Admission fees
The reason I have given a 7 rather than a 9 or 10, is that at the second stop Cielo, where you can see starfish, the guide said if you're a strong swimmer, you can ditch your life-jacket. One of the party did but regretted it as the sea was quite choppy that day and the current was strong, so realistically, no-one should have been told that this would be OK.
Hop aboard a super-speedy boat headed to Cozumel Island, where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean and its marine life are waiting. Soak up the breathtaking landscapes before snorkelling at two of the most famous reefs in the southern part of the island, Palancar and Colombia. They're separated by a couple of metres of open water, so you'll have wall-to-wall reef to explore.
Next stop is the shores of El Cielo – which literally means ‘the sky' in English – as it's famous for its peaceful atmosphere and giant starfish population, which you'll find covering much of the ocean floor. You'll also have the chance to see stingrays and other sea creatures during your time here. Afterwards, there'll be some time to relax and check out the views from El Cielito Sandbar, before heading towards the centre of Cozumel.
For lunch, you'll get to try some of the region's typical dishes at a vibrant, local restaurant with an ocean view, before rounding off the day with free time to wander around Cozumel Centre. You've the option of a quick tour here – including a visit to the central clock tower at the heart of the island. Then jump back on the boat to sail back to Playa del Carmen, where your transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
