Cozumel Catamaran Tour: Snorkel at Top Reefs & Open Bar

Thinking about adding a boat adventure to your Cozumel trip? This catamaran tour offers a mix of snorkeling, lively atmosphere, and scenic views that many travelers find appealing. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy the Caribbean waters with a touch of luxury, but it’s not without some quirks.

What we like about this experience is its spacious double-deck boat, which makes for a comfortable ride, and the variety of snorkeling stops at some of Cozumel’s best reefs. Plus, the open bar and laid-back vibe make it a fun way to relax and socialize. However, a key consideration is that some reviews mention the music and crowding, which might not suit everyone’s taste.

If you’re seeking a lively, social day on the water with good snorkeling, this could be a solid choice. But if you prefer a quieter or more intimate experience, it might be worth exploring other options. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers looking to combine marine adventure with a party atmosphere.

Key Points

• Spacious and comfortable double-deck catamaran with lively entertainment
• Multiple snorkeling stops at Colombia Reef, Palancar Reef, El Cielo, and El Cielito
• Open bar included, offering beer, margaritas, and soft drinks
• Delicious Caribbean-style lunch with fresh ceviche, hotdogs, and fruit
• Crowd size can be up to 35 travelers, with some reviews mentioning noise and crowding
• Extra sunset cruise available for a more relaxed, scenic end to the day

What to Expect from the Cozumel Catamaran Tour

This tour kicks off in San Miguel de Cozumel around 1:00 pm, with the boat departing on a roughly 5-hour journey. The first hour is spent cruising along the island’s coast, giving you a chance to soak in those stunning views of the turquoise waters. The boat is described as a double-deck vessel, giving plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the ride.

The Snorkeling Stops

The main appeal lies in the four snorkeling spots—each offering a different underwater experience.

Colombia Reef is known as one of Cozumel’s top reefs, and we’re told it features vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. The guides provide gear and assistance, which is helpful if you’re not a snorkeling pro. You’ll get about an hour here, giving you enough time to explore, snap photos, and enjoy the underwater world.

Next up is Palancar Reef, famous for its calm waters and beautiful coral habitats. Expect to see colorful fish, and maybe sea turtles if you’re lucky. The reviews highlight that this stop is both thrilling and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing swim.

El Cielo Sandbar is a highlight for many. Its shallow, pristine waters are perfect for floating and spotting starfish, which are usually the stars of the show here. Travelers love that it’s a natural spot to chill out and take photos.

Finally, El Cielito Beach caps off the snorkeling adventure. It’s a lively spot with drinks, music, and a tasty lunch. The included meal features a hotdog, ceviche, and fruit—simple but satisfying for a day out.

The Atmosphere

The tour’s vibe leans towards party and socializing. The boat features live entertainers and an open bar, making it lively and upbeat. You’ll find many people enjoying drinks and music during the cruise and at the last stop, which is perfect if you’re in the mood for a party-style excursion.

Food and Drinks

The included lunch is straightforward but tasty—hotdogs, ceviche, and fruit. The open bar is a big draw, offering unlimited beer and margaritas (for guests 18+). Keep in mind that tips and souvenirs aren’t included, so you might want to bring extra cash.

The Realities: What Travelers Are Saying

One of the more critical reviews mentions that the experience isn’t quite as advertised, with loud rap music playing non-stop on the boat and a crowded atmosphere. The reviewer, Todd B, said, “This is not as advertised!!” and expressed frustration over the noise and crowding. This highlights that if you’re seeking a quieter or more relaxed day, this tour might not be your best fit.

However, many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. The guides help make the snorkeling smoother, and the scenery is genuinely impressive. The food and drinks are generally well-received, adding a satisfying culinary touch to the day.

Group Size and Booking

The tour accommodates up to 35 travelers, which tends to keep the atmosphere lively but may feel crowded during peak times. Bookings are typically made 12 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re keen. The tour operates with a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward.

Additional Costs

Don’t forget the dock tax—500 MXN per person—payable at check-in. This is an important detail because it adds to the overall cost, and some travelers might not realize this upfront.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This catamaran experience is ideal for travelers who want a fun, social day on the water with plenty of snorkeling and drinks. If you enjoy lively atmospheres, music, and meeting fellow travelers, you’ll likely have a good time. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate good guides and don’t mind some crowding.

On the flip side, if you prefer a more tranquil or intimate experience, or are sensitive to noise and large groups, you might find this tour less appealing. The “party” vibe isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re looking for a peaceful escape.

The Sum Up

The Cozumel Catamaran Tour offers a lively way to explore Cozumel’s underwater beauty and enjoy a social, party-like atmosphere on the water. Its multiple snorkeling stops at top reefs deliver vibrant marine encounters, while the open bar and food add a layer of relaxation and fun. The experience is well-suited for those who enjoy a lively crowd, good guides, and scenic views, but less so for travelers seeking quiet or solitude.

Given the price point—$35 per person—it’s a fairly accessible way to combine snorkeling, sightseeing, and socializing in one package. Just remember to budget for the dock tax, and be prepared for a potentially crowded, music-filled experience if you go during peak times.

Overall, if you’re looking for a balanced mix of marine adventure and party energy, this tour has a lot to offer. If a peaceful day on the water is more your style, maybe consider other options, but don’t overlook this for its lively spirit and stunning coral reefs.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Since the open bar is available for guests 18+, it’s likely that guests must be at least 18 to partake in drinks, but snorkeling and the boat ride are open to most ages. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 5 hours, starting at 1:00 pm and returning to the meeting point in Cozumel.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, snorkeling gear, visits to four reef sites, an open bar with beer and margaritas, and a Caribbean lunch with ceviche, hotdogs, and fruit. Tips and souvenirs are extra.

Are the snorkeling equipment and guides good?
Yes, the tour provides top-quality gear and guides who are described as knowledgeable, helping make your underwater adventure smooth and enjoyable.

Is there a sunset option?
Yes, the tour offers a second schedule that ends with a sunset cruise, perfect for those who want to cap off the day with stunning views.

What about crowding?
The tour caps at 35 travelers, but reviews mention that it can feel crowded and loud, especially with non-stop music. If quiet is your priority, this might not be ideal.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book around 12 days ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

What is the dock tax?
You’ll need to pay 500 MXN per person at check-in, so factor this into your budget.

If lively marine excursions with good snorkeling and a party atmosphere sound like your perfect day, this Cozumel catamaran tour could be a great pick. Just keep in mind the crowd and noise level, and you’ll be set for a fun Caribbean adventure.