Get to know heaven on earth with Chivis del mar private

Getting to Know Heaven on Earth with Chivis del Mar Private

If you’re considering a day of snorkeling in Cozumel, this private tour by Chivis del Mar might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, authentic encounters, and good food—all wrapped into a four-hour adventure. We haven’t done it ourselves, but the glowing reviews, stellar ratings, and detailed itinerary make it worth serious consideration.

We’re particularly impressed by the focus on personalized experiences—visiting three handpicked spots, with the flexibility to choose your preferred destinations. The inclusion of expert guides, high-quality snorkeling gear, and a tasty ceviche makes this tour seem both convenient and authentic. However, one thing to keep in mind is that transportation time isn’t included, which could be a bit of a puzzle if you’re tight on time or arriving from the mainland.

This tour is a solid pick for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Cozumel’s underwater and coastal treasures or seasoned snorkelers eager for a relaxed yet adventure-filled outing. It appears ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a well-organized, all-in-one experience.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Visit three locations of your choice, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences.
• Includes Food & Drinks: Delicious fish ceviche, seasonal fruit, soft drinks, and two beers per person are part of the package.
• Expert Guidance: A bilingual guide helps ensure you get the most out of your snorkeling adventure with insightful commentary.
• High-Quality Equipment: Snorkeling gear is provided, and you get to keep a snorkel tube as a memento.
• Beautiful Locations: Stops include Palancar Reef, Playa El Cielo, and El Cielito Beach—each offering stunning underwater views and picture-perfect scenery.
• Limited Group Size: As a private tour, only your group participates, creating a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.

Detailed Review of the Tour

Introduction to the Tour Experience

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on personalization and quality. For a flat fee of around $390 for up to five people, you get a four-hour session of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing at some of Cozumel’s most breathtaking spots. It’s a package designed to be flexible—your guide will help you decide which of the three stops you find most appealing, whether it’s the vibrant coral life or the starfish-laden sandbanks.

The value proposition appears strong, especially considering the all-included food and drinks, the snorkeling gear, and the guidance. On the downside, keep in mind that transportation isn’t part of the four hours, so if you’re coming from the mainland or a cruise ship, you’ll need to plan your timing accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who want a comfortable, guided outing while exploring underwater marvels and enjoying local cuisine. Families, first-timers, or even seasoned snorkelers who prefer a relaxed pace will find it appealing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Palancar Reef

The journey begins at the Palancar Reef, a top-tier snorkeling site known for its impressive coral formations and abundant marine life. We loved the way the reef is described as a spectacle of large tropical fish and coral structures, offering both visual marvels and excellent photo opportunities.

You’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring this underwater landscape, with the added bonus of a free admission ticket. The guide’s insights will help you spot creatures like lionfish, eagle rays, and even occasional turtles—something that thrilled reviewers. One traveler mentioned, “We saw a couple of eagle rays, lion fish, a turtle tucked away and relaxing on top of the reef, a variety of fishes and coral formations.”

The reef’s clarity and diversity make it a highlight, especially for those looking to see Vibrant underwater ecosystems without straying too far from the shore.

Stop 2: Playa El Cielo

Next, you’ll head to Playa El Cielo, the famous starfish sanctuary. Here, the focus shifts to a calmer, shallow sandbank where starfish congregate—an experience that’s both unique and delightful. You’ll spend roughly 30 minutes here, with plenty of time to snorkel and take memorable photos.

This spot is especially popular with families and those interested in interacting closely with marine life. The guide will help you find and avoid harming the starfish, making it a responsible and enchanting encounter. The review “The sky, a sandbank where we can enjoy starfish and take very beautiful souvenir photos,” perfectly captures the peaceful, almost surreal feeling of this stop.

Stop 3: El Cielo Beach

The final stop is El Cielito Beach, the most renowned sandbank on the island. Here, you’ll have around an hour to relax, enjoy the delicious fish ceviche, and soak up the scenery. The ceviche, made from local fish, along with seasonal fruit, offers a genuine taste of Cozumel.

The water here is typically calm, ideal for swimming and taking in the panoramic views. One reviewer called this “the most famous sandbank,” highlighting its popularity as a must-see. After a bit of lounging, you’ll return to the starting point, ending the tour with a full stomach and a camera full of stunning shots.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s inclusions are quite generous. You get snorkeling equipment, a snorkel tube to keep as a souvenir, and refreshments—including soft drinks, water, and two beers per person, which is perfect for cooling off after the water activities. The bilingual guide helps ensure all participants feel confident and informed, especially those new to snorkeling or unfamiliar with the area.

The not included costs are minimal—tips are optional, and private transportation isn’t part of the package. This means you’ll need to arrange your transfer to the meeting point, which is at Marina Caleta. For visitors arriving from the mainland, it’s recommended to arrive at the Playa del Carmen ferry terminal 45 minutes before your ferry departs, as the transfer from the ferry to the tour is roughly 25 minutes.

The Logistics

Meeting at the Chivis del Mar Glass Bottom Boat at Marina Caleta is straightforward. The activity runs daily from 8:00AM to 3:00PM, giving you plenty of flexibility. Showing up 15 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth start.

Duration & Timing

The 4-hour tour doesn’t include transportation, so your total time from arrival to departure might be longer. The tour’s flexible departure times make it easy to fit into a day’s schedule—whether you’re on a cruise, a shore excursion, or staying on the island.

Authentic Experiences & Review Highlights

From the reviews, travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer summarized, “This tour was amazing! The Colombia reef was beautiful, and we saw a turtle relaxing on top of the reef.” Such comments suggest that the tour offers genuine encounters with marine life, not just superficial snorkeling.

The focus on safety and education is evident, making it suitable for a range of skill levels. The fact that the guide provides information and helps you navigate the coral reefs adds confidence, especially for first-timers.

The Value for Your Money

At $389.92 for up to five people, you’re paying about $78 per person, which is quite reasonable given the inclusions—snorkeling gear, guide, food, and drinks. Private tours tend to cost more, but this package offers an intimate experience that’s tailored to your interests.

The opportunity to visit three different sites, plus enjoy local cuisine and beverages, makes this a cost-effective choice for a comprehensive day out on the water. The reviews support that many find the experience worth it, especially considering the quality of the locations and the service provided.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, guided outing with minimal hassle. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see Cozumel’s underwater sights with an expert, or for those who prefer a more comfortable, all-in-one approach. Families with children (who meet the age requirements), couples, and small groups will appreciate the intimate setting and the focus on quality.

If you’re seeking adventure, stunning scenery, and local flavor in one package, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you’re on a strict schedule or prefer independent exploration, the lack of included transportation might be a drawback.

The Sum Up

This private Cozumel snorkeling tour by Chivis del Mar offers a balanced blend of beautiful underwater sites, authentic local cuisine, and personalized attention. The stops at Palancar Reef, Playa El Cielo, and El Cielito Beach provide a well-rounded glimpse of what makes Cozumel special—vivid coral, starfish-filled sands, and tranquil beaches.

The inclusions of guides, snorkeling gear, and delicious food make it a great value, especially for small groups or families wanting a relaxed yet enriching experience. The tour’s flexibility and focus on quality set it apart from more generic excursions, ensuring you enjoy your time without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Overall, if you’re after a high-quality, intimate adventure that highlights the best of Cozumel’s marine beauty and local flavors, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, but transportation time to and from the meeting point is not included.

What locations will I visit?
You can choose to visit three spots: Palancar Reef, Playa El Cielo, and El Cielo Beach, each offering unique underwater and coastal scenery.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, and you’ll also get to keep a snorkel tube as a souvenir.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy fish ceviche, seasonal fruit, soft drinks, water, and two beers per person.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

What should I bring?
Bring flip-flops that can get wet, sunscreen (not allowed during snorkeling to protect reefs), swimsuits, extra T-shirts, towels, and dry clothes for afterwards.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins at Marina Caleta. If arriving from the mainland, plan to be at the Playa del Carmen ferry terminal at least 45 minutes before your ferry departs.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent but offers full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a more intimate and tailored experience.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Cozumel’s underwater world with the convenience of guided service and local cuisine—ideal for those seeking a memorable, hassle-free day on the island.