A sailboat in Cozumel. — Exploring the Yucatan Peninsula is a bucket list item for most travelers. However, with many of Mexico's top destinations far apart, navigating between them can be confusing. If you plan to explore the area without a tour guide, chances are you will need to find your way from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel on your own. Since there is no airport right in Playa del Carmen, the next best option is via ferry. To ensure your journey from the Playa del Carmen to the island of Cozumel is smooth and straightforward, I have crafted the ultimate detailed travel guide for you.

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Playa del Carmen to Cozumel: Ferry Travel Guide

The ferry is the best way to travel from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. This 45-minute passenger ferry operates hourly, facilitated by three companies: Winjet (orange) Xcaret (blue), and Ultramar (yellow). The ferry services are subject to weather conditions.

Note: Transcaribe and Ultramar Carga also operate a car ferry between Calica and Cozumel for those who need to transport their motor vehicles. The price starts at 710 pesos, with Transcaribe being slightly cheaper.

Many people recommend not scheduling the ferry ahead of time, especially during high season (primarily December, January, and February), because the ferry tends to operate on a first-come, first-served basis regardless of tickets. However, as a plan-ahead person, I choose to purchase my tickets online in advance and arrive at the ferry terminal at least 30-40 minutes prior to departure to secure my spot in line. If you do not mind waiting for a later ferry, you can choose to arrive later.

I prefer to schedule my ferry rides in the morning (before 10:00 AM) to avoid traveling during peak heat hours. This is the best way to avoid crowds and choppier waters on most days.

Upon arrival at the port, you must go through a "security checkpoint" where your bags will be scanned. Any sharp objects that could be used as weapons or illegal items will be removed from your baggage (duh). You will also pass through a scanner yourself.

Once through security, you will find small vendors selling food and beverages for your convenience. There are restrooms available as well. The ferry port is covered overhead, but both sides are open air. Keep reading to find some important and basic information for your ferry travels.

Ferry Port Location in PDC:

The ferry port in Playa del Carmen (PDC) can be found here.

Ferry Port Location (Cozumel):

The ferry port location in Cozumel for Winjet, Xcaret, and Ultramar are situated across the street from Benito Juarez Park. The exact location can be found here.

How to Get to the Ferry Port in Playa del Carmen:

If you are staying near the port, I suggest walking over. The earlier you leave in the morning, the cooler it will be for this journey by foot.
If you prefer a taxi, you can also opt to schedule one ahead of time by locating one the day prior and scheduling it, or you can ask your accommodation for assistance.

How Much is the ferry?

Check their websites for updated pricing. The 2024 price I paid for my Winjet Ferry was 260 pesos ($15 USD).

Should I Book Ahead?

As mentioned above, I always recommend planning ahead and securing tickets, but be sure to get to the terminal earlier. I always take Winjet and head to the pier 30-40 minutes ahead of time. You may want to increase this time during the high season (December, January, and February).

How Long is The Ferry?

Usually around 40-45 minutes, weather dependent. These ferries are usually very efficient and stay on schedule unless there are unforeseen circumstances like the weather.

How Is the Ride?

This is, of course, weather-dependent. I strongly believe mornings are always better (at least every time I have gone). I have also always gone on a clear day when the water appears calm—resulting in a smooth ride. It is always slightly rocky (it is a boat), so I carry some form of motion sickness treatment just to be safe. I try to sit in the middle of the ferry for less disturbance from choppy waters.
The cabin does have air conditioning, so being hot on the boat is not an issue. The seats are quite comfy as well.

Note: I have heard and read of people having horrendous ferry trips due to rocking, waves, etc., so be sure to check the weather ahead of time. Luckily, it has never been extremely rocky for me.

What About My Baggage? Is it secure?

Yes, having taken many ferries in my life, including all of the lovely experiences in Indonesia (if you know, you know), Winjet’s baggage process made me relieved.
When boarding the boat, the employees will collect baggage by tagging each and giving you a matching tag for your bag. Do not lose this tag and remember to take a clear photo of it as well. The bags are then handed up to the boat crew and put inside a secure compartment in the front/side of the boat, accessed via a small, secure door only. Passengers cannot access this compartment during the ride.

How Many Bags Can I Take?

While I do not know the exact baggage allowance for Winjet, I can share my recent experience. On our most recent ferry trip, my boyfriend and I had three large suitcases to check and two smaller bags (backpacks) to take on board. We kept all personal and valuable items with us in our backpacks. Although I have never had an issue with theft, I prefer to travel cautiously. Given the stories I heard about traveling in Mexico, whether fact or fiction, I do not take any chances. I take the information seriously and keep it in mind.
Once in Cozumel, after exiting the ferry, bags are placed in a secure area near the Winjet ferry boat. A worker stands inside the roped-off area while another worker takes the bags being handed down by his coworker. To retrieve your bag, you must hand over your ticket. The worker will ensure that the ticket you handed him matches the one on your baggage. Once verified, you are free to go.

welcome to cozumel!

Once you arrive in Cozumel, you will be greeted by taxi drivers, tour guides, and the beautiful San Miguel area. If you are staying in Centro/San Miguel, walking to your accommodation is very easy; otherwise, there are taxis everywhere that will be happy to drive you to your accommodation. I have only taken one taxi while living in Cozumel from the Cozumel airport to my accommodation near Miss Deleites. The ride was around 7 minutes, and the fee was 200 pesos for two people.

If you plan to be in Cozumel only for the day, I suggest having a plan of action! Head here for your ultimate day trip itinerary!