Cozumel Cruise Port Guide: Terminals, Tips & Weekly Ship Schedule
📅 Updated: September 19, 2025 – The Cozumel Cruise Port Schedule is updated below, weekly, to help visitors, locals, and business owners plan around cruise ship arrivals. Bookmark this page and check back every Friday for the latest info straight from port records.
Welcome to Cozumel! Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, stepping off the ship at the Cozumel Cruise Port can be both exciting and overwhelming. With just 4-8 hours to explore, how do you make the most of your time?
Since you’ve only got a few hours on the island, let’s make them count. From where to grab tacos to which beach chairs have the best view, Let’s go.
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Best Things to Do Near the Cozumel Cruise Port
Depending on where your ship docks, Puerta Maya, the International Pier (aka SSA International Pier), or Punta Langosta, you’ll have different options nearby. Don’t worry, we break it all down below.
Beach Clubs and Ocean Access Within Walking Distance
- Punta Langosta (4 minute walk south): No Name Bar and Jeanie’s have free entrance and ocean access (though no sandy beach). No Name offers both a pool and a cruise crew discount, which makes for a fun stop.
- Puerta Maya & International Pier (7- to 10-minute walk north): Del Mar Latino Beach Club offers adult-only access (no children allowed) and is limited to just 40 guests daily. This place is a hidden gem. Locals know it doesn’t get too loud or crowded, which is perfect for sipping a cold one in peace.
The Best Beach Clubs are by Taxi
- Money Bar (5- to 15-minute drive south): Free entrance and fantastic snorkeling.
- SkyReef (10- to 20-minute drive south): Snorkeling just off the beach, affordable food.
- Nachi Cocom (12- to 20-minute drive south): A more serene, all-inclusive, adult-only beach club.
From International Pier (SSA) / Puerta Maya, most travelers opt for taxi service to downtown and surrounding beaches. Walking is possible under select conditions (if you have time and mobility).
Check our walking guide Can I Walk to Downtown from Puerta Maya Pier Safely? to see if it’s right for you.
Souvenir Shops & Local Artisans
Walkable shopping spots near each terminal include:
- Plaza Punta Langosta (directly outside the terminal)
- Mayan Plaza (across from Puerta Maya; best for handmade local crafts)
- Royal Village Mall (across from the International Pier; commercial shops)
Where to Eat & Drink Near Each Port
- IX-Kool: Across from Puerta Maya and the International Pier, offers authentic Mayan cuisine. Start with the sopa de lima or cochinita pibil, you won’t regret it.
- Thirsty Cougar & Seaside Boozery: 5 minutes from Punta Langosta. Go for the name alone but the drinks are tall and seafood tacos…fresh!
📍Lisa’s Local Tip: If you like corona AND margaritas…ask for a Cougarita at Thirsty Cougar and be ready to take a photo!
Common Mistakes Cruise Passengers Make in Cozumel
- Booking overpriced excursions onboard instead of browsing Viator for local tour options.
- Forgetting to bring sun protection (the sun here is no joke).
- Not budgeting enough time to return to the ship (leave a 60-minute buffer).
- Missing walkable gems right outside the cruise gates.
📍Lisa’s Local Tip: The sun here in Cozumel is stronger than back home in the states and can sneak up on you quickly. Wearing a wide brimmed hat here is not out of the question.
Cozumel Cruise Port Map: Know Before You Go
Punta Langosta, Puerta Maya, and the SSA/International Pier.
Cozumel has three terminals. Each one feels a bit different. Here’s how to tell them apart:
Punta Langosta
- Closest to downtown San Miguel and Benito Juarez Park
- Walkable access to shopping, the clocktower in the park, and dining
Puerta Maya
- Located farthest south
- Bustling with shops, bars, and activity within the terminal zone
International Pier (SSA)
- Just north of Puerta Maya
- Across from Royal Village Mall
📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Bring a bag for your Cozumel shopping goodies. Credit cards are not often accepted by local artisans (plus you may get a better deal if you pay in pesos anyway).
Cozumel Excursions: Book Onboard or In Advance?
Sure, you can book through the cruise line, but you’ll usually end up paying more for the exact same experience. I always start with Viator instead. You’ll find more flexible, private options and often save 20–40% in the process.
- Private, customizable tours
- Authentic, cultural experiences
- Better prices than onboard bookings
I love Viator because you can scroll through real reviews, double-check their refund policy (just in case), and make sure you’ll be back in plenty of time before the ship sails.
Is the Cozumel Cruise Port Safe for Walking?
Is walking from cruise ports safe? Generally Cozumel is considered safe around the piers in daylight hours. Sidewalks and traffic vary by area.
If you’re considering walking farther distances (e.g. from Puerta Maya to Downtown), we have a dedicated guide with route and safety specifics.
See Can I Walk to Downtown from Puerta Maya Pier Safely?
📍Lisa’s Local Tip: I cannot stress enough to wear comfy shoes! It’s a really long walk back to the cruise ship with blisters.
Which Cruise Port Does Your Ship Use in Cozumel?
How to Tell:
People often ask me “Which port does my ship dock in Cozumel?” when coming to the island
This chart highlights the main cruise lines that regularly stop in Cozumel. Some lines may use more than one terminal depending on their schedule or operational needs.
Weekly Cozumel Cruise Port Schedule
Wondering when cruise ships are in port? The Weekly Cozumel Cruise Port Schedule helps you plan around busy days so you can avoid crowds or catch the action.
It’s updated weekly and is super handy for booking tours, snorkeling spots, or just enjoying a quieter beach.
Your ship may change docks, but you can always check the location via:
- Your cruise line app or website.
- The official Cozumel Port Authority website.
Taxi vs. Walking: What’s Worth It?
- From Punta Langosta, walking to downtown is often practical under good conditions.
- From the Puerta Maya/International Pier (SSA), a taxi is the more reliable and comfortable option.
For full details on walking from Puerta Maya to downtown (route, safety, etc.), see Can I Walk to Downtown from Puerta Maya Pier Safely?
Local Taxi Tips to Avoid Stress
- Taxi fares in Cozumel are fixed and posted at every pier — no haggling needed.
- Confirm the destination and fare before getting in.
- Bring small bills in USD or pesos since drivers don’t accept cards.
- For detailed fares from each cruise port to the most popular beach clubs, see our Updated 2025 Cozumel Taxi Fares from Cruise Ports to Beach Clubs
One time I only had a $20 bill on me so we had to drive 10 minutes out of the way to make a small purchase, just to break the bill. Hope this saves you some trouble! 😊
Final Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Bring cash for tips, taxis, and small purchases
- Download offline maps or screenshot this guide
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection
- Leave 60+ minutes buffer to return to your ship
Ready to Plan Your Stop in Cozumel?
Let your short stay in Cozumel feel like a vacation, not just a pit stop. 🌴
Download our FREE PDF:
Explore more helpful guides:
👉 “The Cozumel Ferry Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which Cozumel cruise port is closest to downtown?
Punta Langosta is the closest cruise port to downtown San Miguel. It’s just a short walk to restaurants, shops, and the central Benito Juarez Park, making it ideal for visitors who want to explore on foot without needing a taxi.
Can you walk to a beach from the Cozumel cruise port?
Yes, several beach clubs are within walking distance depending on where your ship docks. From Punta Langosta, you can reach No Name Bar or Jeanie’s in about 4 minutes. If you’re at Puerta Maya or the International Pier, Del Mar Latino Beach Club is a 7–10 minute walk north.
Is Cozumel cruise port safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Cozumel is considered one of the safest Caribbean destinations, even for solo travelers arriving by cruise ship. The areas around all three cruise terminals are well-patrolled, pedestrian-friendly, and filled with fellow tourists and local vendors.
How much is a taxi from the Cozumel cruise port to the beach?
Cozumel taxi fares are set by zone. To give you an idea, rides from the cruise ports to nearby beach clubs usually cost $13–22 USD per cab (up to 4 passengers). For the full fare chart — broken down by Puerta Maya, International Pier (SSA), and Punta Langosta piers — see our Updated 2025 Cozumel Taxi Fares from Cruise Ports to Beach Clubs
Do cruise ships always dock at the same Cozumel port?
Not always. While most cruise lines have a preferred terminal, your ship may dock at a different port depending on scheduling or weather. You can check your ship’s terminal in advance via your cruise line’s app or the Cozumel Port Authority website.
Can I visit multiple cruise ports in Cozumel during one stop?
Technically yes, but it’s not usually necessary. Each cruise terminal has its own shops and access points, and they are not all within walking distance of each other. It’s better to explore the area around your assigned port or use a taxi to reach a specific destination.
What is the best food near the Cozumel cruise port?
For authentic local flavor, IX-Kool serves traditional Mayan dishes near Puerta Maya and the International Pier. If you’re docking at Punta Langosta, head to Thirsty Cougar Seaside Boozery for casual tacos, tall drinks, and waterfront views.
