Should we book excursions thru Carnival?

[herrthreegirls]

We are talking about the catamiran/snorkeling excursion that Carnival offers in Cozumel. I'm wondering if we could do this cheaper by going elsewhere and if you say yes, how would I find these private vendors?
Thanks for the help!

[jleq1]

You do it more cheaply through private vendors....all of which can be found on the internet (just search Yahoo...or whichever "search engine" you prefer) for "Cozumel snorkeling excursion". That said, if this is your first cruise, I'd suggest using a ship-sponsored tour.

While more expensive, all the work is done for you in advance. No questions.....no potential problems (time, et cetera).

[trigster02]

booking through the ship increases the price x2. if you don't mind dealing with the friedndly local vendors, located a few steps from the pier, it'll be worth your while -- and theirs -- put your $$ into the local economy.

[coffeecups]

remember that going through carnival is more expensive, but they will guarantee that you make it back to the boat before it leaves. It's cheaper dealing with the locals, and while most will get you back in time to leave on the boat, there is always the chance that murphy's law will happen--remember him?



coffeecups

[mr jimmy]

We did the Cozumel catamaran/snorkeling tour two years ago and booked it through CCL. The Cat. was at the Carnival pier (short walk on the dock) and turned out to be our favorite shore tour on the 7-day trip. I don't know where the Fury or other catamarans leave from if you book outside CCL - maybe the same place, but we did not see any others there at our dock.
FYI - excellent getaway for having a great time if you're in to snorkeling, dancing, and going through the margarita conga line. It's about a 3 - 3 1/2 hour tour.
We did not really understand the options available outside of Carnival, but enjoyed the convenience of booking and location of the tour.

[herrthreegirls]

This is so helpful.. I am glad to hear you enjoyed this excursion. We will be going with this one to just not have to worry about how to get here or there. It will be my first time snorkeling and I love margaritas!

[MikeNBec]

You will LOVE snorkeling.........we bought a mask, snorkel, and fin set from WalMart a few years ago before we went to cancun just for the heck of it, and wound up snorkeling off the beach every single day! TOO cool!