Discovering El Cielo Reef by Double Decker Catamaran

If you’re dreaming of a day sailing through Cozumel’s turquoise waters with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and soak up the sun, this Discovering El Cielo Reef by Double Decker Catamaran might just be your ticket. We haven’t personally been on this exact trip, but the details paint a pretty enticing picture. It’s a well-priced adventure that promises vibrant marine life, spectacular scenery, and a lively atmosphere, all aboard a comfortable double-deck vessel.

What really catches the eye are the stops at Colombia Reef and Palancar Reef, two of the most celebrated snorkeling spots in Cozumel, and the chance to visit El Cielo, famous for its starfish and pristine sands. The inclusion of unlimited drinks, a Caribbean-style meal, and the possibility of witnessing a stunning sunset makes this a flexible choice for many travelers.

One thing to consider is the overall group size—up to 35 people—which might mean a busy boat, especially during peak times. Also, there’s a reef conservation tax of 500 MXN per person, which adds to the total cost, so keep that in mind when budgeting. All in all, this tour seems best suited for those looking for a lively, scenic day with plenty of snorkeling and a relaxed vibe. If you enjoy social boat trips with a scenic twist, it could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $37 per person, this tour offers a lot — snorkeling, drinks, and scenic stops — for a reasonable cost.
• Stunning Reefs and Underwater Life: The stops at Colombia and Palancar Reefs provide vibrant marine environments and chances to see sea turtles and colorful fish.
• Relaxed, Social Atmosphere: With lively music, entertainers, and an open bar, it’s perfect if you want a fun, energetic vibe.
• Beautiful Scenery and Sunsets: The second schedule offers a sunset option, making for a truly memorable end to your day.
• All-Inclusive Snorkeling Gear: You don’t need to bring your own equipment, which saves hassle and space.
• Additional Tax: Be prepared for a reef conservation and dock tax of 500 MXN per person, which isn’t included in the ticket price.

What to Expect from the Tour

This 5-hour cruise begins from Cozumel’s central meeting point, where you’ll step aboard a spacious double-decker catamaran. The boat is described as offering shaded comfort on the upper deck, which is nice if you want to avoid too much sun while enjoying the breeze and views. As you cruise through the waters, you’ll be treated to lively music and the promise of unlimited drinks, including beer and margaritas (for those 18 and older).

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Cozumel Departure and Scenic Cruise

The journey kicks off with a scenic hour-long cruise towards the southern shores of Cozumel. This is an excellent chance to relax, take photos of the island, and get a feel for the Caribbean vibe. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable the cruise itself is, with the views of the island and the lively atmosphere setting a positive tone for the day. The boat’s crew seems to keep spirits high, playing music and entertaining guests.

Stop 2: Colombia Reef

The first snorkeling stop is at Colombia Reef, the deepest spot on the itinerary. This is the most captivating reef, where guided snorkeling allows you to explore vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations. The reef is described as the most “deep and captivating” of the day, so if you’re into snorkeling and marine environments, you’ll love this part. Certified guides help ensure safety and enrich the experience, especially if you’re new to snorkeling.

Stop 3: Palancar Reef

Next, the boat visits Palancar Reef, another world-renowned site. Here, the underwater scenery is dazzling, with opportunities to see sea turtles and a colorful array of fish. The reef is described as a “paradise,” and many travelers mention how beautiful the coral formations and marine habitats are. The protected environment makes it a good spot for observing the natural beauty of Cozumel’s reefs.

Stop 4: El Cielo

One of the standout stops is El Cielo, famous for its soft sands and starfish. This sandbank is a surreal spot where the water is so clear and shallow that you can see the ocean floor beneath your feet. It’s a favorite among travelers for the photo ops and the peaceful surroundings. The presence of vibrant starfish and other marine creatures creates an almost magical scene. Some reviews mention that the experience of floating in such clear waters with starfish around is unforgettable.

Stop 5: El Cielito Beach

The tour concludes at El Cielito Beach, a shallow, tranquil spot with waters around 1.2 meters deep. It’s perfect for relaxing after snorkeling, with the possibility of spotting manta rays swimming nearby. Many find this a lovely way to wind down, enjoying the gentle waters and scenic views—ideal for a laid-back end to your day.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra

The tour package includes everything you need for a fun day: snorkeling gear, the boat ride, visits to the reefs and sandbank, and entertainment. Plus, an open bar with beer and margaritas (for adults), and a Caribbean meal featuring hot dogs, fish ceviche, and fruit—simple but satisfying.

However, there’s a reef and dock tax of 500 MXN per person, which adds to your final bill. This fee helps fund reef conservation efforts and dock facilities, but it’s an important detail to keep in mind when budgeting. Photos are not included, so if capturing memories is important, you’ll want to budget for a separate photo package or take your own.

The Experience and Atmosphere

From what we gather, this tour has a lively and social vibe, thanks to the music, entertainers, and open bar. It’s designed for those who want a fun, energetic day out, with plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers. The boat’s maximum capacity of 35 guests keeps it reasonably intimate but still lively enough for a party atmosphere.

The guides and crew seem to prioritize safety and fun equally, making sure everyone gets the most out of the snorkeling and sightseeing. The optional sunset schedule is a real highlight, promising one of the most stunning moments you can catch in Cozumel, with the sky ablaze as the sun dips below the horizon.

The Downside? A Few Considerations

While the experience sounds fantastic, it’s not without some minor drawbacks. The group size, up to 35 people, might feel crowded if you prefer more secluded, quiet adventures. Some travelers mention the busy nature of the trip, especially during peak season, so if you’re after a more relaxed, solitary day, this might not be ideal.

The reef conservation and dock tax adds an extra layer of expense—MXN 500 per person—that’s not included in the initial ticket price, so be sure to factor that into your budget. Also, the tour is fairly structured, so if you’re someone who prefers flexible, unplanned days, this scheduled itinerary might feel a bit tight.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is well-suited for travelers who want a social, lively day out with a good mix of snorkeling and scenic cruising. It’s perfect if you enjoy music, drinks, and meeting new people, and are comfortable with a group environment. Families with older children or teenagers could enjoy it too, especially if they’re interested in marine life and snorkeling.

It’s less ideal for those seeking a more tranquil or private experience or for travelers with mobility issues, as the stops involve some walking on sandbanks and reefs. But overall, if your goal is to see the highlights of Cozumel’s underwater world in a fun, active setting, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Swallows Sculpture at Av. Rafael E. Melgar 131 in Cozumel. It’s close to public transportation, making it easy to reach.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, starting at 1:00 pm and returning to the meeting point at the end of the day.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer it.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are not eligible for a refund.

What’s the age limit for the open bar?
The open bar with beer and margaritas is only for those 18 and older. Younger travelers can enjoy the non-alcoholic options.

Are drinks available during the cruise?
Yes, unlimited drinks are included, and you can enjoy beer and margaritas throughout the trip.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?
It’s generally suitable for older children or teenagers interested in snorkeling and marine environments. For very young kids, the boat’s environment and stops might be less suitable, especially considering the water shallowings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a colorful, lively day exploring Cozumel’s top reefs with friends or family, this Double Decker Catamaran tour offers an engaging mix of scenery, marine life, and fun. The combination of stunning underwater landscapes, relaxed cruising, and social atmosphere makes for a memorable experience, especially if you’re partial to snorkeling and ocean views.

While it’s a bit busy and includes an additional tax, the overall value for the price is good, given what’s included. It’s especially appealing if you want to enjoy a day with unlimited drinks, lively entertainment, and some of the best snorkeling spots in the area.

If a more tranquil or private experience is what you’re after, you might want to consider other options. But for those looking to combine adventure, social vibes, and incredible scenery, this tour could be just what you need for a fun Cozumel day.