Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs
About Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs
This boat trip takes you to some of Cozumel’s most visited reefs. Palancar Reef is known for its variety of sea life, Columbia Reef for its brightly colored fish and coral, and El Cielo for the starfish scattered across its white sandy bottom. You also stop at Playa El Cielito. The tour has more than 1,600 reviews and a 4.3 rating.
The trip lasts about 4 hours and leaves from Marina ASIPONA Cozumel (formerly Marina Fonatur), about 5 minutes by taxi from the SSA and Puerta Maya cruise ports and 10 minutes from downtown. Hotel pickup is not included. Guides speak English and Spanish.
What’s included
- Insured Shaded Boat
- Experienced trained guides
- Visit to Palancar and Columbia reefs, El Cielo Sandbar and El Cielito Beach
- Guided snorkeling tour
- Snorkel gear: Vest, Mask, New tube
- Drinks: Beers, Water, Sodas and a Snack
Meeting point
Meeting time is 10 minutes before your Tour time at the MARINA ASIPONA COZUMEL (Formerly Known as Marina Fonatur) located 5 minutes by taxi from SSA and PUERTA MAYA cruise ports and 10 minutes from Downtown. Upon arrival look for our COZUMEL TOURS office located next to the Tequila store
What to expect on the day
Meet 10 minutes before your tour time at the Cozumel Tours office next to the tequila store in the marina. From there you board an insured, shaded boat and head out to the reefs with experienced guides, who lead each snorkel stop.
Snorkel gear, including a vest, mask and new tube, is provided. Beers, water, sodas and a snack are served on board.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: shaded boat, trained guides, guided snorkeling at Palancar and Columbia reefs, El Cielo sandbar and El Cielito Beach, snorkel gear, beers, water, sodas and a snack.
- Paid at check-in: marine park fee of $11 USD per person.
- Not included: transportation to the marina.
What to bring
- Swimsuit and towel.
- Cash for the $11 marine park fee and the taxi.
- Sunscreen, applied before the tour starts.
Tips for a better day
- Take a taxi: the marina is a short taxi ride from the cruise ports and downtown.
- Be on time: meeting time is 10 minutes before departure.
- Apply sunscreen early: put it on before the tour so it has time to set.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: snorkelers and cruise passengers who want to see Cozumel’s famous reefs in a few hours.
- Consider another option if: you want a lazy beach day with food and drinks included, like the Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club day pass.
Restrictions
The operator lists the tour as suitable for all physical fitness levels. No age limits are stated in the listing, so check with the operator if you are traveling with young children.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
FAQ about Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs
Which reefs does the Cozumel snorkeling tour visit?
It visits Palancar Reef, Columbia Reef and the El Cielo sandbar, plus El Cielito Beach.
How long is the Cozumel snorkel tour?
The boat trip lasts about 4 hours.
Where does the Cozumel snorkeling tour leave from?
It leaves from Marina ASIPONA Cozumel, formerly Marina Fonatur, about 5 minutes by taxi from the SSA and Puerta Maya cruise ports.
Is there a marine park fee for snorkeling in Cozumel?
Yes, a marine park fee of $11 USD per person is paid separately.
Is snorkel gear included?
Yes, a vest, mask and new snorkel tube are provided.
Are drinks included on the snorkel boat?
Yes, beers, water, sodas and a snack are included.
Is the Cozumel snorkel tour good for cruise passengers?
Yes, the marina is close to the main cruise ports, which makes it easy to fit into a port day.
Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, you make your own way to the marina, usually by taxi.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
The tour is listed as suitable for all fitness levels, and vests are provided.
Can I cancel the Cozumel snorkeling tour?
Yes, you get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure.