Cozumel Reefs
Trip details:
- Duration: 6 Days (5 Nights)
- Tour Type: Reef and Coastal Ocean Swimming
- Average Daily Swim: 4.5 km (2.7 miles)
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cozumel
- Escort: Boats and Kayaks
Overview
Cozumel island is situated in the northern Yucatan Peninsula as part of the larger Mesoamerican Reef which is considered the second-longest reef system in the world. The entire reef spreads across four countries: Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. World-renowned explorer Jacques Cousteau named Cozumel one of the best diving spots in the world.
Our five-day swimming adventure takes us to the marine national park in the southern part as well as to the northern and eastern areas. On the way we swim by interesting fish, corals and reefs. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Cozumel and feel the amazing aquatic adventure.
This tour is suitable for most levels of open-water swimmers, with boat and kayak escorts for the safety and enjoyment of all guests. It is recommended to have prior sea swimming experience to fully enjoy this trip. Please see our FAQs regarding the expected swimming speed.
Trip highlights
- swimming over and between the incredible reefs
- swim-exploring the Chankanaab National Park
- spotting incredible marine life and corals
- experiencing Mexican culture and cuisine
- enjoying relaxed island atmosphere
Local Operational Policy
The trip is based at Cozumel island and the team of guides, boat pilots, van drivers include local members from the area who are experienced and knowledgeable of the local waters, the main swimming routes, roads, and the alternatives as well as a fluent local language speaker.
Included in the price
Fully guided tour with comprehensive safety escort (boats, kayaks, vans, swimming guides, local boat pilots, drivers), open water swim stroke analysis, entry fee to the national park, 5 nights accommodation, all breakfasts. Each guest receives a silicone swimming cap. Should you require other swimming gear please bring it with you.
Additional cost
Travel to and from the start of the tour, lunch breaks, evening meals and gratuities. Optional hotel single room supplement from $250 USD.
Accommodation
Hotel Puerto Libre in San Miguel de Cozumel is a boutique hotel located very close to the main square in downtown Cozumel and just a few steps away from the ferry terminal. Cozumel airport is only 1 km (0.7 miles) away. It serves as our ideal spot for daily trips out and exploring a variety of restaurants in the evenings.
Rooms are DOUBLE-TWIN (Two double beds) and DOUBLE – SEA VIEW (Two double beds). All rooms have air conditioning, a work desk, a private bathroom with hot water, a mini-bar, and WiFi. Outdoor you can enjoy an infinity swimming pool, sun terrace, and a bar.
Hotel Puerto Libre
www.puertolibrehotel.com
[email protected]
Ph: +52 987 688 3000
Avenida Rafael E. Melgar esquina calle 8 norte
C.P. 77600, Colonia Centro, Cozumel, México
Google map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RbEBCwXCVK22WpCU9
Extra nights
You can book extra nights before or after our trips by contacting the hotel directly.
Puerto Libre Hotel
Itinerary
Day 1
We meet everyone for a trip briefing at 6.00 pm at the hotel lobby. Time to explore the Cozumel center at San Miguel.
Day 2
Before a morning breakfast, we walk down for a short acclimatisation swim. After breakfast, we take a short boat ride to our first swimming location. We begin our first 2.2 km swim from Playa las Rocas towards Punta Norte. The coastal swim takes us over two reef areas (San Juan and Barracuda Reefs) where we get to enjoy the impressive water visibility. Lunch in a nearby local restaurant at the beach.
Before our afternoon swim, we take video recordings of your stroke in open water for later video analysis. Our second 2.0 km swim takes us from Playa Casitas to the end of Cantarell reef. Short boat ride back to the hotel.
Day 3
After a short boat ride south, we reach our first morning swim from Santa Rosa to San Francsico Wall reef. Our 2.5 km swim course is basically the reef’s edge, and this makes it easy to navigate and follow our escort. We usually spot divers underneath as we explore this incredible part of Cozumel’s ecosystem and its sheer drop-offs. The section of the reef is renowned for its impressive coral structures and diverse marine life. Lunch and break in a nearby restaurant on the shore.
An afternoon 2.2 km swim closer to shore takes place over the famous Ironman race at Chankanaab. We swim between Tormentos and Chankanaab reefs and follow an interesting area of shallower parts of the island. With great water visibility we will spot a ship wreck C-53 that has now become the spot for divers interested in exploring. This 180 foot-long WWII minesweeper was part of the Mexican Navy.
Day 4
Today, we are heading out early further south to the Palancar reef. This reef is renowned for its diverse marine life and stunning coral formations. The area is divided into three sections: Palancar Gardens, Palancar Horseshoe and Palancar Caves. Our first 2.5 km swim takes place from the Caves to the Gardens. Lunch break at Alberto’s beach restaurant. A chance to have a beach body massage during lunch break.
Our afternoon 2.0 km swim is held between El Cielo and Playa Palancar along the shore where we swim in the shallower areas close to sandbars. We usually spot several eels and stingrays in this area. Should the wind affect the afternoon swim, we will move further up north to shelter away. Boat ride back to the hotel. This area is a popular snorkelling destination, so we may spot other snorkelers on the way.
Day 5
After the morning breakfast on the terrace, we take a short 20min van ride across the island. Playa Chen Rio on the Eastern side is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more natural coastal swim experience away from the more visited western side of Cozumel. Our first coastal 2.4 km swim is from Chen Rio beach towards San Martin beach following the coast and shallow reef areas. Lunch at the Rasta bar, southern beach restaurant with amazing views all around and usually no crowds.
Our final afternoon 2.1 km swim from El Mirador point to Playa Bosh along the south-western coast.
Short drive back to the hotel before our farewell dinner in town.
In case of prevailing western winds this day, we will swap it for two swim-snorkel swims at Yucab reef and Paraiso reef on the Easter side. Both reef areas offer colorful coral formations in shallower parts with weaker currents around.
Day 6
Final morning breakfast and goodbye to fellow swimmers and new friends!
Swimming info
Swimming Locations and Distances
| Swimming Locations | Distance |
| Day 01 | (0.3 km) |
| Swim 01 am: acclimatisation swim. Playa Caistas | (0.3 km) |
| Swim 02 am: Playa las Rocas – Punta Norte | 1.4 miles (2.2 km) |
| Swim 03 pm: Playa Caistas – Cantarell reef | 1.4 miles (2.0 km) |
| Day 02 | |
| Swim 01 am: Santa Rosa – San Francsico reefs | 1.5 miles (2.5 km) |
| Swim 02 pm: Tormentos – Chankanaab reefs | 1.9 miles (2.2 km) |
| Day 03 | 1.2 miles (2.0 km) |
| Swim 01 am: Palancar reef | 1.5 miles (2.3 km) |
| Swim 02 pm: El Cielo – Playa Palancar | 1.7 miles (2.1 km) |
| Day 04 | 1.2 miles (2.0 km) |
| Swim 01 am: Chen Rio – San Martin | 1.5 miles (2.4 km) |
| Swim 02 pm: El Mirador – Playa Bosh | 1.7 miles (2.0 km) |
| Total: | 12.4 mi (20.0 km) |
Temperatures
| Month | Water Temp. (°Fahr./Cels.) |
Air Temp. (°Fahr./Cels.) |
| January | 77/25 | 77/25 |
| February | 78/26 | 82/28 |
| March | 78/26 | 85/30 |
| Nov | 79/26 | 80/27 |
Sea (ocean) temperature in the Caribbean part is similar to Bacalar lagoon or even a bit warmer. Keep in mind that you can skip any of the swims if you want and stay on our escort boat.
Group size
Up to 16 guests (unless agreed differently), plus guides (or kayakers) and boat captains.
Equipment
Walking Conditions
In order to enjoy your walks, we advise you to bring comfortable light walking shoes for summer temperatures. Aqua shoes or sandals are recommended to have when we are stepping in and out of the boats on the beaches. For our visit to Mayan ruins, comfortable light shoes are recommended.
Essential Equipment
In addition to normal items, we recommend the following:
– 2 pairs of swimming costumes,
– 2 pairs of swimming goggles, 1 clear & 1 tinted (anti-glare) recommended,
– A lightweight towel for boat practical use (changing outside),
– Sun Hat, Sunglasses,
– Small Daypack,
– Waterproof (reef-safe) sun cream and jacket / windstopper,
– Walking shoes and sandals or aqua shoes,
– Lightweight and light-colored clothing for outdoor environments.
We provide silicone swim caps and limited safety tow floats for better visibility! If your swimming depends on other items (wetsuit, rash vest, fins, designed swim cap), please bring them with you. Please also bring your own drinking water bottle (marked with your name) for swims, walks, and time on the boat. It is very important to drink enough water and other fluids throughout the whole trip. Use bottled water in Mexico including at the hotel. Our boats will have large flasks to refill your drinking bottles while out at sea.
Swimming awareness and itinerary changes
Your safety is of utmost importance to us. In the event of adverse weather conditions (wind, storms, thunder) at any of our swimming locations on any day, we may need to adapt our itinerary for safety reasons. Our team always includes local guides who know the safest and most beautiful places to swim, so rest assured you won’t be missing out!
Swimming in the sea is a unique experience, but you may come across certain life such as fish, jellyfish, or sea lice. The water in the sea can be deep and the bottom cannot always be seen. If you suffer from Anaphylaxis or any other allergic reactions, it is important to inform us at the time of booking. Also, please bring with you any personal medical supplies you may need while on the trip.
Suncream
The use of regular suncream is allowed when going for a swim. We recommend using a reef-safe suncream in moderate amounts before heading out to swim (do it at the hotel) locations. Or you may prefer to use protective clothing like rash guards. In Cozumel (San Miguel) town, you can find a ‘reef-friendly’ product at the local supermarket. You can also bring it with you.
Travel info
GETTING THERE
Flight and travel options:
a) Cozumel airport
b) Cancun airport
c) Tulum airport
d) Mayan Train
1. Cozumel Airport (CZM) is located right on the northern side of the island and only a few minutes car drive from the centre and our hotel. Flights from limited USA airports connect to Cozumel. Once there take a short taxi ride to take you to our hotel Puerto Libre.
2. Cancun Airport (CUN). Several international flights have direct connections to Cancun. From there, you can travel by ADO bus or transfer (taxi) to Playa Del Carmen ferry .
2a) By Bus & Ferry: Cancun – Playa del Carmen – Cozumel;
Combining a bus ride from Cancun (town or airport) to Playa del Carmen (cca 1 hr) with a ferry trip (cca 1 hr) is a popular and scenic way to travel to Cozumel.
– Book a bus ADO ticket online or on location to Playa del Carmen
– Book a ferry ticket online or at the ferry station at Playa del Carmen. Both bus and ferry terminal are close to each other, so you can walk. Ferries run frequently.
Ferry companies: Playa del Carmen – Cozumel
Winjet www.winjet.mx
Cozumel (987) 872-1588, (987) 872-1508 or (987) 872-4988
Ultramar www.ultramarferry.com
Cancun (998) 293-9092
Ferry Xcaret www.xailing.com
Cancun (998) 883 3143
3. Tulum Airport (TQO) is located about 1 hour drive south of Playa del Carmen. You can make your way up to Playa and then take a ferry to Cozumel.
4. A new train line (TREN MAYA) has opened in 2025 across the Yucatan Peninsula and connects Cancun-Playa del Carmen-Tulum-Bacalar.
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