Shore Excursion: Clear Boat Tour with Snorkel & Drinks

Exploring Cozumel from the Water: A Clear Boat Tour with Snorkel & Drinks

If you’re cruising through Quintana Roo and looking for a way to see Cozumel’s marine side without spending all day on a tour, this Clear Boat Tour with Snorkel & Drinks might just be what you need. It’s a short, 1.5-hour adventure aimed at giving visitors a glimpse of the island’s underwater world while keeping the experience relaxed and straightforward.

What caught our eye about this tour? First, the unique transparent boat design promises a fun way to see the water beneath your feet without getting wet — perfect for those who love watching marine life but aren’t keen on long or strenuous activities. Second, the inclusion of snorkeling in some of the top underwater spots along with two drinks makes it a nice balance of adventure and chill.

One thing to keep in mind is that the group size is limited to 14 people, which is pretty cozy, but that also means it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a large, bustling group. And, since transportation from cruise terminals isn’t included, you’ll have to plan your own way to the meeting point.

Who will benefit most from this experience? It’s perfect for cruise passengers wanting a quick but memorable taste of Cozumel’s underwater beauty, especially if you like the idea of seeing vibrant coral and fish through a glass-bottom boat without the hassle of a more involved snorkel trip.

Key Points

• Short & Sweet: The 1.5-hour duration makes it easy to slot into a busy cruise schedule.
• Unique Viewing: The transparent boat offers a different perspective on Cozumel’s marine environment.
• Inclusive Comforts: Snorkeling gear and two drinks (water or beer) are included, adding value.
• Scenic & Educational: You get to see island landmarks and learn about its history.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 14 people means a more intimate experience, but it might fill up fast.
• Additional Costs: Dock fee (100 MXN) isn’t included, so budget that in.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Logistics
The tour begins at Envatoors Cozumel, a central location you need to reach on your own — no pickup from cruise terminals. You’ll want to arrive about 20 minutes early to check in and get ready. The meeting address is straightforward: Av. Rafael E. Melgar 221, in San Miguel. While this means an extra step, taxis are readily available, and the location is easy to find.

What’s Included & What’s Not
For $32, you’re paying for a clear boat ride that offers a window into the underwater world, along with snorkeling equipment and two drinks. The drinks are a nice touch—either water or beer—to keep you refreshed. However, keep in mind that the dock fee of 100 MXN per person is extra and payable upon arrival. Transportation from the cruise port isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The Boat Experience
The glass-bottom boat is designed for visibility, so whether you’re just observing or snorkeling, you’ll get a good view of the marine life. It’s a small group setting, which many reviews appreciate for its relaxed vibe. This means fewer crowds and more personalized attention from guides.

Snorkeling & Marine Encounters
The snorkel spot is described as one of the top underwater destinations in the world, with pristine waters full of coral formations and tropical fish. Some reviews mentioned the sightings were vibrant and colorful, and others appreciated the ease of gear provided—no need to bring your own equipment. For many, snorkeling here is the highlight; for others, just watching the underwater action through the glass is enough.

Landmarks & Island Views
While most of the focus is underwater, the tour also offers glimpses of Cozumel’s most iconic landmarks from the boat. You get to see the coastline and learn about the island’s background, adding some cultural context to the scenic views.

Relaxation & Refreshments
The inclusion of drinks is a thoughtful touch. Having a cold beer or refreshing water while soaking in the views really enhances the laid-back vibe. As some reviews pointed out, the scenery from the boat is stunning, especially when the sunlight hits the water just right.

How the Tour Flows

The itinerary is pretty straightforward. You meet at Envatoors, hop into the clear boat, and cruise along the coast, stopping at the snorkeling site. During the ride, you’ll see some of Cozumel’s key landmarks, and once at the snorkeling spot, you’ll have the chance to get in the water with gear provided. After about an hour, the boat heads back to the starting point, with drinks in hand and plenty of good views along the way.

The snorkeling spot is praised for its clarity and vibrant marine life, with many users describing it as a memorable experience. Some reviews mention the possibility of seeing schools of tropical fish, coral reefs, and even shipwrecks, although specifics aren’t detailed. The ease of snorkeling, combined with the boat’s transparency, means you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the underwater scenery.

What Travelers Say
One reviewer noted, “The boat was very cozy and the views from the glass bottom are pretty cool,” while another appreciated the simplicity and laid-back vibe. Several also appreciated the small group size, highlighting that it felt more personal and less commercial.

Value for Money & Practical Considerations

At $32, this tour offers a decent value—especially considering the included snorkeling gear and drinks. It’s not the cheapest activity available in Cozumel, but for a quick, scenic experience with some underwater fun, it’s reasonable. The main thing to remember is that transportation from the cruise shuttle isn’t included, so you’ll need to add that cost or walk to the meeting point. The dock fee is an extra expense, and small groups fill up quickly, so booking in advance is a smart move.

Reviewers also mentioned that the tour was well-organized overall, with guides friendly and attentive. The duration is just right for a morning or afternoon activity—long enough to enjoy the scenery but short enough to leave time for other excursions or relaxation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for cruise travelers or visitors who want a brief, visually engaging activity that combines marine viewing and light snorkeling. If you prefer long, extensive tours or diving deep into marine biology, you might find this a bit superficial, but for a relaxing snapshot of Cozumel’s underwater beauty, it hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, want to avoid strenuous activity, and like having a drink in hand while admiring the views.

While families with young children under 4 might need to consider the physical aspects, older kids and teenagers often find this fun and manageable. Pregnant women and people with mobility issues are advised against it, likely due to the boat and snorkeling components.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re after a short but memorable way to see Cozumel’s marine environment, this Clear Boat Tour with Snorkel & Drinks offers a charming, intimate experience. The boat’s design makes it especially appealing for those who appreciate good views without getting soaked, and the inclusion of drinks adds a relaxed, tropical feel.

While it’s not a full-day adventure or a diving expedition, it hits the sweet spot for a quick taste of what makes Cozumel special—vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and stunning coastlines. The small group size ensures a more personal touch, and the overall rating of 4.4 suggests most travelers leave satisfied.

Just remember to account for the extra dock fee, plan your transport to the meeting point, and arrive prepared with essentials like sun protection and swimwear. Whether you’re just passing through or want a gentle introduction to the island’s underwater wonders, this tour can be a light, enjoyable addition to your Cozumel itinerary.

FAQ Section

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided as part of the tour, making it easy to just show up and enjoy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly aimed at children under 4, older kids might enjoy the boat ride and snorkeling. Very young children or those with mobility issues might find it less suitable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, given the small group size and high demand, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

How do I get to the meeting point?
You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the address—Av. Rafael E. Melgar 221 in San Miguel. Taxis are a convenient option.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Remember, you’ll be on the water and in the sun, so protective gear is important.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get two drinks per person—water or beer—during the tour, which helps keep everyone hydrated and relaxed.

What about the dock fee?
The 100 MXN per person dock fee isn’t included in the ticket price and must be paid upon arrival at the port.

In summary, this Cozumel clear boat tour is a practical and enjoyable choice for those wanting a quick glimpse of the island’s underwater beauty with minimal fuss. It balances scenic views, some snorkel fun, and laid-back relaxation, making it ideal for cruise travelers looking to make the most of their limited time in port.

You can check availability for your dates here: