Cozumel: Clearboat in Cozumel + Snorkel + Refreshments!!

When considering a short but memorable activity in Cozumel, the Clearboat tour offers a unique way to see the island’s vibrant underwater world without the fuss of heavy equipment or long hours. This is a one-hour cruise aboard the world’s only transparent vessel, giving you a front-row seat to the Caribbean’s stunning marine life while staying dry—perfect for those who want a quick but immersive experience.

We like how this tour combines crystal-clear views of the reef, snorkeling in prime locations, and a guided hike to Isla Redonda, all wrapped into a compact, reasonably priced package. Its small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

One possible drawback? The brief duration means you won’t get hours of exploration, but if you’re after a highlight reel of Cozumel’s best underwater sights, this tour hits the mark. This experience suits travelers seeking value, authentic scenery, and a taste of marine adventure without the need for full-day commitments or heavy gear.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: The world’s only transparent vessel offers unparalleled views of marine life.
• Ideal for Short Visits: Perfect for those with limited time but wanting a high-quality snapshot of Cozumel’s reefs.
• Small Group Setting: Personalized experience with limited participants enhances comfort and interaction.
• Includes Refreshments & Snorkel Gear: Easy and convenient, no need to bring much.
• Guided Island Hike: A bonus opportunity to explore Isla Redonda and enjoy scenic views.
• Value for Money: At $50, the combination of boat, snorkel, refreshments, and island hike offers good overall value.

Cozumel is well-known for its colorful coral formations and diverse marine life — a must-see for snorkeling fans and underwater enthusiasts. The Clearboat tour takes you through the most captivating parts of the Caribbean Sea surrounding the island, providing spectacular views through the boat’s see-through hull. Imagine gliding over coral reefs or sunken ships, all while comfortably seated in a boat that doubles as a viewing platform.

While the tour lasts only about 1 hour and 30 minutes, it packs plenty of visual excitement. The boat’s design is a game-changer. Instead of the traditional boat ride, you get to see underwater scenes without getting wet — perfect for those hesitant about snorkeling or with limited time.

From the comments shared by other travelers, many appreciated the stunning views the vessel provided, describing it as “a great way to see marine life without getting cold or wet.” The panoramic nature of the tour means you’re not just watching fish — you’ll see coral formations, sunken ships, and the island’s topography in crisp detail.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

At $50 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering what’s included: snorkel equipment, bottled water, and soft drinks onboard. The beverages are a nice touch, keeping you hydrated during your tour. The snorkel gear makes it easy to dip your toes into the reef if you wish to explore closer at designated stops.

However, it’s worth noting that photographs are not included, so if you want pictures, plan to bring your camera or smartphone, but be prepared to handle it carefully. Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the departure point.

The tour begins with a brief introduction and safety briefing aboard the Clearboat. As the vessel departs, you’ll cruise along the coast of Cozumel, getting a panoramic view of the island’s coastline and its notable sites.

The main highlight is the reef discovery — you’ll see coral formations and marine life through the transparent hull, giving you the sensation of flying over an underwater garden. Guides are bilingual (English, Spanish, French), and they’ll point out interesting sights such as sunken ships or unique reef features, adding educational value.

After the marine viewing segment, the boat takes you to Isla Redonda, a small, scenic island. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided hike to the island’s summit, a perfect chance to take in panoramic views of the Caribbean and learn about the island’s natural features and history.

The hike is relatively brief but rewarding, and it provides a change of pace from the water-based activity, making the tour well-rounded.

The Marine & Island Experience

The marine segment is the core of the tour, with many reviewers noting how stunning the underwater scenery is. Travelers have called it “a fantastic way to see Cozumel’s reef without the hassle of snorkeling,” emphasizing the crystal-clear views through the vessel’s hull. Others appreciated that it’s not just a boat ride but a visual adventure.

The island hike adds a personal touch, allowing visitors to stretch their legs and soak in scenic vistas. Many noted that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the hike enjoyable and informative.

While the boat itself is primarily a viewing vessel, the snorkel gear allows those interested to get closer to the reef when stops permit. The quality of snorkel equipment is generally good, and the provided bottled water and soft drinks ensure you stay refreshed on board.

The refreshments are a nice touch, especially in the warm Caribbean climate. Travelers often mention enjoying the relaxing atmosphere with a cold beverage while taking in the views.

The tour runs in the morning and afternoon, giving flexibility for planning your day. It’s a small-group experience, limited to 10 participants, which means more personalized attention and less crowding. This is a real plus for anyone who prefers a more intimate, relaxed vibe.

Pricing at $50 per person is reasonable, considering the inclusion of snorkel gear and drinks. Since photographs are not included, you might want to bring a waterproof camera if capturing memories matters to you.

Transportation to the departure point is not included, so plan accordingly. The duration (about 1.5 hours total) makes it a perfect add-on for a morning or afternoon, especially if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Cozumel’s marine treasures.

Feedback from travelers suggests this tour offers authentic views rather than overly commercialized spectacle. The boat’s transparent design makes it a highly visual experience, and the small group size fosters genuine interaction. It’s not a lengthy, exhaustive tour but a highlight reel of Cozumel’s underwater beauty.

While some might wish for a longer snorkeling session, many found the combination of reef views and island hike to be well-balanced. It’s especially suited for families, first-timers, or travelers with limited time who want an easy, memorable adventure.

This experience is best suited for those who want a quick yet immersive taste of Cozumel’s marine life. If you’re after stunning views without the hassle of heavy gear or the length of a full-day trip, this will fit your needs. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small-group settings and informative guides.

However, serious snorkelers looking for extended underwater exploration might prefer longer or more in-depth tours. Likewise, those wanting professional underwater photography should bring their own camera, as images aren’t included.

The Cozumel Clearboat tour offers a unique window into the island’s underwater world, delivering stunning views in a compact and enjoyable package. The small-group atmosphere, combined with refreshments and a scenic island hike, makes it an appealing choice for travelers seeking value and authentic moments.

While the tour’s brevity might not satisfy those craving hours of snorkeling, it excels at highlighting the best of Cozumel’s reef and marine life in a way that’s easy to enjoy. It’s a great introduction for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a light yet memorable marine experience.

For families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun, relaxed activity with beautiful views and a touch of island adventure, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to bring your camera, sunscreen, and a sense of curiosity — you’re set for a refreshing glimpse of Cozumel’s underwater splendor.

Is transportation to the departure point included?
No, transportation is not included, so you will need to arrange your own way to the tour start location.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and French, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it suitable for a half-day activity.

Are beverages included?
Yes, you’ll receive bottled water and soft drinks onboard, with two beverages per person.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
While the main vessel offers crystal-clear views, snorkel equipment is provided for those who wish to explore the reefs more closely at designated stops.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, the see-through vessel requires no swimming skill and is safe for children; just ensure they are comfortable around water and boats.

This review highlights a lively, well-rounded marine experience that balances visual marvels, ease of participation, and authentic touches — perfect for those wanting a memorable glimpse of Cozumel’s underwater world without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: