There are three (3) Cozumel cruise ports (this is where cruise ships may dock). The Cozumel cruise ports are Puerto Maya, International Pier and the one I visit most is the Punta Langosta. From what I have heard, all ports of Cozumel offer you a variety of restaurants, bars, souvenir/gift shops and the usual duty-free shops found in most ports. The pier I am most familiar with is the Punta Langosta. The options of thing to do will vary slightly depending on which cruise ship port you are docked at.

Personally, Cozumel is one of my favourite places to visit, with its rich culture and generally fabulous weather. There is never a dull moment. I always find something exciting to do during my time off.

So, because I know more about Punta Langosta, I will give you a quick summary. Once you disembark the ship, just walk down the pier and towards the road way. There is a security post at the end of the pier, where you can exit to the main road. Alternatively, you can use the overpass that leads directly to the Punta Langosta Mall.

Things to do (with limited time)

Mega Supermarket

Now, if you are already a ship crew member who has visited Cozumel, then you know the struggle to not visit Mega Supermarket and buy everything on the shelves. If you are new to ship life, and have not been to Cozumel as yet, once you do, and you find Mega (and trust me, you will), you are welcome. You will be happy you did. No joke, it’s a crew member’s kryptonite. The prices are unbelievably reasonable, and the variety of items to choose from is amazing. And let us not forget, the free and fast Wi-Fi.

Punta Langosta Mall

Punta Langosta Mall the mall is a two-story building with several stores like, Sunglass Hut, Del Sol and Diamond International. Also, two places very popular for both guests and crew are Señor Frog and Hooters.  And of course, it would not be a crew favourite without free Wi-Fi.

International Pier

As mentioned before, there is more than one Cozumel cruise port. So, if you are the active type, then you can take a 30-minute jog to the International Pier (upon exiting Punta Langosta, turn right and just keep going). Alternatively, you can take a taxi at a cost of USD 7.00. There is a taxi rates board posted just outside the port, so take a picture of it so you know the taxi rates. And you can also double check with the driver.

Watch A Movie

One of my favourites, so I have to mention. Watch an early movie at the cinema. You can go to Cinépolis Cozumel or Cinemex (Punta Langosta Mall). Both are in very close proximity to the port. I enjoy doing this, just to escape, until it’s time to get back to work. Once Cozumel is on the itinerary, I do a quick check of the movies now showing and which are in English. Honestly, even if there are no English movies I will still go just for the experience and to be alone.

Kaokao Chocolate Factory Tour

It’s all in the name, “Chocolate”. Enough said. The Kaokao Chocolate Factory Tour is a great option for chocolate lovers. So, if you enjoy walking, like me, then it’s a 25-30-minute walk (I walk very fast). Alternatively, you can get a taxi just outside the port, and this will be about 10 minutes for USD 10.00. The cost for the tour was USD 25.00 and last for 1.5 hours.

El Museo de Cozumel

El Museo de Cozumel might not be for everyone. But museums are places I look forward to in each port. I strongly believe they are a great way to learn about the country you are in, its people, its culture and its history. If you are interested gaining deeper knowledge of the country you are in, then visit the museums. The museum is located just 10 minutes away from the pier. Once you exit the pier, turn left and walk down the boardwalk (Rafael E. Melgar Avenue). You will get to the museum shortly after passing Le Chef Restaurant. Entrance fee was USD 8.00 when I last visited in 2018.

These are just a few things that you can do in this Cozumel cruise port. To be honest, we will be here all day if I were to list everything there is to do. So this is just a little something to get you started. Additionally, there are many restaurants from which to choose and beaches for you to just relax. So, my advice, once you get there, like all other port just explore, read, take photos…take the path less travelled.

Currency in use

The local currency is the Mexican pesos (and no, you cannot use the pesos from Cuba), but the US dollar is also widely accepted. If all else fails, you can use your credit card, but personally, I am not a fan of swiping my card generally. So, for this reason, I walk with cash in small notes ($5, $10 and $20).

Getting around

As a crew member especially, everything you need is in easy walking distance. If you want to go a bit farther, then you have plenty taxis at your disposal. As mentioned before, the taxi-fare rates board is located just outside the port. So, be sure to check it and take a photo of it for reference.

Enjoy Cozumel Cruise Port! Happy travelling!