Plan a CruiseCozumel is a popular cruise destination renowned for its vibrant underwater world, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Cruise ships dock at one of three main pier locations. Punta Langosta, used by lines like Disney, NCL, MSC, Oceania, Silversea, and Marella Cruises, is conveniently located right downtown San Miguel, with an overpass leading directly into a shopping mall. The International Pier, serving Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships, and Puerta Maya, used by Carnival Corporation lines, are both situated approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of downtown, about a 10-minute taxi ride away. In cases of high port traffic, some ships may anchor offshore and tender passengers directly to the Punta Langosta pier.
Getting Around from the Port
From Punta Langosta Pier: You are already in the heart of downtown San Miguel and can easily explore the waterfront, plaza, and shops on foot. This pier also serves as the departure point for ferries to Playa del Carmen on the mainland.
From International Pier & Puerta Maya:
- Taxi: A taxi ride into downtown San Miguel takes about 10 minutes and typically costs around $10. Be aware that some drivers may quote higher prices; always ask to see the official rate card, which all taxi drivers are required to carry. If you encounter long taxi lines at the pier, you can walk out of the pier exit to the street (turn left towards the El Cid La Ceiba Hotel) where taxis coming from town may pick up fares without waiting in line.
- Walking: Downtown San Miguel is approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) away, which is a roughly 30-minute walk along the coastline. However, consider a taxi, especially on hot days.
- Car Rental: Reputable car rental agencies are available near the cruise ship docks. Cozumel has one main road, making navigation simple.
- Ferry to Playa del Carmen: Ferries from Punta Langosta connect Cozumel to the mainland (Yucatan Peninsula). This is popular for passengers visiting attractions like Mayan Ruins, Xcaret, or Xel Ha. Companies like Winjet and Ultramar's operate these routes. Always purchase one-way tickets, as different ferry companies do not accept each other's tickets. The ferry ride can sometimes be rough.
Attractions and Activities
Cozumel is primarily known for its underwater attractions, making snorkeling and diving popular choices:
- Reef Snorkeling: Explore vibrant marine life at Palancar Reef (great for families), Columbia Reef (colorful fish and coral), or Playa El Cielo (known for shallow, clear waters and starfish). Many tour operators offer excursions.
- Mini Submarine Tour: For non-divers or non-snorkelers, this unique activity by Cozumel Water Sports allows you to drive an underwater scooter with your head dry in an air-filled helmet, perfect for those wearing glasses.
- Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling: A comfortable 2-hour tour visiting three famous Cozumel reefs, with drinks available for purchase.
- Chankanaab National Park: Located about 9 km south of town, open daily from 7 am to 5 pm. This park offers a beach, restaurant, bar, walking trails, and a lagoon with iguanas. Activities include snorkeling, diving, swimming with dolphins, and Seatrek. Adult admission is approximately $22.
- Explore the East Side: Rent a car or scooter and venture to the island's undeveloped east side. Here you'll find beautiful beaches, big waves, rocky outcrops, and occasional small blowholes (if waves permit). Beachfront restaurants are spaced every few kilometers.
- Cozumel Pearl Farm: Visit the Caribbean's only active pearl farm, situated in a pristine, protected area accessible only by boat.
- Mainland Day Trips (via Playa del Carmen Ferry):
- Chichen Itza: A world-renowned Mayan archaeological site, located approximately 2 hours from the cruise terminals (after taking the ferry).
- Río Secreto: Discover a breathtaking underground river system with thousands of stalactites and stalagmites, about a 30-minute drive from the ferry terminals on the mainland.
Dining
Downtown San Miguel offers a diverse array of small eateries and restaurants serving both local Mexican cuisine and international dishes. If exploring the east side of the island, you'll find beachfront restaurants every few kilometers.
Shopping
San Miguel is excellent for shopping local crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. Silver is generally cheaper here than in the U.S., but always look for the ".925" stamp to ensure quality. A practical tip to avoid fake silver: carry a small magnet; if the "silver" sticks to it, it is not sterling silver. Shops traditionally open from 9 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm (closed Sunday mornings), though those near the piers often remain open all day, especially during high season.
Safety
When taking a taxi, be aware that drivers may quote inflated prices. Always request to see the official rate card required by law for all taxi drivers. When purchasing silver, be vigilant for fakes. Genuine sterling silver will have a ".925" stamp and will not be attracted to a magnet.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). The symbol for pesos is the same as for US dollars ($), which can be confusing; prices in dollars are typically marked "US$" or with an S and a double stroke. The exchange rate is approximately 17 pesos to 1 US dollar. Credit cards are not as widely accepted as in North America or Europe, and some establishments may add a surcharge of around 5% for card transactions. Cash is highly preferred. Spanish is the main language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.