How to Get From Cancun to Cozumel

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1h 20mFastest

$6.70From

Written by Maarten · Reviewed by Ela, Selene·

Ferry + Bus or Colectivo · Shared Minivan + Ferry · Private Transfer (Combined Booking) · Private Transport + Ferry (Separate Bookings)

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Map showing route from Cancun to Cozumel - 83 km

Cancun → Cozumel83 km

Cozumel is a diving island off Mexico's Caribbean coast. Its west-shore reefs pull in snorkellers and divers all year. The ferry route gets you from Cancun to Cozumel in 1h 45m - 1h 55m. The shared minivan is the cheapest at $6.70 (115 MXN), though it takes longer.

DISTANCE

Distance from Cancun to Cozumel

Cancun and Cozumel are about 83 km (52 miles) apart, and the overland-and-sea journey covers around 100 km. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 1h 20m and 3h.

~83 km

Straight-line distance

~100 km

Route distance

Travelling the other way?Cozumel to Cancun→

COMPARE

4 ways to travel from Cancun to Cozumel

There are four ways to travel from Cancun to Cozumel. You can choose between the ferry, minivan, private transport, and private transport + ferry (separate bookings). The journey takes 1h 20m–2h 20m and the quickest way is by private transport + ferry (separate bookings). If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by minivan with tickets starting at $6.70 (115 MXN).

TransportDurationPrice

To get from Cancun to Cozumel, you first need to travel by land to Playa del Carmen. This takes a little over an hour. You can take a bus or a local microbus, also known as a colectivo.

Once in Playa del Carmen, head to the ferry pier and board a boat to Cozumel. The ferry ride takes around 45 minutes.

Step 1: Cancun to Playa del Carmen

1h 10m$2.60 (45 MXN)

There are several ways to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, but in this case, we think the most cost-efficient options are the bus and the colectivo. Each has its pros and cons, so the best choice depends on your preferences.

Buses are more comfortable but slightly more expensive. Colectivos are cheaper but have limited legroom and no space for bulky luggage.

Option 1: Cancun to Playa del Carmen by Bus

1h 5m - 1h 30m$5.20 (90 MXN)

The bus company operating between Cancún and Playa del Carmen is ADO, known for its comfortable first-class buses with air conditioning and reclining seats.

Departures to Playa del Carmen are frequent and the ride takes around 1h 5m - 1h 30m. Ticket prices start from $5.20 (90 MXN).

1h5mADOConecta ClassADO CentroADO Terminal Turistica Playa Del Carmen08:0008:3008:3509:30$590 MXNTickets

1h20mADOFirst ClassADO CentroADO Terminal Turistica Playa Del Carmen06:2007:0007:0107:3107:4508:20+9$7119 MXNTickets

1h30mADOFirst ClassADO Conecta Aeropuerto, Cancun, QRADO Terminal Turistica Playa Del Carmen00:0502:4008:1008:5009:2009:50+9$15255 MXNTickets

Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.

Booking Tip

All buses depart from ADO Bus Station, within walking distance from most hotels in downtown Cancun. If you're staying in the Hotel Zone, you can take a taxi to the bus station, with fares starting from $12 (200 MXN). Buses are also available — lines R-1, R-3 and R-38 should take you to the bus station for around $0.70 (12 MXN).

There are two bus stations in downtown Playa del Carmen — Turistica and Alterna. When booking, make sure to select Turistica as your arrival point. This terminal is just one block from the main ferry terminal, where you'll board the ferry to Cozumel. Alterna is located farther away.

Option 2: Cancun to Playa del Carmen by Colectivo

45m - 1h 30m$2.60 (45 MXN)

Colectivos are the cheapest way to travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. But since they are mostly used by local workers and not by tourists, they have limited space for luggage. This makes them a good option only if you're travelling light.

The average colectivo rate to Playa del Carmen is $2.60 (45 MXN), but prices can increase during peak season (December to April).

Two companies operate colectivos on this route: Playa Express and Colectivos Foraneos. Each has its own departure area, located across the street from each other in downtown Cancún. Both are near the ADO Bus Station.

Colectivos will drop you off at the Playa Express Bus Stop, about 1.5 km from the ferry terminal. That's farther away compared to the last stop for the bus. For more details, you can visit our guide for Cancun to Playa del Carmen.

Check Private Transport Options with BookAway

Step 2: Playa del Carmen to Cozumel

35-45m$14 (238 MXN)

Passenger ferries to Cozumel depart from Playa del Carmen’s ferry port, at the end of Fifth Avenue, the town’s main street. It’s within the city centre and just a few minutes walk from Turistica Bus Station. It's best to arrive at the pier 30 minutes before your desired departure time.

The ferry service is provided by three companies: Ultramar, Winjet and Xcaret Ferry. They all offer similar services with large, stable boats that help minimise seasickness.

Playa del Carmen to Cozumel ferry prices start from $14 (238 MXN). Note that you'll need to pay a separate port tax at the pier counter, which costs around $1.20 (21 MXN).

Which ferry company to take?

All ferries have comfortable seats and toilets. You can choose to sit inside with air conditioning or outside to enjoy the sea breeze and views.

Winjet offers the cheapest ferry prices while still providing good service. If you are looking for the most budget-friendly way to get to Cozumel, this is the best choice.
Ultramar is a larger company that operates multiple routes within the Riviera Maya. Its ferries are comfortable and reliable, with slightly higher prices than Winjet.
Xcaret Ferry is the most expensive option but offers a more premium experience. Its ferries are modern and clean, and tickets include free access to the observation tower, Torre Escénica del Embarcadero de Cancún.

45mWinjetHigh SpeedWinjet Office, Playa del CarmenWinjet, Maritime Terminal08:0009:0009:3010:0010:3011:00+9$14238 MXNTickets

35mUltramarPremium PlusUltramar Pier, Playa del CarmenUltramar Pier, Cozumel08:0009:0009:3010:0011:0011:30+9$16270 MXNTickets

35mUltramarFirst ClassUltramar Pier, Playa del CarmenUltramar Pier, Cozumel08:0009:0010:0011:0011:3012:00+9$16280 MXNTickets

45mXcaret FerryPremiumTerminal Maritima Playa del CarmenTerminal Ferrys Cozumel08:3009:3010:3011:3012:3013:30+8$18310 MXNTickets

Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.

Booking Tip

PRO TIP: Book your tickets online beforehand so you won’t have to queue at the ferry pier. If you prefer to buy your tickets at the port, be aware that there are many travel agencies around that overcharge tourists. To avoid paying extra, get your tickets directly from the ferry companies’ ticket offices.

There are two ferry terminals in Cozumel. You will be dropped off at Cozumel’s Ferry Port in the town centre. The other dock, Punta Langosta Cruise Pier, is used only for cruise ships.

Many accommodations are within walking distance of the main Cozumel Ferry Dock. To get around the island, the best options are renting a bike, golf cart or car. Taxis are also available, with fares starting from $8.70 (150 MXN) within the city centre.

Check out our guide for Playa del Carmen to Cozumel for more details.

Cozumel

If you’re coming from Cancun Airport, you can book a shared minivan service that includes a ferry ticket to Cozumel.

The combined rides cost around $6.70 (115 MXN) and take about 2h 20m - 3h.

There are two companies running this route: Chiquila Holbox Extreme and BD Experience Mexico.

Chiquila Holbox Extreme is the cheaper option, dropping you off at the Ultramar Ferry Terminal in Cozumel.

BD Experience Mexico is pricier, but takes you directly to your hotel in Cozumel after the ferry ride, saving you the hassle of arranging transport from the port.

Shared Minivan + Ferry schedule from Cancun to Cozumel

3hChiquila Holbox ExtremeTouristCancun Airport (CUNUltraMar Ferry Terminal09:3014:00$7115 MXNTickets

2h20mBD Experience MexicoShuttleCancun Airport (CUNCozumel - Any hotel in Hotel Zone 200:0001:0002:0003:0004:0005:00+9$39670 MXNTickets

2h50mBD Experience MexicoShuttleCancun Airport (CUNCozumel - Any hotel in Hotel Zone 100:0001:0002:0003:0004:0005:00+9$50860 MXNTickets

Available atBookaway

Cozumel

Travelling in a group and heading straight to Cozumel after arriving at Cancun International Airport? The easiest way is to book a combined private transfer and public ferry in one go. This way, everything is arranged for you, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no extra transfers needed.

Prices for private transfer start at $205 (3,500 MXN) Split it with your group, and it’s about $71 (1,220 MXN) each.

BD Experience Mexico is operating the Cancun to Cozumel route. The journey takes 2h 20m - 2h 50m.

Cancun

BD Experience Mexico

Standard Ferry 9 PAX

$205 (3,500 MXN)

$23 (390 MXN) per person

Tickets

BD Experience Mexico

Standard Ferry 9 PAX

$255 (4,350 MXN)

$28 (485 MXN) per person

Tickets

Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.

Cozumel

If tickets for a combined private transfer and ferry fromCancun to Cozumel are unavailable, you can book the two legs of the journey separately: a private transfer from Cancún Airport to Playa del Carmen and a public ferry to Cozumel.

Step 1: Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen

45m - 1h 30m$58 (990 MXN)

The fastest and most convenient way to get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen is by private transfer, which takes between 1h 20m - 2h 15m.

On BookAway, you can get a 6-seater car from $58 (990 MXN). If you're travelling in a group and split the cost, a private transfer can be cheaper than taking the bus.

45mMexico Travel SolutionsStandardCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$58990 MXNTickets

1h30mCancun ShuttleStandardCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$581,000 MXNTickets

50mShuttle CentralShuttleCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$621,060 MXNTickets

1h30mCancun ShuttleStandardCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$631,080 MXNTickets

1hValentina's Tours and TransferStandardCancun - Any hotelPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$651,120 MXNTickets

Show all 20 companies

1hOfir ToursComfortCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Hotel List23:00$681,180 MXNTickets

50mShuttle CentralSUVCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$811,380 MXNTickets

1hBD Experience MexicoStandardCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$811,380 MXNTickets

1hFlex ShuttleStandardCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$901,540 MXNTickets

51mFlights CancunStandardCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$931,600 MXNTickets

1hWayakComfortCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$981,680 MXNTickets

1hWayakComfortCancun Airport (CUNUltramar Pier, Playa del Carmen23:00$981,680 MXNTickets

1hFlights CancunStandardCancun Airport (CUNXcaret Park23:00$1051,780 MXNTickets

1hOfir ToursSUVCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Hotel List23:00$1051,800 MXNTickets

1hBD Experience MexicoSUVCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$1152,000 MXNTickets

45mMexico Travel SolutionsStandardCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$1302,200 MXNTickets

45mMexico Travel SolutionsSUVCancun Airport (CUNPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$1302,200 MXNTickets

1hWayakStandardCancun - Any hotelPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:30$1552,650 MXNTickets

1h30mWayakComfortCancun Airport (CUNXel-Ha Park23:00$1552,700 MXNTickets

45mMexitoursStandardCancun - Any hotelPlaya del Carmen - Any hotel23:00$1702,950 MXNTickets

Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.

Step 2: Playa del Carmen to Cozumel

35-45m$14 (238 MXN)

Note that the private transfer is only from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. You will still take a shared ferry to Cozumel. The ferry journey takes 35-45m.

Ticket prices vary by ferry company but start from $14 (238 MXN).

45mWinjetHigh SpeedWinjet Office, Playa del CarmenWinjet, Maritime Terminal08:0009:0009:3010:0010:3011:00+9$14238 MXNTickets

35mUltramarPremium PlusUltramar Pier, Playa del CarmenUltramar Pier, Cozumel08:0009:0009:3010:0011:0011:30+9$16270 MXNTickets

35mUltramarFirst ClassUltramar Pier, Playa del CarmenUltramar Pier, Cozumel08:0009:0010:0011:0011:3012:00+9$16280 MXNTickets

45mXcaret FerryPremiumTerminal Maritima Playa del CarmenTerminal Ferrys Cozumel08:3009:3010:3011:3012:3013:30+8$18310 MXNTickets

Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.

Booking Tip

Ferries depart from Playa del Carmen Ferry Pier and arrive at Cozumel Ferry Dock.

Cozumel

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ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Cozumel?

Short on time? We recommend spending at least a couple of nights to really make the most of your visit, but you can visit Cozumel also as a day trip from Play del Carmen.

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Cancun to Cozumel, roughly 83 kilometres (52 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $6.70 (115 MXN). The quickest trip takes 1h 20m.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Cancun to Cozumel?

The distance from Cancun to Cozumel is 83 kilometres (52 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Cancun to Cozumel?

Journey times from Cancun to Cozumel overlap: ferry + bus or colectivo 1h 45m - 1h 55m, shared minivan + ferry 2h 20m - 3h, private transfer (combined booking) 2h 20m - 2h 50m, private transport + ferry (separate bookings) 1h 20m - 2h 15m. Depending on the departure, no single option is always the fastest.

What is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Cozumel?

The cheapest way to get from Cancun to Cozumel is by minivan with ticket costs starting from 115 MXN.

What to expect when visiting Cozumel?

Cozumel is a paradise destination for scuba divers and sea lovers in the Mexican Caribbean. A part of the world’s second-largest barrier reef is within the limits of Cozumel, with over 30 diving spots for both beginners and experienced divers. Cozumel has enough activities to keep you busy for a week. In addition to scuba diving, you can chill at one of the many sandy beaches. The crystal clear waters are great for snorkelling and many other water sports. The island is probably the best spot in the Caribean part of Mexico to learn surfing as well as other water sports like windsurfing, kite surfing, fishing or diving. If diving isn’t your thing, you don’t have to miss out. You can still explore the underwater wonders with a submarine expedition — a very popular and unique experience offered in Cozumel. Another highlight to visit is the San Gervasio Mayan ruins. They are considered one of the most significant in the Mayan religion. Short on time? We recommend spending at least a couple of nights to really make the most of your visit, but you can visit Cozumel also as a day trip from Play del Carmen.

What is the best time of year to visit Cozumel?

The best time of year to visit Cancun to Cozumel is between December and April. During these months, the weather is sunny and temperatures are warm, making it perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and other beach activities. The average temperature during this time of year is around 27-30 degrees Celsius (80-85 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity is also low, making it a great time to explore the Caribean coast of Mexico.

About the Authors

Maarten

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

ElaReviewer

Senior Travel Writer

Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.

SeleneReviewer

Travel Writer

Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.

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Ferry Schedule Notice

Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.

How to Get From Cancun to Cozumel

Distance from Cancun to Cozumel