10 Best Cozumel Snorkeling Tours in 2023
Looking for the best Cozumel Mexico snorkeling tours? You’ve come to the right guide!
As a travel blogger that lives in nearby Playa del Carmen, I’ve been to Cozumel countless times for snorkeling tours and excursions.
With its abundant coral reefs and crystal clear waters, Cozumel offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities in the Yucatan Peninsula.
But with so many incredible snorkeling tours in Cozumel to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one to go on.
MY TOP PICK
⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?
The best Cozumel snorkeling tour is this Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs with more than 450 5-star reviews!
That’s why I’ve compiled this list of my top recommendations for the best Cozumel snorkeling tours–each offering an incredible underwater experience.
So whether you’re staying on the island, are visiting Cozumel on a cruise ship shore excursion, or just visiting on a day trip, I’ve got you covered!
Ready to find out which of these best snorkeling tours in Cozumel is right for you? Let’s get started!
Top 3 Picks: Best Cozumel Snorkeling Tours
Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs
✅ 450+ 5-Star Reviews
✅ Starfish Snorkeling
Best Cozumel Snorkeling Tours
These are the best snorkeling tours Cozumel has to offer whether you’re staying on the island, stopping there on a cruise, or are visiting on a Cozumel day trip from Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya.
1. Cozumel Snorkeling Tour: Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 450 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This El Cielo Cozumel Snorkeling Tour is definitely my top recommendation for the best snorkeling excursion in Cozumel!
El Cielo (“Heaven” in Spanish) is the best place to snorkel in Cozumel, known for its bright turquoise water and giant starfish.
The water there is unbelievably clear! And the water is shallow enough that you can dive down to get an up close view of the starfish.
Our guide Christian was amazing! He was so informative and knowledgeable. We saw sea turtles, many starfish, sting rays, and gorgeous fish. The waters were so beautiful. Captain Roman knew how to navigate perfectly. We definitely recommend this snorkeling tour!
–DANA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
And aside from El Cielo Beach Cozumel you’ll also get to snorkel at Palancar and Columbia reefs–which are known for their vibrant coral and sea life.
And you’ll finish the tour at El Cielito (“Little Heaven”), a shallow beach area where you’ll enjoy drinks and snacks while relaxing in the water. Plus, all of the snorkeling gear and a knowledgeable guide is included.
I’ve personally been on the El Cielo tour and it’s one of my all time favorite tours in Riviera Maya–you can read my full El Cielo guide for all the details!
What’s included in the El Cielo Cozumel Snorkeling Tour:
- Visit to Palancar and Columbia Reefs, El Cielo Sandbar, and El Cielito Beach
- Guided snorkeling tour
- Beers, water, and soda
- Snack
- Snorkel gear: Vest, mask, new tube
- Insured shaded boat
- Experienced trained guides
2. Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat
- ⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 315 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 2 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat Tour is perfect for first-time visitors or cruise ship passengers with limited time.
You’ll board a traditional glass bottom boat and explore the clear waters off Cozumel’s coast. The boat will stop at shallow underwater reefs, so you can snorkel and see colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and sea turtles.
Had such an amazing experience snorkeling with the team. They took us to 3 different Cozumel snorkeling sites with crystal blue water and we saw so many fish, corals and even a green sea turtle. Would 100% recommend
–SARAH (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The tour offers easy boat transportation, and all the snorkeling equipment and chilled beers, soft drinks, and water are provided.
Plus, one of the best things about this Cozumel glass bottom boat snorkeling tour is that you can just sit back and enjoy a stress-free excursion, with everything taken care of for you.
What’s included in the Cozumel Coral Reef Snorkeling by Glass Bottom Boat:
- Glass Bottom Boat Tour
- Snorkeling
- Beer (available after the snorkeling activity)
- Soft drinks and bottled water
- Bilingual guide
- Snorkel tube (free to take as souvenir)
- Use of snorkel equipment (fins, mask and life vest)
3. The Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 215 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour is one of the best Cozumel tours and excursions, where you can explore Cozumel’s underwater world and learn about local conservation efforts.
The tour starts with a visit to Cozumel’s turtle sanctuary, where you can snorkel among green turtles in their natural habitat. It’s an incredible experience and one of the top things to do in Cozumel!
The best snorkeling experience that I’ve had! They took us to four different locations where we saw star fish, large sea turtles, massive coral reefs, and even sting rays! At the end they made us guacamole from scratch with ceviche and chips, it was delicious and the guides were so much fun. We truly enjoyed this experience.
–ALYSSA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
You’ll then continue on to explore El Cielo, a shallow sandbar that offers some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel where you can snorkel with giant starfish in crystal clear waters.
Then, you’ll end the tour at El Cielito, a shallow beach where you can enjoy freshly prepared snacks and drinks.
What’s included in the Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour:
- Snorkeling at the Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary
- Snorkeling at El Cielo
- Visit to El Cielito
- Use of Snorkeling equipment
- Snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Bottled water
4. El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 170 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience offers an energetic Cozumel Mexico snorkeling tour with a fun party experience too.
The tour combines a 65-foot catamaran cruise, snorkeling excursion, and beach party–allowing you to experience multiple island highlights in one day.
This was a great experience. We loved every minute of it. You were able to snorkel in beautiful waters and see many different kinds of fish. My family loved it. The crew were very energetic and helpful when asked questions. I would recommend this excursion for anyone that wants a beautiful view of the island.
–SUSAN (READ MORE REVIEWS)
You’ll cruise along Cozumel’s coastline and experience a guided snorkeling tour at Palancar Reef with a knowledgeable guide, seeing coral formations, tropical fish, and maybe even sea turtles and stingrays.
Then on this Cozumel catamaran snorkeling excursion, you’ll head to El Cielo, a shallow sandbar where you can easily spot giant starfish in the crystal clear waters.
After exploring the waters off Cozumel’s shore, you’ll head to shore an island-style beach party with music, beer, margaritas, cheeseburgers, and beach volleyball.
What’s included in the El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience:
- 65 ft sailing catamaran
- Snorkeling at Palancar Reef
- Snorkeling at El Cielo
- Beach Party
- Entrance fee to National Parks
- Certified snorkel and safety guide
- Snorkel and safety equipment
- Angus cheeseburger
- Alcoholic beverages
- Aqua park with water floats, slides, and trampolines for all ages
- Private beach cabanas, lounge chairs, and hammocks
- Volleyball, kayak, and stand up paddle-boards
5. El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 170 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club Adventure is the perfect combination of snorkeling and relaxation.
You’ll board a motor-powered catamaran and explore Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo reefs using provided snorkeling gear.
Never a dull moment on or off the boat. We saw turtles, rays and lots of fish. The tour guide, the chef, and the DJ were so fun and friendly. We would definitely do it again and absolutely recommend this to anyone who is up for an adventure.
–CHRISSY (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Then, you’ll get exclusive pool, lounger, and umbrella access at a Cozumel beach club where you’ll also enjoy snacks and alcoholic drinks such as beer, margaritas, and rum punch.
The tour takes you to some of the coastline’s most spectacular underwater reef scenery, with vibrant coral formations, tropical fish, stingrays, and sea turtles.
What’s included in the El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club:
- Guided catamaran snorkeling tour
- Palancar and Columbia reefs and El Cielo Beach stops
- Guacamole, chips, and fish ceviche
- Drinks aboard – Beer, margaritas, bottled water, soft drinks
- Beach club access with pools, lounge chairs, umbrellas, showers, and dressing rooms
- Free wifi at beach club
6. ATV Mud Kicking and Snorkeling by Boat in Cozumel
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 170 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5.5 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This ATV Mud Kicking and Snorkeling tour is one of the best Cozumel ATV tours and a great combo tour for those looking for an adrenaline rush.
With your guide, you’ll cruise through the trails on an ATV, and then make your way to Jade Cenote where you can cool off with a dip in the middle of the jungle.
And if you’re brave enough, you can even do some cliff jumping at Jade Cenote for the ultimate adrenaline rush!
We had a blast! We started with the snorkeling and resort area. Loved the inflatables on water at the resort. The boat for snorkeling was nice and well maintained and had everything needed for snorkeling. The ATV ride was fun and loved going to see a cenote.
–TAMARA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Afterwards, you’ll make your way to Tortugas Beach Club (one of the best water parks in Cozumel), where you’ll get to enjoy lunch, an open bar, and fun water sports and activities.
Then, hop on a boat for snorkeling on Cozumel’s crystal-clear waters, where you’ll get to see tropical fish, coral reefs, and marine life.
Plus, this Cozumel ATV beach adventure includes a knowledgable local guide to show you the way and all gear is provided!
What’s included in the ATV Mud Kicking and Snorkeling by Boat in Cozumel:
- ATV riding in Cozumel
- Snorkel by boat
- Lunch
- Alcoholic beverages
- Soft drinks
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Use of water park at Tortugas Beach Club
- Free wifi at Tortugas Beach Club
7. Invisible Boat Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 145 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 1 hr 45 min
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This Invisible Boat Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel is so unique–you’ll board a clear boat that’s completely transparent on all sides.
Unlike traditional glass-bottom boats, this vessel is entirely transparent, giving you an unobstructed view of the incredible underwater world around Cozumel.
This tour also includes optional snorkeling as well, where you’ll get to snorkel close to shore and see tropical fish and coral reefs.
Tour was amazing! Entire boat was clear!! Our tour guides were amazing! Offered us drinks often and cleaned up any water so we could see better. Snorkeling was great they fed the fish so there were fish all around us!
–DIANA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Plus, you can choose from several start times to suit your schedule and the group size is limited to 16 people, so you can get a more personalized experience.
I personally went on the Clear Boat in Cozumel and thought it was so cool! The snorkeling wasn’t the most spectacular but it’s great for kids or first timers and the real highlight is the clear boat!
What’s included in the Invisible Boat Snorkeling Adventure in Cozumel:
- Invisible Boat Ride
- Reef snorkeling stop and guided tour
- Snorkel gear, vest, fins, mask, and snorkel
- Drinks – Beers, water, and sodas
- Certified captain and crew
- Insured 100% crystal-clear boat
8. El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat
- ⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 140 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat is perfect for those looking for a private Cozumel snorkeling experience.
This Cozumel private snorkel tour is basically just like the El Cielo Tour listed above–only on your own private boat!
After getting picked up on your private speedboat, you’ll get to do some snorkeling at some of Cozumel’s most famous snorkeling sites including El Cielo.
Our group had a perfect snorkeling experience thanks to the crew. We were guided along numerous scenic locations with clear safety instructions and were able to enjoy the excursion with the added comfort of privacy. The ceviche and drinks served were very delicious!
–STEVEN (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Then, you’ll visit a pristine white sandy beach where you can enjoy some delicious fish ceviche and cold margaritas away from the crowds.
Group tours to El Cielo can often feel a bit crowded so this private El Cielo tour is the perfect option if you want a more relaxed and personalized experience.
What’s included in the El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat:
- Private snorkeling tour to El Cielo and nearby reefs
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Soda and bottled water
- Alcoholic beverages
- Snacks
- Professional certified staff
9. Bavarian Fiesta Snorkel Activity in Glass Bottom Boat
- ⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 75 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This Bavarian Fiesta Snorkel Activity in Glass Bottom Boat is one of the most unique snorkeling tours in Cozumel.
You’ll board a boat known as the “Bavarian Fiesta” in San Miguel de Cozumel and explore the waters around the island of Cozumel, with stops to snorkel at two shipwrecks, one reef, and El Cielito and El Cielo sites.
We had a great experience! The captain took us to many different Cozumel snorkeling spots. We saw turtles, fish, stingrays and sea stars. They made us guacamole and pico de gallo for a snack and it was delicious. They took really good care of us and made sure we were happy and having a good time.
–JESSICA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
But that’s not all–this tour also includes a Bavarian Fiesta with freshly made snacks, Mexican drinks, and German beer.
Plus, you’ll have a knowledgable guide to point out all the best Cozumel snorkeling locations and the small group size of no more than 16 people ensures a more personalized experience.
What’s included in the Bavarian Fiesta Snorkel Activity:
- Snorkeling at 2 shipwrecks, 1 reef, and El Cielo sandbar
- Visit to El Cielito
- Knowledgeable guide
- Snacks
- Soda
- Alcoholic beverages
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Wifi
10. E-Bike Adventure in Cozumel – West Side Ride N’ Snorkel
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 65 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 3 hours
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Why book this tour?
This E-Bike Adventure in Cozumel is the perfect way to explore the less developed west side of Cozumel while bike riding and snorkeling.
You’ll get to ride around on a Pedego electric bike and learn about the history, culture, and nature of Cozumel from your knowledgeable guide.
Plus, the tour includes a stop at a freshwater cenote, where you can take a dip and cool off before heading to your snorkeling spot.
Our tour guide was fantastic! He was polite, professional, fun and treated us very well. E-bikes were a blast to ride and our stop at Sky Reef was so much fun!
–JOSH (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The snorkeling activity occurs at Skyreef Beach Club, which has the closest to-shore reef on Cozumel.
Here, you’ll get to snorkel with a knowledgeable guide and see colorful fish swimming among coral formations. Plus, drinks and Mexican food are available for purchase.
What’s included in the E-Bike Adventure in Cozumel:
- Electric bike tour of Cozumel
- Visit to a freshwater cenote
- Snorkeling at Skyreef Beach Club
- Local guide
- Use of bicycle
- Use of helmet
- Snorkel equipment
Snorkeling Tours in Cozumel Mexico: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Cozumel snorkel tours:
Regular sunscreen is prohibited on Cozumel snorkeling excursions so you’ll want to bring biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen.
Also, be sure to bring a beach towel, a change of clothes, and cash for tips. Snorkeling gear will be provided but you can also consider bringing your own snorkel set to ensure the best fit and cleanliness.
It’s recommended to wear a swimsuit with comfortable clothes or a coverup over your swimsuit.
And you’ll want to wear sandals or flip flops that can easily be removed before boarding the boat.
I usually prefer to wear a one-piece swimsuit as they provide the most coverage when dealing with life vests and snorkel equipment.
On snorkel tours in Cozumel, you’ll typically be able to see colorful fish, coral formations, starfish, sea turtles, and stingrays.
The amount and variety of marine life you’ll get to see depends on the snorkeling location and sea conditions.
But in general, Cozumel is known for having some of the best snorkeling in Mexico.
No, it’s possible to snorkel off the beach and many of the resorts in Cozumel offer snorkeling activities.
However, the best coral reefs in Cozumel are typically only accessible by boat and so you’ll need to book a snorkeling tour to get there.
Yes, Cozumel shore snorkeling can be done on your own.
However, the most popular and best snorkel spots are typically only accessible by boat, so if you want to get the full experience and see the best coral reefs in Cozumel, it’s recommended to book a snorkeling tour.
Plus, Cozumel snorkeling trips also include use of equipment and the presence of a knowledgeable guide.
No, if you have your own snorkel set, snorkeling off the beach is possible in Cozumel but depending on the location, you may need to pay for access to a beach club or resort.
When comparing Cozumel vs Cancun, Cozumel is known for having much better snorkeling than Cancun because Cozumel is an island that is surrounded by an extensive coral reef system.
Snorkeling at Cozumel’s coral reefs is usually more diverse and colorful than the snorkeling in Cancun.
Final Thoughts: Snorkeling Cozumel Guide
I hope this Cozumel snorkeling tour guide has helped you decide which tour is right for you!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out on the water or an adventure-filled day exploring Cozumel’s coral reefs, there are plenty of great snorkeling tours to choose from.
My top recommendation for the best snorkeling tour in Cozumel is the El Cielo Snorkeling Tour, where you’ll get to snorkel with giant starfish in bright turquoise waters.
The water there is so clear–it’s really unforgettable! It’s one of the best places to snorkel in Cozumel and one of the most memorable Riviera Maya tours I’ve done.
But no matter which of these best Cozumel island snorkeling tours you choose, you’re sure to have an amazing experience getting an up close view of Cozumel’s vibrant underwater world.
RELATED READING:
- El Cielo Cozumel Tour Guide
- Best Things to Do in Cozumel
- Clear Boat Cozumel Review
- Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Review
- The Ultimate San Miguel de Cozumel Guide
- Best ATV Tours in Cozumel
🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨 Hotels: I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗 Rental Cars: I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!
🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
