Cozumel is a picturesque island nestled in the Caribbean Sea… but you probably know this already if you’re reading this post! Cozumel is mostly known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life and for its wild landscapes.
Most people who come to Cozumel, no matter if for one day or multiple days, usually go on two tipes of tours: jeep tours to explore the island, and snorkeling tours to explore its marine life (and yes, I’ve done both).
By joining a snorkeling tour, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to the coral formations, colorful fish, turtles, rays, starfish, and more.
I have selected the best Cozumel snorkeling tours available to make your choice easier. These excursions cater to all skills and offer good value. You’ll be taken to the best snorkeling spots, and will be accompanied by experts to ensure your safety.
➥ Why should you trust my selections? I’ve personally been snorkeling in Cozumel, and I know the best spots to enjoy the marine life on the island. I’ve carefully selected these excursions (including the one I went on) ensuring that they take you there, are led by expert guides, and provide safety and fun at the same time.
I use and trust Viator and Get Your Guide when booking tours around the world. I especially recommend them because of their cancellation policy. If for any reason your plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
In a rush? These are the very best tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia & El Cielo |
| NIGHT SNORKELING | Night Snorkeling – Observation of Octopus |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Lagoon 39ft Private Catamaran 6hr |
| SEA SCOOTER TOUR | Sunken Ship by Sea Scooters & Breakfast |
OUR PICK: The BEST Cozumel Snorkel Tour
This Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs is the tour we went on and that I’d like to recommend.
We came to Cozumel for the day, and this tour departs from a marina that is a short taxi ride from the ferry terminal. Here, you’ll hop aboard a boat and travel to the best places to snorkel in Cozumel.
The tour features 3 snorkeling stops at Palancar, Columbia, and El Cielo. The warm was turquoise but unfortunately on the day we visited the sea was quite rough, which made things more difficult for newbies or not confident swimmer (I wore a lifejacket and I was fine).
However, I was told that’s not usually the case, and even people that have never snorkeled before can have a great time on this tour.
On the first stop at Palancar Reef we could see corals and colorful fish (we didn’t see any turtles unfortunately, but they usually see them when the sea is calmer), but the highlight of the trip for us was our stop at El Cielo where we could see countless starfish.
We ended the day with beers and ceviche at El Cielito, a sandbar where we spotted some stingrays and a baby shark!
Water, soft drinks, beer, and a snack are included in this tour.
➤ Why do I recommend this tour? The excursion is led by friendly and very experienced guides who will ensure you feel safe in the water, and have a fantastic time. The tour takes you to the island’s absolute best snorkeling spots, and provides all the equipment needed for a successful and fun day.
It’s not just us saying it! Read what the reviews say:
”We had an fantastic experience with Juel and Momo who were our guides for the day. They made sure that we were comfortable, felt safe and attended to our needs and concerns. The boat was quite big so we had good room to move around in. The sea is exceptionally beautiful. We managed to see many beautiful fish, stingrays, a cute mini shark and starfish. Totally worth it, book this tour!”
Jonathan_M – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Snorkeling gear, guides, transfers to all snorkeling spots, drinks, and a snack. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cozumel Snorkeling Tour by Glass Bottom Boat
Hop aboard a glass bottom boat and cruise along the coastline with this Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat with Guide. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish as you sail.
Take the chance to discover the Villa Blanca Wall and the Paradise Reef during the snorkeling stops. Plus, enjoy chilled beers, soft drinks, and water to keep you refreshed during the 2-hour tour.
It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time. You don’t need to worry about equipment because everything will be provided!
This tour includes: A bilingual guide, boat trip, snorkel gear, and refreshments. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Snorkeling in Cozumel + Beach Party with Open Bar
Jump on a 65-foot fury catamaran with this Cozumel: El Cielo, Palancar Reef and Beach Party with Food. You’ll have the chance to snorkel among colorful fish in a spectacular reef, and also stop at El Cielo Beach.
This secluded sandbar is best known for its starfish inhabitants, and it’s a perfect spot to soak up the sun. Your adventures continue with a party on a private beach, where you’ll refuel with a cheeseburger and unlimited drinks.
Paddleboard, kayak, relax in a hammock, and enjoy the waterpark. It’s one of the best Cozumel snorkeling tours for party animals!
This tour includes: Snorkel gear, guides, beach access, equipment, lunch, and unlimited drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Night Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel
Ready to discover the dark underwater world? Check out this Night Snorkeling – Observation of Octopus and Other Species. This unique experience will have you swimming after dusk, and it enables you to see species you wouldn’t find during the day.
Keep your eyes peeled for octopus and squid, which provide a wonderful show of camouflage. They’re quite active during the night, so your chances of seeing them are high. As you swim, you’ll come across other marine species as well.
This tour includes: A guide, snorkel equipment, diving lamps, videos of the experience, and water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cozumel Snorkeling with Access to Beach Club
Explore gorgeous reefs by joining this Starfish, Stingrays, and the Turtle Bay Experience by Catamaran. You’ll glide on the Caribbean Sea and enjoy snorkeling stops in prime locations, including Palancar, Columbia, and El Cielo.
Follow an experienced guide in your search for starfish, corals, and other fascinating marine creatures. The tour includes a stop at an exclusive beach club for lunch and drinks. You’ll also have time to relax at the pool and use the facilities.
This tour includes: A catamaran cruise, a guide, snorkel gear, lunch, drinks, and use of beach club amenities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Snorkeling Tours in Cozumel
▶️ Embark on this Lagoon 39ft Private Catamaran 6hr – El Cielo Full Experience to enjoy a day out with your friends. You’ll sail on the mesmerizing waters of Cozumel with the chance to customize your itinerary.
Snorkel in coral reefs, try your balance on a paddleboard, and savor a scrumptious lunch onboard. You’ll also be served snacks and drinks throughout the day, getting to relax on deck.
This trip caters to up to 15 people, so it’s perfect for big groups.
This tour includes: A private catamaran, lunch, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Escape to paradise on earth with this family-friendly El Cielo Cozumel Snorkeling by Private Boat.
Sail to the most renowned reefs and breathtaking locations on the Mexican coast. The highlight of the trip is arguably El Cielo sandbar, where you can snorkel among starfish and baby rays.
You’ll swim in crystalline waters, and get to relax under the sun with 6 of your closest friends. Refuel with fresh ceviche paired with beers and soft drinks.
This tour includes: Snorkel gear, guides, transfers in an insured boat, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Seatrek or Sea Scooters?
▶️ You don’t have to be a swimmer to enjoy water activities! This SeaTrek Underwater Helmet Diving Experience in Downtown Cozumel is perfect for non-confident swimmers.
You’ll get equipped with an astronaut-like helmet and walk on the ocean floor, surrounded by fish and corals. Your helmet will allow you to keep breathing as you enjoy your underwater stroll.
Drinks to celebrate your venture are included, and you’ll get an additional 15% discount on food and drinks at Jeanie’s Beach Club, where the tour ends.
This tour includes: Use of helmets, guides, snorkeling gear, lockers, showers, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Check out Sunken Ship Expedition by Sea Scooters & Breakfast for a memorable half day. You’ll get equipped to ride a sea scooter and dive into a sunken ship.
The underwater vehicle helps you move faster, so you’ll make the most of your time under the surface.
Zip past schools of fish and other marine life during your sea adventure. Back on land, you’ll learn how to prepare a Mexican snack before indulging in lunch and a tequila tasting.
This tour includes: Transfers, snorkeling equipment, sea scooters, safety instructions, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
