Palancar Reef
Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, Palancar offers dramatic coral formations, sea turtles and colorful reef fish. Our crew picks the best shallow section for snorkeling based on the day's current.
Palancar Reef Private Snorkel Tour →
- Snorkel depth
- 3–8 m reef tops
- Visibility
- Often 25–40 m
- Level
- Comfortable swimmers
- Area
- Cozumel Reefs National Park
What you'll visit
Coral gardens
Towering coral heads, sea fans and sponges — part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world.
Drift snorkel
The gentle current carries you along the reef while the boat follows — no swimming against the water.
Marine life you may see
Green & hawksbill turtles
Chelonia mydas · Eretmochelys imbricata
Frequently seen resting or feeding on the reef.
Queen angelfish
Holacanthus ciliaris
Electric blue and yellow, a reef favorite.
Parrotfish
Scaridae
You'll hear them crunching coral.
Splendid toadfish
Sanopus splendidus
Found only in Cozumel — ask your crew to spot one.
Good to know
- Never stand on or touch the coral.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen or a rash guard.
Other destinations
Instant charter quote
Estimated total
$800
$800 / 4h
≈ $133 per person