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COZUMEL, MEXICOTuesday, May 25, 199912:30 PM - 8:00 PM7 ½ Hours - The Ship Will Dock
DINING OPTIONS
Dress suggestion for this evening: CASUAL - Sundresses or slacks & blouses for women; Sports shirts, & trousers for men. (Guests are kindly requested not to wear Tank Tops and Shorts in the dining Room at Dinner) Italian is the dinner theme.
ROOM SERVICE IS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY BAR SERVICE HOURS
TODAY'S ON BOARD ACTIVITIES
A Brief History of CozumelAverage Temperature in April: 87 Language: Spanish & English Mexico's only island in the Caribbean Sea, Cozumel is shaped like a teardrop. It is 29 miles long by 9 miles wide. Its highest point above sea level is only 45 ft. Cancun on the mainland is approximately 19 miles to the northwest and Cuba is about 60 miles to the northeast. Cozumel is a coral island. It originally grew in the shallows of a submarine plateau that was created by movements of the South American continental plate. At the end of the last Ice Age melting glaciers made the sea level rise approximately 100 ft causing the coral reef to grow vertically. The sea level has since lowered, however, and the wind and waves eroded the exposed reef. As a result, much of the coast became petrified, so around Cozumel divers can see a classic example of petrified or ironstone shore and live coral fringing reefs offshore. The Maya, who came into power in the Yucatan between 1200 BC until about AD 1400, considered cozumel (pronounced Co-zoo-mel) a sacred shrine. It was originally called Ah-Cuzamil-Peten (The Island of Swallows). Maya women would travel by canoe across the narrow strip of water separating Cozumel from the mainland to worship Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and the wife of Itzamna, the supreme lord and sun god. Each woman was expected to make the pilgrimage at least once in her lifetime. Dolls used during the sacred sacrifices to the fertility goddess have been found in at least 40 archaeological sites on the island. There are Maya ruins at a number of sites. The Spanish first set foot on Cozumel early in their conquest of the New World. In 1518, Juan de Grijalva landed with four boats on his way from Cuba. His peaceful visit was soon followed a year later by Hernan Cortes, whose party destroyed the temples and idols they found there. Not only did his men leave the island in ruins but they also left smallpox. This virulent disease reduced the population from about 40,000 in 1519 to 300 by 1570, and by the year 1600 the island was deserted. During the 17th century Cozumel was used as a base by pirates, including Henry Morgan and Jean Lafitte. It was not settled again until 1848 by people escaping the War of the Castes on the mainland. This often violent struggle by the local Maya people was finally settled as late as 1901, when they surrendered to government troops. During the Mexican Revolution of 1910-1921, the Maya were granted important land reforms and freedoms. By 1970 Cozumel’s population had risen to 10,000 and by 1995 it numbered over 70,000. Now, more than 270,000 visitors a year arrive there by air and about 1 million day trippers arrive by cruise ship. The primary purpose of visiting Cozumel is to dive – the island is considered by most to be a diver’s paradise – and, in fact, there is little else to do here. The reef’s and shoals southwest of Cozumel Island rank among the top dive sites in the world. Almost all the diving is drift-diving to some level, but there are many shallow shore dives close to the major international hotels. This type of boat/drift-diving may not suit divers of all levels, so it is always better to check with the dive store for the details of a dive before traveling for perhaps an hour to the site and back. The water circulates around Cozumel twice a day, from the Caribbean Sea to the Gulf of Mexico in the north. This accounts for the higher-than-average concentrations of marine life to be found in this are and for a constant supply of fresh, clear water.
Excursions Available In Cozumel
Tulúm Mayan Ruins Tour6 1/2 hours, $59 Adult / $30 Child Time: On Arrival
Cancún Tour7 1/2 hours, $29 Adult / $15 Child Time: On Arrival Visit one of the most popular resort destinations in the Caribbean. After a short tender ride to shore you will board an air-conditioned bus for the 60-minute ride to Cancún. During the ride a guide will provide information on this fascinating area. At the heart of the resort hotel area, you'll be dropped off for three hours of sightseeing on your own. There are shops, craft markets, beaches and restaurants within walking distance. By bus, you will return to Playa del Carmen where a tender will be waiting to take you to Cozumel for a late afternoon return to the ship. Xcaret - Eco-Archeological Park7 1/2 hours, $49 Adult / $34 Child Time: On Arrival
Take a Mayan swim, an unbelievable experience floating for 30 minutes on the surface of an underground river. Enjoy a dip in the Caribbean Sea, in lagoons, natural pools, channels and cenotes. Dive into the inlet and explore the archeological site. Browse through a botanical garden and nursery, visit the wild bird breeding aviary, or wonder at exhibits in the Museum of Mayan Archeological Sites. Lunch is on your own, but numerous restaurants are available on site, ranging from fresh seafood, Mexican dishes, or snack bar items. All too soon it will be time to re-board the bus. At Playa del Carmen you'll board a ferry for a late afternoon return to the ship. Cozumel Snorkeling Tour2 hours, $23 Times: 12:30 PM & 2:15 PM Cozumel, known for its sapphire-hued, crystal clear water, is one of the world's premier snorkeling locations. Enjoy the breathtaking coral reefs and exotic tropical fish. For the beginning and advanced snorkeler, Cozumel is a location not to be missed. The depth at the snorkeling location varies from 3 to 20 feet. At Villa Blanca Beach you will receive equipment and instruction. Your dive guides will help you into the water and allow you to progress as you feel comfortable. For those needing special instruction there are guides available. You will be allowed to snorkel for as long as you like, as transportation back to the ship is available all day. Snorkeling Adventure Tour3 hours, $30 Adult / $17 Child Time: 12:30 PM Visit two of the most famous reefs in Cozumel, Palancar and Columbia. En route by boat to these sites, an instructor will review safety tips and use of the equipment. Enjoy the exotic marine life and colorful coral. Located in approximately 15-20 feet of water, these reefs offer a unique look at Cozumel's underwater world. (One anchorage is used to view both sites.) Mask, fins, snorkel, safety vest and soft drinks are included. Tour is recommended for advanced snorkelers only. Cozumel Island Tour4 hours, $39 Adult / $20 Child Time: 1:00 PM It's a short ride to the center of the island, to the ruins at San Gervasio, which was once an important pilgrimage center. You'll have approximately 45 minutes to explore this large archaeological site, one of the oldest and most fascinating Mayan centers on Cozumel. You'll then proceed to Chankanaab Lagoon and Park. You will have one hour to explore beautiful Chankanaab Lagoon, a natural aquarium with over 60 species of fish; the Botanical Gardens, with 352 tropical and subtropical plants; and the Mayan Zone, a reproduction of Mayan housing; or perhaps you'll want to take a quick swim. (Snorkeling equipment is available for rent.) Afterward you'll return directly to the ship. Cozumel Beach Break$15 Time: At Leisure Take a break and enjoy sun and relaxation at a beautiful resort known for its sandy beaches and clear blue water. Included in your package is entrance to the beach, a beach chair, open bar and non-motorized beach toys (sea kayaks, windsurfers, and sailboats). Guests must arrange their own transportation ($10.00 per taxi each way, maximum 4 passengers per taxi). Fiesta Party Boat3 1/2 hours, $32 Time: 1:00 PM Join the Fiesta Party Boat for a fun-filled trip to Playa Sol, one of Cozumel's beautiful beaches. Unlimited margaritas, rum punch, and a live band set the mood for fun. At Playa Sol enjoy about 1 1/2 hours of relaxing, swimming, or working on your tan. The party continues after re-boarding the Fiesta with a piñata party, music and dancing. Don't miss this lively Mexican party. "Ocean View" Semi-Sub2 hours, $30 Adult / $15 Child Time: 12:30 PM Travel through the Mexican water in a unique craft called "Mermaid" that has seats that sit below water level with glass panels for viewing. Within minutes of leaving the dock you will cruise over a sunken airplane, originally placed there during the filming of a movie. The Mermaid will then cruise over Paraiso Reef where you will see colorful coral formations and fish. A diver will feed the fish near the glass panels in front of you. Don't miss this great opportunity to see Cozumel's underwater world. Cozumel Catamaran Cruise4 hours, $39 Adult / $20 Child Time: 1:30 PM This tour offers an ideal combination of sailing, snorkeling and beaching. After a short walk, you'll board your catamaran for a 1-hour cruise out to a pristine snorkeling site. En route, you will receive your snorkel gear and instructions by the knowledgeable crew, who will accompany you into the water to ensure your safety and enjoyment. After an hour, it's "all aboard" for a 15-minute cruise to a powder-sand beach for one hour of beaching. The beach party includes kayaks, beach floats and volleyballs. Unlimited beers and margaritas are served after snorkeling. Sodas and water served throughout. Horseback Riding Adventure3 1/2 hours, $65 Times: 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM Saddle up and join in an unforgettable ride through the jungles of Cozumel. After a 30-minute drive to the north side of the island, you will arrive at Buena Vista Ranch. Here horses are assigned and instructions given. Then, with your guide, follow the trail through the jungle. Listen to the guide's explanation of Mayan history and customs while passing ruins dating back 1500 years and caves. The last stop will be at the Cantina for a soft drink or beer. Happy Trails! Tropical Safari Jeep Tour4 hours, $68 Adult / $34 Child Times: 11:30 AM & 2:00 PM
Then it's on to Xpalbarco Beach, a solitary retreat where you can play volleyball, swim, sun or enjoy the shade of an umbrella. A Mexican buffet barbeque lunch will be served during the stop. NOTE: Guests planning to drive must bring a valid driver's license. Passion Island Escape6 hours, $65 Adult / $33 Child Time: 11:30 AM This exciting tour includes a canoe race, beach volleyball, and plenty of time to relax on a private piece of paradise, Passion Island. After a 35-minute bus ride along the north coast you'll arrive at Bahia Ciega Bay. Here you'll board four-person canoes for a race out to Passion Island. (A motorized catamaran is also available for those not wishing to canoe.) You will be greeted at the white sandy beach with a welcome drink and tropical fruits. On the island, enjoy the shade of a palapa, lounge in a hammock, or enjoy floating mats in the clear blue sea. Play games, volleyball and join a piñata celebration. A delicious buffet lunch of grilled fish or chicken awaits you at picnic tables on the beach. All too soon it is time to return to your waiting bus and back to the ship. Cozumel Scuba Tour4 hours, $68 with equipment, $58 without equipment Time: 2:00 PM This tour is designed for certified divers who have been on a dive within the last three years. You will be required to provide proof of certification. Experience some of the best diving Cozumel has to offer on your first dive at the Palancar reef, known for its spectacular coral formations. Your second dive will be "Captain's Choice," guaranteed to be teeming with tropical fish, lobsters and moray eels. All of the dive locations are within the Palancar National Reserve. Everything within its boundaries is strictly hands off. "Take only pictures and leave only bubbles." (Tank and weight belt included in the price.)
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A wonderful way to spend a day on the Mexican mainland is two hours exploring
the Mayan ruins at Tulúm. After an early breakfast, you'll board a tender for a
short trip from the ship to Playa del Carmen. During the 1-hour bus trip to
Tulúm,
a guide will brief you on the sights you're about to see. At Tulúm, an
English-speaking guide will show you around the ruins of this once great Mayan
city. A limited box lunch will be served before the tour returns to the ship via
downtown. You may disembark the ferry downtown and return independently, or
return directly to the ship. 
Xcaret offers so many exciting adventures in one location, you will want to
do them all! The adventure begins after a short tender ride from the ship to
Playa del Carmen, where you'll board buses for a 20-minute drive to Xcaret.
After arrival at the park, a guide will give you an orientation of the
facilities before you set off to explore the park.
Explore the beautiful east side of Cozumel on a Jeep® adventure. At the pier
you'll be assigned a four-passenger Jeep® before starting out
"caravan" style across the island. (Driving responsibilities can be
rotated.) You'll reach a lovely stretch of white, sandy beach where you will
head north into the vast, low savannah area, traveling through bumpy, uneven
roads. Then you'll stop at the small La Palma Ruin where the guide will explain
certain aspects of the Mayan culture.