Snorkel along the coast, explore two reefs by Chivis del Mar

Cozumel Snorkeling Adventure with Chivis del Mar: A Close-Up Look

If you’re headed to Cozumel and want a relaxed, authentic snorkeling experience, this tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most beautiful underwater scenery without breaking the bank. For just under $27 per person, you get about 1.5 hours of guided snorkeling along two vibrant reefs—Dzul-Ha and Paraiso—aboard a charming glass-bottom boat called Chivis del Mar. With multiple departure times and a small group setting, it’s well-suited for first-timers, families, or anyone short on time but eager to explore.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized attention from guides like Barbara and Captain Jose, who are praised for their warmth, patience, and knowledge—especially helpful when you’re new to snorkeling or traveling with kids. Second, the stunning reef vistas at each stop—coral formations, colorful fish, and even statues that make for great photos.

A potential consideration? The limited duration and the fact that transportation isn’t included—so arriving on time and arranging your own transfer is important. That said, it’s ideal if you want a quick, scenic, and safe introduction to Cozumel’s underwater world without going on a big, crowded tour.

This experience suits travelers who value authenticity, personalized service, and value for money. If you appreciate engaging guides and want to avoid large group chaos, this tour checks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 12) ensures attentive guiding and less crowd noise.
• Beautiful Reefs: Snorkel at Dzul-Ha and Paraiso reefs, both known for coral formations and abundant marine life.
• Value for Money: At just $26.77, the tour includes gear, drinks, and a friendly bilingual guide.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple departure times help fit this into your travel plans.
• Snorkel Gear Included: Masks, life jackets, and tubes are provided, making it easy to jump in.
• Limited Transport: Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan your arrival at the marina accordingly.

A Deep Dive into the Snorkel Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Chivis del Mar glass-bottom boat at Marina Caleta, Cozumel. It’s a straightforward walk from cruise ports like Puerta Maya and SSA Mexico—about 2 km, which takes roughly 20-25 minutes on foot or just a quick taxi ride. Travelers arriving from Playa del Carmen are advised to arrive at the ferry terminal at least 45 minutes before their ferry departs. This ensures timely arrival and avoids missing the boat.

The tour operates on a mobile ticket system, which adds convenience and flexibility. You’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early—guides emphasize punctuality, and tours start on time. Remember, transportation isn’t part of the package, so plan accordingly.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour features two main snorkel stops, each lasting roughly 30 minutes. When you’re on the boat, you’ll be given snorkel gear, drinks like water, soda, and two beers per adult—ideal for cooling off or celebrating underwater sights.

Stop 1: Paradise Reef (Paraiso)
This is often the first stop and sets a high bar for coral and marine life. The reef is teeming with coral formations and statues, making it particularly photogenic. Many reviews mention how Barbara and Jose go out of their way to point out different sea creatures and ensure everyone is comfortable and safe. One guest even noted, “Barbara took underwater pics with her GoPro, which was amazing.” It’s a great introduction for those new to snorkeling or those wanting to capture memories.

Stop 2: Dzul-Ha Reef
The second stop is equally impressive, featuring vibrant coral and numerous fish species that make for excellent photo opportunities. Some travelers mention using this stop to take souvenir photos, “very beautiful,” as one review states. The guides are attentive, diving down to point out smaller creatures, adding an educational touch that many appreciated.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guides and Service
Multiple reviews praise Barbara and Jose for their kindness, patience, and knowledge. One reviewer noted, “Barbara was patient, explained what we were seeing, and answered all questions.” This personalized approach makes even hesitant snorkelers feel comfortable and cared for, which is crucial when snorkeling in unfamiliar waters.

Authentic, Small-Group Atmosphere
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience feels intimate and relaxed. Guests often comment on how they enjoyed the private feel—“we had the whole boat to ourselves,” one said—allowing for more personalized attention and a less crowded experience.

Value for Cost
For just under $30, including gear, drinks, and a bilingual guide, this tour offers remarkable value. Many reviews highlight how this compares favorably to larger, more commercial tours or offerings from cruise lines, which tend to be pricier.

Possible Drawbacks

While the tour is praised for its quality, it’s only about 1 hour 30 minutes long, excluding transportation. If you’re looking for a full-day reef adventure or want to explore multiple sites beyond the two stops, this might feel brief. Also, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to factor in how to get to the marina, especially if arriving via ferry or cruise ship.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This snorkel tour is best for first-time snorkelers, families with children, or travelers wanting a peaceful, guided underwater experience without the hassle of organizing gear or overcrowded boats. It’s perfect if you want to see coral, fish, and statues, and enjoy a friendly, secure atmosphere.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The appeal lies in the combination of affordability, personalized service, and authentic viewing experiences. The price includes quality snorkel gear, which means you won’t need to rent or buy your own. The drinks and fruits on board add a nice touch for post-snorkel refreshment.

Beyond just the price, many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides who make the experience fun and educational, especially for first-timers or families. The small group size ensures you get plenty of attention and can ask questions without feeling lost in a crowd.

The two reef stops are highly regarded, with vivid coral and abundant fish that make every snorkel session special. The statues at Paradise Reef add a whimsical element, perfect for photos. And the flexible departure times make it easy to incorporate into your day, whether you’re on a cruise or staying on the island.

Final Takeaways

• This tour balances cost, quality, and intimacy for a memorable snorkeling experience.
• Guides like Barbara and Jose are highly praised for their friendly, professional approach.
• The reef stops offer diverse underwater scenery—coral, fish, and statues—ideal for photography.
• The small group size enhances safety, comfort, and personalized attention.
• It’s an excellent choice for first-timers, families, or travelers with limited time.
• Be aware that transportation to the marina isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The snorkeling itself lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, divided between two reef stops.

Are snorkel gear and equipment provided?
Yes, masks, life jackets, and snorkel tubes are included in the price, making it easy to just show up and go.

How many people are typically on the tour?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a relaxed, personal experience.

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You will need to arrange your own transfer to the marina, which is about 20-25 minutes from the ferry terminal or cruise port.

What drinks are available during the tour?
Onboard, you’ll find water, soda, and two beers per adult, perfect for cooling off after snorkeling.

Can I bring my own equipment or supplies?
While gear is provided, you’re welcome to bring your own mask or snorkel if you prefer.

Is this activity suitable for children or less experienced snorkelers?
Yes, reviews indicate guides are patient and attentive, making it suitable for those new to snorkeling or children with adult supervision.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this snorkeling tour by Chivis del Mar Cozumel offers a friendly, affordable, and authentic way to explore the island’s vibrant reefs. With attentive guides, a small group setting, and stunning underwater sights, it’s an experience that many travelers find well worth their time and money. Whether you’re a first-timer or looking for a peaceful day in the water, this tour provides a solid, enjoyable introduction to Cozumel’s underwater beauty.