El Cielo the Breathtaking Snorkel Tour of Cozumel Cielito Beach & Lunch Included

Travelers often seek a mix of vibrant marine life, stunning scenery, and relaxing beach time when exploring the Mexican Caribbean, and this snorkel tour of Cozumel promises just that. Covering three notable reefs—Palancar, Colombia, and the famous El Cielo—this day trip offers a chance to see the area’s underwater wonderland while enjoying comfortable amenities and a laid-back vibe.

What makes this experience appealing? We love the variety of reefs, the all-inclusive nature with gear and lunch, and the beautiful beach break at Cielito Beach. That said, some travelers might find the long day’s duration a bit taxing, especially if you’re not up for a full 10-11 hours of adventure. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and a relaxed pace with plenty of marine sights.

Good To Know

• All snorkel equipment and life vests are provided, so no need to bring your own gear.
• Visit three different reefs, with guides ensuring safe and informative snorkeling.
• Includes a delicious box lunch and drinks on board, making it easier to stay energized.
• Time at Cielito Beach offers sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation in a private setting.
• Flexible pickup options help streamline your day, with transportation included from your hotel or meeting point.
• September updates show certain reefs are temporarily closed for marine conservation, replaced with alternative reef sites.

Experience Overview: What to Expect on This Cozumel Snorkel Tour

This full-day adventure begins early, with pick-up from your hotel or designated meeting point around 8:00 am. The day kicks off with a local breakfast box lunch—perfect for fueling up before the aquatic activities. The roughly 30-minute drive to Playa del Carmen is smooth, and you’ll hop on a ferry to cross over to Cozumel, setting the stage for a day of underwater marvels.

The Ferry Ride and Transition to Cozumel

The ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel is quick and scenic, giving you a chance to enjoy views of the Caribbean and absorb the lively island atmosphere. Once on Cozumel, you’ll board a boat that takes you out to the reefs. This part of the trip is especially enjoyable thanks to the laid-back boat ride, with opportunities to chat with guides and fellow snorkelers.

Snorkeling at Three Unique Reefs

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the snorkeling—three reefs in total: Palancar, Colombia (or Xhul Ha and Palancar Herradura during September, due to conservation efforts), and the main attraction, El Cielo. Each offers a different underwater experience:

• Palancar Reef: Famous for its impressive coral formations and large marine animals, including turtles. We appreciated the guidance from certified guides who made sure everyone was comfortable, regardless of skill level.
• Colombia Reef: Slightly less crowded, offering a chance to observe schools of colorful fish and vibrant coral in a slightly calmer environment.
• El Cielo Reef: The star of the trip, where the water is shallow and crystal clear—perfect for spotting starfish in abundance. Travelers have described it as “fascinating” and “super incredible,” with one reviewer mentioning they were captivated by the colors and marine life.

Authentic Marine Encounters and Practical Tips

Snorkel gear, including life vests, is provided, making the experience accessible for most. The guides are certified and attentive, ensuring safety while giving briefings on marine conservation. We loved the opportunity to see turtles and manta rays, which are often spotted here, adding an element of excitement.

Beach Relaxation at Cielito Beach

After the snorkeling, you’ll visit Cielito Beach, a private stretch with loungers, umbrellas, and a peaceful vibe. This is the perfect spot to unwind, swim, or simply soak up the sun. Many reviewers have noted the stunning views and clear waters, and the chance to relax in a less crowded environment.

Food and Drinks

The included box lunch is a simple but satisfying meal—typically one dish of your choice—plus drinks on board the boat. Some reviewers have mentioned that drinks at the restaurant are not included, so consider bringing extra if you want more than two per person.

End of the Day: Return and Relax

After a full day of aquatic exploration, you’ll take the ferry back to Playa del Carmen, followed by transportation to your hotel or meeting point. The entire experience lasts about 10 to 11 hours, making for a long but rewarding day.

What’s Not Included?

While the tour offers many inclusions, some costs are separate, such as transportation around Cozumel, drinks at the restaurant, and taxis back to the dock. Plus, there’s a $4 marine conservation fee payable on arrival—something to remember for your budget.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

At $165 per person, this tour offers a substantial experience of Cozumel’s underwater beauty for a reasonable price, considering the all-inclusive setup. The guided snorkeling, marine wildlife viewing, and private beach access make it worth the long day, especially for water lovers.

However, the duration and the need to be comfortable with early starts and boat rides** might not suit everyone. It’s ideal for spirited travelers eager to explore multiple reefs and enjoy a full-day adventure. If you’re after a relaxing half-day or prefer snorkeling with fewer crowds, this might feel a bit intensive.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who love snorkeling and ocean scenery. It suits those who don’t mind a full day dedicated to marine exploration, and who appreciate guided, all-in-one packages that include gear, meals, and transport. It’s also a good choice for families or groups seeking a hassle-free way to see Cozumel’s reefs.

If you’re looking for a more flexible or shorter trip, or want to avoid the long hours, you might consider other options. But if you’re keen on an immersive, well-organized day in the water with plenty of Marine wildlife, this tour will check many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup from your hotel or meeting point is offered, and transportation from Playa del Carmen to the ferry is included.

What reefs do we visit? During September 2023, the reefs visited are Xhul Ha and Palancar (Herradura), due to conservation closures of Palancar and Colombia reefs. The tour guides will inform you of the current sites.

What is the group size? The maximum number of travelers is 25, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Are snorkel equipment provided? Yes, all snorkel gear and life vests are included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing or renting your own.

What about food and drinks? A box lunch is included, and two drinks per person are provided on the boat. Additional drinks at the restaurant are not included.

How long is the tour? Expect about 10 to 11 hours from start to finish, including transfers, ferry, snorkeling, beach time, and return.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers? With provided life vests and floating gear, most people can participate, but those who are very uncomfortable in water might want to check with the guides first.

Final Remarks

The El Cielo Snorkel Tour offers a fantastic way to explore some of Cozumel’s most famous reefs and enjoy a day in the sun. The combination of guided snorkeling, marine encounters, and relaxing beach time provides a well-rounded Caribbean experience. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see marine life up close while enjoying the comforts of a guided, all-inclusive trip.

While the long hours and the current reef closures during September are considerations, the chance to swim with turtles, spot manta rays, and marvel at starfish in crystal-clear waters make this tour a worthwhile adventure for water enthusiasts.

Whether you’re visiting Cancun and want an exciting day trip or staying on Cozumel itself, this tour balances adventure and relaxation with a focus on authentic marine encounters.

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