If you’re staying in Playa del Carmen and dreaming about diving Cozumel’s famous reefs, you’re in luck. Even though Cozumel is an island, it’s closer than you think—and there are three main ways to get there for an unforgettable scuba diving experience. Whether you’re after convenience, budget-friendliness, or a full island getaway, here’s how to dive Cozumel from Playa del Carmen.

1. By Ferry – Day Trip Style

This is the most common (and budget-friendly) way to dive in Cozumel. The day starts early—you’ll typically meet your dive group at the shop around 7:00 a.m. From there, you’ll catch the 8:00 a.m. ferry to Cozumel, a scenic 45-minute ride across the Caribbean Sea.

Once you arrive in Cozumel, you’ll need to grab a taxi to the marina, hop on the dive boat, and head out to the stunning dive sites like Palancar, Columbia, or Santa Rosa Wall. After your dives, the process is reversed: boat back to the marina, taxi to the ferry terminal, and another ferry ride to Playa del Carmen.

Expect to be home between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m. It’s a full day of adventure, and while it’s not the easiest route, it’s perfect for those who don’t mind the travel in exchange for some of the best diving in the region.

2. By Ferry – With an Overnight Stay

Want to skip the stress of catching ferries and taxis all in one day? Consider turning your dive trip into a mini vacation by staying overnight in Cozumel. The diving schedule remains the same—you’ll still catch the morning ferry and make your way to the dive sites—but instead of rushing back, you can relax on the island, enjoy the local vibe, and maybe even explore more dive spots the next day.

Just keep in mind that this option involves extra costs for accommodations, meals, and possibly a second day of diving—but many divers find it totally worth it for the slower pace and chance to soak in more of Cozumel.

3. By Express Boat – The Jaguar Divers Way

Looking for the easiest and fastest way to dive Cozumel? That is using the express dive boats that cuts out the hassle completely.

Here’s how it works: you meet at 7:30 a.m. in Playa del Carmen, board a fast boat at 8:15 a.m., and head directly to the Cozumel reefs—no ferry, no taxis, just diving. After your two-tank dive, you’ll be back in Playa del Carmen by around 1:30 p.m., with the rest of your day free to enjoy.

This option is ideal if you want to maximize your time and comfort while still experiencing the world-class dive sites of Cozumel. It’s smooth, efficient, and gives you more time to relax (or dive again!). And it is only a little bit more expensive than the first one.

Also, after checking with several operators we found out that Jaguar Divers, will not only allow you to do the dives using the express boats, they can also arrange for you to be dropped off at the island after the dives so you can go around and discover the inland attractions in Cozumelñ.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the traditional ferry route, stay overnight, or hop on an express boat w, diving Cozumel from Playa del Carmen is absolutely doable—and totally worth it. With its clear waters, vibrant reefs, and thrilling drift dives, Cozumel offers one of the best underwater experiences in the world.

Ready to make it happen? Check out your options for Diving Cozumel from Playa del Carmen and start planning your next adventure.

Media Contact
Company Name: Jaguar Divers
Contact Person: Santi Hermosa
Email: Send Email
Address:Playa del Carmen, Mexico
City: Playa del Carmen
Country: Mexico
Website: https://jaguardivers.com/en/