What is the Cozumel Ferry?
The Cozumel ferry is an alternative way to get to Cozumel for those who are flying into Cancun International Airport instead of flying directly into Cozumel Airport.
If you haven’t booked a flight just yet, be sure to click here to see all the airlines and cities that offer direct flights to Cozumel.
While taking the ferry is the most common way visitors reach the island of Cozumel, it’s also often described as the least convenient option due to the fact that you have to fly into Cancun, transfer to Playa del Carmen and then hop on the ferry to Cozumel.
If you are someone who is planning on visiting Cozumel and you’re flying into Cancun International Airport, this article will help explain the step-by-step process of getting from Cancun Airport to Cozumel.
How do I book a ferry to Cozumel?
Booking a ferry to Cozumel is easier than ever before. All you need to do to reach Cozumel by ferry is the follow these 3 simple steps below:
- Book a Flight to Cancun International Airport
- Book transportation from Cancun Airport to the Cozumel ferry port in Playa del Carmen
- Book the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel
Below, we’ll break down each step in detail so that you can rest assured that your trip to Cozumel will be a memorable one.
Book a Flight to Cancun
Book a flight to Cancun International Airport. Check flight prices and available routes by entering your details in the search box below.
Book transportation to Playa del Carmen
Book ground transportation from Cancun International Airport to Playa del Carmen.
Below, you’ll find our recommendations when it comes to transportation from Cancun Airport to the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen:
Shared Shuttle Transfer – Shared Cozumel Airport shuttle service is not recommended for visitors who are on a schedule or need to arrive at their destination or accommodations in a timely manner.
Private Minivan Transfer (Max: 6 passengers)
Private Minibus Transfer (Max: 14 passengers)
After choosing your preferred method of transportation above (Shared Shuttle, Private Minivan or Private Minibus), you’ll arrive to a reservation form where you’ll need to select the following:
Transportation Reservation Details:
From: Cancun Airport (CUN)
Destination: Playa del Carmen area (between the Generations and the Viva Wyndham Garden).
Arrival Date: Enter your date of arrival to Cancun Airport here.
Flight Arrival Time: Enter your flight arrival time to Cancun Airport here.
Number of people: Enter the number of passengers here and then click Show prices.
Book Your Cozumel Ferry Tickets
Once you successfully book your airport transfer to Playa del Carmen, you’ll need to complete the final step which is to book your ferry tickets to Cozumel.
We receive emails often asking “Can I buy Cozumel ferry tickets online?”
The answer is yes and we highly recommended that you buy your Cozumel ferry tickets online before arriving at the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen.
Pre-booking your ferry tickets to Cozumel online is at no extra cost to you and will not only save you time but also the frustration of arriving at the ferry terminal only to find out that the ferry has sold out.
What ferry companies operate to Cozumel?
There are two companies that operate a ferry from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen and vice versa – Winjet and Ultramar. Both companies are quite similar in terms of amenities, comfort, rates and schedules.
Ultramar
Ultramar is the most commonly booked ferry service when it comes to sailing to Cozumel. While Ultramar offers similar amenities to their competitor, WInjet, Ultramar continues to be the most popular option when traveling between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel.
The Ultramar ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel takes approximately 40 mins and offers four different types of fares:
- Premium Plus (formerly known as tourist class)
- First Class
- Quintana Roo Plan (for official residents of Quintana Roo with proof of valid ID)
- INAPAM – (special rates for Senior Citizens of Mexico)
- Ultraplan / Local
Ultramar Cozumel Ferry Schedule
| Route: | Schedule: |
|---|---|
| Playa del Carmen to Cozumel | 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. |
| Cozumel to Playa del Carmen | 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. |
Ultramar Cozumel Ferry Price
| Fare Type: | Adult (One-Way): | Adult (Round-Trip): | Child (One-Way): | Child (Round-Trip): |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Plus | $16 USD | $32 USD | $13 USD | $25 USD |
| First Class | $19 USD | $37 USD | N/A | N/A |
| Quintana Roo Plan | $9 USD | $18 USD | $6 USD | $12 USD |
| INAPAM | $5 USD | $11 USD | N/A | N/A |
| Ultraplan / Local | $5.50 USD | $11 USD | $3.50 USD | $7 USD |
Ultramar Ferry Frequently Asked Questions
How long are Ultramar ferry tickets good for?
Ultramar ferry tickets are valid for six months from the original purchase date and can be utilized on any day or time slot for the same route.
How much does it cost to take the ferry to Cozumel?
Cozumel ferry prices vary depending on the company you choose (Ultramar & Winjet) and the fare type (Standard, Premium, First Class, etc).
Does Ultramar ferry take credit cards?
Ultramar ferry tickets can be purchased via credit card – they accept American Express, MasterCard and Visa.
What is the difference between Ultramar Premium Plus and Ultramar First Class?
Ultramar Premium Plus offers a comfortable experience for all passengers, with well-appointed ergonomic seats featuring plenty of legroom.
While Premium Plus is a new name for the standard fare, it has been upgraded and is designed to surpass the average travel experience with the highest levels of comfort.
In contrast, the Ultramar First Class focuses on delivering a higher end experience for passengers willing to pay a small premium for amenities such as access to an exclusive lounge with reclinable leather seating, preferred boarding, among other amenities.
Where is the Ultramar ferry terminal?
There are two Ultramar ferry terminals, one is located in downtown Cozumel and the other is located just steps from Parque Los Fundadores in Centro Playa del Carmen.
How long is the Ultramar ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel?
The Ultramar ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel takes approximately 40 minutes from pier to pier.
Does Ultramar ferry have WIFI?
Yes. The Ultramar ferry offers free high-speed WiFi for all passengers on board.
Winjet
Winjet is a direct competitor to Ultramar and offers similar value when it comes to getting from Playa to Cozumel.
Winjet operates a daily ferry service to Cozumel with up to 8 departures per day. They have air-conditioned cabins as well as open-air seats upstairs where you can enjoy the views of the Caribbean sea.
Winjet staff are trained to offer professional care for disabled passengers and they also have dedicated spaces for those who are traveling with pets.
Note: We should also mention that Ultramar has significantly better reviews than Winjet on Google Maps therefore we highly recommend booking with Ultramar vs. Winjet when possible.
The Winjet Cozumel ferry takes approximately 40 mins and offers five different types of fares:
- Standard Class
- Peninsular Plan (for official residents of Yucatán and Campeche w/ proof of valid ID)
- Quintana Roo Plan (for official residents of Quintana Roo with proof of valid ID)
- INAPAM (special rates for Senior Citizens of Mexico)
- Disabled Plan (for disabled passengers)
Winjet Cozumel Ferry Schedule
| Route: | Schedule: |
|---|---|
| Playa del Carmen to Cozumel | 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. |
| Cozumel to Playa del Carmen | 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. |
Winjet Ferry Prices
| Fare Type: | Adult (One-Way): | Adult (Round-Trip): | Child (One-Way): | Child (Round-Trip): | Sanitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Fare | $13 USD | $27 USD | $8 USD | $17 USD | $1 USD |
| Peninsular Plan | $12 USD | $25 USD | $7 USD | $15 USD | $1 USD |
| Quintana Roo Plan | $9 USD | $19 USD | $6 USD | $13 USD | $1 USD |
| INAPAM | $5 USD | $10 USD | N/A | N/A | $1 USD |
| Handicapped | $5 USD | $10 USD | N/A | N/A | $1 USD |
What is the Cozumel Ferry Schedule?
The Cozumel ferry schedule depends on which company you use. Ultramar operates a ferry every 2 hours, with different schedules for even and odd days of the month. The earliest ferries to Cozumel depart from Playa del Carmen at 8 a.m. and the last ferry from Playa to Cozumel departs at 10 p.m. As always, it’s advised to always check the Cozumel ferry schedules in advance of your arrival to avoid and delays or cancellations.
How much is the ferry in Cozumel?
There are two different ferry companies that service Cozumel – Ultramar and Winjet. Both offer slightly different rates. The Ultramar ferry costs $290 MXN for a one-way Premium Plus (standard fare) ticket ($16 USD one-way and $31 USD round-trip). For children, the cost will be $13 USD one-way and $26 round-trip.
The Winjet ferry to Cozumel standard ticket for adults costs 220 pesos (one-way) and $440 MXN round-trip ($13 USD one-way and $27 USD round-trip).
Can you buy Cozumel ferry tickets in advance?
Yes. Buying Cozumel ferry tickets online in advance is highly recommended as the island is a very popular tourist destination, and tickets do tend to sell out fast. Click here to buy your tickets now.
Does the Cozumel ferry sell out?
Yes. The Cozumel ferry does sell out from time to time, especially during major holidays as well as during the high season in the Riviera Maya.
Where does the Cozumel ferry depart from in Playa del Carmen?
The Playa del Carmen terminal is located just 1 minute walking distance from Parque Los Fundadores in downtown Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen Ferry Terminal Address:
Terminal Marítima NAVEGA
Av. Benito Juárez, Playa del Carmen
Quintana Roo 77710 México
View location on Google Maps
Where does the ferry drop you off in Cozumel?
The Cozumel ferry terminal is located in the heart of Cozumel just across the street from the vibrant San Miguel area.
Cozumel Ferry Terminal Address:
Terminal Marítima San Miguel
Av. Rafael Melgar, Cozumel
Quintana Roo 77600 México
View location on Google Maps
How far is Cancun from Cozumel by ferry?
Cancun is located approximately 90 minutes from Cozumel including the transfer from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen and then ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel.
Do you need passport for Cozumel ferry?
No. Visitors are not expected to show their passports to board the Playa Del Carmen ferry to Cozumel. That said, all residents, citizens and tourists are advised to keep their passports, travel documents and identifications handy in case they are stopped by local authorities.
Is it worth it to take the ferry to Cozumel?
Yes, it is absolutely worth it to take the ferry to Cozumel, especially if you don’t have the option to fly directly to Cozumel Airport.
Is there food on the Cozumel ferry?
Both Ultramar and Winjet offer refreshments as well as a bar and cafeteria that supply beer, drinks, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.
How many people does the Cozumel ferry hold?
The Ultramar Cozumel ferry is a 157-ft catamaran-style boat featuring 3 decks and a capacity of 800 passengers.
How long does Ultramar ferry take from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen?
The average time from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen by ferry is approximately 40 minutes.
Does the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel take cars?
No. You cannot take a car on the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. If you want to bring a car to Cozumel, both Ultramar and Winjet have car ferries which depart from Punta Venado, Sac-Tun (Calica).