Updated November 2026 · By Terry Barkhuizen, NOM-08 certified tour guide (credential N012608). Ferry timetables change with the season and the weather; check the operator’s own website or ticket office on the day.
Part of our Getting Around the Riviera Maya guide.
The passenger ferry from Playa del Carmen is the easiest way to reach Cozumel, Mexico’s largest Caribbean island and one of the best snorkelling and diving destinations in the world. The crossing takes 35–45 minutes, boats leave regularly through the day, and the terminals on both sides are right in the town centres. Here’s how to choose an operator, what it costs and how to avoid the mistakes that spoil a Cozumel day trip.
Quick answer
- Operators: Ultramar, Xcaret Xailing and Winjet. Tickets are not interchangeable – a return ticket ties you to the same company.
- Price: about USD 16–21 one way for adults (USD 32–41 return) as of late 2026, depending on company and class.
- Crossing time: 35–45 minutes.
- Last boat back to Playa: around 7–8:30 pm depending on the company – check it when you buy your ticket.
- Where: the ferry pier at the bottom of Calle 1 Sur / Avenida Juárez in Playa del Carmen, arriving at the main pier in San Miguel de Cozumel.
The three ferry companies
| Company | Typical crossing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ultramar | about 35–45 min | Large fleet, frequent departures; first/upper-deck class available |
| Xcaret Xailing | about 40–45 min | Departures typically around the half hour; often has the latest return boat |
| Winjet | about 45 min | Smaller operator; fewer departures and an earlier last boat |
Departure times shift with the season. As a guide, in October 2026 the first boats to Cozumel left between about 8 and 9 am and the last boats back from Cozumel left between about 7 and 8:30 pm, depending on the operator.
How to buy tickets
- Go to the ticket booths of the three companies at the Playa del Carmen ferry pier, or buy online on the operator’s own website.
- Compare the next departure time across the companies – the earliest boat isn’t always from the same operator.
- Decide between one way and return. A return is convenient but locks you to that company’s return times.
- Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before departure, longer in high season and on weekends.
Watch out for touts on Quinta Avenida and near the pier selling “discounted” ferry tickets bundled with tours or timeshare presentations. Buy only at the official booths or websites.
Seasickness and weather
The channel between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel can be rough, especially in winter when northerly winds (“nortes”) blow, and on windy afternoons.
- Take motion-sickness medication 30–60 minutes before boarding if you’re prone to it.
- Sit on the lower deck towards the middle of the boat and look at the horizon.
- Avoid a heavy meal or alcohol just before the crossing.
- In strong winds the port captain can suspend crossings. If your plans depend on the ferry (a flight, a booked dive), keep a buffer day.
Planning a Cozumel day trip
- Take an early boat so you have a full day for snorkelling, diving or exploring the island.
- Getting around Cozumel: taxis wait at the pier, and scooters, cars and jeeps can be rented in San Miguel. The east coast is wild and beautiful but has no lifeguards and strong currents – admire it, don’t swim there.
- Snorkelling and diving: the best reefs are on the protected west coast, within the Cozumel Reefs National Park. Use reef-safe practices: no touching, no standing on coral, and mineral sunscreen or a rash guard.
- Be back in time: aim to be at the pier 30 minutes before the last boat. Missing it means a night on the island.
Cruise-ship days
Cozumel is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. On days with several ships in port, beach clubs, snorkel spots and San Miguel’s waterfront get much busier. If you can choose your day, check the cruise schedule and avoid the busiest ones.
Can I take a car to Cozumel?
Not on the passenger ferries from Playa del Carmen. A separate car ferry operates from Calica, south of Playa del Carmen, but most visitors simply rent a car or scooter on the island.
Common mistakes
- Buying a return without checking the last boat of that specific company.
- Buying from street sellers instead of the official booths.
- Swimming on the east coast, where currents are dangerous.
- Booking a flight the same day as a ferry crossing in windy season without a buffer.
- Touching or standing on coral while snorkelling.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel?
About 35–45 minutes, depending on the company, the boat and sea conditions.
How much is the Cozumel ferry?
Roughly USD 16–21 one way per adult in late 2026, or about USD 32–41 return. Children pay less.
What time is the last ferry from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen?
It varies by company and season – in October 2026 it was between about 7 pm and 8:30 pm. Confirm when you buy your ticket.
Is Cozumel worth a day trip from Playa del Carmen?
Yes, especially for snorkelling or diving on the west-coast reefs. Take an early ferry and check the last boat back.
Related guides
- Cozumel travel guide
- Playa del Carmen guide
- Responsible wildlife tourism in the Riviera Maya
- Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen