Shore Excursion: Clear Boat Ride, Snorkel & Drinks

A Clear View of Cozumel’s Waters: Snorkel & Drinks on a Transparent Boat

If you’re visiting Cozumel and craving a quick yet memorable marine adventure, this “Clear Boat Ride, Snorkel & Drinks” tour offers a fun way to see the island’s famous waters without breaking the bank. Designed for cruise passengers or day-trippers, this experience combines the novelty of a see-through boat, the thrill of snorkeling, and some well-deserved relaxation with cold drinks—all wrapped into an hour and a half.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the unique transparent boat provides a rare, unobstructed look at the vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish beneath your feet—no need to duck your head underwater to admire the marine life. Second, the snorkeling in Cozumel’s renowned spots promises a glimpse into the lively Caribbean underwater world. And, of course, the inclusion of two drinks, whether beer or water, makes it a laid-back way to take in the scenery.

Of course, the tour isn’t perfect for everyone. The small group size (max 14 travelers) keeps it intimate, but the lack of included transportation from cruise terminals might pose a challenge for some. Plus, this outing may not suit travelers with mobility issues, young children under 4, or pregnant women. Still, if you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic, and affordable aquatic experience, this tour could be a good choice.

This experience is best suited for: cruise visitors who want a quick, visually engaging activity, snorkelers eager to explore Cozumel’s marine environment, and those looking for a relaxed, informal outing with drinks included.

Key Points

• Unique transparent boat offers unparalleled views of marine life and coral reefs.
• Snorkeling in top-rated spots provides access to vibrant underwater ecosystems.
• Relaxing cruise with drinks allows for a leisurely experience and socializing.
• Small group size enhances a personalized atmosphere.
• No included transportation from cruise terminals; plan accordingly.
• Limited accessibility for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Envatours Cozumel, located at Av. Rafael E. Melgar 221 in Cozumel’s downtown area. Here’s where the only potential snag might pop up: the review mentioning difficulty in finding the meeting spot. A taxi driver, unfamiliar with the location, caused some initial frustration. To avoid missing the boat—literally—it’s wise to arrive at least 15 minutes early. The tour does not include transportation, so you’ll need to organize your own transfer from the cruise terminal or nearby hotel.

The Transparent Boat Ride

Once on board, the adventure kicks off with a 45-minute cruise aboard a see-through vessel. This is the core of the experience—gliding over the water and watching vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish float beneath you. The views of Cozumel’s coastline and landmarks from the boat add a scenic backdrop, making it more than just an underwater viewing. As the boat moves slowly, guides share insights about the island’s history and culture, adding context to the visual feast.

This part of the tour is especially suited for those who love scenery and photography, as the boat’s panoramic windows and open-air sections provide perfect angles. The small group size generally fosters a friendly atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

Snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea

After the boat ride, everyone disembarks for a snorkeling session at one of Cozumel’s top marine spots. The reefs here are well-known for their marine biodiversity and stunning formations, offering a safe but exciting environment for snorkelers of various skill levels. The tour supplies snorkel gear, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer. Expect to swim alongside colorful fish and coral in a vibrant underwater landscape.

For many travelers, this is the highlight—the chance to see the Caribbean’s marine life up close. The review from a Tripadvisor traveler mentions that the scenery under the water was a highlight, despite some logistical issues, reinforcing the appeal of Cozumel’s reefs.

Refreshments and Relaxation

Following snorkeling, guests can reboard the transparent boat to relax and hydrate. The tour includes two drinks per person—choices are beer or water—making it simple to refresh after a swim. Sitting back on the boat, with views of the Caribbean and a drink in hand, creates a laid-back, vacation vibe.

While some reviews imply a simple experience, the drinks add a nice touch for those wanting to loosen up and take in the scenery in comfort. The guide’s bilingual commentary (English and Spanish) helps all guests feel included.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the Price

• Clear boat ride in Cozumel, with excellent views of marine life and landmarks
• Snorkeling equipment for exploring the reefs
• Two drinks per person (beer or water)
• English and Spanish speaking guide

What You’ll Need to Arrange

• Transportation from cruise terminals is not included, so plan accordingly
• The tour is not accessible for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility challenges
• The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience

The Real-World Perspective: Insights from Reviews

While the experience generally receives a neutral rating, a single review highlights a missed connection due to transportation issues. The reviewer noted, “Missed the excursion, taxi driver had no clue where to take us,” which underscores the importance of planning your arrival. Arriving early and confirming directions are key.

However, the tour’s stunning views seem to be a common theme. Another traveler described the underwater scenery as “incredible,” emphasizing the reef’s vibrant fish and coral formations. This suggests that if you’re enthusiastic about marine life and scenic boat rides, the tour can deliver memorable visuals.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for cruise passengers seeking a short, engaging activity that combines sightseeing above and below the water. It suits snorkelers eager to explore Cozumel’s reefs without the need for full-day commitments. Its affordable price point and inclusion of drinks make it an attractive option for travelers on a budget.

However, due to the small group size and basic amenities, it’s less suited for travelers with specific accessibility needs or for families with very young children or those with mobility issues (unless they meet the age and health requirements).

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a refreshing perspective of Cozumel, with the unique clear boat providing fantastic views of the underwater world. Snorkeling in Cozumel’s top spots is an experience many travelers cherish, and the relaxed cruise with included drinks makes for a laid-back, social outing.

While the logistics and limited accessibility might be drawbacks for some, the overall value—nearly two hours of scenic, marine-focused fun—makes it worth considering if you’re after an affordable, visually stunning activity. Remember to plan your transportation in advance, arrive early, and set realistic expectations about the group size and amenities.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see the reef or simply looking for a relaxing way to enjoy Cozumel’s waters, this tour offers a light, enjoyable experience that highlights the island’s natural beauty in a direct, straightforward manner.

FAQs

Is transportation from cruise terminals included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point at Envatours Cozumel.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, split between the boat ride and snorkeling.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Yes, you can still enjoy the boat ride and relax with drinks. Snorkeling is optional but included in the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not accessible for children younger than 4 years old and may not be appropriate for those with mobility issues.

Are drinks included?
Yes, each person receives two drinks, options include beer or water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the maximum group size?
There are up to 14 travelers per tour, ensuring a more intimate experience.

How do I book the tour?
You can reserve your spot online through the provided link, ideally 37 days in advance for availability and best planning.

To sum it up, this tour offers a straightforward, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy Cozumel’s famous waters. Its standout feature—the see-through boat—provides a fresh perspective on the island’s underwater scenery, complemented by the chance to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs. While logistics and accessibility might be considerations, for those wanting a relaxed, visually engaging activity, it delivers a simple yet memorable experience perfect for a cruise day.