first, the uncrowded beaches felt like a genuine escape, away from the cruise ship crowds, and second, the snorkeling at shipwrecks offered a chance to see marine life up close while exploring history beneath the waves. The relaxed pace and customizable stops mean this tour can adapt to your mood—whether you want to snorkel all morning or just relax on a quiet beach for a while.
A potential consideration is the cost, which is higher than some group tours, but this is a private experience, meaning you get undivided attention and flexibility. If you’re seeking a laid-back, intimate adventure that emphasizes quality over quantity, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic beaches, good food, and personalized service—perfect for small groups or couples wanting a special day.
Key Points
- Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests.
- Includes snorkeling gear, drinks, snacks, and a guide—all essentials covered.
- Focus on uncrowded beaches for peaceful relaxation and authentic scenery.
- Shipwreck snorkeling and points of interest like the stranded “La Princesa Maya.”
- Relaxed 4-hour schedule ideal for a half-day adventure.
- Extra costs minimal—entry taxes and wildlife care are included, with just a small marina fee.
An Authentic Coastal Escape with Snorkeling and Food
This tour is crafted for travelers who want more than just a generic cruise. It’s an intimate, flexible trip on the northern side of Cozumel, where the beaches are mostly untouched and the water is crystal clear. The experience begins at El Mayor, an easy-to-find meeting point near the marina, marked by a blue umbrella and a wine cellar. The guides, who speak both Spanish and English, are trained professionals with over seven years of experience, eager to ensure your safety and comfort.
Once aboard the boat, the real highlight begins: snorkeling at shipwrecks and pilasters, where you can swim alongside colorful fish and see the remains of historic vessels. A popular stop is the stranded ship “La Princesa Maya”, which adds a hint of maritime mystery to your underwater adventure. Reviews mention that the guides are attentive, providing life jackets and clear instructions, making even less experienced snorkelers feel confident.
After exploring the underwater scenery, the tour takes you to a quiet beach where you can kick back, soak up the sun, and enjoy fresh seasonal fruit, guacamole, and fish ceviche. These snacks, included in the tour, are a refreshing treat after swimming. The beverage selection—water, soft drinks, and beers—ensures you stay hydrated and refreshed throughout the trip.
The flexibility of this tour is especially appealing. If you prefer more snorkeling, the guides are happy to focus on that; if you want to spend more time relaxing, they can accommodate. The tour’s adaptability is one of its strongest selling points, making it suitable whether you’re a water enthusiast or just looking for a scenic downtime.
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Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
Starting point at El Mayor provides a convenient, familiar spot to gather before setting off. From there, the boat voyage to the north side of Cozumel is short but scenic, giving you your first glimpses of the island’s rugged coast.
Isla de la Pasion is the core of the tour. Here, the guides lead you into the water, where snorkel gear and life jackets are provided. You’ll explore shipwrecks—the actual sunken vessels that serve as artificial reefs—offering a rich habitat for marine life. The pilasters, or submerged columns, are also points of interest that add variety to your underwater adventure. Multiple reviews highlight how these sites are teeming with fish, making for lively and colorful snorkeling.
The stranded ship “La Princesa Maya” is another highlight—they describe it as “a bit of history you can swim around,” adding a meaningful touch to the outing. The guides are careful to respect wildlife and entry taxes, which are included, so you won’t be surprised by extra fees.
After snorkeling, you’ll head to a quiet beach—the perfect place to unwind. Here, you can bask in the sun or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline. The snacks—seasonal fruit, guacamole, and fresh fish ceviche—are thoughtfully prepared and served in a relaxed setting, making this part of the trip feel like a beach picnic.
Return to El Mayor wraps up the tour, giving you ample time to reflect on the day or explore nearby areas if you wish. The 4-hour duration fits perfectly into a half-day schedule, leaving you free for other activities or relaxation.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s inclusion of snorkeling equipment, life jackets, water, soft drinks, beers, and snacks ensures you’re well taken care of. The entry tax and wildlife care fee are already covered, which is rare and a plus for convenience.
However, the marina use fee of around 15 pesos (~$1 USD) is an extra expense you should be prepared for. Plus, transportation to the marina isn’t included, so plan your morning accordingly. Some reviews note that the guides are flexible, and they’re happy to answer questions about local transportation options.
It’s worth noting that sunscreen is not allowed on the boat (to protect marine life), but you can apply it an hour before the tour begins. The guides recommend bringing sunglasses and a sun hat, as the sun can be strong, especially during midday.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip suits travelers who value authentic, uncrowded beaches and want a personalized, relaxed adventure. It’s great for small groups or couples who enjoy snorkeling, fresh food, and natural scenery without the hustle of larger tours. Families with older children might enjoy the calm, safe environment, but pregnant women or those with recent surgeries should consult with their doctor before participating.
If you’re looking for a more active snorkeling experience with historical shipwrecks and quiet beaches, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s less about partying and more about enjoying the natural beauty of Cozumel’s northern coast at your own pace.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up
This private tour provides a thoughtful balance of snorkeling, relaxation, and good food in a setting that feels both exclusive and genuine. The ability to customize your stops means you won’t be rushed or confined to a fixed schedule, allowing for a more authentic experience of Cozumel’s northern beaches.
While the price might seem steep compared to group tours, the personalized attention, excellent guides, and inclusive nature make it worthwhile—especially if you’re seeking a calm, scenic escape with plenty of underwater sights. It’s best suited for travelers who want a flexible, intimate adventure in a beautiful, less crowded part of the island.
Whether you want to explore shipwrecks, lounge on soft sands, or just enjoy a peaceful day with good company and great food, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable way to experience Cozumel’s natural treasures.
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FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are trained professionals who provide snorkel equipment and safety instructions, making it accessible even for less experienced snorkelers.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses and a sun hat for sun protection. Sunscreen isn’t allowed on the boat to protect marine life, but you can apply it an hour before the tour.
Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, water, soft drinks, beers, seasonal fruit, guacamole, and fish ceviche are all provided during the tour.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, typically in the morning, giving plenty of time to enjoy snorkeling and relaxing on the beach.
What is the maximum group size?
Up to 6 people per private group, ensuring a personalized experience.
Are entry taxes and wildlife fees included?
Yes, these are covered in the price, so there are no hidden extra costs at the site.
Do I need to pay extra for marina use?
Yes, there’s a small fee of about 15 pesos (~$1 USD) for marina access.
Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. The guides are flexible and can visit other points of interest or adjust activities based on your preferences.
Is transportation to the marina included?
No, travelers are responsible for getting to the meeting point near the marina; plan accordingly.
Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women and those who recently had surgery should consult their doctor, as water activities may not be suitable for all.