Cozumel Mexico Cruise Port Guide

Location:

There are actually three different pier locations.

Punta Langosta (used by Disney, NCL, MSC, Oceania, Silversea, Marella Cruises) , is located right downtown and after leaving the ship and walking towards the city down the dock, you will go over an overpass into a shopping mall. You are right in the heart of downtown Cozumel. One can also take a ferry to Playa Del Carmen. Always get a one-way ticket as the different ferry companies do not accept each other's tickets. The companies are Winjet and Ultramar's. The ferry ride can be a little rough!

The International Pier (used by Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise ships, consisting of two piers, is about a 10-minute taxi ride south of town, you can walk it in about 30 minutes right along the coastline, but if it is hot, take a taxi. If the lines are really long just get out of the taxi line and walk out the exit of the pier to the street - turn left and walk toward the El Cid La Ceiba Hotel. There are taxis coming from town trying to get into the pier and they are thrilled to get a fare without having to get in the long line of cars at the pier.

The third pier, Puerto Maya, ( used by cruise lines sailing under Carnival Corporation flag) consisting of three piers, is just beyond the International Pier and has the same dynamics.

Finally, when there are too many ships in port, some ships will anchor outside and tender into the Punta Langosta pier.

Printable map to take along on your cruise.

Cruise calendar for this port.

And for Puerta Maya in particular.

Watch a destination video.

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers of Punta Lanosta and San Miguel

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers of Puerta Maya and TMM

Monthly Climate Averages for Cozumel

Sightseeing:

Most visitors travel to Cozumel to see what is underwater. While there are quite a few beach clubs that offer to snorkel, the main attractions are the reefs offshore and the multitude of dive shops ready to take you there. The main town and dive operations are on the west side of the island, but if you rent a Beetle or scooter then the east side of the island is the place to go. The east side of the island is mostly undeveloped, but there are beautiful beaches, big waves, and rocky outcrops over the ocean. If the waves are sufficient you can find a few small blow holes. You will also find a restaurant on the beach every few kilometers.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Rent a car from any of the well-known firms. You will find them near the cruise ship docks. Since there is only one main road you will not get lost.

Expect to pay $10 for the ride into San Miguel from the pier. Most taxi drivers ask much more when in doubt, ask to see the rate card required of all taxi drivers to carry.

San Miguel is very walkable and you can easily explore the waterfront and plaza area on foot. The main attractions are the small eateries and shops that line the streets and the main square.

Mini Submarine Tour — a new way of exploring the underwater world. This new activity by Cozumel Water Sports offers all non divers and non snorkelers to explore the reefs and sea life of Cozumel. Riding your underwater scooter with your head dry in the air filled helmet, you can drive around the reefs. Especially great for people who wear glasses as you can have them on under water.

The primary gateway between Cozumel and the mainland of the Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun and the Riviera Maya, is the passenger ferry to Playa del Carmen, which is especially popular with cruise ship passengers coming to the mainland to see attractions like the Mayan Ruins, Xcaret, or Xel Ha.

It pays to compare your cruise line shore excursions here.

Nearby Places:

Chankanaab National Park, (About 9km south of town), 7am - 5pm daily. The park includes a beach, restaurant, bar, changing rooms, walking trails, and a lagoon with a large iguana population. Activities include snorkeling & diving, swimming with the dolphins, scuba, and Seatrek. $2 coupon and packages available at their website. approx. $22 for adults.

Being the only active Pearl Farm in the Caribbean, Cozumel Pearl Farm is located in a natural protected area that remains pristine and untouched; it is only accessible by boat since it is surrounded by the mangrove lagoon ecosystem on one side and the fascinating turquoise color waters of the Caribbean on the other.

Chichen Itza Chichen Itza is a well-known Archaeological Site and more after being selected one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in July the 7th, 2007. Two hours away from the cruise terminals.

Río Secreto Río Secreto could very well be one of the great world wonders. Experience this stunning underground river with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. It's like stepping back in time to witness something mysterious and truly spectacular. About 30 minutes drive from the cruise terminals.

Shopping and Food

Silver is cheaper here than in the U.S. but be sure to look for the .925 stamp as some places do sell fake silver jewelry.
Tip: To avoid being caught out, carry a small magnet when you shop. If the silver sticks to the magnet then it is not sterling silver.

Currency:

The currency of Mexico is the peso (MXN). The symbol for pesos is the same as for US dollars, which can be slightly confusing. Prices in dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an S with a double stroke. There is about 17 peso to 1US$.

Credit cards are not as widely accepted as in Europe or the USA. Some companies make an extra charge of around 5% on such transactions. Cash is King here.

Currency Converter

Communication:

Spanish is the main language. English is largely spoken in border cities with the United States as well as tourist destinations.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Traditionally, stores are open from 9 to 1 (except Sunday) and 5 to 9, but those nearest the pier tend to stay open all day, particularly during high season. Most shops are closed Sunday morning.

Holidays in Mexico

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