Cozumel Cruise Port Profile

The Cozumel cruise port is a standard stop for any western Caribbean cruise and a chance to see one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico.

Part of what makes Cozumel so popular is the wide variety of quality experiences. Those experience start with the ability of a cruise visitor to see either Cozumel island or take a ferry across the water to the larger city of Playa del Carmen.

For those people who choose to spend the day on Cozumel, shoppers and anyone with a taste for real Mexican food can find plenty of options in San Miguel, the largest town on the island.

Restaurants have a heavy emphasis on local establishments with a handful of major chains such as Hard Rock Cafe. Likewise, the shopping has a strong local flavor with original arts and crafts.


Cozumel is famous for its scuba diving and also offers decent snorkeling. Although coral reefs are found all around the waters surrounding the island, the reefs are best of the west side.

Cruise visitors should know that scuba diving provides the best coral views because of the depth of some of the reefs.

One benefit for divers and snorkelers alike is the quality of Cozumel beaches compared to Cancun. For that matter, any visitor to Cozumel who likes beaches should take advantage of the opportunity.


The most popular beaches line the west coast with easy access for cruise visitors. A second cluster lies along the east side of the island only about five miles from the cruise dock.

If transportation isn't available from the cruise ship via a planned excursion, try taking a taxi to get to the beach. Taxi fares are standardized, but make sure to ask the driver about rates before getting into the vehicle.


Anyone with an education interest can see the largest Mayan archaeological site on the island at San Gervasio. It was both a sacred and commercial center from 200 A.D. until the Spanish conquest.

Other Mayan sites include El Cedral, formerly the largest Mayan site on Cozumel, or Castillo Real, near the northern tip of the island.


If Cozumel isn't enough, great shopping and dining can be found over at Playa del Carmen. The best is located on 5th Avenue, an experience that ranks high among all Caribbean destinations for the number and quality of shops and restaurants.

Visitors freely walk along a lengthy street that is mostly closed to traffic. Two ferry services provide shuttles between San Miguel and Playa del Carmen. Plan on using most of the day for a visit.

• U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but coins are not. Expect to be paid back in pesos. Know the exchange rate before leaving the ship.
  
• English is widely spoken in the more populated and tourist-oriented areas.
  
• If you rent a car, note that Mexican insurance is required.