Cozumel Shore Excursion: Mini-SUB Diving Adventure

If you’re cruising through Cozumel and considering a Mini-SUB experience, you’re in for a treat. This tour offers an unusual way to explore the ocean without the need for scuba certification or snorkeling skills. It’s a chance to glide through the Caribbean Sea on a high-tech, personal mini-SUB, all while taking in the colorful marine life and coral reefs that make Cozumel such a popular spot for ocean lovers.

What really stands out? First, the ease of the experience—no diving experience required, just a heart willing to explore. Second, the guided element, which ensures you’re safe and well-informed while underwater. That said, there’s one thing to keep in mind: the price—at $89.99, it’s an investment in a memorable adventure, but not the cheapest activity around. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a taste of the underwater world without the hassle of traditional diving or snorkeling, and who appreciate a guided, safe environment.

Key Points

• No diving experience needed — perfect for beginners or those unsure about snorkeling.
• Small group—maximum five participants per session, ensuring personalized attention.
• Safety-focused guides — clear instructions and constant monitoring.
• Great value for marine life viewing — see colorful fish, rays, sharks, and vibrant coral.
• Includes use of mini-SUB, guide, and facilities—additional costs for photos and lockers.
• Time-efficient—roughly 30 minutes underwater, with a total duration of about an hour.

What You Can Expect From the Tour

When you arrive at the meeting point, the tour kicks off with a quick safety briefing. The operators are transparent about procedures, and reviews highlight the friendly staff who make nervous first-timers feel at ease. You’ll then be fitted with your mini-SUB gear, which is a high-tech device allowing you to breathe normally, without masks or tubes. This makes the whole process more comfortable and less claustrophobic than traditional snorkeling or diving.

Once in the water, the guides lead your small group through the Caribbean Sea, guiding your mini-SUB along the coral reefs and schools of fish. You’ll get to see a variety of marine creatures, including parrotfish, needlefish, nurse sharks, manta rays, garden eels, and more. Several reviews mention enjoying holding fish like pufferfish, and many appreciate the opportunity to photograph these moments, despite an extra cost for photos.

The underwater ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, depending on how long you stay in the water after the safety briefing and getting suited up. The experience is described as fun and safe, with many reviewers noting feeling well-cared-for and reassured by the guides’ professionalism. After the ride, you’ll have the chance to relax on the beach, grab a drink (own expense), and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Experience in Detail

The tour is quite straightforward but thoughtfully executed. The start point is at the Cozumel & Resort hotel, a convenient location that’s near public transportation, which many find helpful if they’re exploring on their own beforehand. After meeting your guide, you’ll be shown how to operate the mini-SUB and given a brief tutorial. This preparation is appreciated, as it boosts confidence before heading into the water.

Once underwater, your mini-SUB allows you to drive around at a gentle pace, giving you a chance to observe the marine environment closely. The marine life in Cozumel’s waters is lively, with colorful fish, coral, and even sharks visible—something many guests describe as “breathtaking” or “a different kind of fun.” One review notes that “the scooters were a lot of fun to ride” and that the experience was “awesome.”

The guides’ attentiveness is a common theme in reviews. They are described as “very diligent about safety” and “considerate,” constantly checking that everyone is comfortable. This focus on safety is reassuring, especially for those who might be nervous or unfamiliar with underwater activities. The group size is capped at five, ensuring plenty of personalized guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.

Another notable feature is the ability to hold and feed marine life. Some guests mention holding pufferfish or starfish—these are safe and supervised interactions, adding a special touch to the experience. The underwater photos are another highlight, with many reviewers saying they love the quality and cherish the memories made.

Post-activity, guests often comment on the convenience of hotel facilities like restrooms, changing rooms, and the option to rent lockers or towels (for an extra fee). The beach itself is described as beautiful, providing an ideal spot to relax after your underwater adventure.

Price, Value, and Extras

At $89.99 per person, the Mini-SUB Diving Adventure offers a unique experience at a reasonable price point, considering the personalized and guided nature of the activity. Many reviews suggest it’s worth the cost, especially for those seeking something more than typical snorkel trips.

However, there are additional costs to be aware of. The photo and video package costs $70 USD per group, payable in cash—an extra expense if you want lasting memories. The tour includes the use of a USB drive containing photos and videos, which many guests find a good value, especially since these captures are of high quality.

You can also rent a locker for $10, which might be worth considering if you have valuables or want to keep your belongings safe. The total duration is around an hour, with the actual underwater ride lasting approximately half an hour, making it a quick but memorable excursion.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The most praised aspects include the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, the safety measures in place, and the stunning marine life. Many guests rave about the “amazing” fish and coral, describing the experience as “breath-taking” and “fun.” The small group setting really helps make it intimate and manageable, especially for those new to underwater activities.

On the flip side, a few reviewers mention timing issues or misunderstandings about costs—particularly the extra charge for photos. It’s essential to clarify these details beforehand to avoid surprises. Also, the limited number of participants (maximum of five) means it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with a larger group, unless you book multiple sessions.

Some guests found the walk from the cruise port to the meeting point to be about 40 minutes, which might be a consideration if mobility is an issue or if you’re short on time. The activity is designed to be safe and accessible, but isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people with certain medical conditions, as noted in the restrictions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a unique, guided underwater experience that doesn’t require prior diving skills, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suited for adventurers who want to see colorful marine life up close without the complexity of traditional snorkeling or scuba diving. Families with older children (at least 12 years old and 4 feet tall) can also enjoy this.

It’s perfect for those seeking a quick, memorable underwater adventure that combines comfort, safety, and the chance to see some of Cozumel’s best marine sights. However, if you’re after a longer or more active water experience, or if you have specific needs about photography, you might want to explore other options.

The Bottom Line

This Mini-SUB tour offers an engaging way to explore Cozumel’s vibrant waters, especially for those who find snorkeling or diving intimidating or inconvenient. The guided, small-group approach ensures everyone’s safety and comfort, and the underwater views are frequently praised. The cost reflects a quality, personalized experience, with the added luxury of no prior swimming or diving skills required.

For travelers who want a fun, safe, and visually stunning underwater adventure, this tour fits the bill. It’s most appealing to those curious about marine life but hesitant to snorkel, or anyone eager to try something different without the fuss of traditional water sports. Just be prepared for some extra costs if you want those memorable photos.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t know how to swim?
Yes, you don’t need to swim to participate. The mini-SUB allows you to breathe normally underwater, and guides provide support and instructions to ensure safety.

How long do I spend underwater?
Most guests are underwater for about 30 minutes, depending on your group size and timing. You’ll also spend additional time on the safety briefing and getting suited up.

What marine life can I expect to see?
Guests often see tropical fish, parrotfish, needlefish, nurse sharks, manta rays, garden eels, and colorful coral reefs. The experience offers a variety of vibrant sea creatures.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, guests with certain medical conditions, pregnant women, or those with recent surgery (within 6 months) should avoid this activity. Participants must be at least 12 years old, 4 feet tall, and weigh no more than 300 pounds.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers the use of the mini-SUB, a bilingual guide, and access to hotel facilities like restrooms and changing rooms. Photos and videos are an extra cost, payable in cash.

Can I bring my own camera or phone underwater?
While the tour provides professional photos and videos for an extra fee, bringing your own device is not recommended unless waterproof or in a waterproof case.

How do I meet the tour operator?
You’ll meet at the hotel Cozumel & Resort, with clear directions and staff ready to assist. The meeting point is easily accessible from most accommodations and public transport.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the activity, it will be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to poor weather.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, provided children meet the minimum age and height requirements. It’s a fun way for families to explore the ocean together in a safe environment.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Wear comfortable clothes, arrive on time, and listen carefully to the safety briefing. Remember, no diving experience is needed, so just bring your curiosity!

This tour is a fun, safe, and visually impressive way to enjoy Cozumel’s ocean without the usual gear or skills. Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking for something different, the mini-SUB adventure offers a memorable look at the underwater world—perfect for making some unique vacation stories.