By Florence – (Canada)
I wanted to share my story about snorkeling Chankanaab Park in Cozumel, Mexico.
I just returned from my March, 2016 vacation on the Freedom Of The Seas Cruise Ship. We went to Cozumel port of call and I was hesitating to plan an excursion at the Chankanaab Park but I really don’t regret it! I was afraid to not have enough time to snorkel at my own pace but the guide let me do my snorkeling by myself, just to be on time for the bus at the end. It was one of my favorite places that I have snorkeled since I began snorkeling!
The weather was very good, almost no winds, good visibility and a lot of fish! The best snorkeling spots are close to the beach, just follow the coastline. The reefs are really shallow. I was snorkeling just above them with my belly almost touching it. But I never had difficulty controlling my body to not touch them. I was wearing my rash guard as always.
I was able to see ‘baby’ fish since they were in the most shallow parts.
Once again, I was able to take good pictures with my Olympus Tough TG-3. I’ve noticed that almost all the best pictures I took were when I was setting my camera at macro with interval shooting. If you go there, bring your camera. Apparently, it is not allowed, but everybody brought their own and nobody said anything. So don’t miss a good opportunity to take good pictures and enjoy!
The entrance fee is $21.00 US, but extra fees apply if you want to see the Sea Lions show.
Hope you will have the chance to snorkel Chankanaab Park once in your life, I would like to go again, but more in June because the water was a bit cold.
Comments Moved From Previous System
Nicole and Galen – Mar 23, 2016 – Thank You!
Florence, thank you for sharing your experience snorkeling in Cozumel. Sounds like you had a great time and got some nice pictures.
Steve N – Mar 23, 2016 – I Was in Chankanab in the Early 80s
I was afraid that the park might be contaminated with non-biodegradable suntan lotion. Sounds like it is in still good shape? I’m glad.
Nicole and Galen – May 30, 2020 – More Cozumel Beach Snorkeling Info
If you are looking for other places in Cozumel to snorkel check out these posts:
Richard’s Cozumel Snorkeling Report
Read Answers to “Best Beach Snorkeling on Cozumel?”