Anyone Have Good Tips for Mexico Excursions on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

Hello all, we’re taking a cruise in December to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico with our family of 5. I’m trying to figure out the best way to book excursions. Last time, we just waited until we got to the ports and found some amazing deals in person, which were much cheaper than going through Royal Caribbean. But that was pre-Covid, so I’m not sure if it’s still the same now.

Does anyone have any tips on getting good prices for excursions at these ports? I’d rather not book directly with RC since they seem pricey. I’m hoping for some recommendations on reliable third-party options I can book online ahead of time, or maybe even still find good in-person deals.

Also, if anyone knows of fun things to do that don’t require a reservation, that would be awesome too!

Thanks in advance!

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User: spicy-lychee

Hi all, we’re going on a cruise in December to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico with family (5 of us) and looking for excursion advice. Last time, we waited to book at the ports and got great deals compared to Royal Caribbean prices. That was before Covid though, so not sure if things have changed.

Does anyone have tips for finding good deals and reliable third-party excursion companies? I’d rather avoid RC for prices, and I’d be open to any good recommendations for booking in advance or in person. Thanks for any help!

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We always go to Sanchos in Cozumel, and at Costa Maya we just explore the port area, check out the shops, and use the pool. Until they open the ‘Perfect Day’ in Costa Maya, we find it’s not our top favorite spot, but the water and area around the port are nice.

You can reserve Sanchos ahead of time with a $5 deposit, and then just cover the taxi to get there (about $20 one way for four people, a bit more for larger groups). Paradise Beach is another nice option too!

@Lior
Yep, we like Sanchos too! If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, try Nachi Cocom.

Viator is great for excursions! They have lots of options.

Adding my vote for Viator.com. They have plenty of options and are pretty reputable. If all you’re looking for in Cozumel is a beach day, you have some nice options like Mr. Sanchos for a lively atmosphere, or for quieter spots, there’s Paradise Beach or Nachi Cocom. They all have food, drinks, lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a personal server. Just search them up. Enjoy your trip!

We’re heading to Costa Maya in January… after reading reviews and seeing YouTube videos about some of the scams, we’re thinking of sticking close to the ship.

If you’re interested in Mayan ruins, Costa Maya is a perfect spot. The Native Choice offers a great tour of Chacchoben, and I’d highly recommend it — I’ve done it twice and loved it.

Native Choice in Costa Maya is a solid choice. Also, I’ve been to Chankanaab in Cozumel a couple of times and had a blast. It’s really easy to get to — just grab a taxi, no need to book a formal excursion.