Is it safe to snorkel in Cozumel?


Is it safe to snorkel in Cozumel? Snorkeling in Cozumel offers an enjoyable and stress-free way to explore the underwater world without having to do extensive scuba diving. There are numerous great spots for snorkeling around the island, plus you can rent gear if you don't bring your own gear.


How common are snorkeling accidents?

Though it is unclear how many deaths were due to ROPE, according to the Department of Health, there were 204 snorkeling-related deaths from 2012 to 2021.


Is there crime against tourists in Cozumel?

Cozumel is a safe place to visit with a crime index of 34.57% out of 120% and safety index of 65.37% out of 120%, according to safety statistics website Numbeo. However, every paradise has its ups and downs, and the US State Department encourages tourists to be extra cautious while visiting.


What to avoid in Cozumel?

Here are the 8 things you should never do in Cozumel
  • Don't drink the water. Steer clear of the tap water at all costs on Cozumel. ...
  • Don't reach for the hot sauce. ...
  • Don't be impatient. ...
  • Don't forget to tip. ...
  • Don't criticize Mexican food. ...
  • Don't miss out on the markets. ...
  • Don't flaunt your valuables. ...
  • Don't overlook your walking shoes.


Is Cozumel safe to walk around?

According to the Crime Index 2023 Report by Numbeo, Cozumel has a crime index of 34.38, which is considered low on their scale. This is based on a range of factors, including the level of crime, safety walking alone during the day and at night, and the perception of safety by residents and visitors.


Which side of Cozumel is better?

Cozumel's west coast (the side facing Playa del Carmen) has calmer beaches and better snorkeling (the coral is protected from the waves, so it can thrive). The cruise ship ports are on this side, and folks coming in for the day on cruises tend to stay nearby, so the beaches closest to the port tend to be more crowded.


Where is the prettiest place to snorkel?

9 Best Places to Snorkel in the World
  • Baa Atoll, Maldives. Why it's special: Swim with manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles in a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. ...
  • Maui, Hawaii. ...
  • Koh Tao, Thailand. ...
  • Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. ...
  • Great Barrier Reef, Australia. ...
  • Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia. ...
  • Bora Bora, French Polynesia. ...
  • Punta Mita, Mexico.


When should you not snorkel?

Choppy waters are not ideal for snorkeling, especially; if you're not a proficient swimmer. Wavy waters will bounce you around, and you'll experience diminished underwater visibility because of increased moving debris and sand. Waves also influence the ease and safety of getting in and out of the waters.


What not to touch while snorkeling?

Don't Touch Coral While Snorkeling
Whenever someone touches the corals with their hands, they unintentionally disrupt the protective mucous layer that contains its microbiome, similar to the one we have in our gut. Inflicting damage or removing the coral's mucous layer can severely hamper its health and well-being.