Cozumel Snorkel Tour: El Cielo Starfish, Stingrays & Turtle Sanctuary
Board a shaded boat at Marina Asipona and cruise to three of Cozumel’s most luminous marine sites: the starfish beds of El Cielo, the shallow stingray flats of El Cielito and a friendly turtle sanctuary. This four‑hour guided snorkel balances easy access with close wildlife encounters—bring reef‑safe sunscreen and a steady mask.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to the marina
Plan to be at Marina Asipona 10 minutes before departure to check in, fit gear and listen to the safety briefing.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens harm corals—apply reef‑safe lotion before boarding and reapply with a towel to limit run‑off.
Secure a snug mask
A well‑fitting mask prevents fogging and lets you focus on creatures rather than adjusting gear in the water.
Don’t touch wildlife
Starfish, stingrays and turtles are fragile; watch from a distance and let the animals approach on their terms.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •El Cielito’s shallow sand flats where small stingrays feed in waist‑deep water
- •Offshore patches near Palancar Gardens that host quieter coral formations and fewer crowds
Wildlife
- •Green and hawksbill sea turtles
- •Southern stingrays
Conservation Note
The Mesoamerican Reef faces warming and overuse; choose operators who follow park rules, use reef‑safe sunscreen and support local marine protection initiatives.
Cozumel, originally Cuzamil in Maya, has long been a maritime waypoint; its reefs supported fishing and trade routes for centuries and now anchor eco‑tourism efforts.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat looking across the El Cielo sandbar
- • Floating over the starfish beds for wide underwater frames
- • Edge of the Turtle Sanctuary where turtles surface for air
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin while minimizing damage to coral and marine life.
Fitted snorkel maskEssential
A leak‑free mask improves underwater visibility and comfort.
Light rashguard or swim shirt
Provides sun protection and guards against chafing during repeated entries.
Water shoes
Helpful for boarding and exiting via a ladder and for walking on boat decks or rocky shorelines.
Common Questions
Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at Marina Asipona Cozumel (formerly Marina Fonatur) near downtown San Miguel; arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time.
Is this suitable for children and non‑swimmers?
Yes—life vests are provided and guides stay close; children should be supervised and non‑swimmers can snorkel in shallow, protected areas.
Will I see turtles and stingrays for sure?
Wildlife sightings are common but never guaranteed; turtles and stingrays frequent the scheduled spots, especially in calm conditions.
What if I get seasick?
Take motion‑sickness medication before boarding if you’re prone to it; mornings are usually calmer and help reduce motion.
Are snorkel gear and life vests provided?
Yes—mask, snorkel, vest and flotation are included and fitted by staff before departure.
Can I bring valuables or use a locker?
Bring minimal valuables; check with the operator about lockers—most tours recommend leaving jewelry and unnecessary items at your accommodation.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Cozumel, Quintana Roo
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; able to swim or comfortable wearing a flotation vest in shallow water.
Topics
Ready to Explore Cozumel?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now