Cozumel Ferry
The essential ferry link connecting Playa del Carmen to the vibrant Cozumel Island, offering scenic Caribbean crossings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Cozumel Ferry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The essential ferry link connecting Playa del Carmen to the vibrant Cozumel Island, offering scenic Caribbean crossings.
"Very easy, comfortable and enjoyable ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel."
🚢 Choose Your Ferry Company
Ultramar and Winjet are top choices. Ultramar often gets better reviews for comfort.
⏰ Arrive Early for Tickets
Get to the terminal 45-60 mins before departure for tickets & boarding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Crossing
Caribbean Sea
Enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and coastline during your approximately 40-minute ferry ride to Cozumel Island.
Ultramar's Yellow Fleet
Playa del Carmen Ferry Terminal
Experience a comfortable journey on Ultramar's distinctive yellow ferries, known for their amenities and frequent departures.
Winjet's Orange Vessels
Playa del Carmen Ferry Terminal
Opt for Winjet's orange ferries for a reliable and affordable trip, offering both indoor and open-air seating options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Ferry Wisely
Arrive Early for Smooth Sailing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Choose Your Ferry Company
Ultramar and Winjet are top choices. Ultramar often gets better reviews for comfort.
⏰ Arrive Early for Tickets
Get to the terminal 45-60 mins before departure for tickets & boarding.
🤢 Seasickness? Sit Inside!
If prone to motion sickness, opt for indoor seating to minimize discomfort on the ferry to Cozumel.
💰 Price Check for Best Deal
Prices are similar, but check for seasonal deals or package options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Choose Your Ferry Company
Ultramar and Winjet are top choices. Ultramar often gets better reviews for comfort.
⏰ Arrive Early for Tickets
Get to the terminal 45-60 mins before departure for tickets & boarding.
🤢 Seasickness? Sit Inside!
If prone to motion sickness, opt for indoor seating to minimize discomfort on the ferry to Cozumel.
💰 Price Check for Best Deal
Prices are similar, but check for seasonal deals or package options.
🚗 Cargo Ferry Option
Need to take your car? Use the cargo ferry from Puerto Venado (near Xcaret).
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The ferry service to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen is a convenient and generally pleasant way to reach the island. Travelers appreciate the frequent departures, comfortable rides, and friendly staff, with Ultramar often highlighted for its amenities. However, some passengers report experiencing significant seasickness due to choppy waters, especially during afternoon crossings.
"I think 3 companies operate here, price is about same across. You can buy tix at the site. Need go through security checks, convenience stores on site. Also store inside terminal."
Kev C
"Very easy, comfortable and enjoyable ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. I took the ultramar last ferry ride at 10:00 pm"
Patricia Arreguin
"Staff were super friendly and helpful. It was 10:27 and ferry was leaving at 10:30 and they still let us buy tickets, take the ferry and had them using walkies talkies to let some one know we were coming to boards. Hugeeee shoutout to the people on Xcaret Ferries"
Karen Lizeth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by ferry from the Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal. Several companies, including Ultramar and Winjet, offer frequent crossings. The journey takes about 40 minutes. +2
You'll need to travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen first to catch the ferry to Cozumel. This typically involves a bus or van ride.
From Cancun Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Playa del Carmen's ferry terminal. The journey to Playa del Carmen is about 68 kilometers (42 miles).
Yes, ferries run regularly from Cozumel back to Playa del Carmen. Check the schedules for the last departures of the day.
The primary ferry routes connect Cozumel to Playa del Carmen. Ferries to other destinations like Isla Mujeres are not common directly from Cozumel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Cozumel ferry tickets at the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen. Some companies also allow online purchases or through agents. +1
A one-way ticket typically ranges from 250 to 300 Mexican pesos per person, though prices can vary by company and season. Round-trip tickets might offer a slight discount. +2
Ferries generally run hourly throughout the day, with services starting early in the morning and continuing late into the evening. It's best to check the specific schedule for Ultramar or Winjet on the day of travel. +1
Yes, some operators like Ultramar offer different fare options, including Premium Plus and First Class, with varying amenities.
Tickets are often valid for six months from the purchase date, allowing flexibility for your travel plans on the Cozumel ferry.
🎫 🚢 Onboard Experience
The ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. +1
Ferries usually have restrooms, snack bars, and sometimes entertainment. Some offer Wi-Fi, especially on premium services.
The sea can be choppy, especially in the afternoons, which may cause seasickness for some. Indoor seating can help mitigate this.
Yes, you can bring luggage on the ferry. There are designated areas for bags and suitcases.
Both operators generally accommodate pets in designated areas, but it's advisable to confirm their specific policies beforehand.
🚇 🚗 Transporting Vehicles
Yes, there is a cargo ferry service available from Puerto Venado (near Xcaret) that allows you to transport your vehicle to Cozumel.
The cost for a car ferry varies, but it's significantly more expensive than passenger tickets, with prices around 800 pesos for a medium car and driver.
The cargo ferry for vehicles departs from Puerto Venado, also known as Puerto Calica, which is located south of Playa del Carmen, near Xcaret Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Inside the ferry, you'll find restrooms and often snack bars, which can be helpful for keeping little ones comfortable. While the journey is smooth for most, if your child is prone to motion sickness, consider bringing along child-friendly remedies and ensure you secure indoor seating. The excitement of reaching Cozumel Island often makes the ferry ride a memorable part of the family adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy on the ferry, rather than purchasing them onboard. Also, look into round-trip ticket options, as they might offer a slight discount compared to purchasing two one-way tickets. The ferry is a cost-effective way to reach Cozumel and start exploring the island's many attractions.
♿ Travelers with Disabilities
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ferry Operators
Both companies run frequent services, with departures typically occurring hourly throughout the day. The journey itself is relatively short, usually lasting between 30 to 40 minutes. It's wise to check the latest schedules directly with the operators, as times can vary seasonally. For those looking to transport a vehicle, a separate cargo ferry service operates from Puerto Venado (near Xcaret), which is a different process than the passenger ferries.
When purchasing tickets, you can usually do so at the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen. It's recommended to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your desired departure to allow ample time for ticketing, security checks, and boarding. This proactive approach ensures a smoother start to your Cozumel adventure.
Making the Most of Your Ferry Ride
However, it's important to be prepared for potential motion sickness. The Caribbean Sea can be unpredictable, and swells can make the ride quite bumpy, even for those not usually prone to seasickness. Travelers who are sensitive to motion are advised to opt for indoor seating, which can offer a more stable experience and minimize discomfort. Bringing along seasickness medication is also a prudent measure.
Onboard, you'll find basic amenities like restrooms and snack bars. Some ferries offer Wi-Fi, which can be a convenient way to stay connected or share your journey in real-time. The approximately 40-minute trip provides just enough time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and prepare for the adventures that await you on Cozumel Island.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit