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Playa Del Carmen Tourists Now Have A New Ferry Option For Reaching Cozumel

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Travelers planning to enjoy the stunningly beautiful island of Cozumel now have more options than ever to get there with the announcement that the Xcaret Xailing ferries are finally in operation, with an extensive timetable providing visitors with a high level of convenience.

This marks another big milestone for tourism transport in the Mexican Caribbean.

With the new airport at Tulum and the extensive new train service known as the Tren Maya, the growing popularity of this corner of Mexico is only getting bigger.

ferries waiting outside the port of Cozumel

The Timetable

With two ferries operating throughout the day, there will be a crossing made every hour.

The first of these will set off each morning from Cozumel at 7:30 am. With the next ferry leaving one hour later at 8:30 am, this leapfrogging will ensure the travelers have a service every hour both to and from Playa del Carmen/Cozumel.

Additionally, the final crossing from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen will be at 8:30 pm, while the last Playa del Carmen to Cozumel crossing will be at 9:30 pm.

the rear of a ferry at sea with the mexican flag in view

Increased Capacity

With 670 passengers able to fit on each ferry, the total capacity for crossing to the island of Cozumel each day will increase by almost 20,000.

This is a super-important addition to the area.

With visitor numbers to Cozumel increasing and showing no signs of slowing, it’s hoped this new service can help guarantee stable prices for travelers who plan on making the crossing to Cozumel.

Tourist Area By the Water in Cozumel, Mexico

Cost Unknown

Information on the cost of the new service isn’t readily available online, with travelers expected to visit the sales booth at the departure zone to purchase their tickets.

However, due to the competitive nature of the Mexican Caribbean tourism industry, it is highly likely the cost will fall in line with the other ferry services already offered.

The cost per ticket for the current ferry service can vary depending on multiple factors, such as whether it is a one-way or a round-trip ticket.

A one-way fare can cost between $17 – $20, while the round-trip fare is between $34 – $40.

Playa del Carmen ferry dock

A Cost Worth Paying

For any traveler staying in Playa del Carmen, or one of the many nearby destinations, Cozumel is a day trip that is worth the cost.

The island offers a truly authentic Mexican experience that some of the bigger Mexican Caribbean destinations can be accused of not providing.

cozumel sign

A Tale Of Two Coasts

On the west side of the island, facing Playa del Carmen, travelers will find a more touristic experience. 

This side of the island is populated by hotels, beach clubs, and other vacation amenities and activities that can keep travelers entertained without fail.

However, the east side of Cozumel is where the island’s real beauty can be found.

This is where travelers can find secluded and untouched beaches, with a few providing basic beach bars that shun the high-energy tempo of other areas for a more relaxed Caribbean vibe.

a cozumel beach with tourists on a sunny day

World Class Watersports

Cozumel is renowned across the world for its amazing scuba diving and snorkeling.

All around the island, there is a near-endless number of places for everyone from beginners to expert divers to explore.

Additionally, on the western side of the island, travelers can find many reputable watersports vendors who rent out jet skis, kayaks, and more.

A young woman with a whale shark

A Colorful Town

The main town of Cozumel is called San Miguel de Cozumel and is home to beautiful Spanish colonial buildings painted in bright colors that give the area an authentic and magical feeling.

While the town has a population of less than 80,000, it offers visitors a fantastic experience with chic cafes, delicious traditional restaurants, and relaxed bars.

For souvenir hunters, the island is home to a bustling arts & crafts community selling great handmade products, and travelers can even try their hand at making some of these products themselves with one of the artisanal classes on offer.

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