Snorkeling from Cruise Ship in Costa Maya

[astridwilson]

6 of us. 4 adults, 1 teen and 1 9-year-old will be on a cruise ship next June. In Costa Maya from 7AM to 4PM. Want to do some snorkeling. The Cruise ship has an excursion; however, in my experience you can book a better and cheaper tour on your own. Seeking recommendations.

[crewsweeper]

There are several along the malecon in Mahahual.  Gypsea Divers. Pepe's, Dr Dive, Mahahual Divers all have website and good reps!

[lifes-a-beach]

We used Gypsea Divers several years ago.  Very good communication before the trip.  Easy to find.  Good trip and lots of marine life.  
 

https://gypseadivers.com

 

 

[astridwilson]

Is it possible to snorkel from shore or do you have to have an excursion?

[lifes-a-beach]

That depends on where you are swimming out from and how good of a swimmer you are.  The further south you go, the less crowded it is, but it will be several hundred yards swim out to the reef.  Depending on your itinerary, it can be better to snorkel from the shore at other ports.  West Bay Beach on Roatan for example.  Or Cemetery Beach on Grand Cayman.  Both are very easy to swim out from, close to the reef, with lots of marine life, and far superior to Costa Maya or Cozumel, at least in my experience.