Snorkel along the coast with Chivis Del Mar.

If you’re heading to Cozumel and looking for a relaxed, accessible snorkel tour, this experience with Chivis Del Mar could be just what you need. It’s a short, 1.5-hour trip that promises to show you some of the island’s most beautiful reefs while offering a comfy, guided experience from a local operator.

What caught our eye about this tour are two key things: first, the combination of a glass-bottom boat ride with actual snorkeling — which means you get views from above and below the water, making it excellent for those who want variety. Second, the personalized approach from guides like Barbara and Jose, which can make all the difference in creating a memorable trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that, at just $38 per person, this is definitely an affordable option. But since it’s a relatively short excursion, it’s best suited for travelers with limited time or those who want a gentle, straightforward reef experience without all the fuss. If you’re after deep dives or more elaborate adventures, this might not hit that mark — but for a quick, scenic, reef-touring outing, it delivers.

This tour is ideal if you’re new to Cozumel, want a family-friendly activity, or simply prefer a laid-back experience with knowledgeable guides. Now, let’s explore what makes this snorkel trip stand out — and whether it’s right for your next visit.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible: At $38, it offers good value for a guided reef experience.
• Includes all gear: Snorkel tube, mask, and life jacket are provided, making it hassle-free.
• Combination of boat ride and snorkeling: Enjoy both a scenic glass-bottom boat tour and underwater exploration.
• Guided visits to reefs: Two reef sites are visited, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
• Flexible timing: Multiple departure times are available, fitting easily into your schedule.
• Environmental respect: Use of biodegradable sunscreen recommended, with restrictions on touching marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at the Chivis del Mar tours meeting point at the harbor Caleta, on the left side by the roundabout. Barbara, the guide, and Jose, the captain, will greet you and get you ready for a fun outing. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours — that’s a neat chunk of time if you’re on a cruise stop or just want a quick reef fix without committing the whole day.

The Water Taxi Ride

The first stage involves a 10-minute water taxi ride that transports you from the initial meeting point to the reef sites. This short boat trip adds a bit of adventure, giving you a chance to enjoy the coastline views of Cozumel. The boat itself is a glass-bottom vessel, so even the ride is visually rewarding, setting a relaxed tone for the tour.

Guided Reef Visits

Next come the guided visits to two of Cozumel’s top reefs, described as “hidden gems.” Each reef stop lasts around 30 minutes, with a brief 10-minute water taxi transfer in between. These “hidden gems” are likely some of the island’s more beautiful yet less crowded reefs, offering vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life.

Your guides, like Diego and Jose, are experienced in showing you the best spots and keeping the group safe. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable and go the extra mile — Diego, for example, took underwater photos with his GoPro, which he charged $25 for — a bit steep, but the quality of photos seemed appreciated by the reviewer.

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Snorkeling Experience

While the tour is short, you get the opportunity to snorkel in deeper waters without swimming far from shore, thanks to the boat’s proximity to the reefs. The provided snorkel gear, including masks, tubes, and life jackets, make it easy for even beginners to feel comfortable.

The reefs themselves are noted for coral formations, marine species, and overall beauty, making this a rewarding experience for novices and seasoned snorkelers alike.

Refreshments and Comforts

After snorkeling, you can enjoy cold beers, soft drinks, and water, which are included in the price. This little perk helps you unwind and chat about the highlights of your trip. Just a reminder: sunscreen should be biodegradable, and its use is required before entering the water to protect the reef environment.

The Experience from Real Travelers

Kevin’s review provides a helpful perspective: “We had a great time on our snorkel trip with Diego and Jose. The weather was excellent, and we were very lucky as we were the only two on the trip. Diego had a GoPro and took photos, which he eventually charged for — $25, but they looked great.” This highlights the importance of guides and the personal touch they bring, especially on smaller, more intimate tours.

He also mentions that the boat ride offers access to deeper waters, which can be a plus for those wanting to see more than just shallow reef areas, but keep in mind the coastal reefs are still the highlight.

Price and Value

At $38 per person, this tour is quite budget-friendly, especially considering all equipment and guiding are included. It’s an easy pick if you’re on a tighter schedule or traveling with those who prefer a gentle, guided snorkel over more strenuous or lengthy trips.

For comparison, a longer or more elaborate tour might cost more, but this one delivers a quick, scenic, and well-guided reef experience that can fit into a half-day itinerary. Just note that private transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your ferry or taxi to the meeting point.

The Itinerary in Detail

1. Meeting at Chivis del Mar

Getting familiar with the local operator’s base at Caleta harbor is straightforward. Barbara and Jose are known for their friendly approach, which makes even first-timers feel comfortable. The meeting point’s location is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or arrive via ferry.

2. Water Taxi Ride

This part is short but adds a fun element as you cross the coast to reach the reefs. The glass-bottom boat means you also get a peek at the underwater scenery even before snorkeling begins, which is a nice touch for those who enjoy the view from a seat.

3. Reef Exploration

The reefs are described as “hidden gems,” which suggests they’re less crowded and perhaps more pristine. The guided tour ensures you see the most interesting coral formations and marine creatures. The reef stops last for about 30 minutes each, enough to explore without feeling rushed.

4. Return Trip

A quick water taxi back to the starting point wraps up the trip. The entire experience emphasizes convenience, safety, and enjoying natural beauty without any complicated logistics.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel tube, life jacket)
– Water, soda, and two beers per adult (after snorkeling)
– Bilingual guides (Spanish and English)
– Two reef visits and scenic boat ride

Not Included:
– Lunch
– Private transportation or ferry
– Photos (available for purchase at $400 MXN per person for 10 photos)

This setup makes the tour straightforward — all you need to bring is your sense of adventure, a swimsuit, and biodegradable sunscreen.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The tour emphasizes reef protection, requiring biodegradable sunscreen and restricting touching or feeding marine animals. Since the reefs are part of a protected area, respecting these rules is key to preserving their beauty for future visitors.

The experience is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems or high blood pressure, or those over 70 — the guided snorkel involves being in the water, and safety guidelines are strictly enforced.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re new to snorkeling or prefer a short, guided experience with beautiful reef sights, this tour hits the right notes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing without the hassle of longer trips or complicated logistics. Those on a tight schedule or looking for a budget-friendly option will appreciate the value.

However, if you’re after more extensive diving or reef exploration, or if you prefer larger group tours, you might find this experience a bit limited. Still, the guides’ knowledge and the pristine reefs make it worthwhile for most first-time or casual snorkelers.

FAQs

Is snorkeling gear included in the tour?
Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear, including masks, snorkel tubes, and life jackets, are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.

How long is the tour?
The actual snorkeling experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including time for two reef stops and boat rides. Transportation time (ferry or taxi) isn’t included.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers multiple departure times, making it easy to fit into your schedule, whether morning, afternoon, or evening.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, towel, change of clothes, beachwear, waterproof bag, and optional wetsuit. Don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen and your camera if you want photos.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best suited for those who can comfortably snorkel in shallow to moderate depths. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with certain health conditions, or those over 70.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

The Sum Up

The snorkel trip with Chivis Del Mar offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Cozumel’s reefs without the fuss of a full-day adventure. With guides who know the area and a boat that offers lovely views from above and below, it provides a balanced experience for those new to snorkeling or travelers with limited time.

It’s especially appealing for budget-conscious travelers who want a guided, reef-focused outing that’s easy to fit into a day. While it doesn’t include lunch or extensive diving, the reef visits and scenic boat ride deliver what many visitors are looking for: a taste of the underwater world in a relaxed setting.

If you value personal guides, beautiful reef sights, and a hassle-free experience, this tour will likely tick those boxes. Just remember to arrive prepared, respect environmental guidelines, and enjoy the stunning marine scenery of Cozumel.

You can check availability for your dates here: