Can I Catch a Ferry or Boat Directly to Cozumel from Cancun?

Unfortunately, there is no ferry service available directly between Cancun and Cozumel. However, there are alternative transportation options to reach Cozumel from Cancun. The ferry service in Cancun operates exclusively to Isla Mujeres. If you're looking for a direct route to Cozumel, you have the option of hiring a private boat. Keep in mind that this alternative may take longer and be quite expensive.

If you’re interested in making a day trip out of it, another option is to charter a yacht. You can arrange for the yacht to drop you off in Cozumel when you’re done exploring. This way, you can enjoy the journey and have a convenient mode of transportation to reach Cozumel.

Options To Get From Cancun to Cozumel

Cozumel, located off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, is renowned for its stunning beaches, exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, impressive Mayan ruins, and the delightful shopping experience in San Miguel, the island’s main town. As Mexico’s largest Caribbean island, Cozumel offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to enjoy.

If you’re currently in Cancun and planning a trip to explore this captivating side of Mexico, which is approximately 60 miles away, it’s helpful to consider the various transportation options available. By land, you can choose to travel to the nearby Mexican city of Playa del Carmen either by private vehicle or bus. From Playa del Carmen, you’ll then need to take a ferry to Cozumel, which is located 8.5 miles away from the mainland.

Considering your preferences and travel plans, you can make an informed decision on the most suitable way to travel from Cancun to Cozumel.

Economical Option 

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to travel from Cancun to Cozumel, the bus-to-ferry transfer is your most affordable option, although it does take more time. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Bus: The ADO bus company offers a direct service from both Cozumel (CZM) and a bus station in downtown Cancun (which is a short five-minute walk from the ferry pier) to Playa del Carmen. The bus ride is comfortable and air-conditioned, with ticket prices ranging between $8 and $12 for a one-way trip. Buses depart approximately every half-hour from 9am to 10pm, with more frequent departures during peak times. The journey on the bus takes around an hour and 10 minutes.

2. Ferry: Upon arriving in Playa del Carmen, you'll either be dropped off at the bus station or a few blocks away from the ferry pier at 5th Avenue.  Two ferry companies, Ultramar and WinJet provide service between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen.  Departure times may vary depending on the season, but generally there are departures every half hour between 7 am and 9 pm. Ferry tickets can be purchased just before departure and cost $25 per adult and $15 per child. Prices are always going up so please check ferry prices here. The ferry ride itself usually lasts about 45 minutes, although inclement weather can occasionally result in a rougher and longer journey. 

It's important to note that when considering this mode of transportation, you should factor in potential traffic delays, as well as the time required to reach the ferry terminal and wait for the ferry. In total, this option can take around 2.5 hours or more, depending on various factors.

By opting for the bus-to-ferry transfer, you can enjoy significant cost savings while making your way from Cancun to Cozumel, although it’s important to consider the additional time required for this journey.

Faster Option

If you’re looking to expedite your journey, driving a private vehicle from Cancun to Playa del Carmen can take approximately 45 minutes. Once in Playa del Carmen, you can then proceed to take the ferry to Cozumel. Overall, this option will require approximately one and a half hours of travel time.

In Cancun, there are several companies that offer private transfers to Playa del Carmen. It is advisable to arrange this service in advance, as Uber is not available in Cancun. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi. The cost of a private transfer varies depending on the number of individuals in your group, but it typically starts around $50 for a party of two.

While hiring a private vehicle may incur higher costs and traffic conditions could potentially slow you down, this option becomes more economical if you are traveling with a group. Additionally, choosing a private transfer offers the advantages of quicker and more convenient transportation compared to taking the bus.

By driving a private vehicle from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, you can significantly reduce your travel time and enjoy a faster route to Cozumel, making it a viable and efficient choice.

Remember that Cozumel and Cancun are but a couple of options for a great Mexican vacation adventures.