Snorkel along the coast with Chivis Del Mar.

If you’re planning a trip to Cozumel and want a taste of its underwater beauty without the fuss of a full-day excursion, a tour with Chivis Del Mar could be just the ticket. This 1.5-hour adventure combines the fun of snorkeling with the comfort of a glass bottom boat—a great way to see some of the best reefs around the island.

What we like most about this experience? First, the personalized approach from knowledgeable guides makes it feel more like visiting friends than just another large tour. Second, the stunning views of coral formations and marine life offer a memorable peek into Cozumel’s vibrant underwater world.

A potential consideration? The tour’s relatively short duration means you won’t have hours underwater, so it’s ideal for those with limited time or first-time visitors seeking a quick but authentic reef experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of ease and adventure, especially if they’re new to snorkeling but eager to see marine life in shaded, protected reef areas. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience that highlights Cozumel’s natural beauty without the crowds, this could very well fit the bill.

Key Points

• Personalized small-group experience with knowledgeable bilingual guides.
• Snorkel in two of Cozumel’s most beautiful reefs, with coral formations and marine species.
• Glass bottom boat offers a comfortable viewing platform for non-swimmers or those preferring dry land viewing.
• All snorkel gear and refreshments are included, making the trip hassle-free.
• Flexible departure times help fit the tour into busy travel schedules.
• Environmental respect with biodegradable sunscreen policies and reef protection guidelines.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What makes this tour special?

A seamless blend of comfort and adventure marks this tour. The glass bottom boat allows non-swimmers to enjoy scenic views of the reef, while snorkel gear and guided tours make getting below the surface accessible for everyone. We loved the way the guides, Barbara and Jose, combined professionalism with friendliness, making everyone feel at ease.

The itinerary involves two guided reef visits, each lasting about 30 minutes, separated by short water taxi rides. This setup gives you a well-paced, manageable outing that doesn’t overextend your time or energy—perfect for those with limited time or less confident swimmers.

The itinerary in detail

Starting Point: Chivis del Mar – The meeting point at the harbor Caleta left side by the roundabout is straightforward, with friendly staff ready to assist.

Water Taxi Ride (10 minutes each) – These short boat rides are a highlight in themselves, offering a quick taste of Cozumel’s coast and setting the stage for reef exploration. The boat, equipped with a glass bottom, provides excellent views even if you choose to stay dry.

Guided Reef Tours (30 minutes each) – The guides take you to two stunning reefs, the “zoological” dzul-ha and Paradise Reef. Here, you’ll see coral formations and a wide variety of marine species. One reviewer, Kevin from the UK, mentioned how a guide with a GoPro took photos of the areas he couldn’t reach, adding a special personal touch.

Return to the starting point – After two reef visits, the tour wraps up back at the glass bottom boat, with plenty of time to relax and chat about the highlights.

What’s included and what’s not?

Included:

• Snorkel gear (mask, tube, life jacket)
• Water, soda, and two beers per adult (after snorkeling)
• Bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
• The two reef visits and boat rides

Not included:

• Lunch (though drinks are available)
• Private transportation (ferry or taxi) to the meeting point
• Photos (available for purchase at MXN 400 for 10 photos, which some might find a bit pricey but are high quality)

This all-inclusive approach offers good value, especially considering the guided reef visits, the boat ride, and refreshments—all designed to make your experience straightforward and enjoyable.

Practical tips for participants

What to bring:

• Sun hat, towel, beachwear, waterproof bag, change of clothes, wetsuit if preferred.
• Apply biodegradable sunscreen at least 30 minutes before entering the water—regular sunscreen is prohibited to protect the reefs.

What to avoid:

• Jewelry, smoking, feeding animals, or touching marine life.
• Flash photography to prevent disturbing marine creatures.

Accessibility:

• Not suitable for pregnant women, those with heart issues, high blood pressure, or mobility challenges. The tour is designed for general safety and comfort but has restrictions to ensure environmental and personal safety.

Timing:

• Tours are available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, providing flexibility. Each lasts about 1.5 hours, not including transportation time.

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Authentic experiences and genuine value

What truly makes this tour stand out is its focus on authenticity and caring guides. Kevin’s review highlights the personal touch—“Diego had a GoPro and dove down to take photos of areas I could not reach”—which shows the guides go beyond just pointing out fish. Their friendliness and knowledge add depth that’s often missing in larger, impersonal tours.

The stunning reef scenery is another core strength. The reefs visited are considered some of the most beautiful near Cozumel, providing excellent opportunities for photos and observing marine life. The boat ride itself offers a relaxed, scenic prelude to the snorkeling, making the entire experience feel like a mini-adventure rather than a hurried excursion.

Considering the cost of $38 per person, the value is quite good. You get guided reef visits, snorkeling gear, refreshments, and personal attention—features that justify the price, especially when compared to larger, more generic tours.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience fits travelers who want a convenient, authentic introduction to Cozumel’s reefs without committing to a full-day trip. It’s ideal for first-time snorkelers or those with limited time who still want a quality reef experience.

It’s also great for families or groups looking for a manageable, fun outing—especially since the glass bottom boat offers a dry option for non-swimmers or those who prefer to stay above water.

However, it’s not suitable for those with certain health issues or mobility challenges, nor for pregnant women or very elderly travelers.

Finally, this tour suits eco-conscious visitors who appreciate efforts to protect marine environments through biodegradable sunscreen and reef care guidelines.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic look at some of Cozumel’s most beautiful reefs, this tour with Chivis Del Mar offers a solid balance of comfort, beauty, and personal touch. You’ll enjoy the chance to see vibrant marine life, guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff who seem genuinely dedicated to making your experience memorable.

The combination of short boat rides, guided reef visits, and inclusive refreshments makes this a perfect choice for travelers who want a quick, insightful glimpse into Cozumel’s underwater world without the fuss of larger, crowded tours.

Whether you’re new to snorkeling or simply want a scenic, hassle-free outing, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Cozumel’s natural beauty in a friendly, relaxed setting.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The snorkeling portion lasts about 1.5 hours, with additional time for transportation and boat rides.

Are snorkel gear and refreshments included?
Yes, all snorkel equipment plus water, soda, and two beers per adult are provided.

Can non-swimmers join?
Absolutely. The glass bottom boat allows non-swimmers to enjoy the reef scenery without getting wet.

Where do I meet the tour?
At the harbor Caleta, on the left side by the roundabout, at Chivis del Mar tours.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (preferably biodegradable sunscreen), a towel, change of clothes, waterproof bag, beachwear, and wetsuit if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for those who meet the health and age restrictions listed. It’s ideal for first-time snorkelers and families.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I purchase photos taken during the trip?
Yes, photos are available at MXN 400 for 10 pictures, though some find the price a bit steep.

Is this tour environmentally friendly?
Yes, the use of biodegradable sunscreen and reef protection guidelines shows a respectful approach to marine conservation.

In short, this snorkeling tour with Chivis Del Mar offers a value-packed, authentic glimpse of Cozumel’s underwater treasures, guided by friendly experts who care about both your experience and the environment. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic adventure that highlights the island’s natural beauty without overcommitting.

You can check availability for your dates here: