From Cozumel: Starfish, Stingrays and the Turtle Sanctuary

If you’re dreaming of floating above colorful reefs teeming with life, this snorkeling tour in Cozumel might be just what you need. Designed as a half-day adventure, it promises encounters with sea turtles, stingrays, and starfish at some of the island’s most scenic spots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, the calm waters and easy access make this excursion appealing for almost anyone wanting a taste of marine wonder.

What we really like about this trip is its focus on authentic wildlife encounters and the convenience of proximity to cruise ports, making it an efficient way to pack in some spectacular underwater sights without spending all day at sea. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, greatly enhancing the experience. One potential concern is the restriction on reapplying sunscreen after leaving the marina—a minor inconvenience for those prone to sunburns, but a good reminder to come prepared with protective clothing or wear a wetsuit.

This tour seems ideal for travelers who appreciate organized, well-structured outings with plenty of opportunities to see marine life. Families, first-time snorkelers, and those short on time will find this a delightful, memorable trip that balances fun, learning, and value.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels —calm, clear waters suit beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
• Authentic wildlife encounters —see turtles, rays, starfish, and colorful fish in their natural habitat.
• Convenient location —starts and ends near Cozumel cruise ports, perfect for short shore excursions.
• Excellent guides —well-informed, friendly guides make safety and learning a priority.
• Value for money —at $52, it offers multiple snorkeling stops, snacks, drinks, and gear.
• Limited but scenic stops—each location offers unique views, but some reviews suggest longer stays could improve the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: Marina Cozumel ASIPONA

The adventure kicks off at Marina Cozumel ASIPONA, where you’ll meet the team about 15 minutes before departure. The meeting spot is straightforward, just look for the Maybe-Tours office. From there, a quick 10-minute taxi ride takes you to Playa Palancar, setting the tone for a seamless start. The ease of meeting near the cruise port is a big plus—no complicated transportation hassles.

The Boat Ride and Scenic Transport

Once aboard the insured boat with shade, you’ll be cruising along the coast for about 25 minutes. The boat itself is described as comfortable and reliable, with enough space to relax as you head toward your first snorkeling spot. This part of the trip is a chance to enjoy the breezy sea air and admire the views of the Caribbean coastline.

Playa Palancar: First Stop

Playa Palancar serves as your gateway to the underwater world. The guides lead a short guided tour here, providing safety briefings and tips for snorkeling. This initial stop is typically relaxed, allowing everyone to get comfortable with their gear. Many reviews mention the helpfulness of guides, with one noting that their guide, Gaspar, was very attentive, ensuring safety and making sure everyone was guided properly.

While this stop is mainly for acclimatization, it offers a gentle introduction with scenic views before heading to the more iconic spots. Expect to see some fish and perhaps a stingray or two, with the shallow waters ideal for families and novice snorkelers.

El Cielo: The Highlight of the Day

The second major stop is El Cielo, famous for its white sandy bottom and abundant starfish. This shallow area is perfect for floating and relaxing, with many visitors describing it as a magical place. The clear, calm water allows for excellent visibility, making it easy to spot starfish and colorful fish nearby.

Many reviewers, like Anya from the UK, loved this spot for its incredible marine life. She noted, “We got to see 3 different snorkel spots and saw many different fish, stingrays, and starfish.” The shallow nature of El Cielo is also safe for less confident swimmers, and the scenery is picture-perfect.

However, some reviews point out the challenge of sun protection here. Anya mentioned she got sunburned because sunscreen is not permitted once you leave the marina—highlighting the importance of bringing protective clothing or wetsuits. The shallow waters here are also where you might see the most starfish, making it a real highlight.

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Playa El Cielito: Stingrays and Shallow Waters

Next, your trip heads to Playa El Cielito, a shallow beach area known for its friendly stingrays and vibrant marine life. This site offers a more interactive experience, with plenty of opportunities to observe and even gently touch rays swimming in waist-deep water.

Andreas from Germany described this part as “magical,” mentioning their guide Andy’s efforts to show them the best spots. The shallow nature of El Cielito means easy snorkeling, especially suitable for kids or non-swimmers, and many reviews mention the friendly rays that swim close to snorkelers, providing unforgettable close-up moments.

If you’re lucky, you might also spot larger creatures like turtles or schools of colorful fish, but the main attraction is the gentle rays gliding through the water, making it a relaxing spot to float and enjoy nature.

Cozumel Turtle Bay: The Turtle Sanctuary

The last stop is Cozumel Turtle Bay, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting these friendly creatures. Here, snorkelers can observe turtles in their natural environment, a chance to see one of the Caribbean’s most beloved marine animals.

Travelers frequently rave about the abundance of turtles and the educational value of this stop. Several reviews mention swimming alongside turtles as a highlight, with one reviewer noting, “We saw some fish, a couple of huge sea turtles, and a stingray.” Knowing you’re visiting a protected environment adds to the experience’s authenticity and value.

The guides often emphasize respect for wildlife—a vital aspect of responsible snorkeling. The sanctuary setting also means calmer, less crowded waters, ideal for gentle observation.

Return and Refreshments

After the snorkeling, you’ll return to the marina, typically after about 75 minutes at the last site. Many reviews mention that snacks, ceviche, and drinks—beer, water, and sodas—are included, making for a laid-back conclusion to your marine adventure. One reviewer appreciated the ceviche served on the beach, calling it “amazing,” and another enjoyed the shot of tequila and relaxed vibe.

The boat ride back offers a chance to recount your encounters and relax as the Caribbean scenery drifts past, often accompanied by light music and friendly chatter.

The tour price of $52 per person covers most essentials: boat ride, certified guides, snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and insured boat with shade. Guides are fluent in English and Spanish, and the small group size tends to keep things personalized and friendly.

Not included are hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your transport to the marina. The meeting point is at the Marina Asipona, and arriving 15 minutes early is recommended. A marine fee of $11 USD is payable upon arrival, a common charge for protected sites.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Bring biodegradable sunscreen—it’s permitted but must be applied before the tour, as reapplication isn’t allowed once you leave the marina.
• Dress in swimwear and beachwear, and don a towel and possibly a wetsuit or rash guard for sun protection.
• Cash is handy for the marine fee or souvenirs.
• Be prepared for short boat rides and potentially some choppy waters during the transit—though most descriptions emphasize calm, safe conditions.
• For those prone to sunburn, consider bringing a rash guard or extra covering, especially since sun protection is restricted once in the water.

The reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, enjoyable trip with friendly guides who go out of their way to ensure everyone sees plenty of marine life. Andreas from Germany called it “an amazing snorkeling trip,” highlighting multiple stops with spectacular views and friendly guides like Andy and Gaspar.

Many travelers appreciate the balance of guided safety and free time to explore. The inclusion of snacks and ceviche adds a social, relaxing element, often described as the perfect way to unwind after snorkeling. One guest noted that guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making even first-timers feel safe and confident underwater.

The value for money gets high marks, especially given the multiple stops, gear, snacks, and drinks included. Several reviewers mention how they saw sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, starfish, and a variety of colorful fish—a sensory overload in some of the Caribbean’s most accessible sites.

The Cons: What Could Be Better?

Some reviews suggest that longer stays at each site or a more flexible schedule would enhance the experience. A few mention feeling rushed or the boat riding slowly on the return leg. The restriction on reapplying sunscreen might be inconvenient, especially for those with sensitive skin. These are minor compared to the many positive aspects.

This tour suits families, first-time snorkelers, or those with limited time but still eager to experience Cozumel’s marine richness. It’s perfect for travelers who value professional guides, good safety standards, and authentic wildlife encounters. If you’re looking for a laid-back, friendly, and fun introduction to Caribbean snorkeling, this trip offers solid value.

It’s also a good option for cruise ship travelers, thanks to its proximity to the port and straightforward logistics. If you’re seeking a more adventurous or remote experience, you might want to look for longer or more specialized tours.

This snorkeling tour offers a beautiful balance of accessibility, local wildlife, and social fun. It’s a great choice for those who want to see the best of Cozumel’s underwater world without dedicating an entire day at sea. The guides’ friendliness, the variety of sites, and the included snacks make it a memorable activity for most travelers.

While it might not satisfy those craving extensive underwater exploration or longer excursions, it provides a highly enjoyable snapshot of marine life in the Caribbean. At a reasonable price point, with excellent reviews praising the guides and scenery, it’s a worthwhile choice for any traveler looking to add some colorful underwater moments to their Cozumel trip.

• How long is the snorkeling tour?

It lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, snorkeling, and breaks.

• Where does the tour start and end?

Both start and end at Marina Cozumel ASIPONA, near the cruise ports.

• Is this suitable for beginners?

Yes, the calm waters and guided instruction make it accessible for all levels.

• What’s included in the price?

Boat tour, guides, snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and insured boat with shade.

• Are food and drinks really included?

Yes, the tour provides a snack, ceviche, and drinks such as beer, water, and sodas.

• Do I need to bring cash?

Yes, for the marine fee ($11 USD) and possibly souvenirs or extras.

• Is hotel pickup available?

No, participants need to meet at the marina 15 minutes before the tour starts.

• Can I snorkel multiple times at each site?

The tour typically spends about 15-25 minutes at each stop, but some reviews suggest more time would be appreciated.

• Are there restrictions on sunscreen?

Reapplication is not allowed after leaving the marina to protect marine wildlife, so plan accordingly.

• What if I want to cancel?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

This snorkeling tour in Cozumel offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that highlights the island’s vibrant marine life. It’s a smart choice for those seeking authentic encounters with Caribbean sea creatures, with the comfort of guided safety and great value in a short, scenic package.

You can check availability for your dates here: