From Cozumel: Starfish, Stingrays & El Cielo Beach Snorkel

This 4-hour snorkeling tour in Cozumel offers an engaging experience for those interested in exploring the Mexican Caribbean’s colorful underwater world. Priced with an $11 USD marine fee, the trip departs from Marina Cozumel ASIPONA, conveniently close to the cruise port, making it an ideal shore excursion. The tour visits three iconic snorkeling spots: El Cielo, El Cielito Beach, and Turtle Bay, each known for their distinct marine attractions and stunning scenery.

Designed for a broad range of snorkelers, from beginners to more experienced swimmers, this tour emphasizes calm, clear waters and excellent visibility most of the year. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly manner, making the experience both safe and enjoyable. While the tour is celebrated for its diverse marine life and delicious ceviche, travelers should be aware of the approximately 75-minute stop at El Cielo and the potential for variable weather conditions that can affect comfort.

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours, starting and ending near the cruise port at Marina Cozumel ASIPONA
• Includes: Visits to El Cielo, El Cielito Beach, and Turtle Bay with guided snorkeling
• Marine Fee: An $11 USD payable on arrival
• Highlights: Swimming alongside sea turtles, stingrays, starfish, and fish in calm waters
• Food & Drinks: Ceviche, chips, and beverages are included, with some reviews noting the ceviche as a tour highlight
• Accessibility: Suitable for beginners and wheelchair accessible
• Location: Near Cozumel’s main cruise port, perfect for shore excursions
• Group Size: Small groups with professional guides ensure personalized attention

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Starting Point at Marina Cozumel ASIPONA

The adventure begins at Marina Cozumel ASIPONA, where travelers are asked to arrive 15 minutes early. The meeting point is straightforward, with guides ready at the Maybe-Tours office. From here, a 10-minute taxi ride takes guests to Playa Palancar, the first stop, providing scenic views along the way.

This setup makes the tour highly accessible for cruise ship passengers, with logistical ease and minimal travel time from the port. Travelers should remember the $11 USD marine fee payable upon arrival, which covers marine conservation efforts.

Exploring Playa Palancar Before Snorkeling at El Cielo

After the brief taxi ride, guests arrive at Playa Palancar, where the guides conduct a safety briefing and prepare everyone for the upcoming snorkeling. The guided tour here offers a chance to appreciate the beautiful scenery and get comfortable with the equipment. The water is typically warm and calm, making it an excellent warm-up for the full-day adventure.

The brief 25-minute stop at Playa Palancar sets the stage for the main highlights and is often appreciated for its scenic views before heading to El Cielo.

The Magic of Snorkeling at El Cielo Beach

The highlight of the trip is the 75-minute stop at El Cielo, renowned for its white sandy bottom and large starfish. Here, snorkelers are encouraged to swim in shallow, crystal-clear waters, often waist-high, where starfish are abundant. It’s a peaceful, almost surreal environment where marine life is easily visible without deep diving.

Guests have the chance to freely explore this iconic site, with guides available to point out notable marine creatures and ensure safety. The scenic views and tranquil waters make El Cielo a standout feature, with many reviews praising the breathtaking marine scenery.

Encountering Stingrays at El Cielito Beach

Following El Cielo, the tour moves to El Cielito Beach, a shallow area famed for its friendly stingrays. In about 25 minutes, snorkelers can frolic with stingrays and observe other marine life in calm conditions. This stop is especially popular for those wanting to see stingrays up close in their natural habitat in the shallow waters.

The guides ensure everyone’s safety, and the environment remains relaxed, allowing for close encounters with rays that often swim around snorkelers. Several reviews highlight the joy of being in such clear, warm waters filled with lively marine creatures.

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Turtle Bay: The Turtle Sanctuary Experience

The final major stop at Turtle Bay offers an opportunity to observe sea turtles in a dedicated turtle sanctuary. Visitors often report swimming alongside these gentle animals, which are known for their friendliness. The site is designed to protect and showcase these creatures, making it a memorable part of the trip.

The guided aspect helps deepen understanding of the turtles and marine conservation. Many reviews mention the great chance to see turtles in their natural surroundings, often accompanied by schools of colorful fish and other marine life.

The Tour’s Pacing and Group Dynamics

The entire 4-hour trip is paced to balance snorkeling at each location with relaxing time. The small group sizes and professional guides contribute to a friendly, personalized atmosphere. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable explanations and attention to safety, making the activity suitable for beginners and families.

Some reviews note the slightly longer return trip from the snorkeling sites back to the marina, which can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes, potentially affecting the rest of the day for cruise passengers. The tour is designed to start and end close to the main cruise port, minimizing travel time and making it a convenient shore excursion.

Practical Tips for the Snorkeling Day

Travelers should bring swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen (applied before the tour), beachwear, and cash for tips or additional purchases. Fins are not included with the gear, so some may want to bring their own or rent locally.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and guides are known for their friendly, accommodating approach. Since sunscreen must be applied before the tour, it’s wise to wear protective clothing or a rash guard in very sunny conditions, especially for those concerned about sunburn.

The Food and Beverages on the Tour

A special highlight for many participants is the ceviche snack, often described as delicious and perfectly complementing the relaxing vibe after snorkeling. Beverages such as beer, soda, or water are also served, enhancing the leisurely experience while floating in shallow waters.

Guides may serve drinks and snacks at El Cielo and El Cielito Beach, creating picturesque moments for photos and memories. Many reviews emphasize the quality and freshness of the ceviche, making it more than just a simple snack.

Tour Reviews and Common Praises

The overall rating of 4.4/5 from 549 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially highlighting guide Nicholas, Gasper, and Andy for their friendly attitude and expertise.

The marine life sightings, including turtles, stingrays, starfish, and sometimes small sharks, are recurring themes of praise. Plus, the delicious ceviche, included drinks, and well-organized logistics are highly appreciated.

Some comments mention weather conditions affecting comfort, especially when it gets cold, and note that fins are not included in the gear, which might be a minor inconvenience. The small group sizes, often around 9 to 12 people, help maintain a personalized experience.

What Sets This Snorkeling Tour Apart from Others

This tour distinguishes itself through multiple stops at renowned sites, allowing snorkelers to see a variety of marine life in a relatively short time. The close proximity to the cruise port ensures easy access for travelers on shore.

Guests consistently mention friendly, professional guides who share detailed knowledge about the marine environment, adding educational value. The delicious ceviche and inclusive beverages enhance the trip’s relaxed, festive atmosphere.

While the water is calm and visibility is typically excellent, travelers should be prepared for the possible longer return trip from the snorkeling sites, which could slightly limit the overall day’s schedule.

Snorkeling in Cozumel: Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This snorkeling experience caters well to families, beginners, and adventurers alike. The calm, warm waters are suitable for those who are just starting out, while the multiple stops and diverse marine life appeal to seasoned snorkelers. The small group sizes and friendly guides make it a comfortable, engaging activity.

Those looking for a relaxing day in nature with opportunities to see sea turtles and rays up close will find this tour particularly rewarding. The easy logistics and proximity to cruise ships make it an excellent choice for shoreside excursions.

However, travelers should note the approximate 1.5-hour return trip from the sites, which may impact the rest of their day in Cozumel. This tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction to the marine wonders of Cozumel.

How long does the snorkeling tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, snorkeling at three locations, and some free time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Marina Cozumel ASIPONA, close to the cruise port, with guides waiting at the Maybe-Tours office.

What marine creatures can I expect to see?
Expect to see sea turtles, stingrays, starfish, colorful fish, and sometimes small sharks in calm, clear waters.

Are Fins included with the snorkeling gear?
No, fins are not included; they are typically provided but may be unavailable or basic. Bringing your own is advisable if possible.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, the tour is calm and shallow, making it suitable for beginners and families, and it is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen applied beforehand, beachwear, and cash for tips or extras.

Is food included on the tour?
Yes, ceviche, chips, and beverages are served, with many reviews praising the quality and flavor of the snack.

What is the marine fee, and how is it paid?
An $11 USD marine fee is payable upon arrival at the marina, supporting marine conservation.

Can I book this tour if I am in a wheelchair?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and guides are known for their friendly, accommodating approach.

What if the weather is bad?
While the waters are typically clear, weather conditions can affect comfort, especially if it gets cold. The tour may be less enjoyable in poor weather.

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