By John Roberts
Passion Island is a 100 percent touristy beach spot in Cozumel. That doesn't mean you won't have a nice time there if you decide you just want a relaxing beach day. It's a perfect spot to check out if you love water sports, swimming, beer, sunshine and relaxing.
I thought that might get your attention.
We were fortunate enough to be hosted on an excursion to the island during a four-day Carnival Cruise sailing on the line's Ecstasy ship. Prices are $69.99 for adults and $54.99 for kids. It took about 45 minutes by ferry in a large "catamaran" to get to the island. Seats are available on an open deck above or down below.
Here's a look at what you can expect if you book a day at Passion Island. (Be sure to check out my video below.)
Passion Island is a 100 percent touristy beach spot in Cozumel. That doesn't mean you won't have a nice time there if you decide you just want a relaxing beach day. It's a perfect spot to check out if you love water sports, swimming, beer, sunshine and relaxing.
I thought that might get your attention.
We were fortunate enough to be hosted on an excursion to the island during a four-day Carnival Cruise sailing on the line's Ecstasy ship. Prices are $69.99 for adults and $54.99 for kids. It took about 45 minutes by ferry in a large "catamaran" to get to the island. Seats are available on an open deck above or down below.
Here's a look at what you can expect if you book a day at Passion Island. (Be sure to check out my video below.)
What You'll Like
The activities -- Once you hit the beach after your ferry ride, the day is yours to enjoy it how you want. Take a stroll away from the main area, and you'll soon feel like the island is all your own to explore. Jump in for a swim or rent snorkel gear. Try a kayak or stand-up paddle board.
You'll find cozy hammocks that dip into the waters. A few minutes swaying, and you've got a real sense of bliss. Get active! Jump on the trampoline or climb the "hill" structure and slide down into the water.
How about sand soccer or volleyball?
There are tons of loungers, seats and tables so you can set up in the sun or shade to enjoy your day.
All you can eat and drink -- The buffet is open the whole time you're at the island. Chicken, fish, spaghetti and more are available. Dig into fruits, salad, chips and salsa with delicious guacamole. There are two bar areas that were always busy. Beers and cocktails were flowing, and people were enjoying the party atmosphere. Sodas and water also are available.
Massages and shopping -- Vendors are set up nearby and offer massages and crafts and such for sale. You might get approached once or twice by someone who simply wants to ask whether you would like a sample massage. If it's not for you, just say no and you won't be hassled. The people on the island were all very friendly.
Service -- They are working for tips (you can hand them out at the end of your day if you are satisfied), and the staffers are very friendly and efficient in their willingness to get your drinks from the bar if you want.
The activities -- Once you hit the beach after your ferry ride, the day is yours to enjoy it how you want. Take a stroll away from the main area, and you'll soon feel like the island is all your own to explore. Jump in for a swim or rent snorkel gear. Try a kayak or stand-up paddle board.
You'll find cozy hammocks that dip into the waters. A few minutes swaying, and you've got a real sense of bliss. Get active! Jump on the trampoline or climb the "hill" structure and slide down into the water.
How about sand soccer or volleyball?
There are tons of loungers, seats and tables so you can set up in the sun or shade to enjoy your day.
All you can eat and drink -- The buffet is open the whole time you're at the island. Chicken, fish, spaghetti and more are available. Dig into fruits, salad, chips and salsa with delicious guacamole. There are two bar areas that were always busy. Beers and cocktails were flowing, and people were enjoying the party atmosphere. Sodas and water also are available.
Massages and shopping -- Vendors are set up nearby and offer massages and crafts and such for sale. You might get approached once or twice by someone who simply wants to ask whether you would like a sample massage. If it's not for you, just say no and you won't be hassled. The people on the island were all very friendly.
Service -- They are working for tips (you can hand them out at the end of your day if you are satisfied), and the staffers are very friendly and efficient in their willingness to get your drinks from the bar if you want.
What You Won't Like
Time moves fast -- You get three hours on the island before you are herded back to the ferry. The day is regimented. You must line up and take instruction after you and your fellow ferry passengers gather on the island and again before you leave. The staffers are very specific about this and stick to their procedures. They even insist that you get your picture taken (available for purchase) as you file onto the property. This is viewed as an unnecessary hassle by veteran adult travelers.
Bugs -- Beware of sitting in shaded areas near the trees all afternoon. I got bit up all over the place by no-see-ums. As I write this, most of the bug bites are just starting to fade.
A visit to Passion Island fits the bill just fine for a beach day. We had a good time and found a way to relax and take part in a little bit of everything.
Time moves fast -- You get three hours on the island before you are herded back to the ferry. The day is regimented. You must line up and take instruction after you and your fellow ferry passengers gather on the island and again before you leave. The staffers are very specific about this and stick to their procedures. They even insist that you get your picture taken (available for purchase) as you file onto the property. This is viewed as an unnecessary hassle by veteran adult travelers.
Bugs -- Beware of sitting in shaded areas near the trees all afternoon. I got bit up all over the place by no-see-ums. As I write this, most of the bug bites are just starting to fade.
A visit to Passion Island fits the bill just fine for a beach day. We had a good time and found a way to relax and take part in a little bit of everything.
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