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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 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.
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).
incl. transfers — see itinerary
- Cancun→Playa del Carmen1h
- Cancun (any hotel)→Playa del Carmen1h 30m
- Playa del Carmen→Cozumel45m
2 legs — see itinerary
- Cancun→Playa del Carmen1h 30m
- Playa del Carmen→Cozumel45m
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Cancun to Cozumel by Ferry + Bus or Colectivo
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
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
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 (91 MXN).
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 $11 (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
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.
Step 2: Playa del Carmen to Cozumel
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 (240 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.
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 $8.60 (150 MXN) within the city centre.
Check out our guide for Playa del Carmen to Cozumel for more details.
Cancun to Cozumel by Shared Minivan + Ferry
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
Shared Minivan + Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Cancun to Cozumel by Private Transfer (Combined Booking)
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 (3,570 MXN) Split it with your group, and it’s about $71 (1,250 MXN) each.
BD Experience Mexico is operating the Cancun to Cozumel route. The journey takes 2h 20m - 2h 50m.
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Cancun to Cozumel by Private Transport + Ferry (Separate Bookings)
Step 1: Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen
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 (1,010 MXN). If you're travelling in a group and split the cost, a private transfer can be cheaper than taking the bus.
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Step 2: Playa del Carmen to Cozumel
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 (240 MXN).
Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit 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.
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?
What is the best time of year to visit Cozumel?
About the Authors
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.
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.
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.
