carnival cruise excursions cozumel

Home » 12 Best Cozumel Shore Excursions

12 Best Cozumel Shore Excursions

Last updated on September 24th, 2023 at 09:41 pm

Cozumel Mexico is the most popular cruise destination in the Caribbean , with over 3 million visitors annually and a favorite among the major cruise lines.

Taking a shore excursion during your time here is definitely worth it, no matter the excursion you choose.

Cozumel itself is an island off the coast of Playa del Carmen Mexico, with 3 cruise ship ports.

The first and most popular cruise terminal in Cozumel is the International Pier, located about 3 miles from the downtown area of San Miguel. Filled with shops and restaurants, it’s a wonderful gateway to your visit to Cozumel.

The second pier is located in downtown San Miguel, which is the largest city on Cozumel island. The pier is directly across from shopping, restaurants, a Starbucks and is a popular spot to catch a taxi for a tour of the island.

The third cruise terminal on Cozumel, Puerta Maya, is used only by Carnival Cruise Lines. This exciting port is filled with over 50 shops and restaurants and is your gateway to your Cozumel shore excursion.

Cozumel in general is a safe island with most living on the island employed in the tourism industry. It’s far enough away from the mainland that anyone wanting to cause trouble with petty crime will not make the effort or expense to get over to Cozumel.

Touring around the island without a shore excursion or group tour is feasible and safe, unlike other destinations in Mexico, however, if you want to make the most of your visit to Cozumel, a shore excursion is suggested.

Below we have compiled a list of the 12 BEST COZUMEL SHORE EXCURSIONS , provided by the largest non-cruiseline shore excursions company, Shore Excursions Group .

Table of Contents

#1. Mayan Ruins of Tulum

Visit an ancient Mayan city, the only one built on a coastline! A 45-minute ferry ride, followed by an air-conditioned coach bus ride will take you to this ancient city.

Located across on the mainland near Playa del Carmen where you can explore ruins, walls, temples all with a professional guide giving you a full overview of the history of the ruins. For any history buff, this 2 hour tour of the ruins is not to be missed!

Click here to get more info on the Mayan Ruins of Tulum excursion shore excursion

#2. Cozumel Jeep & Beach Adventure

This 5 hour tour has it all. Adventure, swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing & food! What more could you want?  The adventure begins by being paired with 2 others (4 people per Jeep) as you begin your guided tour of the island.

Follow paved roads, dirt paths and sandy terrain, visiting multiple sights of interest around Cozumel along the way.

A highlight of this Cozumel shore excursion is a stop at Punta Sur Bay where you can take in the beauty, either by relaxing on the beach, swimming or snorkeling 100 yards out to a shallow reef.

Following your beach and snorkeling adventure, head over to a beautiful beach resort for a late afternoon lunch and drink and then back to the ship

Click here to get more info on the Cozumel Jeep & Beach Adventure shore excursion

#3. Minisub Dive Tour

This 30 minute underwater tour is an experience not soon forgotten! After receiving a few tips to ensure your safety underwater, you will enter a tiny one-person submarine and begin your underwater adventure.

Just 15 to 20 feet below the surface of the water is a whole new world: colorful fish, plant life, and coral formations. If you’ve dreamed about being Jacques Cousteau, now is your chance!

Click here to get more info on the Minisub Dive Tour shore excursion

#4. Cozumel Electric Bike Ride & Snorkel

Get some exercise by pedalling your way around Cozumel on this guided tour, or let the state-of-the-art electric motor do the work for you.

Either way, you will enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells as you tour the island with a professional guide to show you around. Stop at a local bar/restaurant for lunch and drink.

The tour also includes a stop at Sky Reef for a 45 minute guided snorkel. See underwater life come alive in vibrant color. This 3-hour tour will be a highlight of your time in Cozumel.

Click here to get more info on the Cozumel Electric Bike Ride & Snorkel shore excursion

#5. Buggy Island Overview & Snorkel

During your excursion, you will tour ancient ruins, a historic town, drive along the scenic coastline and stop for a guide snorkel tour at SkyReef Beach Club.

Experience local culture, dive into local, traditional cuisine and enjoy this 4.5-hour excursion before heading back to the ship.

For guests with mobility issues, this tour may be a perfect fit as folding wheelchairs and mobility aids can be taken along, and walking is minimal.

Click here to get more info on the Buggy Island Overview & Snorkel shore excursion

#6. Flavors of Mexico: Chocolate, Tequila & Tacos!

If you didn’t get enough to eat on the ship and you have a flair for local cuisine, this tour is for you!

This excursion takes you to Discover Mexico Park where you will take part in a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, followed by a Tequila tour and presentation on the Tequila making process.

A visit to the Popular Museum of Art will immerse you in the Mexican art scene with colorful mosaics and works of art from local artists.

And, last but certainly not least, a Taco buffet and drinks will top off this exciting shore excursion.

Click here to get more information on the Flavors of Mexico shore excursion

#7. Atlantis Submarine Adventure

Once inside this US Coast Guard certified submarine you will descend 100 feet and have the chance to experience a whole new world that few will ever see!

This 2 hour excursion is an experience you will never forget – You’re welcome to bring along your camera to help you remember the incredible sights!

Click here to get more information on the Atlantis Submarine Adventure shore excursion

#8. Dolphin Swim Adventure at Chankanaab National Marine Park

During this excursion, you will learn about dolphins, their habitat, and behavior and then it’s time to get your life jacket on.

Now you’re ready to get in the water and actually swim with the dolphins!

For 90 minutes you will interact with the dolphins, swim together, and be amazed as they communicate with you. This 5-star excursion won’t disappoint!

Click here to get more information on the Dolphin Swim Adventure shore excursion

#9. ATV Adventure to Jade Caverns

Enjoy this 2-hour off-road adventure on your very own ATV. After suiting up in protective gear, you’re off to traverse the jungle and visit a Mayan coral cave.

Stop for a refreshing swim and admire stalactite formations and learn about the natives who previously lived in these areas many years ago.

This 3 hour ATV Adventure is the perfect way to see the jungle of Cozumel Mexico!

Click here to get more information on the ATV Adventure to Jade Caverns shore excursion

#10. Manatee Swim and Chankanaab Park

Swimming with Dolphins is popular, but what about swimming with Manatees? This unique shore excursion lets you swim with these massive 1300 pound gentle creatures.

While the Manatee swimming portion of this excursion only lasts 15 minutes, the Chankanaab National Marine Park offers many more activities that you’re welcome to take part in, including swimming, snorkeling, visit the museum or just relax on the beach.

This is included in the cost of your shore excursion.

Click here to get more information on the Manatee Swim & Chankanaab Park shore excursion

#11. Playa Uvas Beach Getaway (Beverages & Food)

Spend the day at the resort being treated like royalty, with abundant food and drinks as you soak up the sun in this beautiful setting.

But – just because you enjoy relaxing, doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do! Take part in a 30 minute guided snorkel or a kayak tour to help burn off those extra cruise calories.

Click here to get more information on the Playa Uvas Beach Getaway shore excursion

#12. Cozumel Shore Snorkel & Lunch

Snorkel in Cozumel once and you will see why this is one of the premier snorkeling destinations in the world! You don’t have to travel far from shore to see spectacular marine life including colorful fish, coral reefs, and plant life.

Don’t worry if you’ve never snorkeled before – This particular excursion is designed with beginners in mind. Equipment is provided as well as professional instruction before entering the water.

A Mexican-themed beach lunch is included in this 2-hour excursion, before heading back to the ship.

Click here to get more information on the Cozumel Shore Snorkel & Lunch excursion

When your ship stops in Cozumel – Get out and explore!

Book a shore excursion , walk around, enjoy the beautiful weather, go shopping and so much more. It’s no wonder Cozumel is the top cruise destination in the Caribbean.

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

RECENT POSTS

Cruise News This Week

What Does It Take To Keep Cruise Passengers Fed?

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Loyalty Programs: Sailing to Rewarding Adventures

Retirement Home Vs Life At Sea On A Cruise Ship

Do I Need Travel Insurance For A Cruise?

The Pros And Cons Of Cruising On A Smaller Cruise Ship

Grab your tour with cruise port advisor now, a short description introducing your business and the services to visitors..

© 2023 cruiseportadvisor All Rights Reserved.

• Book Excursions
• Anchorage, AK
• Baltimore, MD
• Cape Liberty, NJ
• Charleston, SC
• Ft Lauderdale, FL
• Galveston, TX
• Honolulu, HI
• Jacksonville, FL
• L.A. (San Pedro), CA
• Long Beach, CA
• Montreal, QC
• New Orleans, LA
• Norfolk, VA
• NYC – Brooklyn
• NYC – Manhattan
• Port Canaveral, FL
• Quebec City, QC
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• San Juan, PR
• Seattle, WA
• Vancouver, BC
• Whittier, AK
• Alaska & Pacific Northwest
• Central & South America
• Cruise Ports in Bermuda
• Dominican Republic
• Mexico & Mexican Riviera
• Eastern Canada & Quebec
• New England
• Los Angeles (San Pedro), CA
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Cruise Blog
• Cruise FAQ’s

Travel Eat Blog

Search Site

Top carnival cruise excursions in cozumel.

Every time I’ve visited Cozumel, I’ve done something different and every time it has been truly a great experience. If you are going on a Carnival Cruise soon and are stopping at Cozumel, you are probably looking for exciting, but budget-friendly excursions for your cruise, especially if you are going as a big family. There are plenty of choices, but I wanted to highlight the top five budget and family-friendly excursions that you should choose from when visiting Cozumel on your next Carnival Cruise. 

Best Carnival Cruise Tips and Hacks

Before you start picking out an excursion, I invite you to read my favorite post on saving money and enjoying your Carnival cruise to the fullest! My tips include everything from cruise packing to getting free drinks on-board.

Best Value Carnival Cruise Excursions in Cozumel

Cozumel offers plenty to do on your own or by an excursion at any time of the year: snorkeling, shopping, beach getaways, chocolate factory tours, and many animal encounters, from dolphins and rays to turtles, iguanas and lizards! I have taken some of these excursions and I have read through many reviews, considered prices and value of excursions offered by Carnival. After my thorough research, here are the excursions I would recommend: 

Snorkeling, Tequila and Lunch for Pretty Cheap? Yes, Please!

Coral Garden Snorkel, Tequila, and Lunch is a great choice if you are looking for a combination of value and price. When booking an excursion I like to have several activities to fully experience the port. With this one, for just around $50, you can enjoy a beginner snorkeling activity in the reefs, followed by a fajitas lunch and a tequila tasting! This is what I call a good value. This excursion lasts about 3 hours, is a moderate activity level and open for all ages!

Try it All – Mayan Ruins, Snorkeling, Lunch and Tequila Tasting

For just a little extra, you can see what this beautiful island has to offer, including a visit to Mayan Ruins, Snorkeling, and Lunch for about $80 per person. You will visit the famous San Gervasio archaeological site, snorkel, and enjoy a lunch and a tequila tasting. This is a 5 hour excursion, but I can imagine, it is not enough for all of these activities, and while this is a great value, you may feel rushed throughout your day. It is also a moderate activity and everyone is welcome over the age of 1. 

Swimming with Sharks and Rays

I haven’t done this one , but swimming with a shark couldn’t not make this list! If you’re adventurous at heart, you will be happy to know that for about $60 you can have a 30-min encounter with rays and then swim with parrot fish, starfish, crabs, and even sharks in Cozumel. However, before you decide to go on this, keep in mind that some reviews say that this excursion doesn’t have another option if one of your kids decide they don’t want to encounter a shark. (I don’t know how I would feel!) This excursion lasts 3 hours and is offered to anyone over 4 years old. 

Explore Cozumel Culture, Attractions and Food

This excursion is a great combination of culture, sightseeing and history. First, you will take a trip to the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, then take a tour of the island, and enjoy some local treats, including traditional Mayan lunch, chocolates, and tequila. This 4.5 hour tour will keep you entertained for the whole day and it is a great option if you have kids on the cruise (about $75 per person.)

Interact with Dolphins and Enjoy Unlimited Food and Drinks

Every kid (and adult) would love a dolphin encounter program . You can interact with the dolphins, and famous dolphin kiss! Afterward, you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks; snorkel with tropical fish and try out kayaking and paddleboarding! With everything included, this is a great deal! At $90 per person, you will have an exciting adventure with many memories!

Packing for a Carnival Cruise

How can you pack for a cruise without packing your whole house in with you? What are you forgetting? Use my printable and editable cruise packing list for your next vacation!

Why go on a Carnival Cruise Excursion instead of a local one?

Often, people have a safety concern when visiting a new country. And many cruisers choose to take a cruise-recommended excursion because of the issue. However, the only danger in visiting Cozumel is that you will fall in love with it and keep coming back again and again. I’ve been to Cozumel three times and I’m going back this December on another cruise. 

The reason I would recommend to take a Carnival Cruise excursion in Cozumel is that they will make sure you will get enough time to get back on the ship before its departure. Also, you will have someone waiting to pick you up right near the port. I would say going with a Carnival excursion will make your experience a little more convenient. If you are thinking about going with an independent excursion, check out port info at cruisecritic.com, they have a lot of information about independent Cozumel excursions. 

Are you planning a cruise to Cozumel? Which excursion are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments!

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

You may also like

31 Carnival Cruise Tips and Hacks for First-Timers

June 6, 2022

Ultimate Cruise Packing List: What to Pack For a Cruise

May 28, 2022

Horseback Riding in Roatan, Honduras: Tips and Review

March 2, 2020

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

19 Top-Rated Cozumel Shore Excursions for Your Next Cruise

Cruisers looking for a little bit of everything should consider a cruise itinerary that includes Cozumel Mexico. Officially known as San Miguel de Cozumel, this fantastic island is located just south of Cancun and offers some of the best shore excursions and day trips on the Yucatan Peninsula.

The list of things to do in Cozumel is quite varied. The island is has everything from beautiful beaches and coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, to ancient Maya ruins and vibrant culture. So there’s plenty to keep you entertained!

19 best Cozumel shore excursions

With dozens of Cozumel cruise excursions to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to take. So we did our research and looked at which Cozumel day trips are the most popular and get good reviews.

Here’s a list of the best excursions Cozumel has to offer you as a cruise ship passenger. With such a wide variety of things to do in Cozumel , we’re sure you’ll find the perfect activity for your day in port!

1. Enjoy a catamaran cruise, snorkel, and beach party

El Cielo Beach tops the list of cruise shore excursions in Cozumel—a secluded sandbar that can only be reached by boat. Here, you can snorkel and play in shallow waters surrounded by starfish.

This 5-hour catamaran excursion includes El Cielo plus a private white-sand beach where you can relax on a lounge chair or hammock, play on a floating water park, kayak, or paddleboard. A delicious lunch and unlimited drinks are included.

2. Soak up the sun at Paradise Beach Club

Beaches rank among the best Royal Caribbean excursions in Cozumel. There are plenty you can visit on your own.

However, if you’re looking for Cozumel beach excursions, all inclusive is the way to go. Many cruisers say that Paradise Beach Club is one of the best beach clubs in Cozumel. The beach here is beautiful, and the staff is very friendly and attentive. Buy an all-inclusive pass to hang out all day.

You’ll lounge on chairs shaded by palm trees, grab lunch at an onsite restaurant or have lunch served to you on the beach, and drink your fill of domestic liquors, beers, and soft drinks from the open bar. It’s the perfect beach break—no planning required.

ⓘ TIP: The easiest way to get to Paradise Beach is by taking a taxi from your cruise ship or hotel. It is about a 10-15 minute taxi ride and costs about $16 each way (per TAXI not per person) for a car for up to four people. There are also taxi VANS that take up to 8 people.

3. Explore Mayan ruins in Tulum

It’s easy to see why so many cruise passengers say Tulum is one of the best carnival excursions in Cozumel. Tulum is a well-preserved Maya walled city that was once a major port. It’s located an hour south of Playa del Carmen on the coast and makes for a great day trip from Cozumel.

The site has several structures you can explore, including El Castillo, which sits atop a cliff 40 feet (12 meters) above the Caribbean Sea.

If you want to learn more about Maya culture and history, there is a small on-site museum with some interesting artifacts. You can also stroll along the beach below the ruins or go for a swim to see the ruins from the water.

Some Cozumel tours combine visiting the Tulum ruins with other attractions. For example, this excursion takes you to both the Tulum and Coba ruins and ends with swimming in a cenote.

4. Snorkel and swim with stingrays

Swimming with sharks and rays at Stingray Beach has to rank as one of the most unique Cozumel excursions of all. This lets you interact up close with this iconic marine species in crystal clear waters. You’ll get to hold, touch, feed, and snorkel with stingrays and hear about the coral restoration efforts at the park.

This tour is 1.5 hours, starting with meeting the stingrays in waist-deep water for 30 minutes. After feeling the rays softly brush against your legs, you’ll get to move to a deeper enclosure where you can snorkel with rays and a myriad of colorful coral reef fish.

5. Spend a day at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

If you’re looking for cheap Cozumel excursions or a Cozumel excursion for families, this one’s for you! Located in the National Reef Marine Park, Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park has plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. In our opinions, Chankanaab deserves its reputation as one of the best Carnival excursions in Cozumel.

Be prepared, because Chankanaab National Park isn’t your normal national park. A day pass to Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park gives you sea lion and manatee shows, a botanical garden, a beach club, a crocodile farm, and access to the beach and marine park. This is a good option if you just want to lounge by the pool, snorkel offshore, soak up some sun, and take a dip in the lagoon.

However, if you’re looking for a Cozumel excursion that includes more adventure, Chankanaab has more to offer you. There may be an additional fee, but you can snorkel with manatees , scuba, snuba, swim with dolphins , enjoy a tequila tasting, participate in a temazcal , and more.

6. Tour the island of Cozumel

If you’d like to explore Cozumel and learn more about the history and culture of the island, then a 5-hour private island tour with an expert guide is a must. You’ll also get to know more about Cozumel’s fascinating archaeological wonders.

After pickup, you’ll be taken to some of the main sights on the island. This includes the local market, parks, iconic neighborhoods and religious buildings. You’ll also get to visit Chen Rio Beach on the east of the island, before arriving at the famous rock formation known as ‘El Mirador’.

To learn about the island’s history, you’ll visit San Gervasio Mayan ruins and drive through the traditional lands of the Cedral where there’s a Mayan settlement. On this tour you’ll also learn about the interesting Holy Cross traditions from your tour guide.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an exciting and unique way to explore Cozumel, the Amazing Cozumel Race is definitely worth considering. This interactive half-day clue based adventure game is a perfect combination of sightseeing tour and scavenger hunt.

Teams of two to eight people will compete to solve mysteries and crack clues as they navigate self-guided stops around the city. It’s a great way to see the sights and have fun with friends, family, or coworkers.

At the end of the Amazing Race, there will be an awards ceremony with prizes for the top finishers, as well as complimentary beverages and snacks for all participants.

7. Take a food tour

You can take a variety of food tours in Cozumel, ranging from tequila tastings to chocolate tours. You can also find Cozumel cooking classes where you can learn how to make local Mexican dishes yourself!

No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to leave with a full stomach and a new appreciation for Yucatecan cuisine.

8. Visit Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a picturesque small island not far from Cozumel, famous for its white sandy beaches, Mayan temple and sea turtle sanctuary.

If you’re keen to visit Isla Mujeres as a day trip from Cozumel, one of the best ways is on a scenic catamaran tour. Spend the day relaxing in the sunshine, snorkeling, and taking in some of the most idyllic Caribbean ocean views.

There are several tour options to choose from. This 10-hour catamaran tour with lunch and an open bar , includes hotel transfers and stops off for snorkeling at a coral reef park on the way to Isla Mujeres. Prepare to be mesmerized by all the fish that gather near the boat as your guide sprinkles fish food into the sea. Enjoy a buffet lunch on the beach and sit under a palm tree if it gets too sunny.

Another option is a flexible and high-speed round-trip ferry ride from Cancun to Isla Mujeres . This luxury ferry ride features reclining leather seats, a kids area and a snack bar as well as other amenities. Carrying up to 800 passengers, there are multiple ferry crossing times each day which means that you can easily visit Isla Mujeres as a day trip and plan your own itinerary while there. It is, however, advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance.

9. Go on an Atlantis Submarine expedition

Want to explore the undersea world but stay dry? The Atlantis Submarine is perfect for you! This 63-foot-long, 48-passenger submarine will take you on an underwater tour of Cozumel’s stunning reef system.

You don’t need to be a certified diver to go on this tour, and the submarine provides all the necessary safety gear. The submarine descends to a depth of 100 feet (30 meters), where you will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, eels, and turtles.

The Atlantis Sub is a great activity for families with children, as it is both safe and educational. Your knowledgeable guide will provide lots of insightful information as you journey along the reef.

10. Enjoy a beach break at Playa Mia Grand Beach & Water Park

A day pass to Playa Mia gives you access to one of the best public beaches in Cozumel Mexico. Playa Mia has more than 20 water park attractions, lounge chairs on a white sand beach, kayaks and sailboats, a kids’ playground, a swim-up pool bar, and more.

You can also upgrade to an all-you-can-eat buffet, open bar, Hobie cat and clear kayak access, towels, lockers, and beach umbrellas.

11. Scuba dive the second-largest coral reef in the world

The clear turquoise waters around Cozumel are the home of the second-largest barrier reef in the world: the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. With visibility over 100 feet, this makes Cozumel a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Palancar Reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, including turtles, stingrays, eels, and over 500 species of fish. The reef is also home to a shipwreck, the El Cid, which sunk in 1961.

On this two-tank scuba diving tour , you’ll dive with a local guide who shares commentary about the marine ecosystem in Mexico. The excursion includes two tanks for two dives, a guide, and boat transportation from Cozumel

Or if you prefer, you can do a one-tank reef dive with full-day access to Chankanaab National Park . This is the perfect scuba diving excursion for certified and noncertified divers. You can easily enjoy the tropical fish, underwater sculptures, and coral reef formations, then relax at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park. Enjoy full access to the amenities including the beach, hammocks, shaded palapas, sea lion show, and crocodile exhibits.

12. Snorkel in the Caribbean

Surrounded by coral reefs that are brimming with brightly colored marine life, snorkeling is one of the most popular activities on Cozumel. If you want to experience the best snorkeling spots and learn about the local biodiversity, then this fully guided half day snorkeling tour to Palancar and Columbia reefs, El Cielo Sandbar and El Cielito Beach is an unmissable opportunity.

Palancar reef on the southwest of Cozumel is known for its abundant marine life including sunfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, moray eels, nurse sharks and barracuda. The Colombia reef is well known for frequent turtle sightings and dive-throughs, and the El Cielo Sandbar is a shallow water area that’s popular for seeing large starfish in magnificent turquoise waters. And the pristine El Cielito Beach lives up to its name of being a “little heaven”.

13. Zipline through the jungle

If you enjoy adventure and fancy an adrenaline rush, then you might like to try ziplining through the Mexican jungle on Cozumel .

You’ll get to see Cozumel from a different perspective above the trees from 6 different canopy platforms where you’ll then zip along lines in a harness. This is a great thrill-seeking activity for families and children and usually lasts around an hour.

Your tour starts with a safety briefing where you’ll be given a helmet. You’ll then climb up about 45 feet to the first platform where your harness will be secured. And then you can start cruising above the trees on the zip lines, with views of the ocean in the distance.

14. Go horseback riding on the beach

With miles of white sandy beaches, Cozumel is an island paradise for horseback riding. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a novice, you can take a horseback beach riding tour that pairs you with a horse for your skill level.

Enjoy 30-minutes in the saddle on Mr Sanchos Beach where you’ll pass mangroves, forests, farms and sparkling Caribbean waters. This tour is perfect for families, couples and friends, although it is not recommended if you have back problems, are pregnant, or are over 200 pounds.

15. Explore cenotes and underground caves

Cenotes are naturally formed water reservoirs or sinkholes that are common in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Formed by limestone bedrock that collapsed leaving a hole or underground water cave, cenotes come in many shapes and sizes – some forming underground labyrinths of connected caves.

You can spend 3 to 3.5 hours in a small group tour exploring the cenote at Rio Secreto in Playa del Carmen. This cenote is dramatically decorated with natural stalactites and stalagmites, perfect for taking plenty of incredible instagram-worthy photos.

Your tour leader will guide you through a network of rivers and underground caves, after kitting you out with a wetsuit for swimming. After all the swimming, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite – luckily your light lunch offers lots of local foods.

16. ATV adventure/dune buggy excursion

Are you an adrenaline junkie or an outdoor adventure enthusiast? Then you might like to combine three of the top adventure tours near Cozumel in one action-packed day tour. This 4-hour family-friendly tour includes ziplining, riding through the jungle on a 4×4 ATV, and exploring an underwater cenote.

After being collected from your hotel in Cancun or Riviera Maya, you’ll  be taken to the heart of the jungle where you’ll zip through the air between canopy platforms, along 6 zip lines and 3 interactive bridges.

You’ll then have 50 minutes to explore the jungle on a Honda 220cc ATV with your guide, getting a glimpse of the local wildlife and scenery.

Finish off your tour with a refreshing dip in a Mayan cenote at “Ruta de los Cenotes” before being dropped back at your hotel.

17. Visit Mayan Bee Sanctuary

Bees are one of the most famous insects on the planet and according to Mayan folklore, their honey is a gift from the gods.

Learn about bees and the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey, as well and how ancient Mayans valued honey for its healing powers when you visit the Mayan Bee Sanctuary in Cozumel .

Your guide will explain how bee hives are intricately structured, how colonies organizational structures work, and the role of the queen bee and her drones, the guardian, and the princesses.

And at the end of the tour you’ll also get to sample some different honey varieties and learn about what other products bees can help us to make.

18. Take a glass-bottom boat ride

If you want to observe sea life from the ocean, then a glass bottom boat ride is a great way to do it.

Perfect for non-swimmers as a way to get a glimpse of underwater life, you can hop on a Cozumel 2-hour glass bottom boat tour that includes optional snorkeling at 3 of the island’s best-known reefs.

This glass-bottom boat has a sun deck for those who want to catch some rays and enjoy the above-water views. And its glass bottom allows you to watch life underwater without having to get wet.

19. Play at Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park on the Maya Riviera is one of the top Yucatan Peninsula tourist attractions. Boasting over 40 attractions, this expansive nature park is definitely a place you can spend a full day exploring and being entertained.

That’s why purchasing the full day Xcaret Park pass —which includes lunch PLUS a nighttime cultural show—may be the highlight of your vacation.

Some of the top things to do at Xcaret include the Coral Reef Aquarium, the Manatee Lagoon, the Butterfly Pavilion and Spider Monkey Island.

Float along a network of below ground-level rivers that flow into a cenote; relax on pristine beaches and snorkel in sheltered coves; visit a Mayan village and Mexican cemetery; take a raft tour down the Paradise River; explore authentic Mayan temple ruins; walk along lush jungle trails; and explore Jaguar Island. There are an abundance of things to do and see at Xcaret – which means you’ll have to plan your day carefully.

There are also a range of activities in the park that are an additional charge, but worth considering. For example you can swim with dolphins, swim with nurse sharks, or have a close encounter with a stingray.

The evening performance with dinner is another highlight of visiting Xcaret. The Xcaret México Espectacular will give you an overview of ancient history and folklore at the Gran Tlachco arena where over 300 performers in bright costumes will entertain you.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, no matter what you’re into, there’s a Cozumel shore excursion that you’ll enjoy. When you start planning a vacation to this Mexican island, be sure to include one or more of the experiences mentioned in this article to make the most of your time there.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to relax on the beach, you’re sure to find the perfect excursion in Cozumel.

Want to save these Cozumel excursions for later?

Add this pin to your favorite Pinterest travel board.

Is it better to book excursions through the cruise ship?

You can take excursions through the cruise line, book tours yourself, or visit Cozumel attractions on your own with advice from a good travel guide .

Each option has pros and cons. Your decision will depend on your budget, how much time you want to spend onshore, and whether you prefer the convenience of having everything taken care of for you.

Here are some things to consider:

Booking excursions through the cruise line

• Good if you like traveling with a large group
• Can get a full refund if the weather is bad
• Transportation, guide, and admission fees are often included
• More likely to get back on the ship on time
• Can be more expensive than booking a tour yourself
• You may not be able to customize the itinerary to your interests
• You may not get the same level of service as you would with a private tour guide
• You may not be able to hear your guide
• May require a minimum number of people to run

Booking tours yourself

• Can be cheaper than booking through the cruise line
• More options to choose from
• You can customize the itinerary to your interests and any special needs
• Your guide can answer all your questions
• You can choose smaller tour groups or go solo with a private guide
• A smaller group size means you can spend more time at each stop
• You can usually change plans if you want to stay longer or leave early
• Have to do your research to find reputable tour operators
• No guarantee you’ll get back on the ship on time
• Admission and transportation fees are not always included
• Doesn’t usually have a minimum number of people required to run
• Usually can’t be canceled at the last minute

Going on your own

• Can be the cheapest option
• You’re free to come and go as you please
• You have total control over your itinerary
• You’re responsible for getting back on the ship on time
• It may be more difficult to find your way around
• Admission fees are not always included
• May require more research in advance

ⓘ TIP: You can easily get to Playa del Carmen from Cozumel by ferry. Buy tickets here.

Frequently asked questions about cruising to Cozumel (FAQ)

Yes, the Port of Cozumel is open to cruise ships.

Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean Sea. It lies about 10 miles (16 km) off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

The best way to get to Cozumel is by plane or cruise ship. There are many direct flights from major airports in the US and Canada. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Playa del Carmen.

The best time to visit Cozumel is between December and April when there is no risk of hurricanes and average temperatures range in the 70s and 80s (21°-30°C).

Climbing the ancient Mayan structures in the Yucatan and Quintana Roo is not allowed, in order to prevent injury and preserve the sites. There are 3 Mayan pyramids that tourists can climb: Coba, Izamal, and Uxmal.

Chichen Itza is not recommended for cruise ship passengers stopping in Cozumel. You can visit the ruins if your cruise stops in Progreso, though. Otherwise, we recommend visiting either Tulum or Coba instead.

The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the official currency of Mexico. However, US dollars are widely accepted in Cozumel.

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Cozumel. However, English is also widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

Cozumel is in the Central Time Zone (GMT-6).

Tipping is common in Cozumel, especially for service workers such as waiters, bartenders, and tour guides. A general rule of thumb is to tip 10-15% of the bill.

Yes, you can walk to a beach from the Cozumel port. The beaches of San Francisco and Playa Azul are both within walking distance.

The best way to get around Cozumel is by taxi, bus, or rental car. You can also rent a scooter or bicycle, but be aware that traffic can be chaotic and roads are often in poor condition.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to Mexico.

It is not mandatory to have travel insurance to enter Mexico, but it is highly recommended.

Yes, Cozumel is a safe place to visit. It’s located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, which is considered one of the safest parts of Mexico. There’s a heavy police presence on the island, and tourists rarely run into any trouble. Of course, it’s always important to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings. As long as you do that, you should have no trouble enjoying your time in Cozumel.

The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old.

Share this story with others

Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

You may also like...

10 Best Things to Do in Cozumel, Mexico

A Traveler’s Guide to Vegetarian Mexican Food

11 Good Reasons to Visit Tulum, Mexico

2 thoughts on “19 top-rated cozumel shore excursions for your next cruise”.

Do they still have the horse carriage tours in Cozumel

I never saw any of those while I was doing my research.

Comments are closed.

• Africa Africa
• Cambodia Cambodia
• Malaysia Malaysia
• Nepal Lifetime Experiences!
• Philippines
• Singapore Singapore
• Taiwan See our Taiwan destination page for more.
• Curacao Travel photos and articles
• Dominica Exhilarating adventures, breathtaking landscapes and fairy-tale coral reefs
• Jamaica Heartbeat of the World
• Sint Maarten/ St Martin The Friendly Island
• Belize Belize
• Panama Panama
• Andorra Andorra
• Austria Austria
• Belgium Where Benelux begins
• Croatia Croatia
• Czechia Czech Republic
• France France
• Germany Germany
• Greece Greece
• Hungary Hungary
• Ireland Ireland
• Italy Italy
• Montenegro Montenegro
• Netherlands Netherlands
• Slovakia Slovakia
• Spain Spain
• Switzerland Switzerland
• U.K. United Kingdom
• Vatican City Vatican City
• Israel + Palestine Land of Creation
• Saudi Arabia Hello World
• Türkiye You Will Want to Stay Forever
• United Arab Emirates Discover all that’s possible
• Mexico Mexico
• United States United States of America
• Australia There’s NOTHING like Australia.
• New Zealand New Zealand travel inspiration, articles, and tips for curious travelers
• Argentina Argentina travel inspiration – destinations, things to do, and tips for the curious traveler.
• Brazil Brasil – sensational!
• Colombia Colombia is magical realism
• Ecuador All you need is Ecuador
• Peru Land of the Incas
• 1-day itineraries
• Weekend Getaways
• 1- to 2-week itineraries
• food and drink
• Things to Do
• travel planning
• know before you go
• cruise ports
• cruise tips
• Viking Grand European Tour Daily journal entries from our Grand European Tour, a river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam, with activities, experiences and tips.
• photo gallery Travel photos by As We Saw It
• photo essays Photo Essays
• photography tips Photo Tips

Carnival Cruises to Cozumel

We found you 77 cruise s

.css-3ekbvf{-webkit-animation:none;animation:none;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);line-height:24px;text-transform:uppercase;}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-3ekbvf{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-3ekbvf{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);}} 5 Night .css-dfa557{-webkit-animation:none;animation:none;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;color:black;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-lg);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);line-height:22px;}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-dfa557{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-lg);line-height:22px;}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-dfa557{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-xl);line-height:28px;}} Western Caribbean .css-1sc0dsj{-webkit-appearance:none;-moz-appearance:none;-ms-appearance:none;appearance:none;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;-webkit-user-select:none;-moz-user-select:none;-ms-user-select:none;user-select:none;position:relative;white-space:nowrap;vertical-align:middle;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;line-height:1.2;transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-normal);height:auto;min-width:var(--chakra-sizes-10);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);background:none;border-bottom:1px dotted;border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-radius:0!important;border-bottom-left-radius:0!important;border-bottom-right-radius:0!important;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);margin:0px;padding:0!important;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-Roboto);font-weight:500;padding-top:0.625rem;padding-bottom:0.625rem;-webkit-padding-start:1rem;padding-inline-start:1rem;-webkit-padding-end:1rem;padding-inline-end:1rem;-webkit-align-self:flex-end;-ms-flex-item-align:flex-end;align-self:flex-end;margin-left:var(--chakra-space-1);}.css-1sc0dsj:focus-visible,.css-1sc0dsj[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-1sc0dsj:disabled,.css-1sc0dsj[disabled],.css-1sc0dsj[aria-disabled=true],.css-1sc0dsj[data-disabled]{opacity:0.4;cursor:not-allowed;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}@media screen and (min-width: 576px){.css-1sc0dsj{margin-left:var(--chakra-space-1);}}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-1sc0dsj{display:none;margin-left:var(--chakra-space-2);}}.css-1sc0dsj:active,.css-1sc0dsj[data-active]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);background:none;}.css-1sc0dsj:hover,.css-1sc0dsj[data-hover]{border-bottom:1px solid;background:none;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1sc0dsj:focus,.css-1sc0dsj[data-focus]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);} Details

• Fare Insight

5 Night Western Caribbean Details

4 night western caribbean details.

Seas the views with 70% off a 2nd Sailor

• Free balcony upgrades on most 2024 Caribbean & Mediterranean sailings
• Experience our growing fleet, featuring the debut of Brilliant Lady
• Discover places like Norway, Iceland, & more through 2026

7 Night Western Caribbean Details

10 night panama canal details, 6 night western caribbean details, related cruises.

Carnival Cruises to St. Croix

Carnival Cruises to Juneau

Carnival Cruises to Skagway

Carnival Cruises to Ketchikan

Carnival Cruises to Victoria

Carnival Cruises to Port Canaveral (Orlando)

Carnival Cruises to Miami

Carnival Cruises to Seattle

Carnival Cruises to Dover

Carnival Cruises to Barcelona

Carnival Cruises to Seville

Carnival Cruises to Progreso

Carnival Cruises to Charleston

Carnival Cruises to Catalina Island

Carnival Cruises to Grand Turk

Carnival Cruises to Cartagena (Colombia)

Carnival Cruises to Half Moon Cay

Carnival Cruises to Malaga

Carnival Cruises to Amber Cove (Puerto Plata)

Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. Our partners who list cruise pricing on Cruise Critic are required to provide prices for cruise only or cruise packages , per person, double occupancy, and are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates, and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. Rates are in USD and valid for US and Canadian residents only. Fuel supplement may apply. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. In addition, average cruise prices are updated nightly.

Furthermore, Cruise Critic makes no guarantees for availability of prices advertised on our site. Listed prices may have blackout dates, qualifications or restrictions.

Cruise Critic is not responsible for content on external web sites.

Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of June 18th, 2024 .

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
• Let Us Call You CALL ME
• Drink Packages
• Flights by Celebrity℠
• Hotels by Celebrity
• Manage Reservation
• Shore Excursions
• Upgrade with MoveUp

• My Tier and Points
• Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Land Package
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex
• Celebrity Ascent NEW
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Reflection
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Xcel COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora
• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Xploration
• The Retreat
• Suite Life. Elevated.
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Horizon Suite
• Sunset Suite
• View All Suites
• Concierge Class
• Galapagos Accommodations
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

• Cruising 101
• Cruise Fare Options
• Cruise Tips
• First Time on a Cruise
• What is Included on a Cruise
• Future Cruise Vacations
• Accessible Cruising
• Captain's Club Rewards
• Cruise Insurance
• Flights by Celebrity
• Healthy at Sea
• Manage Cruise
• The Celebrity Store
• Travel Documents
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

• 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free
• Free Caribbean Veranda Upgrades
• Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
• Resident Rates
• Exciting Deals
• View All Offers
• All Included
• Cruise & Land Packages
• Dining Packages
• Photo Packages
• Wi-Fi Packages
• View All Packages
• Captain's Club Overview
• Join the Club
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers
• Tiers & Benefits
• Loyalty Status Match
• Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200.

Cozumel, Mexico Shore Excursions

Tabs view cozumel cruises.

• Cozumel Port Guide
• Cozumel Shore Excursions
• Caribbean Cruises
• View Cozumel Cruises

Cozumel Shore Excursions Present Multiple Ways to Spend Time Ashore

Cozumel shore excursions offer Caribbean cruise passengers multiple opportunities to enjoy the island’s activities. Whether you’re looking to spend your time ashore soaking up the sun, snorkeling in clear blue waters, or trekking to Mayan ruins, you can book Cozumel cruise tours that will ensure your time ashore is simply sensational.

If your idea of heaven is to get as much beach time as possible, schedule Cozumel shore excursions that let you soak up the sun at premier resorts with access to pristine white-sand beaches that lead to the turquoise water of the Caribbean. You’ll also find water sports activities and waterparks featuring spectacular slides, water rafts, floats, and much more.

Enhance your beach time with a lesson in salsa making and margarita shaking, or learn how to dance salsa like a local.

Cozumel offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean. If you fancy diving into crystal-clear waters to swim among colorful reefs, stingrays, sea turtles, and dolphins, you can book a shore excursion that’s perfect for you, no matter if you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned diver.

If you’re keen to see the amazing world under the sea without getting wet, set off on a submarine tour with an expert guide who will point out the colorful marine life as you glide in cool, dry comfort 100 feet below the water’s surface.

For a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore Mayan ruins, some Cozumel cruise excursions include expertly guided tours to Chichén Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Wonder of the World; Tulum, a walled Mayan city; or the unexcavated ruins of Coba. These are among the most popular Cozumel shore excursions and are sure to enhance your cruise experience.

Family-friendly tours that combine swimming, playing, and photo-ops among docile dolphins with beach time and water sports offer memory-making days that will last a lifetime.

Bring your sense of adventure to a day-long, jungle-themed, action-packed excursion that includes ziplining through treetops and landing in a lagoon, exploring underground caves, and paddling through subterranean caverns.

Food-focused tours are a fun and fabulous way to spend shore time in Cozumel. If you’re so inclined, don an apron, follow your chef’s lead, and prepare to cook, learn, and tantalize your taste buds. Head to Jose Cuervo Tequila headquarters to sample tequila and make perfect margaritas with a master mixologist.

Learn More About Shore Excursions

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Book a Flight
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Required Travel Documents
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

Cruise to Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in cozumel.

Temple Trekking

A Cultural and Historical Ruin in Cozumel, Mexico

Get up close and personal with Maya history at San Gervasio, the largest ancient Maya site on Cozumel, which dates back to as early as A.D. 300.

Dive Into Adventure

Dolphin Peaks Head out of Water, Cozumel, Mexico

At Chankanaab National Park, you’ll find everything from snorkeling and scuba to swimming with dolphins.

Natural Thrills

Reconnect with nature while wandering the endless mangroves, beaches and reefs in Punta Sur National Park during your Cozumel cruise.

Local Cuisine

Cozumel’s cuisine is dominated by Mexican, American and international cuisine. Fresh seafood is always a good choice, and so is the cochinita pibil — a slow-roasted, highly seasoned pork dish. Cool off with a michelada , made with beer and freshly squeezed lime juice over ice in a salt-rimmed glass. Or keep it traditional with Mexico’s signature spirit, tequila.

For great deals and guaranteed stores, walk along the waterfront on Avenue Rafael E. Melgar, a mile-long strip in San Miguel. And be sure to check out the Chile Tequila Factory for a sampling of Mexico’s favorite spirit.

Best Deals to Cozumel, Mexico

These cruises are selling out fast, get them while you can.

Departs From {{card.portName}}

Onboard {{card.shipName}} of the Seas

{{ card.totalGroups }} Itineraries

We've circled the globe and couldn't find any sailings that match your search. View All Cruises

We're having trouble retrieving these cruises. View All Results

Similar to Cozumel, Mexico

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

These Travelers Have a Secret: They Love Cheap Cruises on Old Ships

R oyal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, a cruise ship over five times as large as the Titanic, is preparing for its inaugural voyage in late January. A subset of die-hard passengers are saying they would much prefer the opposite of that mammoth boat.

Picking an older, smaller cruise might make for less fancy travel, but it comes with obvious advantages. Lower demand for the aged vessels in cruise lines’ fleets can prompt some big-deal savings. Some of these ships sail more exotic itineraries, and passengers enjoy greater attention from crew members without feeling so crowded. A cruise ship can start to show its age at around 15 years.

“Each ship has its own personality,” says Mari Marks, a luxury-travel adviser with Protravel International in Beverly Hills, Calif. “Because not everybody is going to love being with over 5,000 of their new best friends.”

Royal Caribbean operates the six largest cruise ships in the world. The Icon is now the largest. It can hold more than 7,000 passengers and comes with everything from an ice-skating arena to six waterslides.

A well-traveled boat

A few years ago, cruise regular and Las Vegas resident David Di Vito went on his first cruise aboard the Oasis of the Seas, which was once the world’s largest cruise vessel. Since then he has sailed on multiple Royal Caribbean ships. His favorite is the less-heralded Vision of the Seas.

Vision of the Seas has been in service since 1998. Di Vito and his fiancée, Marina Vail, appreciated that they weren’t overwhelmed by crowds and could do the activities they wanted.

While the older vessel didn’t have the many niceties of the Oasis of the Seas, they enjoyed themselves. Di Vito liked grabbing a deck chair and watching the ocean. Vail peeled off for trivia games and scavenger hunts.

Fewer people also meant better service, Di Vito, a 34-year-old sound engineer, says. He recalls that the Wi-Fi was more reliable, guest services was more responsive and booking excursions at ports of call wasn’t a hassle.

Such trips are often also cheaper. A seven-night sailing on the Icon of the Seas started at around $2,536 a person on a recent search for an interior stateroom before applying discounts. A three-night cruise to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Fla., in early September on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, which will have its maiden voyage in July, started at $827 a person for an interior cabin before discounts.

Meanwhile, a four-night cruise to Cozumel, Mexico, out of Tampa, Fla., on the Grandeur of the Seas, the cruise line’s oldest ship, around that same time started at $519 a person for an interior room before discounts.

Royal Caribbean didn’t respond to requests for comment.

The big get bigger

Other cruise companies have introduced gargantuan vessels in recent years. MSC Cruises entered the MSC World Europa into service in December 2022. The ship can hold more than 6,700 passengers and more than 2,100 crew members.

Carnival’s flagship, the Celebration, had its maiden voyage in late 2022. That ship has a maximum capacity above 6,500 passengers—and boasts the first roller coaster at sea.

“Larger ships offer more operational efficiencies, more revenue-generating opportunities and more space to offer a variety of accommodations, dining, entertainment and recreational features,” says Chris Chiames, chief communications officer for Carnival Cruise Line.

A cruise’s cost generally depends on factors including the length of the trip and demand for the itinerary, travel advisers say. But the ship’s age can also factor in.

Phil Perrey, a minister from St. Charles, Mo., says he and his wife wanted to sail on one of Royal Caribbean’s newer and larger ships. By the time they finished pricing it out, they realized they could pay at least $300 less to sail on the Celebrity Equinox, which first entered service nearly 15 years ago.

“And that’s for a higher-end cruise line,” Perrey says.

A ship pro tip

When booking cruises, Perrey takes an approach recommended by many travel advisers. Instead of looking at when a ship first sailed, he checks when it was last refurbished during what is known as a dry dock.

“A 10-year-old ship that hasn’t been through dry dock is going to feel older than a 20-year-old ship that got out of dry dock two years ago,” he says.

Carnival uses the dry-dock process to install features on its more-mature ships, such as the adult-only Serenity section, Chiames says. Three of its ships—the Sunshine, the Radiance and the Sunrise—were renamed following extensive renovations.

Older ships can come with drawbacks, even if they are recently renovated. They tend to have smaller rooms and fewer cabins with balconies, says Rob Clabbers, president of Q Cruise and Travel in Chicago.

Keeping older ships in a fleet enables cruise lines to serve a wider array of destinations. Newer megaships can be too big to dock in certain harbors, including Tahiti.

“We intentionally place our smaller ships in more exotic destinations with longer, port-intensive itineraries that offer a more immersive experience that our guests love,” says David Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.

Adam Carnevale, a small-business owner from Hickory, N.C., has sailed most often with Carnival. He and his wife regularly take advantage of offers they get since they frequent the casino.

Many of his cruises have been aboard the Carnival Sunshine. The ship sails out of Charleston, S.C., about four hours from home. They also appreciate the hometown vibe of the ship: They frequently recognize passengers and crew members from previous sailings.

Carnevale was less enthusiastic about a cruise he took out of Miami on the Celebration last summer. He says he found the food and service not up to the same level of quality as what he experienced on the Sunshine. He also wasn’t wowed by the ship’s many amenities, which he compared with an ice-cream cone overloaded with toppings.

“You don’t have to give me all the fancy stuff,” he says. “Sometimes vanilla is good.”

Less showy boats

The five oldest Royal Caribbean ships:

Grandeur of the Seas (Maiden voyage: December 1996)Rhapsody of the Seas (Maiden voyage: May 1997)Enchantment of the Seas (Maiden voyage: July 1997)Vision of the Seas (Maiden voyage: May 1998)Voyager of the Seas (Maiden voyage: November 1999)

Sign up for the WSJ Travel newsletter for more tips and insights from the Journal’s travel team.

Write to Jacob Passy at [email protected]

The pre-purchase window for certain products and activities closes between one and three days prior to the sail date. If you missed the purchase window, check with us once you're on board — we'll help you find what you’re looking for.

The purchase window for certain products and activities closes before to the sail end date. If you missed the purchase window, check with us on board, we'll help you find what you’re looking for.

Shore Excursions

About shore excursions.

Already booked your cruise?

Log In  to shop food, entertainment and gifts for yourself or a friend!

Feeling Generous?

Give a gift to your friend going on one of our cruises!