Ferry to and from Cozumel from Playa del Carmen, Mexico

With so many wonderful things to do and see in Cozumel, it’s no wonder it has received the distinction of being named the “Island of Peace” by the NGO-UN International Committee.  But this post is not about Cozumel per se, the big question is, "how do I get there?"

Since Cozumel is an island, there are two choices; by air or by sea.   The only local air service to Cozumel is from Cancun, Mexico, so this option is not very convenient to the Riviera Maya. 

The main option is to use one of the 3 ferry companies that provide service to Cozumel. All 3 leave from the dock in Playa del Carmen (where Calle 1 Sur meets the Caribbean) and drop you off at the pier in downtown Cozumel.  The ferry ride is about 45 minutes. 

The one-way prices vary from $135 pesos to $163 pesos.  Make sure you check the websites below for latest prices and schedules.  Barcos Caribe has a special price for Quintana Roo residents ($69 pesos) and for INAPAM (Mexico senior citizen card) card holders ($50 pesos).

Here are the links for the 3 ferry companies:

1. Ultramar ferry - http://www.granpuerto.com.mx/en/
2. Mexico Waterjets ferry - http://www.mexicowaterjets.com
3. Barcos Caribe ferry - http://www.barcoscaribe.com/

Want to take your car or motorcycle to Cozumel?  There is a TransCaribe car ferry that leaves from just south of Playa del Camen.  Here is the link to their website: http://www.transcaribe.net/

I would recommend NOT buying a round trip ticket as there is no reciprocity among the ferry companies (in other words, you cannot use a round trip ticket from one company for your return trip on another company’s ferry).  By doing this, you are able to take the first available ferry when you are ready to leave Cozumel to return to Playa del Carmen. 

  

Here are some tips for the ferry ride:

·      The waters can be rough at times, so if you are susceptible to sea sickness, bring the appropriate medication. Barf bags provided by ferry.
·      The ferries have snack stations with food and beverages for purchase.
·      There are restrooms on board.
·      The ferry operators blast the air conditioning, so you may want to take a light sweater, jacket or Pashmina shawl.  

Getting to Cozumel is a snap, so get on down to the dock and be on your way!

Here are a few photos of Cozumel ferries, dock and cruise ships.