| Distance | 18 km (11.3 miles) |
| Price range | $14-$951 |
| Ride Duration Range | 20m-45m |
| Earliest Departure | 12:00 |
| Latest Departure | 23:00 |
| Most Popular Operator | Ultramar |
A short ferry ride of approximately 45 minutes will take you from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen. Ferries run all day and on the hour so you can plan accordingly. Ultramar’s new luxury ferry is also available which can get you there in 20 minutes, but it is a little more expensive. The weather in Playa del Carmen stays generally warm all year-round, but if you are looking for the best weather with the least amount of people, April and May is the ideal time to go. If you go during the summer months, pack a rain jacket and keep an eye on the tropics.
Fastest ferry: 35m
Cheapest ferry: $14
The fastest: 35m
The cheapest: $14
Pros
Inexpensive
Consistent duration
Free cancellations
Luggage allowed
Toilet on board
Cons
Overpriced food and drinks
Departure times can change
Food and drink not provided for free
Seasickness warning
No other transport options
POSSIBLE AMENITIES:
A/C
WC
Wifi
TV
Food
Wheelchair accessibility
Pets allowed
The fastest: 20m
The cheapest: $951
POSSIBLE AMENITIES:
A/C
Food
English Speaking Staff
Once you’ve soaked up the tropical vibes on Cozumel, it’s time to continue your unforgettable vacation. Next up is Playa del Carmen, a vibrant coastal resort town on the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula.
With sophisticated beach clubs, party strips, and a slice of ancient history, Playa del Carmen truly has it all. Whether you’re looking to lounge in the sun all day, taste Mexico's exquisite cuisine, or investigate the local culture, this small town keeps all kinds of visitors entertained. It’s the perfect follow-up to a few days of bliss in Cozumel.
Before you unlock the next leg of your Mexican adventure, you must return to the mainland. The journey from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes and is only 18 km (11.3 miles). But this isn’t over land. You’ll need your sea legs for this ferry journey!
All routes from Cozumel start at the Ultramar Pier or Winjet Maritime Terminal, and you’ll arrive in Playa del Carmen via the Ultramar Pier or Winjet Office. Don’t forget these when planning your onward journey!
Guarantee a carefree crossing. Become an expert on how to get from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen below.
From white sand beaches to cenotes, Playa del Carmen is filled with natural wonders. Here are the highlights you need to see:
Cenote Azul & Cenote Cristalino: Cenotes are natural limestone sinkholes that expose gorgeous turquoise groundwater. They make for stunning photos, excellent swimming spots, and exciting snorkeling views.
Playa Fundadores: One of the most famous beaches in Playa del Carmen, you need to relax on these golden sands at one point during your visit.
Xcaret Park: Xcaret Park is a water and theme park with over 50 natural and cultural attractions. Guests can explore historic archaeological sites, admire three underground rivers, and spot exotic wild animals. This spot is only 7 km/4.3 miles from the town center, making it an easy day trip.
Ocean parasailing: Ocean parasailing is where you attach yourself to a parachute and glide through the air while being towed by a speedboat. It allows you to see the azure sea and powder-fine beaches from above. This one might not be for everyone, but it’s definitely worth a try if you’re ready to get the adrenaline pumping.
Playa Punta Esmerelda: Want a quieter beach than Playa Fundadores? Playa Punta Esmeralda is a local favorite north of town.
The main transport option from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen is a ferry, but flights are also available. Here’s the inside scoop on the journey.
Ferries from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen depart up to 16 times a day and only take between 35 to 45 minutes. The cheapest tickets cost $15, meaning you don’t have to splurge to ride.
This is an easy journey with plenty of flexibility. However, it’s still important to pick the right boat.
Most ferries from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen include:
A/C
WiFi (subject to availability)
WCs
25kg luggage allowance
Indoor or open-air seats
25 kg baggage allowance
Some ferries also have food and drink shops on board.
Pro tip: Depending on where you depart, there is a 15 MXN ($0.90) port tax or a 21 MXN ($1.26) environmental sanitation fee. This isn’t included in the ferry tickets. Have cash on hand when you arrive.
You can also opt for a Fast Pass ferry ticket for an extra comfortable journey. Thanks to a QR code ticket, you can skip the queue and go straight to the boarding area.
An economy flight from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen takes 35 minutes, making this another quick way to jump to the mainland.
However, flying is a more expensive route. Tickets for an economy flight start at $158 per passenger.
Amenities on the plane include WCs and A/C. You’ll also get the option to check large baggage. Food and drinks aren’t guaranteed, so bring snacks and water or eat beforehand.
The 18 km/11.3-mile journey from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen is comfortable and offers spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and the Yucatan Peninsula coastline.
As you approach Playa del Carmen, you can usually spot Parque Los Fundadores, the main beach strip, Playa Coco Beach, and Playacar Beach. If you look back, you will also get some awesome views of Cozumel Island.
This route is well-traveled and safe for all guests. Most ferry staff and port operators have basic English-speaking skills, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.
The best time to travel from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen is November to April. This period has the best weather, with little chance of rain and steady sunshine. Expect temperatures around 28°C/81°F during these months.
To catch the warmest weather, visit from May to June, as the average shoots up to 31°C/88°F.
However, there’s a higher chance of rain from May to October. Most rain falls in September, when you can expect around 17 days of wet weather. It's not ideal for beach parties, but prices are significantly cheaper in the rainy season.
Spend at least three to five days in Playa del Carmen. This gives you enough time to see multiple beaches, nearby ruins, and cenotes and to explore the beach town itself.
If you want to experience its famous nightlife, add a few extra days to your schedule so you can wake up late and not have to drag yourself to the beach with a headache!
Keep the party going!
After Playa del Carmen, travel 50 km/31 miles minutes north up the coastline to Cancun. Known worldwide as one of the chicest coastal spots in Mexico, Cancun is one of those must-experience spots.
The journey from Playa del Carmen to Cancun only takes an hour.
Cozumel is one of the most accessible places in Mexico. Here’s the ultimate transportation guide to Cozumel to help you get there.
Check out the best things to do in Cozumel, Mexico. Explore downtown, the beaches the snorkeling, the museums, the island has it all!
Here`s a first-hand review of the Ultramar ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel to read before booking your own ride. Spoiler: You will see flying fish!
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