Category: Cozumel (Mexico)

CENOTE-HOPPING

Explore Tankah Park, a natural sanctuary where adventure and relaxation converge. Immerse yourself in the vegetation and dive into the Mayan culture through attractions that guarantee an unforgettable experience. Board the ferry to Playa Del Carmen, where you’ll then embark on an approximately 1-hour drive leading you to your first cenote, “La Cueva,” known for its natural arch.

You’ll spend approximately 35 minutes here before continuing your exploration on to your second cenote stop, “Cenote Kay”. Witness tiny “cleaner” fish and intricate stalactites. Another approximately 35 minutes is spent here before heading to “Azul”, where you’ll spend approximately 30 minutes in the translucent waters. Marvel at the sheer grandeur of “Cenote Naval,” an expansive cenote spanning an impressive 500 meters. Feel the rush as you glide across one of the largest cenotes in the Mayan Riviera on a thrilling zip line ride. Explore the vast open-air cenote on a canoe or simply take a dip in the water. Finally, you’ll visit a traditional Mayan Village and get a glimpse of their way of life. Indulge in a typical Mexican lunch featuring handmade tortillas, Chicken Pibil, Poc-chuc pork, accompanied by side dishes, flavored waters, and coffee. Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate.

Please note: The maximum weight for the zipline is 260 lbs. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for the zipline activity. Tripods and drones are not permitted on this tour. It is recommended that guests bring a bathing suit, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and water shoes. Transfer by ferry to Playa del Carmen lasts approximately 45 minutes and could possibly be rough depending on the sea conditions.

Once in mainland it is an approximately 1-hour bus drive each way to/from Tankah Park, for a total travel time from the ship to and from Tankah Park of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way. Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate.

XEL-HA WITH LUNCH AND DRINKS

Spend a day snorkelling, biking, zip-lining and more during this approximately eight-hour excursion to the Xel-Há water park. The itinerary also includes lunch at one of the three onsite restaurants, with unlimited drinks.

Excursion details

Xel-Há is an adventure park in the heart of the Riviera Maya, offering water-based activities such as swimming, snorkelling, water slides and river tubing, plus other outdoor pursuits, such as zip-lining. Get your fill of excitement during this approximately eight-hour excursion, which includes lunch.

Begin with a ferry ride from the port to Playa del Carmen, lasting around 40 minutes, where you ‘ll disembark the boat and board a bus over about 20 minutes. After an approximately one-hour bus ride, arrive at the park. Your guide will give a brief orientation to help you get the most out of your visit, then it ‘s time for you to head off and explore at your leisure.

You ‘ll have approximately four hours at the park to take advantage of the many outdoor activities available at Xel-Há. Water-lovers can grab a mask, fins and life jacket and go snorkelling to see all kinds of marine life, although please note that sightings cannot be guaranteed. Or climb the towering Mirador Lighthouse and descend into a natural pool via its winding waterslide.

Thrill-seekers can go zip-lining or rope swinging into a river, or you can even jump from the five-metre-high ‘Cliff of Courage ‘. For something calmer, grab a bike and ride through jungle trails. Fuel up for the day with lunch at one of the park ‘s restaurants (lunch is covered by the excursion cost), which includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. It ‘s then time to head back to the port. Board your bus for the approximately one-hour journey back to the ferry pier, then board the ferry over about 20 minutes for an approximately 40-minute transfer to the port.

Important Information: Xel-Ha Park is located on mainland while the ship is in Cozumel. Transfer by ferry to Playa del Carmen lasts approximately 45 minutes and could possibly be rough depending on the sea conditions. Once in mainland it is an approximately 1-hour bus drive each way to/from Xel-Ha, for a total travel time from the ship to and from Xel-Ha Park of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way. Xel-Ha is a property with many activities for guests to enjoy during their self-exploration. Please note, in consideration of transfer time from / to Cozumel and ship time in port, the time spent at Xel-Ha Park will be limited and may not allow to enjoy all of the available activities.

Estimated stay at the park: 4 hrs. Tour price stays unchanged as Xel-Ha currently only offers one set of rates. There is no differentiation between half and full day rates. Swimwear, a hat, water shoes, insect repellent, and change of clothes are recommended. Guests will meet the guide on arrival in Playa del Carmen. Please ensure your sunscreen is fully biodegradable as normal sunscreen is prohibited from use due to the damage it causes to the reef. For calls when the ship is in port 10 or more hours, this tour will last an hour longer and guests will have free time in Playa del Carmen. Lockers and towels are included in the tour price. Minimum age to participate on the lighthouse water slide and bicycles is 6 years old. Minimum height for the lighthouse water slide and bicycles is 4 feet and 7 inches

KUZA BEACH PARK DAY PASS & EL CIELO

Some places you visit. Others you discover. After an approximately 30-minute drive, you’ll arrive at KUZÁ Beach Club. Departing from KUZÁ’s private dock, embark on an approximately 2-hour boat tour. You’ll reach the nearby Columbia Reef in just minutes, where you can snorkel among coral and marine life. Continue to Palancar Reef to explore its distinctive underwater formations and tropical fish. The final stop is El Cielo, a shallow sandbar known for its crystal-clear waters, starfish, and the occasional stingray—perfect for a relaxed, scenic swim. After your guided snorkeling adventure, return to KUZÁ’s beachfront area and enjoy approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind by the shore, enjoy light entertainment, or relax with available food and drinks, this experience offers a flexible way to enjoy both Cozumel’s vibrant sea life and its laid-back coastal charm. Guests must be at least 10 years old to participate.

Please note: The maximum weight for the zipline is 260 lbs. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for the zipline activity. Tripods and drones are not permitted on this tour. It is recommended that guests bring a bathing suit, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and water shoes.

Transfer by ferry to Playa del Carmen lasts approximately 45 minutes and could possibly be rough depending on the sea conditions. Once in mainland it is an approximately 1-hour bus drive each way to/from Tankah Park, for a total travel time from the ship to and from Tankah Park of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way. Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate

HOT TAMALES! COOKING AND COOL WATERS

Immerse yourself in a cultural journey that blends ancestral flavors with with a refreshing swim. Your experience begins at Zacil de Cocay with a welcome mocktail made from seasonal fruits, followed by a hands-on culinary workshop where you’ll prepare a traditional roasted tomato salsa with pepita and cilantro, and handcraft two tamales—one with chicken and one with espelón, a native black bean—using time-honored techniques. While your tamales steam, you’ll head to Habita for a refreshing swim in a hidden freshwater pool surrounded by jungle. After a light fruit snack, return to Zacil to enjoy your handmade tamales served with agua de jamaica in a peaceful garden setting. The experience concludes with a guided tasting of artisanal tequila and locally crafted chocolate, offering a flavorful insight into Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.

Please note: Guests must be at least 5 years old to participate. It is recommended that guests bring a bathing suit, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and wear comfortable, light clothing

DOLPHIN BEYOND CONNECTION & MANATEE ENCOUNTER VIP EXPERIENCE WITH LUNCH

Excursion details

This wildlife-focused excursion of around four hours is a chance to observe and interact with some fantastic marine creatures. Begin with a quick briefing on the dock before walking to your transport, followed by a short ride to Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park, home to a dolphin sanctuary accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammals Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

After arriving there’s a brief introductory orientation and time to change into swimwear, before 15 minutes to walk to the dock and receive a briefing on the dolphin swim experience. Then spend the next approximately 50 minutes interacting with some of the ocean’s most fascinating marine mammals in a lagoon.

Observe dolphin behaviors and vocalizations, creating a moment of presence and harmony. Throughout the program, you will engage in a series of meaningful behaviors, such as Dolphin Insight, Touch & Trust, Eye to Eye, Dolphin Bond, Heart to Heart, Ocean Echoes, and One to One, each thoughtfully designed to foster connection, awareness, and joy. Float gently face-down with clear goggles, ears beneath the surface, and experience the magical sounds of dolphins communicating and moving gracefully around you.

After your marine adventures, take about 20 minutes to shower and change before continuing the afternoon’s activities for approximately one hour and 45 minutes. During this time you’ll be able to visit the VIP lounge, enjoy a buffet lunch, watch sea lions showing off their acrobatic leaps and spend some free time unwinding, which could involve exploring the rest of the park, relaxing on the beach or by the pool, snorkelling (equipment is available to hire at guests’expense), or viewing replicas of ancient Mesoamerican art. A short ride then returns you to the port, concluding the excursion.

Important Information: Guests will be required to wash their hands before and after the animal interaction. For the dolphin beyond connection program, guests must be at least 48 inches to participate. Life jackets are mandatory to be worn throughout the dolphin program.

All guests will be required to sign a waiver, which may only be available in English. All minors under 18 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult throughout the tour. The tour is not available for pregnant women and guests suffering from pre-existing neck, back, heart or respiratory problems, epilepsy, joint issues, diabetes, motor limitations, guests under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or guests who have had recent surgeries. The maximum age to participate in the dolphin experience is 79 years old. All guests should consider their physical fitness before reserving this tour.

Photos of your Dolphin Program will be available for purchase right after the interaction and only at the Park. Bring hat and sunglasses, comfortable shoes or sandals, swimsuit under cover-up or light clothing. All sunscreen is prohibited from use before entering the water due to the damage it causes to the reef. Cameras are not allowed when interacting with the animals. As a special benefit for MSC Cruises guests, a “Dolphin Dollars” voucher offering a $10.00 USD discount on the purchase of photo packages is available at Dolphin Cove Caribbean destinations.

The voucher has no monetary value if not used. Restrictions apply: valid only for single or couple (2 people) photo packages and non-cumulative. The discount applies to photo packages only (not for 1 single photo) and cannot be combined with other promotions. Guests must present their Cruise Card or bracelet

CITY TOUR BY TROLLEY

See the sights of Cozumel on a trolley tour of some of its most significant landmarks. This approximately three-hour excursion includes a visit to Playa Casitas beach and shopping time near the main square.

Excursion details

Enjoy city sights, seaside and souvenir shopping during this approximately three-hour excursion on a classic-style trolley bus.

Once you ‘ve boarded your trolley, the tour begins. As you make the approximately 15-minute journey to Corpus Christi Church, your guide will tell you about the area ‘s history and point out any highlights. Once in Corpus Christi Church, spend around 20 minutes exploring key landmarks.

Back on the trolley, embark on the approximately 30-minute journey to a photo stop at Playa Casitas. On the way, your guide will tell you more about the vast history of Cozumel and its Maya civilisation, believed to date back to the first millennium. You ‘ll have around 25 minutes to stroll along and take in the coastal views, before heading downtown on another short trip.

Here, you ‘ll have approximately one hour of free time to go souvenir shopping for crafts, clothes, jewellery and more, or take photos of the colourful ‘Cozumel ‘ sign or the giant Mexican flag. You ‘ll then take an approximately 20-minute ride back to the port.

Important Information:One of the trolleys is equipped with a lift for a wheelchair, available upon request at the Shore Excursion desk and based on availability. Guests are recommended to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cash for any purchases. The maximum age to participate is 80 years old. Guests must be able to climb up and down four steps

RAYS AND SNORKEL BY CATAMARAN WITH TACOS, GUACAMOLE & OPEN BAR

Go snorkeling and get up-close to marine life on this approximately four-hour excursion. The itinerary includes a catamaran ride, snorkeling with stingrays and tacos and guacamole with an open bar.
Excursion details

This excursion of around four hours is a chance to glimpse Cozumel’s underwater scenes and get to know some of the creatures that inhabit those waters. Begin by boarding your catamaran and setting sail for around 15 minutes.

You’ll arrive at a coral reef for your first snorkeling stop, lasting around 60 minutes. Dive in and observe the coral, plus other plant life and marine life. Then reboard your catamaran and continue the journey to Stingray Beach and its stingrays. Before getting into the water, your guide will give you a safety briefing, before you spend approximately 30 minutes in the shallows with these majestic creatures. You’ll even be able to feed them by hand.

Then venture into deeper waters for the next half an hour, where you’ll encounter more stingrays, and perhaps some other aquatic wonders, potentially including tropical fish, nurse sharks and another coral reef. The next hour or so is spent on land, relaxing on the beach and refueling tacos and guacamole and an open bar. Once this relaxation time comes to an end, you’ll sail back to the port on a journey of around 15 minutes, concluding the excursion.

Important Information: Guests will be required to wash their hands before and after the animal interaction and use biodegradable sunscreen. Part of the proceeds for this tour will support Stingray Beach Coral Reef Transplant Programs.

The spotting of wildlife is not guaranteed. Guests must be at least 5 years old to participate. Cameras are not permitted during the encounter portion of the tour for both the guest and wildlife safety. Guests may be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. The maximum weight to participate is 250 lbs

MEXICAN STREET TACO TRAIL BY BIKE

Discover a variety of traditional Mexican food on a culinary bike tour through downtown Cozumel, lasting about four hours. Three distinct taco stops, each showcasing different aspects of local culture, offer an exploration of this Mexican classic.
Excursion details

Your approximately four-hour journey into Cozumel’s vibrant taco scene starts with a drive of around 20 minutes from the pier to the Cozumel Municipal Market. Stroll through the colourful food stalls for about 45 minutes as your guide discusses tacos and the traditions behind their preparation. Then it’s time for your first bite: tacos de cochinita pibil, a Yucatán specialty of slow-roasted marinated pork topped with pickled onions.

Next, pick up your bike and cycle for approximately 15 minutes to a local restaurant, where you’ll have about 35 minutes to enjoy fresh fish and shrimp tacos.

Continue cycling for another 25 minutes or so to your final stop at another traditional restaurant in the main square. Soak up the restaurant’s historic charm as you tuck into a crispy pork belly taco and a tinga de pollo – a shredded chicken taco with a smoky tomato-chipotle sauce. A cold beer to accompany the tacos makes the perfect pairing. This final stop – lasting approximately 90 minutes – also includes some free time, which could be used for shopping, relaxing in the leafy plaza or even seeking out additional foodie treats (at guests’own expense).

The return ride to the port on your bicycle takes about 15 minutes.

Important Information: Guests should be able to ride a bicycle to participate on this tour.

It is required that guests wear closed-toe shoes. Guests are recommended to bring sunglasses and a hat. Please notify the Shore Excursions desk upon embarkation if you have a shellfish allergy. Menus are subject to change. Guests must be at least 15 years old to participate. The maximum weight to participate is 250 lbs. The maximum height to participate is 6’4 “. Guests with a history of neck or back injuries, or are pregnant, are not permitted to participate on this tour. Guests may be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English

LA CASA BEACH RETREAT – ADULTS ONLY

Excursion details

Live coastal life at a Caribbean-style beach house retreat on this excursion, lasting around four hours. Your venue for the day, La Casa, boasts a beachfront location and you’ll be able to enjoy a Mexican lunch, plus drinks.

A drive of around 20 minutes from the port to La Casa starts the excursion. Once arrived, there’s approximately three hours and 20 minutes of free time to spend however you like, making the most of La Casa’s amenities and scenery.

Soak up the sunshine from a beach chair or take a swim in the Caribbean Sea as you admire the views. During this time, you’ll be served a three-course lunch prepared by the venue’s chef. There’s also the chance to learn more about Mexican cuisine in a cooking demonstration.

And don’t forget to grab a drink from the open bar – a bartender will be on-hand to prepare freshly made cocktails. If you want to delve a little deeper, take part in a Mixology Class or a tequila tasting to learn more about Mexico’s beloved agave-distilled spirit. Those looking for something more active can take advantage of the waterside setting and go snorkelling, with equipment included in the excursion cost.

After the free time comes to an end, a transfer of around 20 minutes returns to the port.

Important Information: The minimum age to participate is 18 years old. Guests must be physically fit and know how to swim to utilize snorkeling gear. Access to the ocean is via a ladder. It is recommended that guests bring a bathing suit, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash/credit cards if they would like to purchase a massage or souvenir onsite.

LUCHA LIBRE: A MEXICAN WRESTLING SHOW

Excursion details

Full of colourful costumes, elaborate moves and intricate masks, professional wrestling in Mexico (known as lucha libre, which translates into English as ‘free fight’or ‘freestyle fighting’) is one of the country’s most popular sports. Matches are often an exciting extravaganza thanks to larger-than-life characters and fast-paced action.

See the spectacle for yourself on this excursion, lasting around three and a half hours, which lets you watch a live lucha libre performance in all its glory. Begin with an approximately 30-minute transfer to a venue, Barriecito, where you’ll be welcomed and receive a briefing over approximately 15 minutes, which also includes time for photos.

Take a seat in the wrestling arena and watch a short introductory video to learn more about lucha libre, whose roots date back to the 1860s, during the French intervention in Mexico. The sport later become more widely popularised in the 1930s thanks to Salvador Lutteroth, a tax inspector who became a wrestling promoter.

Then prepare to watch the action in a wrestling performance of around 55 minutes, featuring luchadores in traditional-style costumes and colourful masks – these masks are an important symbol of lucha libre, helping to conceal the true identity of the wrestler.

After the grappling, suplexes and dropkicks have ended, it’s time to refuel over an approximately 30-minute light lunch, where you’ll get to enjoy three tacos and two margaritas. Following this, there’s around 15 minutes of free time in Barriecito to use however you wish, before a transfer back the port, lasting around half an hour.

Important Information: it is recommended that guests wear comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Guests may be required to walk on uneven surfaces