El Cielo and El Cielito in Cozumel with Beach Club, Food, and Open Bar

Exploring Cozumel with the El Cielo and El Cielito Tour

If you’re considering a day on the water in Cozumel that combines snorkeling, stunning beaches, and good company, you might have come across the El Cielo and El Cielito tour offered by Chichén Travel. This tour offers a taste of everything — from vibrant reefs to shallow starfish-filled waters, topped with access to a laid-back beach club.

What we really like about this experience is how it blends adventure and relaxation so effortlessly. The highlight for many is the chance to snorkel at Palancar Reef, known for its vivid marine life and colorful coral formations. Plus, the visit to El Cielo, famous for its clear shallow waters and starfish, offers a uniquely memorable photo opportunity.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour’s organization has received mixed reviews, with some travelers mentioning logistical hiccups and time management issues. It’s worth weighing that if you’re someone who appreciates a perfectly timed, smoothly run experience, this may be a less predictable option.

All in all, this tour feels best suited for travelers who want a fun, guided day in Cozumel with plenty of chances to see the highlights without overcomplicating the logistics. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner and value good scenery, friendly guides, and a relaxed vibe, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Great for snorkeling enthusiasts: The reef at Palancar is one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful spots.
• Family-friendly environment: The shallow waters at El Cielo are perfect for relaxed swimming and starfish spotting.
• All-inclusive drinks on board: The open bar of margaritas, beers, and soft drinks adds to the fun atmosphere.
• Access to a full beach club: Pools, kayaks, and water games provide options for extended relaxation.
• Potential timing issues: Some reviews suggest the schedule might be a little unpredictable.
• Cost reflects multiple experiences: At $180 per person, you get a lot — snorkeling, transportation, food, drinks, and beach access.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

This tour kicks off around 12:30 pm, with a short walk to the meeting point in front of the Six store, followed by a 40-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. Once you arrive, the day is packed with opportunities to explore some of the island’s most iconic sights.

Snorkeling at Palancar Reef is the first major stop. This is one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated reef systems, known for its vibrant coral gardens and a profusion of marine life. Expect about 40 minutes to gear up and lose yourself among schools of fish and impressive coral formations. The guides generally do a good job of pointing out interesting sights and ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the water, whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a beginner.

Next, the tour visits El Cielo, which translates to “the sky” — a perfect name for the shallow, crystal-clear waters filled with starfish. Here, you can float in the gentle waves, take photos of the starfish, and enjoy the surreal silence of the water that’s so shallow you almost feel like you’re walking on air. The visit typically lasts around 30 minutes, giving enough time to relax and snap some memorable shots.

El Cielito follows, where you’re welcomed to a stretch of white sand and shallow waters. You can swim, wade, or simply lie back and soak up the sun. The roughly hour-long stay offers a peaceful break before heading to the beach club.

Once back on land, the trip continues at Bahía Beach Club, where you can enjoy a fajita plate (chicken, pork, or vegetarian) included with your tour. The beach club is equipped with a pool, water trampoline, slide, kayaks, and loungers — perfect for winding down or keeping the fun going. Keep in mind, drinks at the club aren’t included, so you might want to budget extra if you plan to indulge.

Experience Quality and What It Means for You

While the itinerary sounds packed, the actual experience depends a lot on logistics and weather conditions. Some reviews note the schedule can shift by up to an hour, potentially affecting the flow of the day. One traveler from Italy mentioned it was “a rough experience, with poor organization,” citing more time on the ferry than on the island itself.

On the flip side, others have praised the tour’s guides for being knowledgeable and the scenery for being breathtaking. One reviewer from Mexico called the service “excellent,” highlighting the punctuality and the beautiful views, along with the good quality of the food on board.

The open bar is a nice touch, helping to keep spirits high on the water, although it’s worth noting that drinks at the beach club are not included, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. The included fajita meal is a solid bonus, providing a tasty break in the middle of your adventure.

Transportation and Duration

From the moment you meet in front of the Six store, you’re set for a full 6-hour experience. The ride on the catamaran lasts roughly 1.5 hours each way, so be prepared for some time on the water. The ferry transfer is an important part of the day — not only practical but also offering a chance to enjoy the sea views.

The tour is suitable for those comfortable with a group setting and a somewhat flexible schedule. It’s not specifically designed for children or pregnant women, so consider your personal needs before booking.

The Cost and Value

At $180 per person, this tour is on the higher side for a day trip, but it covers quite a bit: ferry, boat ride, snorkeling gear, guides, a meal, and full access to the beach club. For those who love combining water activities with relaxing beach time, this offers good value, especially considering the included amenities.

However, the quality of organization and timing can influence how much you feel you’ve gotten for your money. If you prefer a very streamlined, punctual experience, you might find some moments a bit chaotic. But if you’re flexible and looking for a fun, active day with plenty of scenic stops, this tour hits many of those marks.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience works well for travelers who want a bit of everything — underwater beauty, shallow water relaxation, and fun on the sand. It’s suitable for groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy guided trips and don’t mind some unpredictability in schedule.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and enjoy social atmospheres, the shared drinks and lively guides can add to the enjoyment. But if you’re a very punctual person or prefer a more exclusive, private experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip ferry transportation from Playa del Carmen is included, making it easier to plan your day.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Remember, sunscreen isn’t allowed for the tour, so plan accordingly.

Are drinks included?
Onboard the catamaran, yes — there’s an open bar with margaritas, beers, and soft drinks. Drinks at the beach club are not included, so consider bringing extra cash if you want more beverages.

How long is the boat ride?
The ferry ride to Cozumel is about 40 minutes each way, with the catamaran ride on the water lasting around 1.5 hours each way.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking through shallow water and snorkeling, so it’s generally family-friendly, but it’s best suited for older children comfortable in water. Pregnant women should avoid due to the physical activity involved.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Most people love the snorkeling at Palancar Reef and the chance to see starfish at El Cielo — both are truly memorable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a lively day of snorkeling, relaxing beaches, and good drinks in Cozumel, the El Cielo and El Cielito tour offers a solid package. It’s ideal for travelers looking to see the island’s top scenic spots without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

While some reviews point out organizational hiccups, many find the overall experience enjoyable and worth the price. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, and the scenery is truly stunning. The combination of reef snorkeling, shallow starfish waters, and beach club fun makes for a well-rounded getaway.

That said, if your priority is a perfectly timed, smooth experience, or if you prefer more privacy and less group activity, you might want to explore other options. But for a day filled with adventure, sunshine, and good company, this trip in Cozumel could be just right.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera — those starfish and reef vistas are worth capturing!

You can check availability for your dates here: