Snorkel at El Cielo in Cozumel with 2 more Reefs with Round Trip

Planning a snorkeling adventure in the Caribbean often brings to mind crystal-clear waters, colorful fish, and the chance to truly unwind. This particular tour, offered by Altustours, promises a full-day experience that combines the thrill of exploring underwater reefs with the comfort of guided service, delicious food, and scenic boat rides. Our review aims to give a thorough, balanced look at this trip, so you can decide if it’s right for your next vacation.

Two aspects we find especially appealing are the guided snorkeling with knowledgeable guides, which increases your chances of spotting marine life, and the stunning scenery of Cozumel’s reefs and beaches. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the long day — at roughly 11 hours, it’s a substantial commitment, especially if you prefer more relaxed, shorter excursions. This tour suits travelers eager for an active, all-in-one day of adventure, beautiful sights, and fun social moments aboard a lively boat.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip including transportation, snorkeling, and lunch
• Expert guides enhance marine spotting and safety
• Multiple snorkeling points increase the chances of seeing diverse marine life
• All-inclusive drinks and food make the journey more relaxing
• Long duration might be tiring for some travelers
• Ideal for active travelers looking for a full, adventure-filled day

An Introduction to the Cozumel Snorkeling Tour

This tour by Altustours is designed for those who want to skip the hassle of organizing their own trip and instead enjoy a guided, all-in-one day on the water. Starting from Playa del Carmen, you’ll head to Cozumel — a renowned Caribbean island known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs. The tour promises a mix of exploration, relaxation, and fun, making it a well-rounded experience for snorkelers and non-snorkelers alike.

What immediately catches your eye is the round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen, which simplifies logistics. Plus, the inclusion of an open bar during the boat ride adds a laid-back, festive vibe. But perhaps the most engaging part is the chance to discover three snorkeling spots — including the famous Palancar and Colombia Reefs, plus the starfish-studded waters of El Cielo. If you love vibrant underwater scenes, this trip is likely to delight.

One potential drawback? The length of the day. While some travelers love spending hours exploring and relaxing, others might prefer shorter outings. It’s a full-day commitment, so be prepared for a long, active experience. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive, guided adventure with plenty of marine action, this tour hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, marine life enthusiasts, and those who want a convenient, guided day at sea. It’s also great for groups who enjoy socializing over drinks and a good buffet lunch. However, if you’re a non-swimmer or traveling with very young children, keep in mind the snorkel restrictions for non-swimmers and children under 10.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting From Playa del Carmen

Your day begins early, with a pickup around 7:00 am. This ensures you arrive on Cozumel well before the crowds. The transportation is included and designed to be straightforward, helping you avoid logistical headaches. The roughly 5-hour round-trip journey includes scenic views as the boat cuts across the turquoise Caribbean waters, setting the tone for a lively, scenic day.

The Ferry to Cozumel

Once you reach Cozumel, the first highlight is the ferry ride — short but scenic, with the sea breeze and stunning views reinforcing the feeling of being in a Caribbean paradise. The ferry ticket is included, making the transition seamless and stress-free.

Snorkeling at Reefs: Palancar, Colombia, and El Cielo

The main event? Snorkeling at three different spots. Two of these are the world-famous Palancar and Colombia Reefs. These reefs are celebrated for their vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life, including colorful tropical fish, starfish, and other sea creatures.

The third snorkeling point is El Cielo, renowned for its calm, shallow waters filled with starfish. The name “El Cielo” (The Sky) hints at the feeling of floating in a heavenly, almost surreal environment. The tour mentions that the snorkel equipment is provided, and a guide helps you navigate the waters safely and maximizes your chances of spotting marine life. Guided snorkeling is a plus, especially for less experienced swimmers, as guides can point out hidden wonders beneath the surface.

Relaxation at Cielito Beach

After the underwater exploration, you’ll have time to relax at Cielito Beach. Picture soft white sand, gentle waves, and a peaceful atmosphere — a perfect spot to soak up the sun or take a refreshing dip. It’s a welcomed breather after hours of activity and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Cozumel’s coast.

Lunch and Refreshments

A buffet lunch is included, with a choice of dishes, complemented by one beverage in the restaurant. The menu features a ham sandwich, juice, and a piece of fruit — simple but satisfying fuel after a busy morning. During the boat tour, there’s one drink per person (soda, beer, or water), which adds to the relaxing, social vibe.

Free Time in Cozumel

You’ll have around two hours of free time to explore Cozumel on your own. This provides flexibility — whether you want to browse local shops, relax on the beach, or just soak in the island atmosphere. The included ferry ticket and organized transportation make sure you’re back on schedule.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the essentials: round transportation from Playa del Carmen, a certified guide (bilingual in English and Spanish), snorkel equipment, ferry tickets, boat tour (a motor boat, not a catamaran), lunch, and one beverage during the tour. The preservation tax of $4 USD per person is not included but is low enough that it’s easily manageable.

Not included are drinks at the restaurant beyond the one provided, taxis back to the ferry port, and any additional drinks or souvenirs you might wish to purchase. This straightforward setup keeps costs transparent and helps you budget accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

The entire experience is designed for convenience. The tour limits itself to a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring you’re not lost in a sea of strangers. The boat used for snorkeling is a regular motor boat, which offers stability and a comfortable ride. The pickup service from Playa del Carmen removes the hassle of navigating local transport, a big plus for many travelers.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your swimsuit, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen — the latter is required to protect marine environments.
• The tour doesn’t support snorkeling for non-swimmers, children under 10, or people over 59. If you fall into these categories, consider other options.
• The long duration means you should be prepared for a full day of activity. Wear comfortable clothes and consider packing a light jacket or hat.
• The early start (7:00 am) helps maximize your day, but be prepared for an early rise if you’re staying in Playa del Carmen or Cancun.
• Remember to budget for the preservation tax if you’re heading to Cozumel independently — it’s a small fee that supports local conservation.

Authentic Feedback from Similar Tours

While our data shows no published reviews for this specific tour, similar feedback on comparable trips highlights the expert guides‘ ability to spot marine life, making snorkeling more rewarding. The stunning views and clear waters consistently impress travelers, and many appreciate the smooth organization that allows for a hassle-free experience.

Concluding Thoughts: Is This Tour Value for Money?

At $190 per person, this tour packages a lot into one day — transportation, multiple snorkeling stops, a guided experience, lunch, and drinks. For travelers seeking a full, active day with guided insights and the chance to see Cozumel’s best reefs, it’s a solid investment. The long duration ensures you get your money’s worth in time and activities, especially if marine life and scenic boat rides are your priorities.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, fun-filled adventure that combines the best of snorkeling and Caribbean scenery, this trip is worth considering. The inclusion of guides and multiple reef visits enhances your chances of seeing marine creatures up close, making it not just a sightseeing tour but a memorable underwater voyage.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to active-minded travelers eager to spend a full day exploring under the sea and relaxing on beautiful beaches. It’s perfect for groups and families with older children, or anyone comfortable with a busy schedule. For those who prefer shorter, more relaxed outings or are traveling with non-swimmers or very young children, other options might suit better.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen is included, making logistics simple.

Can non-swimmers join? Snorkel is not available for non-swimmers, and children under 10 cannot participate in snorkeling activities.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, including travel, activities, and free time.

Are drinks provided? Yes, there’s one drink per person during the boat tour, plus soft drinks, beer, or water.

Is lunch included? Yes, a buffet lunch with a choice of dish, juice, and fruit is provided.

What reefs will we visit? You’ll visit Palancar, Colombia, and El Cielo reefs, each offering different underwater sights.

What should I bring? Swimsuit, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and any personal items you prefer for comfort.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, the group size is limited, and the guided nature makes it friendly for solo adventurers.

What’s the significance of the preservation tax? It’s a small fee ($4 USD) to support conservation efforts and is paid at the site.

What if the weather is poor? The tour requires good weather, but if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

This guided snorkeling trip from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel offers a robust blend of underwater adventure, scenic views, and hassle-free organization. The chance to explore three reefs, soak up sun on a beautiful beach, and enjoy drinks and good food makes it an appealing choice for active travelers eager to make the most of their time in the Caribbean.

While it’s a full-day experience that demands energy and patience, the exposure to Cozumel’s stunning marine environment makes it worthwhile. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious beginner, the knowledgeable guides, combined with the scenic beauty, promise a memorable day on the water.

If your idea of a perfect vacation day includes vibrant coral reefs, friendly guides, and a well-organized itinerary, this tour will likely satisfy your expectations and perhaps even exceed them.