Clear Boat Adventure to Shipwrecks and Snorkel

If you’re dreaming about exploring Cozumel’s vibrant underwater world without getting your face wet, the Clear Boat Adventure might be just what you’re after. This tour promises a different way to see reefs and wrecks—inside a fully transparent boat—offering a comfortable, unobstructed view of the sea life and shipwrecks on the island’s northern side. While it’s a newer experience, it’s gaining traction among visitors, and it’s worth considering whether it’s the right fit for your trip.

We appreciate the charm of this tour for its innovative boat design and the ease it offers to those who prefer to stay dry while enjoying the ocean’s spectacle. Sitting inside the clear vessel while watching colorful reefs pass by is pretty novel, and the convenient departure point at Carlota Beach Club makes it easy to plan around. However, some travelers have found the snorkeling portion to be a bit confined and rushed, which is something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a more extensive underwater experience.

This tour works well for those who want a quick, relaxed introduction to Cozumel’s underwater sights without diving in or spending hours on the water. It’s not ideal for serious snorkelers or those seeking a lengthy or in-depth reef experience. Still, if you’re after a fun, different way to enjoy some of the island’s best reefs and shipwrecks in a short time, this could be a nice addition to your itinerary.

Key Points

• Innovative experience: First of its kind in Cozumel, a fully clear boat offers a unique perspective.
• Short and sweet: Around 2 hours, perfect for a quick activity fitting into a larger day.
• Comfortable viewing: Sit inside the boat, avoiding saltwater and rough conditions.
• Limited snorkeling space: The review suggests the snorkeling area is small and somewhat rushed.
• Affordable price: At $52 per person, it’s a reasonable option for a novel experience.
• Departure from a central location: Carlota Beach Club is easy to access, with multiple departure times.

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

What’s the Tour All About?

This tour is centered around the idea of exploring Cozumel’s underwater sights without getting wet—from inside a fully transparent boat. The boat is touted as the first of its kind in Cozumel, giving you a new way to appreciate the reefs and shipwrecks. It’s a quick, approximately 2-hour excursion departing from Carlota Beach Club, with three different times to fit your schedule.

The main draw? You get a panoramic, unobstructed view of Cozumel’s underwater world while sitting comfortably inside the boat. The vessel allows you to witness the colorful reefs, the shipwreck, and marine life without the typical snorkel or diving gear on your face. It’s a particularly appealing option if you prefer to stay dry or have mobility issues that make conventional snorkeling challenging.

What Do You Actually Do?

Once aboard, the adventure begins with the boat gliding over some of the best reefs on the northern side of the island. You’ll see the vibrant coral formations and marine fauna from inside the vessel. The idea is to enjoy the sights in comfort, avoiding the sometimes strenuous swim or long boat rides that other tours may involve.

After the initial viewing, the tour offers a snorkeling component—though it’s limited to a small, confined area. You’ll have the chance to snorkel in one of Cozumel’s renowned reefs, but some reviews note that the snorkeling area is quite tight and the overall time spent underwater isn’t extensive. As one reviewer put it, “The snorkeling was in a very small confined area with not much to see when you consider what Cozumel has to offer.” If you’re expecting a lengthy, exploration-focused snorkel, this might be a bit underwhelming.

What’s Included?

• Bottled water, soda, and beer keep you hydrated and refreshed.
• Use of snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t need to bring your own.
• A marine fee is included in the price, meaning the tour covers necessary environmental costs.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The activity departs from Carlota Beach Club, located conveniently in Cozumel’s hotel zone area. With three different departure times, you can easily select one that works with your plans. The activity ends right back at the meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

What Are the Pros and Cons?

Pros:
– Unique transparent boat design offers spectacular views from inside.
– The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for fitting into a busy day.
– All necessary snorkeling gear and drinks are provided.
– The location is accessible and central, simplifying planning.

Cons:
– The snorkeling part may feel rushed or limited in scope.
– Some travelers, like Amy, found the experience somewhat rushed and confined.
– The reef area is described as small, limiting the scope of underwater exploration.

What Do Other Travelers Say?

The only detailed review available describes the tour as thorough and attentive, thanks to Captain Bill and his crew. However, the reviewer also notes that the adventure felt rushed and the snorkeling area was small, which might not meet the expectations of someone wanting a longer or more immersive underwater experience.

Such feedback indicates that while the tour is well-managed and friendly, it perhaps won’t satisfy those looking for a comprehensive or relaxed snorkeling trip. But if your goal is to experience something different and fun, this tour can deliver on that front.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly suited for families or travelers seeking a quick, enjoyable overview of Cozumel’s reefs from a comfortable, dry vantage point. It’s great if you want to avoid the physical effort or saltwater of traditional snorkeling, but still want to see marine life and shipwrecks.

It’s less ideal for serious snorkelers or those hoping for a lengthy underwater adventure, as the snorkeling area is described as small and somewhat rushed. Also, if you’re after a deep dive into the local reefs or want to spend hours exploring, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Clear Boat Adventure to Shipwrecks and Snorkel offers a refreshingly different twist on Cozumel’s marine excursions. Its innovative design and convenience make it a fun option for a short, relaxed sightseeing session. The main appeal is the panoramic views from inside the boat, complemented by a quick snorkel in a well-known reef.

It’s definitely a value-priced experience at $52 per person**, especially considering the novelty factor and included amenities. However, potential participants should be aware that the snorkeling component may not satisfy those seeking a more extensive underwater exploration. The tour’s brief and somewhat rushed nature means it’s best enjoyed as part of a larger day of activities or as a fun highlight rather than a deep dive into Cozumel’s underwater offerings.

All in all, if you’re after something different, fun, and easy, this tour might be worth a try. It’s best for those who want a quick, comfortable glimpse of the reefs and shipwrecks without the hassle of diving gear or long hours on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age limits, the tour’s short duration and straightforward nature suggest it could be suitable for families. However, it’s always best to check directly with the provider if you’re traveling with very young kids.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to plan with some flexibility.

What should I bring?
Since snorkeling equipment is provided, you might want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a waterproof camera. Drinks are included, so no need to carry extra hydration.

How many people typically join?
The tour has a maximum of 30 travelers, which keeps the group manageable and the experience intimate.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How long is the snorkeling?
The snorkeling segment is limited in size and duration, so don’t expect hours underwater. It’s more of a quick peek.

What’s the departure point?
The activity starts at Carlota Beach Club in Cozumel.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, soda, and beer are provided.

Does the tour cover a specific reef?
It’s described as one of the best reefs in the north side of Cozumel, but no specific reef names are given.

What makes this tour different from others?
The fully clear boat offers a unique viewing experience from inside, rather than on top or from the deck.

If you’re curious about trying a different way to see Cozumel’s underwater world and don’t mind a shorter, more confined snorkeling experience, this tour could be a fun addition to your trip. Just keep your expectations in check, and remember it’s more about the novelty than length or depth of underwater exploration.