El Cielo and El Cielito with Beach Club, Catamaran, Meal and Open Bar

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with crystal-clear waters, colorful marine life, and relaxing beaches, the El Cielo and El Cielito tour in Cozumel might just be what you need. This seven-hour adventure, offered by Chichén Travel, combines scenic sailing, snorkeling in vibrant reefs, and plenty of time to unwind at some of the island’s most picturesque spots.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning scenery on the catamaran ride, second, the quality snorkeling with guidance and equipment, and third, the delicious on-board snacks and unlimited drinks. The one thing to consider? The tour’s pacing is quite full, which might leave some wanting more time at each stop. This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially those who appreciate good value for the price.

Key Points

• Stunning boat ride: The trip begins with a scenic catamaran journey showcasing Cozumel’s beautiful coastline.
• Excellent snorkeling: Explore reefs teeming with marine life, with snorkel gear provided and guides to assist.
• Relax at El Cielo and El Cielito: Swim with starfish in shallow waters and lounge on soft sands.
• All-inclusive drinks: Enjoy five hours of unlimited margaritas, beers, soft drinks, and water.
• Delicious snacks: Savor fresh ceviche, seasonal fruit, and a hot dog to keep your energy up.
• Convenient transport: Roundtrip ferry and transfer to Tortugas Beach Club are included, making logistics straightforward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

This tour strikes a good balance between exploration and relaxation, starting with easy transport from the meeting point in Playa del Carmen to the ferry. The 40-minute ferry crossing sets the scene for a day of scenic views and anticipation. Once in Cozumel, you’ll spend about six hours exploring the island’s highlights, with key stops at Tortugas Beach Club, Arrecife Palancar, Playa El Cielo, and El Cielito.

Tortugas Beach Club

Your day kicks off at Tortugas Beach Club, where you can settle into their facilities. Though food and drinks aren’t included here, the beach club offers a comfortable base for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking up the Caribbean sun for 1.5 hours. We’ve seen reviews noting that the facilities are well-maintained, providing a good spot to unwind before the boat ride.

Catamaran Ride & Snorkeling

After leaving Tortugas, the real fun begins. The catamaran cruise lasts about an hour and a half, offering panoramic views and the chance to sip drinks from the open bar. You’ll enjoy delicious snacks such as ceviche, seasonal fruit, and hot dogs—perfect fuel for your snorkeling adventure.

Guides equip you with snorkel gear and help you spot marine creatures. The snorkeling stop at Arrecife Palancar is especially popular, with reviews mentioning the incredible diversity of marine life and the clarity of the water. Expect to see colorful fish and perhaps even some larger reef inhabitants, all just a splash away from the boat.

Visiting El Cielo and El Cielito

Next, the tour takes you to El Cielo, famous for its shallow turquoise waters and the starfish that inhabit the area. Some reviews highlight how magical it is to stand in waist-deep water while spotting starfish on the seabed. It’s a peaceful place to float and take photos of the vibrant underwater scene.

Following this, you’ll go to El Cielito, a tranquil beach with soft white sands and calm waves. It’s an ideal spot to relax, swim, or just enjoy the stunning scenery. The tour’s design ensures you get ample time here, although the overall schedule can be tight, as highlighted in some reviews.

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Return Journey

After enough beach time, the group heads back by ferry, with a brief stop at the ferry terminal before returning to Playa del Carmen. The entire experience spans about seven hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Catamaran Sailing

The transportation by catamaran is a major highlight. The vessel’s steady sail along Cozumel’s coast offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Many guests comment on the professionalism of the guides and the smooth operation of the trip—an aspect that adds to the relaxing vibe.

Snorkeling in Pristine Reefs

The snorkeling stop at Arrecife Palancar is often praised for its visibility and vibrant marine life. The equipment and guidance provided make it accessible for snorkelers of all levels, including beginners. For avid snorkelers, this is a chance to see a variety of fish and corals, with some reviewers noting the guides’ helpfulness and friendly attitude.

Relaxation and Food

The on-board snacks and open bar elevate this experience, especially for those who want to combine sightseeing with indulgence. The ceviche, fruits, and hot dog are simple but fresh and satisfying. Unlimited margaritas, beers, and soft drinks are available for five hours, making the entire day feel carefree and festive.

Beautiful Beaches

Both El Cielo and El Cielito are true postcard spots. The shallow waters of El Cielo are perfect for wading among starfish, with some reviews describing it as almost surreal. El Cielito offers a quiet escape with soft sands, where you can truly unwind.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $148 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines transportation, guided snorkeling, beach time, and unlimited drinks. When you factor in the included ferry, beach club access, and the quality of the scenery, it’s a good value for a full day of fun. The food and drinks on board, plus the scenic stops, justify the price for many travelers.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about seven hours, with the starting time depending on availability. The schedule includes about 1.5 hours at Tortugas Beach Club, time on the boat, and around an hour at each of the main snorkeling spots. Keep in mind, the timing can vary by up to an hour depending on logistics, but the team communicates any changes.

Transportation & Logistics

Roundtrip ferry transport from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel is included, which simplifies planning. The transfer from the ferry to Tortugas Beach Club and the boat is organized, making it a hassle-free day. The meeting point is conveniently located in Playa del Carmen, right in front of Six store.

What to Bring & What Not to

It’s advised to bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, comfortable clothes, and beachwear for the day. Sunscreen is not allowed on the boat, so consider eco-friendly options or apply it before the trip. Pets, littering, coolers, and baby carriages are not permitted, aligning with environmental and safety policies.

Accessibility & Suitability

This trip is not suitable for pregnant women, and the physical activity involved—mainly swimming and moving between stops—is moderate. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends who love a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While the tour generally garners positive feedback, a few reviews point out areas for improvement. One traveler noted, “It would be good if they turned up,” indicating that punctuality can sometimes be a concern. However, many guests praise the professionalism and helpfulness of guides, as well as the breathtaking views and delicious onboard snacks.

A reviewer summed up, “Excellent service, very punctual, and the tour was amazing,” emphasizing the high quality of the experience when everything runs smoothly. Others appreciate the knowledgeable guides who helped them spot marine life and made snorkeling accessible for all skill levels.

The Sum Up

The El Cielo and El Cielito tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The combination of a scenic catamaran cruise, snorkeling in vibrant reefs, and unwinding at pristine beaches makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a full day in Cozumel’s natural splendor.

The included drinks and snacks, along with the convenience of ferry and transfer logistics, add significant value to this experience. It’s particularly suited for couples, families, or friends seeking both fun and tranquility in a well-organized setting.

While the pace can be a bit tight and punctuality occasionally varies, the overall experience is memorable and worth the price. For anyone looking to explore Cozumel’s highlights with ease, this tour provides a lovely slice of Caribbean paradise with friendly guides and plenty of picture-worthy moments.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip ferry transportation from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel is included, along with transfers from the ferry to the beach club and boat.

How long is the boat ride?
The catamaran ride lasts about 1.5 hours, offering scenic views and a chance to enjoy unlimited drinks.

What’s included in the meal and drinks?
Snacks such as ceviche, seasonal fruit, and hot dogs are provided, along with five hours of unlimited margaritas, beer, soft drinks, and water.

Can I snorkel if I’m a beginner?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and guides assist you, making it suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours at Tortugas Beach Club, an hour at Arrecife Palancar, and about an hour at El Cielo and El Cielito.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed beach stops and snorkeling make it a good choice for families, though parents should consider the physical activity involved.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and eco-friendly sunscreen. Avoid coolers, pets, littering, and baby carriages.

This Cozumel catamaran trip strikes a chord for travelers seeking a well-rounded day filled with stunning scenery, marine adventure, and relaxing beach time. With attentive guides, delicious snacks, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a memorable way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: