Puerto Morelos reef snorkel trip

The reef here is only about 400 metres out, so the boats from the village pier reach it in five to ten minutes. It lies inside a national marine park, in three to ten metres of water, which means plenty of light and no need to dive down.

A typical trip lasts two hours with two snorkel stops of around forty minutes at different spots. Green and hawksbill turtles, southern stingrays, spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, moray eels, octopus and spiny lobster are all regulars. Life jackets are handed out and compulsory. Some boats include the marine park fee; others collect it on the day. Most ask you not to put on any sunscreen at all beforehand, reef-safe or not. Go in the morning, when the water is calmest and clearest, and from November to April for the best visibility.