El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat

Discover the Best of Cozumel with the El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat

The El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat offers a personalized way to explore Cozumel’s stunning marine life. For $499.99 per group, up to 6 people enjoy approximately 4 hours on a private vessel, making this a perfect choice for families, friends, or anyone seeking an intimate, flexible adventure. The tour departs from Tortugas Snorkel Center and Beach Bar, with the option to choose your own schedule, and includes snorkeling gear, drinks, snacks, and a stop at a pristine, secluded beach.

This tour shines in its private and comfortable boat experience, visiting world-famous reefs, and offering a relaxed beach break away from crowds. The guides are praised for their professionalism and knowledge, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outing. While the $6 marine park fee is additional, most travelers find the overall value compelling, especially given the high ratings of 5.0 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews.

Key Points

• Private boat for up to 6 people providing a tailored experience
• Four-hour tour with multiple snorkeling stops and beach relaxation
• Includes snorkeling equipment, food, drinks, and snacks
• Stops at renowned reefs and a secluded beach away from crowds
• Guides are experienced and friendly, ensuring safety and fun
• Marine park fee of $6 per person is not included

Starting Point in Cozumel at Tortugas Snorkel Center

The adventure begins at Tortugas Snorkel Center and Beach Bar, located at Carr. Costera Sur Km. 8.3. This meeting point is easily accessible and provides a lively setting to start your day. The tour concludes back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

The departure process involves a short boat ride to the snorkeling sites, which are approximately 30 minutes away from the meeting point. The boat itself is private and well-maintained, offering a comfortable setting for your group. Most travelers find the boat rides to be one of the highlights, with gorgeous views of Cozumel’s coastline.

Exploring Cozumel’s Famous Reefs with a Private Guide

The tour focuses on snorkeling at world-famous reefs, where you’ll see vibrant coral formations and encounter marine creatures such as turtles, starfish, stingrays, and tropical fish. The guides are certified professionals who gear everyone up and lead the way, ensuring both safety and enjoyment. Up to three snorkeling stops are typical, each offering unique underwater sights.

Because the waters in Cozumel are crystal-clear, snorkelers of all experience levels, including beginners, can appreciate the marine life. The guides are attentive to individual needs, making this tour suitable for families with children as young as 5 years old. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or recent surgeries.

The Unique Experience of El Cielo and Coral Reefs

One of the key highlights is snorkeling at El Cielo, a location renowned for its shallow waters and starfish. If weather permits, this stop allows you to float above the reef and observe the marine life close up. When conditions are rough, the guides may suggest alternative snorkeling sites, ensuring safety while still providing an enjoyable experience.

Your guides also take you to additional reefs, where you’ll marvel at colorful fish, nurse sharks, and other sea creatures. The tour emphasizes a relaxed pace, giving you plenty of time to explore and take photos. Many guests appreciate that the guides capture professional images of their experience, although these are an optional expense.

Relaxing at a Secluded White Sand Beach

After snorkeling, the tour includes a stop at a pristine, secluded beach, far from busy tourist spots. This is a calm oasis where visitors can swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind. The beach features white sand and clear waters, perfect for resting or enjoying snacks and drinks.

Most travelers find this beach break a peaceful counterpoint to the underwater excursions. The guides often serve fish ceviche and seasonal fruit, along with cold Margaritas and beers, making this a laid-back, food-filled relaxation spot. Guests note that access to the beach includes facilities and amenities courtesy of the Tortugas Beach Club, after paying the additional $6 marine park fee.

Food, Drinks, and Snacks on Board

The tour includes a variety of edible and drinkable treats. Expect fish ceviche, seasonal fruit, soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages such as beer and Margaritas. The snacks and drinks are served on the boat or at the beach stop, complementing the refreshing experience of snorkeling and swimming.

Guests frequently comment on the quality of the food and drinks, with some highlighting the ceviche as especially delicious. The provided beverages keep everyone hydrated during the day, and the alcoholic drinks add a festive touch to the outing.

The Crews Who Make It Special: Guides and Staff

The professional and friendly crews are a standout feature of this tour. Guides like Carlos, Manny, Omar, and Berenice earn praise for their knowledge, safety consciousness, and warm hospitality. They gear up everyone with snorkeling equipment, explain the marine environment, and capture memorable photos.

Guests note that the crew cater to different needs, whether it’s helping beginners or guiding experienced snorkelers. Many reviews emphasize the guides’ enthusiasm and attentiveness, which contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere and safety of the trip.

Logistics: Booking, Duration, and Transportation

The 4-hour tour begins at Tortugas Snorkel Center, with most guests participating in a 30-minute boat ride to the snorkeling sites. The tour is private, so only your group joins, providing a personalized experience. Transportation to the meeting point is not included, and guests often arrange their own taxis, with an approximate $40 round trip for a family of five.

The tour offers flexibility in scheduling, with confirmation received at booking. It is accessible to most travelers, but not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions such as back or lung problems.

Cost and Additional Fees

The base price for this private tour is $499.99 per group, covering up to six people. An additional fee of $6 per person applies upon arrival for marine park access, allowing unlimited time at the beach and access to facilities. The tour does not include pick-up services or towels, which guests should prepare in advance.

Most reviewers consider the price reasonable given the private setting, multiple snorkeling stops, and quality food and drinks. The professional guides and personalized service are frequently highlighted as excellent value.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour operates most days, but poor weather conditions such as strong winds can lead to cancellations or alternative arrangements. In such cases, full refunds are offered, or guests can reschedule. Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests are advised to wear long sleeve clothing and hats to protect against the sun, especially since sunscreen is not allowed in reef areas to prevent damage.

Who Should Book the El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat

This tour appeals to those who value privacy and comfort while exploring Cozumel’s reefs. It’s ideal for families, small groups, or couples seeking a relaxed, tailored experience. The small-group nature ensures more personalized attention from guides and a less crowded environment.

Travelers who appreciate professional guidance, scenic boat rides, and high-quality food will find this tour satisfying. However, those with mobility issues or seeking a more vigorous adventure may want to consider other options due to medical restrictions and the boat’s physical demands.

El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat: A Genuine Cozumel Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of snorkeling, relaxation, and scenic cruising. The private setting and friendly guides make it stand out. Guests consistently praise the marine life encounters, delicious ceviche, and beautiful boat rides.

The secluded beach provides a peaceful spot to unwind, while the multiple reef stops cater to those eager to see turtles, starfish, and colorful fish. The professional crew’s attention to safety and comfort makes this a trustworthy choice for an intimate snorkel adventure.

While the price might seem high for some, the personalized service, quality amenities, and flexibility justify the expense. This tour suits travelers who want a premium, private experience with a focus on marine exploration and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children up to 5 years old can participate, provided they are comfortable in the water. The tour is suitable for families, especially with guides attentive to different swimming abilities.

What is included in the price?
The snorkeling equipment, snacks, drinks, and professional guides are included. The marine park fee of $6 per person is paid separately at the site.

How long is the boat ride to the snorkeling sites?
The boat ride to the reefs lasts approximately 30 minutes each way, offering scenic views of Cozumel’s coastline.

Are meals and drinks available during the tour?
Yes, fish ceviche, seasonal fruit, soda, bottled water, beer, and Margaritas are served on board or at the beach stop.

Can I book this tour for a different group size?
The price covers up to 6 people. Larger groups may need to inquire about special arrangements.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are not suitable for snorkeling, the tour can be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility problems, recent surgeries, or certain health conditions.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring long sleeve clothing and a hat as sunscreen is not allowed to protect the reefs. Towels are not included, so bring your own.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Most guests arrange their own taxi transportation to Tortugas Snorkel Center, with typical costs around $40 for a family of five.

Can I see marine animals like turtles and sharks?
Yes, the reefs often host turtles, stingrays, nurse sharks, and many fish species, thanks to the guides’ expertise and the protected environment.

This private snorkel tour in Cozumel combines high-quality marine encounters, relaxing beach time, and delicious food and drinks, making it a dependable choice for a memorable day at sea.