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Transportation to and from Cozumel
Air Transportation:
Cozumel has an international airport with many major airlines. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to get a direct flight to the island, however, you will find that some of the flights will fly into Cancun and then require you to catch a short connecting flight to the island. If you decide to fly to Cozumel while staying in Cancun, you can find flights for about $140 USD roundtrip. Reservations can be made once you arrive in Cancun or through your travel agent.
Ferry
The less expensive way of getting to Cozumel is by taking the ferry from Playa del Carmen. The cost for adults is about $7 USD per person and half price for children under 12 years old. Ferries leave almost every hour during the day from Playa del Carmen. Make sure to check at your hotel for exact times. If you are staying in Cancun, the travel time to Playa is about 45 minutes. The ferry takes about 35 minutes from Playa to Cozumel.
The current ferry schedule is as follows:
| Playa del Carmen to Cozumel departure schedule |
Cozumel to Playa del Carmen departure schedule |
5:00 am
7:00 am
8:00 am
9:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:00 pm
5:00 pm
6:00 pm
7:00 pm
9:00 pm
11:00 pm
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4:00 am
6:00 am
7:00 am
8:00 am
9:00 am
10:00 am
12:00 pm
2:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:00 pm
5:00 pm
6:00 pm
8:00 pm
10:00 pm
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Transportation Tips
Taxis
Taxis are affordable and government-regulated, but it is wise to ask the taxi driver before getting into a cab what the charge will be as rates are not listed on the outside of the cab. In Mexico City, taxis (except for a hotel's shuttle taxi) are the most tightly regulated - and they are required by law to have a working meter.
You can also check the cost of a specific ride in advance by asking at your hotel: most concierges can tell you the authorized charge from point to point. Airports generally post taxi rates in the terminal. Your return trip to the airport can cost more, since a different rate structure applies to rides originating from hotels. In general, you do not have to tip taxi drivers in Mexico.
Rental Cars
Rental Cars are available from the major rental companies. To rent a car, you must be at least 25 years of age, hold a valid driver's license, and a major credit card. In order to get the lowest rates, and to ensure that a car is available, we highly recommend that you reserve your vehicle and rate before leaving home. Call your travel agent or the rental car company in your country direct.
Gasoline
Gasoline is available at stations throughout Mexico. Gas is sold in liters (3.78 liter=l gallon). Nova (blue pumps) is leaded; Magna Sin (green pumps) is unleaded. Prices are about the same as those in the U.S. Only cash is accepted. Most stations close by 10 PM. There is no self-service, and it is customary to tip your attendant.
Mexican Auto Insurance
Mexican Auto Insurance is essential. Check with your insurance agent on getting coverage.
Green Angels
Major highways are patrolled by Green Angels/Los Angeles Verdes. These government-operated green pick-up trucks are driven by mechanics. They have a nation wide 24-hour hotline that can be reached by calling 250-82-21 OR 250-85-55, extension 314. To date, Mexico is the only country with this service. It is free, except for parts and gas.
Driving tips
It is wise to avoid driving at night.
Watch for speed bumps.
Slow down at all railroad crossings.
Obey parking regulations and all trafflc signs.
Always lock your car.
Remember, distance and speed limits are posted in kilometers, instead of miles.
We thank the Mexican Ministry of Tourism for supplying this information.
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