How to get to Cozumel from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum
Getting from Cancun to Cozumel is easier than most first-time visitors expect, and as someone who lives in Cancun and has made this journey many times, I can walk you through every option so you can choose the one that fits your budget, travel style, and schedule.
The most important thing to know upfront is that there is no direct ferry from Cancun to Cozumel. You will always need to get to Playa del Carmen first, and then take the ferry across to the island. The total journey from Cancun airport takes approximately one and a half to two and a half hours depending on which transport option you choose.
In this guide I cover all five ways to make the journey: private transfer, rental car, ADO bus, colectivo, and direct flight, plus everything you need to know about the ferry itself including current 2026 prices, schedules, and practical tips.
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Cancun to Cozumel an overview
There are many different ways to get from Cancun to Cozumel. The easiest and most comfortable one is to get a private transfer from Cancun Airport (or your hotel) to Playa del Carmen Cozumel Ferry. A cheaper way would be catching the ADO bus or Colectivo, or you can even fly into Cozumel International Airport directly from Cancun or many US airports, or rent a car, if you want to explore other areas. I will tell you about all those ways to get to Cozumel from Cancun in detail in the next section of this post. So, read on to learn more.
Where Is Cozumel?
Cozumel is a Mexican Island located in the Quintana Roo State, Yucatan Peninsula, right in front of Playa del Carmen at only 30 minutes ferry ride.
How far is Cancun from Cozumel?
The distance from Cancun to Cozumel can be considered around 86 km (53 mi) but it depends on whether you calculate it by plane or by land.
Can I Catch a Ferry or Boat Directly to Cozumel from Cancun?
No there are no Ferries that take you directly from Cancun to Cozumel. You will need to get to Playa del Carmen from Cancun or Tulum to catch the ferry to Cozumel.
Cancun to Cozumel: All Options Compared
| Option | Cost | Total Journey Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private transfer to ferry | From 1,500 MXN per vehicle | 1.5 to 2 hours | Groups, families, airport arrivals |
| Rental car to ferry | Variable plus parking | 1 to 1.5 hours | Road trippers exploring the Riviera Maya |
| ADO bus to ferry | 110 to 230 MXN plus 260 MXN ferry | 2 to 2.5 hours | Budget travelers from the airport |
| Colectivo to ferry | 60 MXN plus 260 MXN ferry | 1.5 to 2 hours | Budget travelers from downtown Cancun |
| Uber or DiDi to ferry | 350 to 500 MXN plus 260 MXN ferry | 1 to 1.5 hours | Solo travelers from downtown or hotel zone |
| Direct flight | From 800 MXN | 45 minutes total | Travelers with heavy luggage or limited time |
The best 5 ways to get from Cancun to Cozumel
1. Cancun to Cozumel by private transportation (best way) + ferry
The most comfortable way to get from Cancun to Cozumel is by booking a private transfer. It may be more pricey than the bus but it will give you all the comfort you need for a hassle-free journey.
Here are my favorite reasons why I would choose a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation Service:
- door-to-door service ( either from the airport or from your hotel )
- sparkling clean vehicle all for yourself
- a choice between a minivan, SUV, limo
- bilingual driver
- insurance included
- even if you miss your flight or it´s delayed they will be waiting for you with your name on a sign
Your private driver will pick you up either from Cancun airport or your hotel and take you to the Cozumel Ferry Terminal in Playa del Carmen where you will catch your ferry.
Getting to the Ferry from the Cancun Hotel Zone
If you are staying in the Cancun hotel zone rather than at the airport or downtown, your best options are a private transfer. The hotel zone is approximately 25 kilometers from the Playa del Carmen ferry terminal and a private transfer from a hotel zone property costs slightly more than from the airport due to the distance.
The ADO bus also departs from stops along Boulevard Kukulcán in the hotel zone heading toward Playa del Carmen, making it a budget-friendly option if you are comfortable with a short walk to the bus stop and are not traveling with heavy luggage.
👉 Book your private transfer from Cancun to Cozumel
2. Cancun to Cozumel by Car Rental + ferry
Another of my favorite ways to move around in the area is by car because it gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. If you are concerned about driving in Mexico, worry not. I will give you a synopsis of my full article that you may want to read if you decide to rent a car.
First of all, the best way to find the best deals for car rentals is by comparing prices and you can do that on Discover Cars platform.
In a rush? Here is the best Car rental searching platform
When It comes to renting a car in Mexico I always recommend the Discover Cars platform where you can compare prices among different car rentals and then decide which one is best for you.
Picking up the car from the Cancun airport may be slightly more expensive because of airport taxes but it will make you save money from the transportation, which can make up for it.
No matter which car rental you choose, a representative will come and pick you up at the airport and take you to their nearby offices.
Important tips for driving in Mexico
✔️ For renting a car in Mexico you will need to be 25 ys old of age and have a driving license that is at least 6 months old. Some car rentals accept 19 years old drivers but they may ask you to pay an extra tax.
✔️ Credit card and passport are also required to rent a car in Mexico
✔️ Toll roads only accept Mexican Pesos
✔️ Sometimes gas stations don´t accept credit cards, so make sure you have always some cash with you.
✔️Respect the speed limit and the most basic road laws so that the police won´t have a reason to stop you.
✔️ Asking for a bribe is a thing among Mexican police. Make sure you don´t do that so that you don´t become part of the problem
✔️ Tip the gas station staff
✔️ Watch out for topes (speed bumps)
✔️ Get a local sim card and download google Maps so that you won´t get lost or you can call your car rental in case of any mishappenings.
Can I take my car rental to Cozumel?
Yes, you definitely can, although it´s kind of a hassle, and the ferry schedule is not very convenient. I am going to share the two sites where you can check schedules and prices and read the guidelines. Keep in mind that you will need to show up at the ferry 2 hours in advance for the paperwork.
If you want to take the car to Cozumel with you you will need to leave from another ferry terminal, which is in Colica, in Punta Venado.
✔️ Transcaribe
Where can I park the car in Playa del Carmen?
In case you decide to leave the car in Playa del Carmen while you are in Cozumel, you don´t have to worry as there are many safe car parks near the ferry.
The cost is around 180 MXN (10 USD) per day and you pay once you pick up the car. Some of them will ask you to leave the key in case they have to move the car. However, I would rather not do that, just in case.
3. Cancun to Cozumel by ADO bus + Ferry
Getting from Cancun to Cozumel by ADO bus is the second cheapest way. Several buses leave either from Cancun Airport or Cancun downtown to Playa del Carmen and the cost varies depending on the time of the day from 110 MXN to 230 MXN.
The ADO bus terminal in Cancun Airport is located inside the terminal building and is clearly signposted. From downtown Cancun, buses depart from the main ADO terminal on Calle Pino in SM23.
In Playa del Carmen the ADO bus stops at the ADO Turística terminal on Quinta Avenida at Avenida Benito Juárez. From there the Cozumel ferry pier is approximately a five-minute walk along the beachfront.
4. Cancun to Cozumel by Colectivo + Ferry
Another option, even cheaper, if you leave from Downtown Cancun is to take the colectivo minivan to Playa del Carmen. They leave from Avenida Tulum, across the road from the ADO bus terminal but they will drop you off 2 blocks from the Ferry terminal, on Calle 2 with Av 10 in Playa del Carmen.
From there you will have to walk about 700 mt to get to the Ferry Terminal to Cozumel.
The cost of a colectivo from Cancun to Playa del Carmen is about 60 MXN (3 USD)
5. Fly from Cancun to Cozumel
There are local airlines that will take you from Cancun to Cozumel. However, Cozumel international airport also receives some major airlines from the USA and Canada flying directly. You can check Expedia site for any flight deals.
6. Uber and DiDi from Cancun to Playa del Carmen
Uber and DiDi both operate in Cancun and along the highway to Playa del Carmen and are a valid option for getting to the ferry. A ride from Cancun to the Playa del Carmen ferry pier costs approximately 350 to 500 MXN depending on surge pricing, making it more expensive than the ADO bus or colectivo but significantly cheaper than a private transfer for solo travelers or couples.
The important caveat is that neither Uber nor DiDi operates at Cancun Airport. As of 2026 app-based ride services are still blocked from operating at the airport due to taxi union restrictions. You can only use Uber or DiDi from downtown Cancun or the hotel zone, not from the airport terminal itself. If you are arriving by flight your options from the airport are private transfer, ADO bus, or the official airport taxi desk.
How to Get from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel
If you are already based in Playa del Carmen the ferry is right in the center of town and could not be more convenient. Walk to the waterfront at the end of Avenida Juárez, buy your ticket at the Ultramar or Mexico Waterjets booth, and board the next departure. No transfer needed. The crossing takes 40 to 45 minutes and costs 260 to 300 MXN per adult one way. This is genuinely one of the easiest inter-destination connections in the entire Mexican Caribbean.
Day trip to Cozumel by guided tour
👉 Full Day Cozumel Island Tour with Ferry, Snorkel, Virgin Beach, Buggy and Lunch
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 7 Reviews
Although it’s very easy to take the ferry to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen you may want to check out this tour where everything is organized for a fun day in Cozumel.
Here is what’s included in the program:
- Ferry to and from Cozumel
- Chankanaab Park, located inside the National Marine Park
- all terrain buggy rental to get to the Punta Sur Ecological Park to visit and climb the emblematic Celarain Lighthouse.
- visit the El Caracol sanctuary, with archaeological remains, as well as the Laguna Colombia, which houses a variety of birds and crocodiles, you will visit a beautiful virgin beach to swim
- Tequila tasting
👉 Book your day trip to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen on VIATOR
👉 Cozumel & Snorkel Day Trip from Cancun
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 55 Reviews
Although it’s easy to go on your own to Cozumel either from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, you can join an organized tour with a guide.
It will save you money and stress, besides the fact that everything will be already organized to take you to the top spots in Cozumel.
An organized day trip to Cozumel from Cancun is especially advisable if you have limited time and you are a solo traveler who doesn’t feel comfortable traveling alone.
👉 Book your day trip to Cozumel from Cancun on VIATOR
The Playa del Carmen to Cozumel Ferry: Everything You Need to Know
Ferry Companies
Two companies operate the passenger ferry between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel:
Ultramar is the most popular and most frequent, running modern air-conditioned catamarans with covered indoor seating and an open upper deck. This is the company I use and recommend.
Mexico Waterjets (also known as Barcos Calica) runs a similar service at a slightly lower price. Both companies use the same pier in Playa del Carmen.
Ferry Schedule
Ferries run approximately every 30 to 60 minutes from early morning until late evening. The first departure is around 6am and the last return from Cozumel is around 10pm. Schedules vary slightly by season so always check the current timetable on the Ultramar website before you travel, particularly around Semana Santa and Christmas when schedules change.
Ferry Prices 2026
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult one way | 260 to 300 MXN (approximately 15 USD) |
| Child one way | 200 to 250 MXN |
| Adult return | 520 to 600 MXN |
Prices vary slightly between Ultramar and Mexico Waterjets and may increase during peak season. Pay in pesos rather than dollars for the best rate.
How Long is the Ferry Ride?
The crossing takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes each way. The sea is generally calm but from November through February northern fronts (nortes) can create choppy conditions. If you are prone to seasickness sit on the lower deck toward the center of the boat and take medication before boarding if needed. I got seasick on my Skellig crossing in Ireland, so I know this feeling well.
Do I Need to Book the Ferry in Advance?
For the passenger ferry, advance booking is generally not necessary. Ferries depart frequently and rarely fill to capacity outside of Semana Santa and Christmas week. Simply arrive at the pier, buy your ticket at the booth, and board the next available departure. However if you are traveling during peak holiday weeks buying in advance online through the Ultramar website removes any uncertainty.
Where is the Ferry Terminal in Playa del Carmen?
The passenger ferry terminal is located on the waterfront at the end of Avenida Juárez in Playa del Carmen, right next to Parque Fundadores and approximately one and a half blocks from the main square on Quinta Avenida. It is extremely easy to find. The ADO bus terminal on Quinta Avenida is only a five-minute walk away.
How to get from Tulum to Cozumel
Getting from Tulum to Cozumel requires the same Playa del Carmen ferry connection but the journey is shorter since you are already south of Cancun.
The fastest and cheapest way from Tulum to Playa del Carmen is by colectivo, which runs continuously from the Tulum colectivo stop on Avenida Tulum every few minutes around the clock. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes and costs around 40 MXN. Colectivos drop you in Playa del Carmen centro within walking distance of the ferry terminal.
The ADO bus from Tulum to Playa del Carmen is more comfortable and takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour. It departs from the Tulum ADO terminal and costs around 80 to 100 MXN.
A private transfer from Tulum to the Cozumel ferry is also available and is the most convenient option if you have heavy luggage or are traveling as a group.
Total journey time from Tulum to Cozumel is approximately one and a half to two hours including the ferry crossing.
How to move around Cozumel
Although the island of Cozumel is not that big, you still need a means of transportation to move around.
The historical center, near the ferry, is pretty and walkable, but to reach the best beaches and the archeological sites you will need a car or a scooter.
You can also rent a bike if you are feeling sporty. Although the best way to move around in Cozumel is by renting a car.
It also depends on what are your plans while you are in Cozumel. If you are going to join the many amazing tours available or spend a lot of time in a beach club, you won´t need a car and you can use the taxis available on the island. (There is no Uber in Cozumel, just so you know!)
Things to do in Cozumel
Although Cozumel is mainly known as one of the best diving destinations in Mexico, there are also many other amazing activities you can do and sites to explore, as I mention in my detailed Cozumel Travel Guide.
I will share here below the most exciting one.
✅ Go snorkeling – there are many amazing snorkeling tours in Cozumel but there are many beaches where you can snorkel on your own from the shore.
✅ Spend a day in one of the beach clubs in Cozumel – Mr. Sancho is the most popular one you can pre-book your entrance on VIATOR.
✅ Try the local food – there are many delicious restaurants in Cozumel for every budget and taste. You can also take a food tour with a local guide to learn about the top eateries in Cozumel.
✅ Watch the sunset from one of the Cozumel Rooftop bars.
✅ Go Surfing on the east coast – The east coast is the most interesting area, with spectacular waves for surfers but also great landscapes for photographers and nature lovers. It´s not always swimmable but worth the trip just to watch it.
✅ Hire a private driver and explore Cozumel – if you don´t feel like driving this is the perfect way to enjoy the island with a local expert who drives you and your party around. BOOK IT ON VIATOR
Where to stay in Cozumel
If you decide to stay in Cozumel for a few days versus a day trip, there are plenty of hotel options that you can choose from.
From luxury all-inclusive properties along the coast to cute boutique hotels or apartments in the main town.
You can choose your preferred place to stay in Cozumel for your budget and style.
Here below I am including my top places but you can read more in our article on the top All inclusive hotels in Cozumel and the top vacation rentals.
Top All inclusive hotel in Cozumel
All-inclusive hotel with a private beach – Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort
Luxury All-inclusive hotel for Adults Only in Cozumel – Secrets Aura Cozumel
Luxury All inclusive hotel in Cozumel for Families – Sunscape Sabor Cozumel
Top Boutique Hotels in Cozumel
Luxury boutique hotel for Adults only – Ventanas al Mar
Mid-range boutique hotel – Casita de Maya Boutique Hotel
Budget hotel – Kinta Kan Boutique Hotel
Best Vacation Rentals in Cozumel
For a big family or friends retreat: Beachfront Las Brisas
For a couple or solo getaway isolated from everything: Stingray villa Cozumel
Luxury family vacation: Oceanfront Cozumel Home with Private Pier + Pool!
Solo vacation or workation: Oceanfront Condo
Also, you can check out this useful interactive map to find the best accommodation for you:
Frequently Asked Questions: Cancun to Cozumel
Is There a Direct Ferry from Cancun to Cozumel?
No. There is no direct ferry from Cancun to Cozumel. You must travel to Playa del Carmen first and take the ferry from there. The Playa del Carmen to Cozumel crossing takes 40 to 45 minutes. Total journey time from Cancun airport to Cozumel is approximately one and a half to two and a half hours depending on your transport option to Playa del Carmen.
How Much Does the Cozumel Ferry Cost in 2026?
The ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel costs 260 to 300 MXN per adult one way, approximately 13 to 15 USD. Children pay 200 to 250 MXN. Return tickets cost 520 to 600 MXN. Pay in pesos for the best rate. Prices are similar between Ultramar and Mexico Waterjets and may increase slightly during Semana Santa and Christmas.
How Long is the Ferry Ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel?
The ferry crossing takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes. The sea is generally calm but northern fronts between November and February can create choppy conditions.
Do I Need to Book the Cozumel Ferry in Advance?
For most of the year no. Ferries run frequently and rarely fill up. Simply arrive at the Playa del Carmen ferry pier and buy your ticket at the booth. During Semana Santa and Christmas week it is advisable to book in advance through the Ultramar website to avoid any uncertainty.
How Much is a Taxi from Cancun to Cozumel?
A taxi from Cancun to Playa del Carmen costs approximately 700 to 900 MXN depending on the driver and your departure point. Always agree on the price before getting in. Add 260 to 300 MXN for the ferry. Total cost by taxi plus ferry is approximately 1,000 to 1,200 MXN per person one way. This makes the taxi the most expensive per-person option after the private transfer and is generally not recommended except in situations where other options are unavailable.
Can I Use Uber or DiDi from Cancun to the Cozumel Ferry?
Yes, from downtown Cancun and the hotel zone. Neither Uber nor DiDi operates at Cancun Airport due to taxi union restrictions. From downtown or the hotel zone a ride to the Playa del Carmen ferry pier costs approximately 350 to 500 MXN, making it a good option for solo travelers or couples traveling from non-airport locations.
Is It Hard to Get from Cancun to Cozumel?
Not at all. The journey is straightforward and very well served by multiple transport options. The only thing that catches first-time visitors off guard is realizing there is no direct ferry from Cancun and that Playa del Carmen is always the intermediate stop. Once you know that the rest is simple.
Can I Take a Rental Car to Cozumel?
Yes but it requires using the cargo ferry at the Calica terminal at Punta Venado, approximately 8 kilometers south of Playa del Carmen. You need to arrive two hours before departure for paperwork and the schedule is less convenient than the passenger ferry. Most visitors find it easier to leave their rental car in a paid car park in Playa del Carmen and explore Cozumel by taxi, scooter, or rental car on the island itself.
How Much Does It Cost to Park in Playa del Carmen Near the Ferry?
Paid car parks near the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen charge approximately 180 to 200 MXN per day. Several safe options are within a short walk of the pier. Most car parks ask for payment when you collect the vehicle.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Cozumel?
Three days is the ideal amount of time to experience Cozumel properly. Day one for renting a car and exploring the island including Punta Sur and San Gervasio ruins. Day two for a diving or snorkeling trip on the reef. Day three for a beach club and the town of San Miguel before returning. Two days works if you are short on time. A day trip from Cancun or Playa del Carmen is possible but does not do justice to the island.
Is Cozumel Safe?
Yes. Cozumel is one of the safest destinations in Mexico and significantly calmer and less crowded than the mainland Riviera Maya. The island has a small permanent population, a strong tourism infrastructure, and very little of the crime that affects other parts of Quintana Roo. Standard common sense precautions apply as anywhere.
Where Do You Fly Into for Cozumel?
Cozumel has its own international airport with direct flights from several US cities including Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami. Flying directly into Cozumel saves the Playa del Carmen transfer entirely and is worth considering if you are coming from a city with a direct route. Alternatively fly into Cancun International Airport and use one of the transfer options in this guide.
