Catamaran Snorkeling to El Cielo and The Money Bar Beach Club

Cozumel is known for its dazzling reefs, soft sands, and lively beach clubs, making it a favorite for travelers seeking sun, sea, and spectacular underwater scenery. The Catamaran Snorkeling to El Cielo and The Money Bar Beach Club offers a well-rounded way to experience this island’s highlights—all in about four hours. While this tour isn’t a full-day extravaganza, it packs enough adventure, relaxation, and value to keep most travelers happily engaged.

What we particularly like about this trip is how it balances guided snorkeling at some of the world’s most beautiful reefs with relaxed beach time at The Money Bar. The small group size ensures personal attention from the crew, helping you feel safe and well-cared-for. Plus, the onboard drinks and snacks add a fun, festive layer to the experience.

A potential consideration? The tour’s pace can be a little brisk if you’re hoping for a long, leisurely beach day, especially since the focus is on multiple snorkeling stops. Still, if you’re looking for a diverse and lively half-day outing, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s especially well-suited for active travelers, families, or couples who want a taste of Cozumel’s underwater world before heading back to port or their hotel.

This tour works best for travelers aged 6 and up, particularly those who enjoy snorkeling and being on the water. Those with recent surgeries, asthma, or epilepsy should think twice, as snorkeling isn’t suited for everyone. But if you’re looking for a combination of adventure, comfort, and a glimpse into local marine life, this tour is a good pick.

Key Points

• Small group setting offers more personalized attention from guides
• All snorkeling gear included makes it hassle-free for beginners
• Multiple snorkeling stops provide a varied underwater experience
• Food and drinks onboard, including beer and margaritas, add to the fun
• Beach time at The Money Bar features lounge chairs, kayaks, and inflatable water park
• Cost offers good value for the included stops and amenities

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Introduction and Booking

This tour, priced at $84.99 per person, is often booked about 6 weeks in advance, reflecting its popularity. Its moderate price point makes it accessible, especially considering the included amenities, snorkel gear, and multiple stops. Booking early ensures a spot in the small group—limited to 15 people—and helps you plan comfortably within your Cozumel itinerary.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at The Money Bar Beach Club, located conveniently along the coast. The check-in is recommended 30 minutes before departure, giving you time to settle in and enjoy some pre-tour drinks or snacks at the beach club. Since the meeting point is near public transportation, getting there should be straightforward for most travelers.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: The Money Bar Beach Club
Your day kicks off with an hour at this lively beach spot, which features lounge chairs, kayaks, and an inflatable water park. The beach is perfect for relaxing after the boat ride, and you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while sipping on cold drinks or nibbling on snacks. The water park adds a playful element, especially for families or those young at heart, although some activities may incur additional costs. This stop sets a casual, fun tone for the day.

Stop 2: Palancar Reef
Next, you’ll head to one of Cozumel’s most renowned reefs: Palancar Reef. As part of the second-largest coral barrier in the world, it’s a true highlight for snorkelers. Your guide will lead a guided snorkel tour, giving you a chance to observe local sea life and coral formations. Expect clear waters and an abundance of fish. Several reviews mention the extra time in the water—some travelers noted it was the most time they’ve ever spent snorkeling during a tour.

Stop 3: Playa El Cielo
The final stop is the most Instagram-famous: El Cielo. Named after the starfish (with some of the best chances to see them on the sandy bottom), this shallow, crystal-clear bay is like swimming in a giant aquatic pool. Its gentle, shallow waters make it accessible for snorkelers of all skill levels and ideal for wading. It’s also a chance to relax on the sandbank or play with stingrays, which you might spot in the area.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are essential snorkeling gear, snacks, and a selection of alcoholic beverages—beer, margaritas, and rum punch—plus sodas and bottled water. The food offerings include fresh seasonal fruit, fish ceviche, and corn chips, making it a true taste of Mexican coastal flavors.

Not included is the $11 marine park fee, which you’ll need to pay at the entrance to the marine protected area. Also, food and drinks at The Money Bar are extra, so plan accordingly if you want a full meal there.

The Crew and Experience

Multiple reviews praise the crew for their friendliness and helpfulness. One reviewer noted that “all the crew were friendly and made the trip a great time,” while another appreciated the attentiveness of the captain and team. Such personal touches go a long way in making the experience memorable and safe.

A few travelers mentioned minor inconveniences, like limited safety vests, but the staff’s quick responsiveness seems to address such issues. The boat itself is comfortable, though one review did mention the seats were a tad uncomfortable—an element that’s often overlooked but can matter if you’re sensitive to seating.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The reefs, especially Palancar, are vibrant with marine life, and the guided aspect ensures you get the best out of the underwater scenery. Expect to see colorful fish and coral formations that make snorkeling here worthwhile. The shallow waters at El Cielo are perfect for starfish, and many travelers enjoyed the chance to see these iconic creatures up close.

Drinks and Snacks

The onboard drinks flow freely, with most reviews highlighting the quality and quantity of beverages. The included margaritas and rum punch are excellent for relaxing after a swim, and the snacks keep energy levels high. Some travelers appreciated the fresh ceviche and fruit, which added a touch of local flavor to the experience.

Overall Value

At nearly $85, this tour offers a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and inclusions. You’re getting guided snorkeling at prime spots, access to beach amenities, and unlimited drinks, all in a manageable half-day. The reviews confirm that many find it worth the price, especially given the variety of activities packed into four hours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for families with kids aged 6 and up, snorkelers of all levels, and travelers who appreciate a social, lively atmosphere. The combination of reef snorkeling, beach relaxation, and onboard drinks appeals to those seeking a balanced mix of activity and downtime. However, it might not be ideal for travelers with recent surgeries, asthma, or other health conditions that limit water activities.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you want an active, fun-filled half-day exploring Cozumel’s underwater world, this tour is a solid pick. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention, and the multiple stops ensure you see a variety of marine environments. Plus, the added perks like drinks, snacks, and beach access make it feel like a true mini-vacation.

The tour’s balance of guided snorkeling, free time at The Money Bar, and professional crew makes it a worthwhile investment. It offers good value, especially when you consider the quality of the snorkeling spots and the friendly atmosphere onboard.

This tour is best for travelers who enjoy being in the water, want to see starfish and coral reefs, and love combining adventure with some well-earned relaxation. If you’re after a lively, all-in-one Cozumel experience without breaking the bank, this catamaran trip is worth considering.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately four hours, including all stops and beach time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Money Bar Beach Club and returns there at the end of the trip.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, travelers must be at least 6 years old to participate, and those under 18 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

What about the marine park fee?
The $11 US fee for the marine protected area isn’t included and must be paid separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?
No, pregnant travelers are advised not to snorkel, and certain health conditions like recent surgery or back/neck problems are contraindicated.

In essence, this catamaran snorkeling tour offers a lively, well-organized way to enjoy Cozumel’s best underwater and beach spots. It combines guided reef exploration with ample time to relax, eat, and sip drinks—making it an experience that’s both fun and refreshing. If you’re after a lively, friendly, and value-packed half-day adventure, it’s a great choice.