Cozumel is an island off the Riviera Maya, famous for its diving. The reefs on its western side draw divers and snorkellers from all over. The passenger ferry is the cheapest way to get from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. It costs $14 (232 MXN) and the crossing takes 35-45m. A car ferry runs too, if you want to bring a vehicle across.
Distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel
Playa Del Carmen and Cozumel are about 28 km (17 miles) apart. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 35m and 1h 45m.
3 ways to travel from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel
There are three ways to travel from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. You can choose between the ferry, passenger ferry (the way back), and car ferry. The journey takes 35m–1h 45m and the quickest way is by ferry. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry with tickets starting at $14 (232 MXN).
Reach out to our Community
3Best way to Cancun airport from Cozumel
Hi Kevin, if you're travelling from Cozumel to Cancun Airport, you can take the ferry to Playa del Carmen. Ferries are available every hour from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen. Then you can take a minivan or a bus from Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport (geckoroutes.com).
There are also direct private flights (geckoroutes.bookaway.com), but they're expensive at about $130 per person.
hello,
i dont see on the website where i can make a reservation for my car.
I would like to visit cozumel for a few days with my wife and 3 kids.
Hello Robin, with transcaribe you can reserve online, but with ultramarcarga you will have to contact the company (they have a whatsapp button on their site). Hope you'll have a great trip!
What is the gps address where we can park our car and take ferry to cozumel.
Hi Priya, you can find several parking spaces along 10th Avenue (goo.gl). They have a parking centre as well as a few covered garages that are convenient if you want to leave your car for at least 24 hours.
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 Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel, roughly 28 kilometres (17 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $14 (232 MXN). The quickest trip takes 35m.
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 Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel?
The distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel is 28 kilometres (17 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel?
Journey times from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel overlap: passenger ferry 35-45m, passenger ferry (the way back) 35-45m, car ferry 1h 45m. Depending on the departure, no single option is always the fastest.
What is the cheapest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel?
The cheapest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 232 MXN.
What to do in 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.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Gecko Routes free and up to date.
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.
