Snorkel along the coast with Chivis Del Mar.

A snorkeling adventure in Cozumel doesn’t get much better than this. For $38 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring some of the most beautiful reefs around the island, all from the comfort of a glass bottom boat. With a small group and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a relaxed yet richly rewarding way to discover Cozumel’s underwater treasures—perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time.

We loved how personalized and informative the experience felt, thanks to guides like Diego and Jose, who clearly know their stuff. The boat ride offers a glimpse of the coast, but it’s really the snorkeling that steals the show, where you’ll see colorful coral formations bursting with marine life. The tour’s well-organized stops at two different reef sites, with guided exploration, make it stand out.

One possible drawback? The tour’s focus on safety and environmental respect** means that some travelers might find the rules, like no sunscreen or touching marine creatures, a bit restrictive. But it’s a small price to pay for protecting these delicate reefs. This tour suits those who want a straightforward, enjoyable introduction to Cozumel’s underwater world without the fuss of long excursions or deep-sea diving gear.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, authentic reef experience that balances education with fun, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially well-suited for shore visitors, families, or anyone eager to see vibrant marine life on a short timeline.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: At $38, this 1.5-hour tour offers excellent value for a guided reef experience.
• Focus on safety and environment: Use of biodegradable sunscreen, no touching marine life, and trained guides ensure a respectful visit.
• Ideal for beginners: Snorkel gear, a bilingual guide, and shallow reef stops make it perfect for first-timers.
• Beautiful scenery: Crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral formations deliver stunning underwater views.
• Flexible scheduling: Multiple departure times make it easy to fit into your day.
• Authentic local vibe: Small, personalized tours provide a more intimate experience than larger commercial operators.

Location and Overview

Situated in Quintana Roo, Mexico, Cozumel is renowned for its stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life. The Chivis Del Mar tour begins at the harbor Caleta, on the left side by the roundabout, where you’ll meet your guides Barbara and Jose. The experience is designed to be short, sweet, and packed with highlights—perfect for travelers who don’t want to dedicate the entire day but still wish to see the best underwater sights.

For just $38 per person, you gain access to a 1.5-hour guided snorkel tour that includes transportation via water taxis, two reef stops, snorkel gear, and drinks. The tour’s price point makes it an attractive option for those on a budget, especially considering that gear, guides, and marine conservation efforts are all included.

What Makes It Stand Out

Two aspects stand out: first, the personalized attention. Kevin, an experienced traveler from the UK, pointed out how they enjoyed the company of Diego and Jose, with Kevin praising Diego’s photos and guidance, describing him as a great guide. The small group size (sometimes just two guests) means you receive tailored attention and can explore at your own pace.

Second, the diversity of reef stops. The tour visits two “hidden gem” reefs, each with about 30 minutes guided snorkeling. This variation keeps the experience fresh and allows you to see different coral formations and marine species. The guided nature means you’ll get insightful commentary about the marine ecosystem, coral health, and fish behavior—adding an educational dimension to a fun activity.

The Itinerary Explained

The tour kicks off at Chivis del Mar, where you’ll hop into a water taxi for a short 10-minute ride to your first reef. Here, your guide provides a 30-minute guided snorkel, pointing out notable coral formations and marine creatures. This stop is often praised for its vibrant marine life and clear waters, making it easy for beginners to spot fish, sea stars, and perhaps even a turtle or two.

After returning to the boat, a second water taxi takes you to a different reef, also for about 30 minutes. The diversity of reefs ensures that you see different kinds of coral and marine ecosystems, which Kevin noted offered “great photos” and the chance to snorkel in deeper waters close to shore—without the need to swim far out.

Throughout, the guides emphasize environmental responsibility—no touching, feeding, or reef damaging activities are allowed. You might find this restrictive if you’re used to more relaxed rules, but it’s necessary to keep the reefs healthy for future visitors.

What to Expect Underwater

Once in the water, you’ll find yourself floating over coral gardens teeming with fish. The reef formations are impressive in scope and color, and the marine life is varied. Snorkel gear—mask, tube, and life jacket—is provided, making it simple to just relax and enjoy. For those who want to go deeper, guides are attentive and will point out interesting sights.

Kevin described how Diego’s GoPro camera captured amazing shots of underwater areas that he couldn’t reach. Though the photos cost $25 USD, many travelers find that the souvenir images are a worthwhile way to remember their trip.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is bilingual, with guides fluent in English and Spanish, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors. Departure times are flexible, with options in the morning, afternoon, or evening—great for fitting into various schedules.

You should bring a sun hat, change of clothes, towel, waterproof bag, and beachwear. Wetsuits are recommended if you’re sensitive to cooler waters, although most find the temperature comfortable. Remember, to protect the reefs, biodegradable sunscreen is a must; regular sunscreen is prohibited once you arrive at the marina.

The tour does not include lunch or private transportation—so plan accordingly if you need a full day of activities. Also, souvenir photos are optional but available for purchase.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

The tour’s rules—such as no touching or feeding marine life and the ban on sunscreen—are designed to preserve the delicate reef environment. These restrictions might seem limiting, but they reflect a genuine effort to promote eco-friendly tourism.

Guides are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring everyone’s safety, especially given the short, shallow water stops. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, high blood pressure, or mobility issues, as noted in the tour info.

Reviews Beyond the Surface

Kevin’s review highlights the quality of guides and the versatility of the snorkeling experience, sharing that the boat ride provides access to deeper waters without long swims, which is ideal for less experienced snorkelers. He appreciated the photos taken by Diego, though noted the cost was somewhat steep.

Other reviewers might note the small group size and personalized attention, making the experience less like a crowded tour and more like a shared adventure with friends.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling trip suits travelers seeking a short, manageable, and eco-friendly introduction to Cozumel’s reefs. It’s perfect for shore visitors or those with limited time who still want to see marine life with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re a first-timer or someone who prefers a relaxed pace with plenty of time for questions and photos, this tour will likely suit you.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone with heart or blood pressure concerns due to the nature of the water taxis and shallow reef stops. Also, if you’re keen on more extensive or advanced snorkeling, this might feel a little limited.

Final Thoughts

For just $38, you receive a well-organized, eco-conscious snorkeling tour that combines the adventure of exploring Cozumel’s reefs with the comfort of a glass bottom boat. The guided stops and small group size elevate it above many generic tours, providing a more intimate and educational experience.

The emphasis on environmental preservation and knowledgeable guides makes it stand out as a responsible choice for travelers who want to enjoy marine life while respecting it. It’s a terrific option for first-time snorkelers, families, or anyone short on time but eager to see vibrant coral and colorful fish.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch or extensive transportation, it offers excellent value with a focus on quality and authentic coastal scenery. Expect beautiful underwater vistas, friendly guides, and a relaxed pace—perfect for making a memorable coastal outing.

How long is the snorkeling tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, with two main reef stops of roughly 30 minutes each, plus water taxi transfers.

What is included in the price?
Snorkel gear (mask, tube, life jacket), water, soda, and two beers per adult are included. Guides are bilingual, and the boat trip itself is part of the experience.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The shallow reef stops, provided gear, and guided explanations make it ideal for first-timers or those with limited snorkeling experience.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, guides like Diego often use GoPros to take photos underwater. Photos cost about $25 USD but are generally appreciated for capturing the experience.

Are there any restrictions or things I should know?
Yes, sunscreen must be biodegradable to protect the reefs. No touching, feeding, or jewelry is allowed, and smoking or flash photography is prohibited. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, waterproof sunscreen), a towel, change of clothes, waterproof bag, and beachwear. Wetsuits are optional if waters are cooler.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Meet at the harbor Caleta on the left side by the roundabout, at Chivis del Mar Tours. It’s easy to reach from most accommodations or via local taxis.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Who is this tour not suitable for?
People with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those with health conditions like heart problems or high blood pressure should consider other options, as per the tour’s safety guidelines.

Whether you’re after a relaxed ocean outing, a chance to see vibrant marine life, or simply want to enjoy Cozumel’s waters without diving deep, this tour offers a practical, authentic, and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: