Welcome back to the third segment of “How to choose your snorkel excursion at Cozumel.” Last year, after sharing the first installment, I realized it might be important to be more specific, so I wrote the second part: “How to choose your snorkel at El Cielo excursion.” This year, Safe Tours Cozumel has added newer tours to the catalog, so I figured it was the perfect time to update it with some of my favorite tours to El Cielo – and what better time to do so than summer? Let’s dive right in.
What better way to start than with an OG tour I’ve been recommending since forever, one of my all-time favorites since I was a little girl. If you’ve never been on a panga before, let me introduce you to this little Cozumel staple. Pangas are small, speedy boats that zip you straight to the reefs, letting you skip the wait times of larger tours. This particular trip takes you out to Colombia and Palancar, two of Cozumel’s most stunning reefs, before bringing you to El Cielo, where the shallow turquoise waters and starfish create a scene straight out of a postcard.
It’s a four-hour experience that’s all about good snorkeling and that classic Cozumel boat ride feel. This one comes with no fancy add-ons.
Special Price: $44.99 USD
Who would I recommend this excursion to?
I said it last year, but I’ll say it again – I wouldn’t recommend it for families with small children or elders. The trip can get tiring under the sun and with the motion of a small boat.
Another classic I keep recommending. This one is essentially the same as the first tour but designed specifically for cruise ship passengers. It departs from the El Cid La Ceiba Hotel, right across from the cruise terminals, saving you the extra cost and hassle of transportation to the pier.
Special Price: $44.99 USD
Who would I recommend this excursion to?
It’s a great option for families with kids starting from around 10 years old, as well as teens and adults who want to maximize their short time on the island. Just keep in mind it’s a long trip under the sun, so if your kids get tired easily, plan accordingly.
This is one of those newer additions I was talking about. The Turtle Sanctuary Snorkel Tour lets you swim alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat, the type of experience one can’t describe. You will visit the other stop, but the Turtle Sanctuary is by far the best one. Seeing the turtles isn’t a guarantee, but the chances are always rather high.
Special Price: $58.99 USD
Who would I recommend this excursion to?
It’s perfect for families with younger kids because it uses larger, more stable boats, making the ride smoother and the snorkeling easier for everyone. Also, I’ve greeted families when they return to pier from this tour, and the kids are always the ones most excited to tell me all about the turtles.
This is the latest snorkel tour I’ve tried, and honestly, it’s the most fun I’ve had in a long time. Imagine a full-on party on a catamaran, reggaeton blasting, everyone dancing and laughing together. I mean, in all fairness, the people make the vibe, so If you’re not coming in with an open mind ready to party, it might not be the tour for you.
The best part from this has got to be the ride back, with the sun setting, and the mariachis playing.
Special Price: $59.99 USD
Who would I recommend this excursion to?
While kids technically can join, I’d say keep this one for adults. You’ll enjoy it way more if you’re there to drink, dance, and let loose with friends rather than worry about little ones running around.
That’s it for this year’s best snorkel tours to El Cielo. Stay tuned for next year’s edition, and let me know – which one are you planning to try? If you’ve done any before, what did you think? I know pangas aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but personally, I’d have the whole pitcher.
By Bee Díaz
