Shore Excursion: Clear Boat Tour with Snorkel & Drinks

If you’re cruising into Cozumel and looking for a way to enjoy its vibrant marine life without spending hours on a boat, the Clear Boat Tour with Snorkel & Drinks might just fit the bill. This 1.5-hour adventure, offered by Amigo Tours LATAM, promises a peek into the island’s underwater world from a transparent vessel—plus a splash of relaxation with included drinks. We’re here to help you decide if this experience is worth your time and what you can realistically expect.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its unique glass-bottom boat—which provides spectacular views of marine life without getting your hair wet—and the convenience of included snorkeling gear and drinks that keep things simple for busy cruise travelers. However, one consideration is the additional dock fee (100 MXN per person), which isn’t included in the price, so budget accordingly. This tour suits travelers who want a quick, scenic, and engaging way to see Cozumel’s waters without diving deep into complex arrangements. It’s great for families, first-timers, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Scenic transparency: The glass-bottom boat offers a unique perspective of marine life without needing to snorkel constantly.
• Snorkeling access: You’ll get the chance to snorkel in Cozumel’s renowned reefs and see coral formations and tropical fish.
• Inclusive comforts: Snorkeling equipment and two drinks (water or beer) are included for a hassle-free experience.
• Short but sweet: The 1.5-hour duration fits well into a cruise day, allowing time for other activities.
• Rich visual experience: Expect stunning, clear views of the coastline and underwater habitats.
• Limited group size: The tour caps at 14 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

Your adventure begins at Envatours Cozumel in San Miguel, a straightforward location that’s easy to reach by taxi from the cruise terminals. Unlike some shore excursions that include pickup, this tour requires you to go on your own to the meeting point. Make sure to arrive 20 minutes early to check in and settle in. The tour operates in both English and Spanish, ensuring most visitors can follow along comfortably.

The Glass-Bottom Boat Ride: What to Expect

Once aboard the clear boat, you’ll be surprised by the crystal-clear windows below your feet. We loved the way this setup perfectly balances the thrill of being afloat with the chance to see marine life up close without the need to snorkel right away. The boat glides smoothly over the water, offering excellent coastal views of Cozumel’s shoreline, which make for fantastic photos.

Many reviewers mention the stunning views—”You can see all the colorful fish and corals without even getting wet,” one said. The boat’s design maximizes visibility, making it ideal for those who want a stress-free glimpse into the underwater world. The boat ride also takes you past some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, providing a bit of cultural context and general sightseeing.

Snorkeling: A Highlight for Many

The snorkeling stop is the tour’s main attraction for many. Once the boat anchors near the reef, you’ll be equipped with snorkeling gear, included in the price, so there’s no need for separate rentals. The waters here are famously crystal-clear, with vibrant coral structures and schools of tropical fish that make the effort worthwhile.

According to reviews, this snorkel spot is among the top locations in the world for viewing underwater life. One traveler noted, “The coral and fish are so colorful I couldn’t stop snapping photos.” Since this is a guided tour, staff help you get comfortable if you’re new to snorkeling, and the shallow waters make it accessible for beginners.

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Relaxation and Refreshments

After the snorkeling, you’ll have time to relax on the boat with two included drinks—either water or beer—perfect for cooling down in the tropical heat. The drinks add a nice touch of comfort, especially on warm days. The boat’s open deck makes it easy to unwind, take in the scenery, and chat with fellow travelers.

The Overall Pace and Group Size

The tour’s short duration makes it an excellent addition to a cruise day, giving you plenty of flexibility. The group size maxes out at 14, which means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guides can give more personalized attention. Feedback indicates that the tour is well-paced, balancing sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation seamlessly.

Pricing and Value

At $32 per person, this tour offers good value for an hour and a half of enjoyable, scenic activity. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks enhances the experience, reducing extra costs and planning. Keep in mind the dock fee (100 MXN per person), which you pay at the port—this is a typical extra for shore excursions but is worth noting so there are no surprises.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for cruise passengers who want a quick, scenic, and engaging way to see Cozumel’s waters without committing to a full-day snorkel or dive trip. It’s especially suitable for families with young children, first-time snorkelers, or travelers seeking a relaxed, visually stunning activity. If you’re craving stunning coastal views combined with a peek at underwater life without the hassle of complicated logistics, this tour hits the mark.

However, it’s not ideal for small children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. Also, if you’re particularly interested in extensive snorkeling or diving, you might prefer longer or more in-depth tours.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Your Tour

• Arrive early to ensure smooth check-in and avoid missing out.
• Bring hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel—these are essential for comfort.
• Expect to pay the dock fee at the port—don’t forget cash!
• The tour runs in the morning and afternoon, so plan accordingly.
• If you love photo opportunities, the boat’s deck and views provide plenty of picture-perfect moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from the cruise terminal included?
No, the tour does not include pickup from the cruise ship. You must go on your own to the specified meeting point, which is accessible by taxi.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for comfort and sun protection. These items will help you enjoy the day fully.

Are drinks really included?
Yes, each person receives two drinks—either water or beer—which help you stay refreshed as you enjoy the tropical weather.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a cruise day.

Can I snorkel if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and staff guidance, making it suitable for beginners.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum is 14 people, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Clear Boat Tour with Snorkel & Drinks in Cozumel offers a straightforward yet memorable way to experience the island’s marine beauty without the complexities of full-day excursions. The combination of stunning views, easy snorkeling, and refreshing drinks makes it a relaxed, enjoyable activity for most cruise travelers. The small group size enhances the experience, and the included equipment and guides help you feel comfortable whether you’re new to snorkeling or a seasoned water lover.

For those who appreciate scenic beauty combined with a touch of adventure and comfort, this tour stands out as a practical choice. It’s especially appealing for visitors seeking a short, value-packed experience that still delivers impressive visuals and memorable moments.

To sum it up, if your cruise schedule allows and you want an easy, scenic way to enjoy Cozumel’s waters—perhaps with some underwater glimpses and tropical drinks—this tour is well worth considering. It provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation, making it an ideal addition to your Caribbean itinerary. Whether a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll likely find this experience both fun and worthwhile, especially with those stunning views that stay with you long after you leave the boat.

You can check availability for your dates here: