Discovering El Cielo Reef by Double Decker Catamaran

Traveling to Cozumel often means dreaming of turquoise waters, colorful marine life, and unforgettable snorkeling. The Discovering El Cielo Reef by Double Decker Catamaran promises all that and more—an adventure that combines comfortable cruising, lively guides, and some of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean. But is it worth the $37 per person price tag? We’ve gathered the details, so you can decide if this is the underwater escapade for you.

What we particularly like about this tour is its balance: a spacious boat with shaded decks that keep you cool while soaking up the views, plus a well-planned itinerary that hits the highlights of Cozumel’s famed reefs. The second schedule offering a sunset cruise adds an extra romantic touch, perfect for those seeking a memorable evening.

A possible consideration is the reef conservation tax of MX$500—an unavoidable fee that adds to the cost but supports local efforts to preserve these precious ecosystems. Also, keep in mind that the tour is suited best for travelers comfortable with snorkeling and open to a lively social atmosphere. If you’re after quiet solitude, this might not be your ideal escape.

This experience suits travelers looking for an active, social day on the water with excellent chances to see marine life and enjoy spectacular coastal scenery. It’s also great for those who appreciate guided tours with entertainment, food, and drinks included.

Key Points

• Comfortable, spacious double-deck boat with shaded areas perfect for relaxing.
• Multiple stops at top reefs—Colombia, Palancar, El Cielo—each offering unique underwater sights.
• Unlimited drinks and food for a lively, all-inclusive experience.
• Expert guides and entertainers enhance the trip with knowledge and fun.
• Includes snorkeling gear—no need to rent—plus guided snorkeling at key reefs.
• High value for the price at just $37, considering the large group size (max 35) and all amenities.

A Practical Guide to the Catamaran Adventure

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour starts at the Swallows Sculpture in Cozumel’s town center, where you’ll meet the crew for a 1:00 pm departure. From there, the boat sails toward the southern coast of the island, providing fantastic views along the way. Expect lively music and a cheerful atmosphere as the crew sets the tone for the day.

First stop: Colombia Reef. Known as the deepest of the tour’s stops, this site offers impressive underwater vistas. You’ll have a guided snorkeling session that lets you marvel at vibrant coral, schools of tropical fish, and possibly the odd sea turtle. The presence of certified guides reassures many travelers that they’re safe and in good hands.

Next: Palancar Reef, often described as a visual feast. The reef’s astounding variety of corals and marine life makes it a favorite among snorkelers. Several reviews mention the possibility of spotting majestic sea turtles, which can be a highlight for animal lovers. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, sharing insights about the reef’s ecosystem.

The highlight for many is El Cielo, a sandy bank famous for its vibrant starfish. Here, the shallow waters—around 1.2 meters deep—are ideal for relaxing and floating. The starfish add a splash of color and create a surreal, almost otherworldly scene. As one review states, “You’re swimming in a postcard here.” After this, the tour will move on to the El Cielito Beach, a shallow sandbar with clear waters where manta rays are sometimes seen swimming nearby.

Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

The tour provides complimentary snorkeling gear, so you don’t need to worry about renting equipment. The guides manage the gear and ensure everyone feels comfortable, making it accessible whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a first-timer. The reef stops are designed to be visually stunning but also manageable in terms of depth and currents.

Many travelers appreciate the vibrant marine life, with colorful fish and starfish at El Cielo being the star attractions. The guides often share interesting facts, enhancing the experience and making it more than just floating around.

Onboard Comfort and Entertainment

The double-decker catamaran is a standout feature. With shaded areas, you can relax out of the sun, sip on unlimited drinks—beer and margaritas for those over 18—and enjoy the lively onboard entertainment. The food options are simple but satisfying: hotdog, fish ceviche, and fresh fruit, perfect for refueling after snorkeling.

The entertainers onboard add a festive touch, with music and possibly games, making for a dynamic social environment. This is a party-style tour, so if you’re looking for a quiet, meditative day on the water, you might find it a bit crowded or noisy.

The Sunset Option

For those who choose the later schedule, the tour concludes with one of the most stunning sunsets you’re likely to witness, giving the adventure a romantic finale. It’s an especially memorable way to end a full day of water fun and scenic beauty.

Analyzing the Value

At $37 per person, this tour stands out as a good deal considering it includes snorkeling gear, drinks, food, entertainment, and guided reef visits. The reef conservation tax of MX$500 adds to the total cost but supports marine preservation. When you consider the number of stops, the inclusions, and the lively atmosphere, the value seems quite fair.

However, it’s worth noting that the group size is limited to 35 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. The tour’s timing—starting at 1:00 pm and lasting about 5 hours—fits well into a typical afternoon and early evening activity.

What Travelers Are Saying

Though the reviews are currently unavailable, the described features and itinerary suggest that most participants would enjoy spectacular views, vibrant marine life, and a lively social scene. The positive aspects highlighted include the quality of snorkeling, the comfort of the boat, and the fun, energetic guides.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy active, social outings with opportunities to see marine life up close. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable snorkeling and want a well-organized day that combines adventure with comfort. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy lively atmospheres and good food and drinks, this tour hits the mark.

On the other hand, if you prefer quiet, solitary moments or have limited mobility, you might find the bustling environment less appealing. Also, the reef conservation fee is an added cost to consider, especially if you’re budget-conscious.

Final Thoughts

The Discovering El Cielo Reef by Double Decker Catamaran offers a lively, colorful way to experience Cozumel’s underwater riches. The combination of spectacular reefs, friendly guides, and a fun onboard atmosphere makes it a solid choice for those seeking an engaging day on the water.

With its reasonable price point, inclusive amenities, and stunning scenery, this tour provides a great balance of adventure and relaxation. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Cozumel’s reefs, surrounded by good company and lively entertainment.

If you’re after a day that blends beautiful marine encounters, scenic cruising, and a lively social scene, this tour may well be your perfect match. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and your camera ready for those unforgettable views.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for non-snorkelers?
Yes, you can enjoy the boat cruise, scenery, and onboard entertainment even if you choose not to snorkel. However, the main focus is on reef stops, so some participation in snorkeling will enhance your experience.

What’s included in the price?
For $37, you get the catamaran excursion, snorkeling gear, visits to Colombia, Palancar, El Cielo, and El Cielito reefs, unlimited drinks (beer and margaritas), food (hotdog, fish ceviche, fruit), entertainment, and certified guides.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a reef conservation and dock tax of MX$500 per person, payable on the day of the tour.

How many people are on this tour?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, which helps keep the experience lively but not overcrowded.

What is the starting time?
The tour departs at 1:00 pm from the Swallows Sculpture area in Cozumel.

How long is the whole tour?
Approximately 5 hours, including snorkeling, cruising, and enjoying the scenery.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but since it includes alcohol and lively entertainment, it’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable with boat and water activities.

In the end, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of Cozumel’s most famous reefs with good value, lively atmosphere, and memorable views. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast or just looking for a fun afternoon on the water, it’s a well-rounded option to add to your vacation plans.