El Cielo and El Cielito in Cozumel with Beach Club, Food, and Open Bar

El Cielo and El Cielito in Cozumel with Beach Club, Food, and Open Bar offers a lively mix of sailing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation designed for those wanting a taste of the Caribbean’s best. For $180 per person, you’ll spend about six hours exploring Cozumel’s famous sites, all while enjoying drinks, good food, and a scenic boat ride. The experience includes snorkeling at the stunning Palancar Reef, relaxing at the shallow waters of El Cielo, and unwinding at the beach club with its pool and water games.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines adventure with comfort. The open bar on board means enjoying margaritas and cold beers as you cruise the turquoise waters, and the visit to El Cielo — famous for its starfish and crystal-clear water — offers a truly unique photo op. Plus, the access to the beach club’s facilities means you’re not just sitting around; you can swim, kayak, or lounge to your heart’s content.

One consideration to keep in mind is the short transfer time — you’ll spend around 40 minutes on the ferry each way, which cuts into your overall sightseeing time and might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore Cozumel fully. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a taste of the sea, some great snorkeling, and a relaxed beach experience, especially if you enjoy socializing in a lively setting.

This experience suits those looking for a balanced mix of fun activities and relaxation, perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends. If you value good guides, stunning marine scenery, and delicious onboard food, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

Key Points

Balanced itinerary with snorkeling, beach time, and sailing
Includes open bar with margaritas, beer, and soft drinks
Access to popular sites like Palancar Reef, El Cielo, and El Cielito
Beach club amenities including pool, kayaks, and water trampoline
6-hour duration provides a good taste of Cozumel without overdoing it
Family-friendly, but not suitable for pregnant women or pet owners

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Cozumel’s Top Spots by Catamaran

When we think about a day in Cozumel, the image of vivid blue waters, colorful coral reefs, and warm sandy beaches springs to mind. This tour captures that essence perfectly. For just over six hours, you get the chance to sail around the island, snorkel at some of the Caribbean’s most impressive reefs, and relax at two beautiful beaches. It’s a well-rounded experience that brings the best of the sea and sand together.

Starting off on a comfortable catamaran, you’ll be cruising from Playa del Carmen with a friendly bilingual guide. The vessel is equipped with bathrooms and an open bar, which sets the tone for a laid-back afternoon filled with refreshing drinks and good company. If you’re traveling with friends or family, the relaxed atmosphere and cheerful guides help make this a memorable outing.

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Snorkeling at Palancar Reef

The highlight for many is the snorkel stop at Palancar Reef. Known as one of the most stunning reefs in the Caribbean, it offers vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine life. We loved the way the guides brief you on what to look for — colorful fish darting in and out of corals, and surprising glimpses of larger sea creatures. With about 40 minutes here, you’ll have enough time to dive in, explore, and snap some pictures.

The Magic of El Cielo

Next is El Cielo, often called “Heaven” by visitors, and for good reason. The shallow waters, often less than a meter deep, are famous for their starfish and crystal-clear visibility. We enjoyed wading through the warm water, spotting starfish, and taking photos of the picturesque scene. The 30-minute stop is perfect for relaxing, floating, and appreciating the natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

Relaxation at El Cielito

Following El Cielo, you’ll visit El Cielito, a white sand beach with shallow waters ideal for swimming and unwinding. About an hour here allows you to disconnect from the world, lounge on the sand, or paddle around. The shallow water makes it easy to relax without worries, and the calm environment is great for families or anyone wanting a peaceful moment.

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Beach Club Fun

The tour doesn’t end with just sightseeing. The Beach Club at Bahía offers additional amenities like a swimming pool, water trampoline, kayaks, and water slides — all included in your access. While activities like kayaking or the trampoline aren’t included, the facilities are there for your enjoyment. You’ll also get a fajita plate (chicken, pork, or vegetarian) to fill your stomach after a day of water fun.

A key review notes, “It was a rough experience, with poor organization, and we spent more time on the ferry than exploring Cozumel,” emphasizing the importance of planning for ferry times. On the flip side, a glowing review from a local traveler describes the tour as “excellent, very punctual, and the views were beautiful,” highlighting that experiences can vary depending on logistics and expectations.

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What to Expect During the Day

The tour begins in Playa del Carmen, with a 40-minute ferry ride to Cozumel. Once there, the boat departs for approximately 66.5 hours, sailing past some of the island’s most scenic spots. The snorkel gear provided makes exploring Palancar Reef straightforward, and guides are available to help if you’re new to snorkeling.

Each stop lasts around 30 to 40 minutes, giving enough time to see the sites and take photos without feeling rushed. The open bar on board means you can enjoy margaritas, beer, and soft drinks while soaking in the views. The boat is spacious, with plenty of room for relaxing or socializing.

After the snorkeling and beach visits, you’ll head to the beach club, where the fajita meal is served. Expect a casual, friendly atmosphere with access to pools, loungers, and water activities. Keep in mind that drinks at the beach club are not included, so if you want extra beverages, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

The Realities and Considerations

While the tour offers a good mix of activities, some travelers have noted logistical issues. The ferry transfer can feel lengthy, and if the schedule gets delayed, it may cut into your time at the sites. One review mentioned, “We spent more time on the ferry than exploring Cozumel,” which is a reminder to keep your expectations flexible.

The cost of $180 is fair considering the inclusions — boat ride, snorkeling gear, guide service, a meal, and access to the beach club. But drinks at the beach club are extra, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge. For those who enjoy social, lively environments with ample water-based activities, this tour offers good value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and social fun. If you enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and beach lounging, you’ll likely love it. Families with children who are comfortable in shallow waters and enjoy water activities will find it particularly appealing.

However, if you’re looking for a more structured or exclusive experience, or have limited mobility (considering the ferry transfer and walking), you might want to explore other options. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, given the physical nature of some activities.

Final Thoughts

The El Cielo and El Cielito tour offers a lively, enjoyable way to experience some of Cozumel’s most iconic sites. The combination of snorkeling, scenic sailing, and beach relaxation makes for a memorable day. The inclusion of food, drinks, and access to water fun enhances the value, especially for those eager to enjoy a full day of Caribbean bliss without breaking the bank.

If you’re someone who thrives on a casual, social atmosphere and loves the idea of exploring reefs, starfish, and white sand beaches all in one trip, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for the ferry transfers and variable experiences — some travelers rave about it, others find it a bit disorganized. But in the end, the stunning sights and relaxed vibe make it a worthwhile outing for most.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, the tour does not include hotel transfers. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point in front of Six store in Playa del Carmen.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride is approximately 40 minutes each way, which is part of the overall experience but can feel a bit lengthy for some.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip ferry transportation, the catamaran ride, snorkeling equipment, guided commentary in English or Spanish, a fajita meal at the beach club, and access to the beach club facilities.

Are drinks at the beach club included?
No, drinks at the beach club are not included. The open bar is only available on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable in shallow waters and enjoy water activities should find this tour enjoyable. However, pregnant women are advised not to take part.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothing, and beachwear. Sunscreen is not provided and is not allowed in some areas, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour delivers a well-rounded day in Cozumel, combining snorkeling, scenic sailing, and beachside relaxation, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lively yet laid-back Caribbean experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: