Cozumel: El Cielo Catamaran Snorkel & Money Bar Beach Stop

Summary

Snorkeling Colombia & Palancar reefs then floating at El Cielo’s sandbar with snacks

You’ll sail from Cozumel out to Colombia & Palancar reefs for guided snorkeling with colorful marine life before drifting over El Cielo’s bright sandbar dotted with starfish. Enjoy open bar drinks, fresh ceviche, fruit snacks, plus time relaxing at The Money Bar beach club. Expect laughter, salty hair, and those rare moments when everything feels lighter.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I signed up for the catamaran snorkel tour in Cozumel mostly because I’d seen photos of that wild blue water at El Cielo — but it hit different in person. The morning was already sticky when we met our crew at the dock (I forgot to bring a hat, which was dumb), but everyone was friendly and somehow made us feel like we were just tagging along with locals. Our guide, Luis, kept joking about how he could spot a sea turtle from a mile away — I didn’t believe him until he actually did. The boat ride out to Colombia Reef was longer than I expected (maybe 45 minutes?), but honestly it felt good just watching the island fade behind us and hearing nothing but wind and that low hum of the motor.

Jumping into the water always feels colder than you think, even here. The coral at Palancar was way more alive than anything I’ve seen back home — little flashes of yellow fish darting around my mask, and once this slow-moving ray gliding underneath. Luis pointed out a barracuda (I kind of wish he hadn’t) and then some starfish clinging to the sand where it got shallow. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for my own breathing through the snorkel — not sure why that sticks with me. Maybe because it felt like we were guests in someone else’s world for a bit.

El Cielo is basically what you hope paradise looks like but never really expect to find. The water turns this weird electric blue that almost doesn’t look real; you can see straight down to the white sand dotted with starfish (Luis called them “estrellas de mar” — I tried to say it too, he laughed). We floated there for ages while they passed around cold drinks and fresh ceviche that tasted so much better after swimming — maybe it’s just saltwater hunger? Anyway, nobody rushed us. Some folks stayed on deck eating fruit and chips; others kept drifting off with their masks on. It felt easy.

On the way back toward The Money Bar Beach Club, people were quieter — maybe sun-drunk or just tired from all that swimming. I sat at the rail watching pelicans dive near shore and thinking about how simple it all felt out there: salt on your skin, lime in your drink, no shoes needed. If you’re looking for something polished or fancy this isn’t really that — but if you want four hours where time sort of blurs into water and laughter, well… you’ll get it here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran snorkel adventure in Cozumel

• Depart to Colombia and Palancar reefs
• Snorkel at Colombia and Palancar reefs
• Sail to El Cielo natural bay
• Snorkel and relax at El Cielo
• Enjoy open bar and snacks
• Sail back to starting point

Top questions

How long is the Cozumel catamaran snorkel tour?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from start to finish.

Which snorkeling spots are included on this tour?

You’ll snorkel at Colombia Reef and Palancar Reef before visiting El Cielo bay.

Is lunch included during the catamaran trip?

You’ll get fresh ceviche, seasonal fruit, corn chips, plus an open bar onboard; food & drinks at The Money Bar are not included.

Are snorkeling equipment and guides provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is included and experienced crew guide you in the water.

Can cruise ship passengers join this Cozumel snorkel tour?

Yes; provide your ship name so timing can be coordinated for pickup.

Is sunscreen allowed on board?

No sunscreen is allowed once aboard due to reef protection rules; wear long sleeves or hats instead.

What’s special about El Cielo in Cozumel?

El Cielo is famous for its shallow turquoise waters filled with starfish (“estrellas de mar”) over soft white sandbanks.

Is there an age limit or health restrictions?

The minimum age is 6 years old; certain health conditions (heart/lung problems etc.) restrict participation in snorkeling.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkeling equipment plus guidance from local crew as you explore Colombia & Palancar reefs before sailing to El Cielo bay. Onboard there’s an open bar serving sodas, beer, margaritas and rum punch along with fresh ceviche, seasonal fruit and corn chips. You’ll also have access to facilities at The Money Bar Beach Club before heading back ashore.