Jacques Cousteau put Cozumel on the map in the 1960s and the visibility — routinely forty metres — still does the selling. The island's west coast is one long marine park where a gentle current carries you over Palancar's coral gardens, making drift diving feel like flying without effort. Beginners can shore-snorkel at Chankanaab or take a first dive with one of the many patient operators. Ferries cross from Playa del Carmen in forty-five minutes; check the cruise-ship schedule and pick a quiet day.
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