Setting Sail on the Caribbean

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I made my way to the Money Bar Beach Club, the starting point for my latest adventure. The promise of a catamaran ride and snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea was too tempting to resist. As a former professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours in the ocean, but the allure of exploring Cozumel’s vibrant reefs was something I couldn’t pass up. The catamaran, La Chula, was a beauty, with plenty of shade and a friendly crew that immediately made us feel at home.

As we set sail, the gentle sway of the boat and the salty breeze reminded me of my surfing days. The anticipation of what lay beneath the crystal-clear waters was palpable. The crew, knowledgeable and enthusiastic, briefed us on the day’s itinerary, and soon we were gliding towards the first snorkeling spot, the Palancar Reef. The excitement was infectious, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.

Diving into the Underwater Wonderland

The moment I slipped into the water, I was greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors. The Palancar Reef was teeming with life, from vibrant tropical fish to majestic sea turtles. It was a scene straight out of a nature documentary, and I was right in the middle of it. The snorkeling equipment provided was top-notch, but I had brought my own gear, a habit from my surfing days.

The crew guided us through the reef, pointing out the various marine life and ensuring everyone was comfortable. For those new to snorkeling, this was the perfect introduction. The water was warm and inviting, and the visibility was unparalleled. As we moved to the Colombia Deep Reef, the underwater landscape changed, offering new wonders to explore. Stingrays glided gracefully beneath us, and the coral formations were nothing short of spectacular.

Relaxing at El Cielo

After exploring the reefs, we set sail for El Cielo, a natural bay known for its starfish-dotted sandy bottom. The name, “El Cielo,” translates to “The Sky,” and it was easy to see why. The water was a brilliant shade of blue, and the sandbank created a natural swimming pool that was perfect for unwinding.

As we anchored, the crew served up a delightful spread of fresh ceviche, tortilla chips, and cantaloupe, all on a surfboard—a nod to my surfing roots. The open bar was a hit, with rum punch and margaritas flowing freely. It was the perfect way to relax after a morning of adventure.

Back at the Money Bar Beach Club, I decided to linger a little longer, savoring the flavors of a Mexican lunch. The jalapeño poppers and beef tacos were a treat, and the Cadillac margarita was the perfect end to a perfect day. This catamaran snorkeling adventure was more than just a trip; it was a reminder of the beauty and wonder that the ocean holds. If you’re ever in Cozumel, don’t miss the chance to sail and snorkel in this Caribbean paradise.