Rosie’sMom Posted January 18, 2018 #1 Share Posted January 18, 2018 Hello everyone! This is my first post here and first cruise ever! I’m traveling on Independence of the Seas in March. My top priority in Cozumel is snorkeling at a reef. The only one offered by the ship is what they call “Starfish Sanctuary and Palancar Reef Snorkel”. It’s a 4 hr excursion costing $59. I’m usually an independent traveler, but this is my first cruise, first time to Mexico, and I’m traveling alone. I’m 54 years old, in reasonable health/shape, and have moderate snorkeling experience. Has anyone taken this excursion? Pros/cons? Other ideas/advice? Thank you! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
VPIcruiser Posted January 18, 2018 #2 Share Posted January 18, 2018 One of our best snorkeling trips ever was with Tortuga Carey Duving & Snorkeling. It was our family of five, the snorkel guide, a photographer, and the boat captain. We snorkeled at a beautiful reef. But that doesn't answer your question. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
island284 Posted January 18, 2018 #3 Share Posted January 18, 2018 We did the reef and the sanctuary in early December through a private company. We went to 3 reefs . . . Each getting better than the previous one. I believe Palancar was the first one and we didn’t see much at all there. The Starfish Sanctuary was unbelievable! They dot the sandbar and look so fake but they aren’t. We thought it was worth doing and enjoyed the locations. Sorry I can’t tell you what RC offers. If you are traveling solo I’d book through Royal. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ranman21 Posted January 18, 2018 #4 Share Posted January 18, 2018 I have snorkeled with Mystic Snorkel 3 times in Cozumel. Price is similar to your quote but you will only have 4 to 6 snorkelers with you. Very individualized and highly recommended and will include 3 reefs including the starfish bed. http://www.mysticsnorkel.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NeonMoon Posted January 18, 2018 #5 Share Posted January 18, 2018 Tiger Cozumel. Small groups, eccentric crew, good snorkeling, and you'll visit a waist deep crystal clear lagoon to end the day. Lots of good sting ray sightings. Sent from my SM-T800 using Forums mobile app Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rosie’sMom Posted January 19, 2018 Author #6 Share Posted January 19, 2018 Thanks for all the ideas. I will check them all out. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LeeW Posted January 19, 2018 #7 Share Posted January 19, 2018 (edited) Watch for sale - our sale was $47 each on this one. Haven't been back to Palancar in quite a few years with multiple hurricanes in between. Heading there in a couple of weeks so will let you know conditions. While we normally book independent this was a decent price. Edited January 19, 2018 by LeeW more Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Coachpick Posted January 19, 2018 #8 Share Posted January 19, 2018 I have scuba and snorkeled with Manta Ray Divers in cozumel. Great company and great out fit. Last time we were a little behind schedule and they dropped me right by the cruise pier. Owner Fernando is awesome. I would highly recommend them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rosie’sMom Posted January 19, 2018 Author #9 Share Posted January 19, 2018 Thanks for the info - very helpful. I’ll be waiting to hear back how your trip was! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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