We are staying in Playa Del Carmen June 27 - July 3 and I have heard a lot about taking the ferry from PDC to Cozumel. Is it worth it? I have also heard that Cozumel is just a cruise ship port that is touristy and over priced. Is this true? We do want good snorkeling and that would probably be our reason for going to Cozumel if the above is true (we are also considering Xel-ha for snorkeling). I would like to avoid Cozumel if it really is just a tourist trap.

It's not a trap. Cozumel has duty free shopping, and you can find good food, not very expensive. Try not to go on Sunday, there's no cruise arrivals, and many stores are closed that day. Try the local restaurant La Choza. It has a lot of reefs where you can do snorkeling, Chankanaab, La Herradura, San Francisco, Yucab, Santa Rosa, Colombia and the largest of all, Palancar.
Try to book a tour with transportation to the reefs, because taxis are expensive.
You will find more information in your resorts. Check this site to compare prices:
http://www.thomasmoretravel.com/eng/islands.php3

Thanks caribbeanguy!
Do you have a favorite snorkeling spot of those you mentioned?

While not a snorkeling expert, I have been in Cozumel 10 times in the past 7 years and can add some simple observations.

Cozumel once had a 'sleepy fishing town' feel, but that is mostly gone now because of the number of cruise ships that dock there. Last Halloween over the course of 3 days we counted 13 different cruise ships.

There is lots of shopping but it is geared towards the cruise ship crowd. As suggested, set up a snorkle trip before you go or just rent a VW in town (around $40 per day) and drive to the back side of the island or the southern beaches and just explore. If you escape the port ship area you will be rewarded with a nice getaway.

Unless you have a big interest in shopping, I would consider going on Sunday, to avoid the cruise ship crowds.

Also, would try and go on a calm day. The ferry crossing can be pretty rough. Lots of seasick people the last time we went.

jean

If you are staying in Playa, you won't think Cozumel is touristy by comparison. However, its probably not worth your effort to go just for the snorkeling. It IS great - but then Xel-Ha is good and you don't have to take a ferry to get there. I think a lot will depend on your expectations and you sound to me like you don't really want to make the crossing. Stay put - you'll love it in Playa. See Cozumel next time.