How do I get to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen?

Question

Accepted Answer

Ferry from Playa to Cozumel is straightforward — two companies (Ultramar and Winjet) run hourly crossings from the Playa Fundadores pier (next to the central park). 45-minute crossing, ~$23–28 USD round-trip per person. Schedules run 6am to 11pm. Take the 7am or 8am ferry for a full Cozumel day. Reserve seats online during high season (Dec–Mar) to avoid sold-out departures.

Local context: The Playa–Cozumel ferry has been operating since the 1970s — it's part of how the Riviera Maya developed. The two-company competition keeps pricing reasonable. Both companies have been in operation 20+ years. The Playa Fundadores pier serves only the Cozumel route — it's not part of any other ferry system. Cozumel's San Miguel passenger terminal is in the heart of the town, walkable to most beach clubs, restaurants, and dive shops. The cruise terminals (Punta Langosta and SSA) are different infrastructure — passenger ferry visitors arrive at the smaller pier and largely skip the cruise tourism economy.

What to do: Walk to Playa Fundadores pier (next to the central park). Buy tickets at the booth or online in advance. Take the 7am or 8am morning ferry. Plan your Cozumel day in advance — pre-book a rental scooter, dive trip, or beach club. Return on the 6pm or 8pm ferry. For longer stays (3+ days), consider booking a PlayaStays Cozumel rental for the full island experience.

Common mistake: Booking the ferry through a tour desk or hotel concierge for $35–40 USD round-trip when it's $23–28 USD at the pier. The markup is pure profit — buy direct at the booth or online.

How do I get to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen?

Ultramar Ferry

Winjet Ferry

Playa Fundadores pier

Hola, soy Chris — fundador de PlayaStays.

Habla con nuestro equipo local.