Heaven Snorkeling on a Private Boat with Champagne and Lunch

Exploring Cozumel from the Water: A Detailed Look at the Private Snorkeling & Lunch Tour

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back day in Cozumel soaking up sun, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a gourmet floating lunch, this private boat tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty inviting picture—particularly for those who love personalized experiences and stunning marine scenery.

What truly draws us in is how the tour offers a private boat experience—meaning you get a customized day without the usual hustle of crowded tours—and the inclusion of lunch served in a floating basket at El Cielo, which sounds like a unique way to dine. Plus, the chance to see marine life like starfish and stingrays up close makes it more than just a relaxing boat ride; it’s an encounter with nature.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the cost—at $799 for up to 8 people, it’s not the cheapest activity, but the exclusivity and personalized service could justify the price for many. This tour is likely best suited for those looking for a luxurious, semi-private escape rather than a budget-friendly outing or a family-focused adventure.

If you’re someone who values comfort, quiet moments, and exclusive access to beautiful snorkeling spots plus a memorable water-based lunch, this tour might be right up your alley. It’s an experience that balances relaxation with a dash of adventure—perfect for couples, groups of friends, or even small families wanting a special day on the water.

Key Points

• Private boat experience offers a personalized, less crowded environment
• Snorkeling at Colombian reef reveals vibrant marine life including starfish and stingrays
• Floating lunch at El Cielo provides a unique dining experience on the water
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks keep you refreshed throughout the trip
• Duration around 5 hours makes it a half-day escape—plenty of time but not too long
• Cost per group reflects exclusivity and the tailored nature of the tour

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and How You Get There

The adventure begins in Cozumel’s Puerto de Abrigo, with pickup options available—making your morning logistics smoother. The tour operates from 8 am to 3 pm, so you can choose a start time that suits your schedule within these hours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Play El Cielo
After boarding your private boat, you’ll set sail for about 20 minutes toward the Colombian reef. This part of the trip is quite scenic—expect to be surrounded by the beautiful Caribbean waters while your crew navigates you toward the snorkeling spot. Once there, you’ll have around 30 minutes to swim, float, and enjoy the underwater sights. You might encounter starfish and stingrays, which are often seen in this area, according to travelers’ reviews.

Snorkeling Experience
The reef is described as a vibrant underwater haven. Snorkel gear is provided, meaning no need to bring your own unless you prefer it. The reviews highlight how the hosts take you away from crowds, which means a more relaxed, personalized experience. One reviewer mentions, “Marco and Hugo took us away from the crowds to do some great snorkeling,” emphasizing that your time in the water will feel more intimate and less commercialized.

Lunch at El Cielo
After snorkeling, you’ll cruise for around 10 minutes to the famous El Cielo sandbar. Here, lunch is served in floating baskets—an experience that sounds both fun and delicious. The menu features ceviche made with fresh catch, which many reviews rave about, calling it “the best ceviche they ever had.” The floating lunch is a highlight, combining great food with the novelty of dining on water. Plus, the shallow waters often attract stingrays and starfish, so you can potentially see them close as you relax.

Additional Relaxation and Sunbathing
Beyond the snorkeling and eating, the boat offers space to sunbathe, sip drinks, and simply enjoy the scenery. The open bar and snacks mean you don’t have to worry about bringing your own refreshments, allowing you to fully unwind.

End of the Day

The tour concludes back at the dock after about 5 hours, leaving you with plenty of time to explore more of Cozumel or relax afterward.

The Experience and Why It Works

The Personal Touch

The reviews repeatedly praise the hosts’ professionalism and friendliness. One guest shared, “David and Marco were very professional and super fun,” which suggests you’re in good hands. The fact that this is a private tour means your group’s preferences shape the day. Whether you want to snorkel multiple spots or just chill and soak up the views, it’s flexible.

The Marine Life and Scenery

The reef and El Cielo are known for their beauty. The reviews mention how guests enjoyed seeing stingrays swimming nearby, often close enough to touch, and the starfish on the sandy bar. These natural encounters are what make the day truly memorable rather than just a regular boat ride.

Food and Drinks

Many guests highlight the ceviche and the guacamole made by the hosts, elevating the experience to more than just sightseeing. The floating basket lunch adds a fun, interactive element, and the open bar keeps the mood light and relaxed.

The Price and Value

At $799 for a group of up to 8, this tour is priced as an upscale experience. For couples or small groups seeking exclusivity, personalized service, and memorable marine encounters, it could be considered a good value. You’re paying for privacy, comfort, and a curated experience rather than a crowded, cookie-cutter tour.

The reviews support this, with many guests expressing how the hosts “customized the trip” to meet their desires, making the experience feel special. While it’s not the cheapest outing available, the combination of private service, top-notch snorkeling spots, and gourmet floating lunch might justify the price for those looking for a luxury escape.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value comfort and personalized attention. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or families who want a relaxed, intimate day on the water without the hustle of larger tours. If you’re someone who delights in marine life, picturesque scenery, and unique dining experiences, you’ll likely find this trip engaging.

However, if you’re traveling on a tight budget or prefer a more energetic, social scene with multiple stops and activities, you might want to look at other options. Also, keep in mind the $799 price point if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, as it’s based on a group size of up to 8.

Final Thoughts

This private snorkeling and floating lunch tour in Cozumel offers a blend of exclusivity, natural beauty, and good food. The positive reviews highlight the quality of the hosts, the tranquility of the stops, and the delicious ceviche. It’s a great pick for those wanting a relaxing yet engaging day on the water, away from the crowds.

While the price is on the higher side, the personalized service and unique experience can make it worth it—especially if you’re looking for a special treat or a memorable way to explore Cozumel’s marine environments.

If you’re after a flexible, intimate, and scenic water adventure that combines snorkeling, relaxation, and tasty local cuisine, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available at a location of your choosing, making logistics easier.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, providing a relaxed half-day experience.

What’s included in the price?
Your price covers the private boat, snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and lunch served in a floating basket.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

What kind of marine life might I see?
You could see starfish, stingrays, and other marine creatures typical of the coral reef and sandbar area.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience seems family-friendly, especially with small children who enjoy marine environments. However, always verify with the provider if traveling with young kids.

Do I need to bring anything?
Most snorkeling gear is provided; just bring sun protection, a towel, and your sense of adventure.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. In case of poor weather, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

What is the group size?
Up to 8 people, which helps ensure a more private and relaxed atmosphere.

How is the food served?
Lunch is served in floating baskets on the water, offering a unique dining experience with ceviche and snacks.

This tour can be a highlight of your Cozumel trip if you enjoy intimate, scenic water days with excellent food and marine encounters. Just weigh the price against what’s included—if you’re after a personalized, luxurious outing, it’s a solid choice.