Cozumel, MX

4-5 Hours,

I did my homework ahead of coming to Cozumel island in Mexico and found out about an interesting place called Chankanaab Park adjacent to the Dolphin Discovery. It’s a quick taxi ride from the cruise terminal. It is a all-in-one stop shop for fun, food and relaxation. A couple of hours is more than enough time to eat, snorkel, watch the dolphins and participate in a Sea Lion show.

It feels like a tropical playground.

There are dozens of small businesses lining the beach with guides ready to give you a tour. The tour guide I happened to choose was extremely patient and kind. It was my first time snorkeling, and despite my attempts at getting over my fear of water through swimming lessons, I was extremely nervous. I was hanging on to the guide like he was a life boat. Every time my mask would fog up I would start to panic but he would help me come above water to “reset”. I was still able to enjoy the underwater view of the colorful fish, reef and eroding statues that he pointed out along the way.

In addition to snorkeling, you can catch the Sea Lion show and swim with the dolphins with plenty of time to make it back to the terminal. Near the cruise terminal you can get cool souvenirs like a Mexican wrestling mask or a Mayan ceramic disc. Fat Tuesday is also right there and a really popular party spot to eat or grab a drink. If you want a personalized itinerary, click here.