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

Thinking about a day in Cozumel that combines sailing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation? This El Cielo and El Cielito tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and laid-back fun. While the experience gets good marks for its beautiful sights and friendly guides, some travelers note organizational hiccups that are worth considering.

What we really like about this tour is how it highlights Cozumel’s natural beauty—crystal-clear waters, starfish, and vibrant reefs—paired with the convenience of an all-inclusive vibe on a comfortable catamaran. Plus, the chance to unwind at El Cielito’s shallow waters and enjoy a drink from the open bar makes it feel like a true Caribbean escape. However, be aware that some reviews mention long ferry times and organizational issues, so packing patience is advised. This tour is perfect for couples, families, or anyone wanting a full day of sea, sun, and good vibes without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Beautiful snorkeling spots at Palancar Reef with colorful marine life.
• Iconic visit to El Cielo, famous for starfish and shallow turquoise waters.
• Relaxing beach time at El Cielito with plenty of amenities.
• All-inclusive drinks on the catamaran, including margaritas and beers.
• Beach club access with pool, kayaks, and water games.
• Short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen makes for an easy trip.
• Tour duration of around 6 hours, mostly spent exploring and relaxing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes the El Cielo and El Cielito Tour Stand Out?

This tour stands out primarily because it offers a full day of diverse experiences packed into six hours. It’s designed to give you a taste of Cozumel’s underwater marvels and its dreamy beaches, all wrapped into one reasonably priced package. The price point of $180 per person may seem steep at first glance, but considering that it includes transportation, snorkeling equipment, and a meal, it actually offers quite good value for those craving a mix of adventure and leisure.

The tour’s main draw is the chance to visit El Cielo, an azure paradise known for shallow waters and starfish—perfect for snapping photos and wading in the calm, warm sea. Another highlight is Palancar Reef, a renowned site for snorkelers, where the vibrant coral and schools of tropical fish bring marine life right to your face mask. The beach club at El Cielito provides a relaxed environment for unwinding after the watersports, with amenities like a pool, kayaks, and water trampolines.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Transportation

You’ll meet your group at the designated spot in Playa del Carmen, near the Six store, then hop onto a ferry for approximately 40 minutes. The ferry ride is part of the adventure, offering scenic views and a chance to mingle with fellow travelers. Once in Cozumel, you’ll board a comfortable catamaran suited for about 66 hours of sailing, which is ideal for a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.

The Sailing Experience

Sailing on a catamaran is the perfect way to enjoy Cozumel’s calm waters. The boat is equipped with an open bar, which enhances the laid-back vibe, offering margaritas, beers, soft drinks, and bottled water. The guides are bilingual, making it easy for everyone to feel included and informed as they point out landmarks or marine sights along the way.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Snorkeling at Palancar Reef

The first stop is Palancar Reef, one of the Caribbean’s most stunning underwater sites. With snorkel gear provided, you can expect to see vividly colored fish, corals, and possibly even some larger marine creatures. The 40-minute window on this reef is enough to get your fill of marine life without feeling rushed. Some reviews highlight the guides’ helpfulness, noting that they make even beginners feel comfortable.

El Cielo: The Starfish Wonder

Next, you’ll head to El Cielo, which translates to “Heaven” in Spanish—and it’s easy to see why. The shallow, crystal-clear waters are filled with starfish, creating a surreal environment perfect for photos and relaxing in the sea’s gentle embrace. Reviewers like Gabriela from Uruguay mention the “beautiful views,” confirming the site’s reputation as a must-see.

El Cielito: The White Sand Escape

The final stop is El Cielito, a stretch of powdery white sand and shallow waters ideal for swimming, floating, or just lounging. With an hour here, you can unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The beach’s calm waters are perfect for families or less confident swimmers.

Beach Club & Lunch

After the sea, you’ll visit the Bahía Beach Club, where a fajita meal (chicken, pork, or vegetarian) is included. The club features a swimming pool, water trampoline, kayaks, and loungers, providing plenty of options to have fun or relax further. Keep in mind that drinks at the beach club are not included, so you might want to bring some extra cash if you plan to indulge.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: About 6 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
• Price: $180 per person, which covers transportation, food, and most activities.
• Start Time: Usually in the early afternoon, with the experience wrapping up before sunset.
• What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Sunscreen is discouraged on the boat to protect the reefs and starfish.
• Accessibility: Expect a short walk through shallow water to access the beach club, which some may find fun and memorable.
• Restrictions: Pregnant women are advised against taking part, likely due to water activities and ferry travel.
• Language: Guides speak both English and Spanish.

Authentic Experiences & Common Feedback

One of the best parts of this tour is the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. Multiple reviews praise the helpfulness of tour guides, making even beginners feel at ease during snorkeling. The views at Palancar Reef and El Cielo are consistently described as stunning, with travelers noting how clear and inviting the waters are.

Food is generally well-received; guests appreciate the included fajita meal, which adds value to the experience. However, some mention that drinks at the beach club are extra, so it’s worth budgeting accordingly.

Conversely, a handful of reviews flag organizational issues—particularly long ferry rides or delays—which can slightly diminish the experience. Notably, one critic from Italy mentioned spending more time on the ferry than exploring Cozumel, highlighting the importance of managing expectations around transit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a fun-filled, all-in-one day of sailing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. It’s ideal for those who enjoy easygoing social settings with a mix of activities, good food, and scenic views. Families with children can enjoy the shallow waters, while couples seeking a romantic day will appreciate the stunning photo spots.

It’s also good for travelers on a budget seeking a comprehensive Cozumel experience without paying for individual excursions or expensive private tours. However, if you’re looking for a more organized or exclusive adventure with minimal transit time, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

The El Cielo and El Cielito tour offers a nice blend of marine exploration, beach relaxation, and social fun. The highlights—like snorkeling at Palancar Reef and swimming with starfish—are authentic and memorable, especially for those who love marine environments. The inclusion of a meal and access to a quality beach club adds value, making it a decent choice for a full-day excursion.

That said, the experience could be improved by better organization and shorter ferry times, with some guests feeling that the transit took up more time than expected. Still, if you’re after a lively, scenic, and relaxing day in Cozumel, this tour provides a lot of bang for your buck.

Perfect for those wanting to see the iconic sites without fuss, and keen to enjoy good food, drinks, and the natural beauty of the Caribbean, this trip is a solid pick—just keep your expectations flexible and your camera ready.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Playa del Carmen?
The ferry ride to Cozumel takes approximately 40 minutes each way, providing scenic views and a bit of travel excitement.

What’s included in the tour?
Your package covers round-trip ferry transportation, a catamaran ride, snorkeling gear, an open bar on board, a fajita meal at the beach club, and access to facilities like the pool and water sports.

Are drinks at the beach club included?
No, drinks at the beach club are not part of the package and can be purchased separately.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and maybe a waterproof camera. Sunscreen is discouraged to protect the reefs and starfish.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women are advised not to participate, likely due to water activities and ferry travel. Children can enjoy the shallow waters at El Cielo and the beach club, but it’s best to check age restrictions and comfort levels first.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts about 6 hours, typically starting in the early afternoon and finishing before sunset.

What is the snorkeling experience like?
Snorkelers will explore Palancar Reef, known for its vibrant coral and tropical fish. Guides are helpful for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

In summary, this Cozumel adventure offers a great mix of marine beauty, fun water activities, and beach relaxation—all wrapped into one affordable package. Its highlights are genuinely impressive, especially if you’re keen on underwater sights and picturesque beaches. While some organizational bumps exist, the overall value and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile choice for a memorable Caribbean day.

You can check if your dates are available here: