Cruises from Cozumel

Cozumel is probably one of the best diving locations in the entire Caribbean and has been ranked as one of the top five dive destinations in the world. It has calm waters and white sandy beaches, which are fringed by a spectacular reef system. It is also a great spot for snorkelling, water sports and other seaside activities.

The only town in Cozumel is San Miguel, which is quite small and quaint. The locals gather in the plaza, especially on Sunday evenings, just to socialise and have a good time. There are several restaurants and other nightspots in town.

Cozumel is a particular favourite of cruise ship passengers and when a ship is in port, the town comes alive with tourists.

The island has an abundance of diversions, especially with its increased popularity with cruise ship passengers. There are plenty of shopping opportunities, with duty-free stores offering everything under the sun. There are some world-class restaurants, aside from those located in town itself, though many of the best are clustered around the waterfront area.

Getting around Cozumel is easy. There are plenty of taxis, which line up at the cruise piers when a ship in. In order to avoid being overcharged, be sure to agree on a fare before getting in the cab, especially for longer trips.

You can also rent a moped for about $35 per day, though the cruise lines discourage this practice, because of the danger of accidents due to reckless drivers and stretches of poorly maintained and potholed roads. Be aware that helmets are required and must be worn at all times.

You can also rent a jeep or four-wheel drive vehicle at rates that begin at around $45 per day.

There are almost limitless things to do on Cozumel. You can take a tour to visit the ruins at Chankanaab National Park or Tulum or head to El Castillo Real, which has an archaeological site, as well as some hike-in ruins not too far away.

If it’s beaches you’re after, Cozumel is loaded with them. Many of them are family-oriented with plenty of water sports equipment available for rent. Most beaches also have open-air bars and restaurants where you can get a tasty snack or a refreshing drink.

If you want to see what’s below the water, but are not a certified scuba diver, you can take the Atlantis submarine on a journey, some 100ft below the surface, to view the spectacular underwater environment. The sub is air-conditioned and has large viewing ports so that everyone has a great view.

You can snorkel, either from the beach or a boat and one popular particularly popular excursion with cruise ship passengers is a 65ft catamaran ride to some choice snorkel sites. The day ends with a beach party, complete with free beer, margaritas and soda. The vessel itself has a spacious sundeck and there are snorkel instructors who can help even the most nervous neophyte feel comfortable in the water.

If you’re headed to Chankanaab Park, you have a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the island’s best snorkelling. You also have the opportunity of spending about 30 minutes in the water with the dolphins that are housed there.

Cozumel is one of the most popular island spots in all of the Caribbean precisely because there is something to see or do for just about everybody.