Step Back in Time: Visiting Mayan Ruins Near Cozumel on Your MSC World America Cruise

By Rick Pruitt – The Caffeinated Wanderer

One of the great joys of cruising the Caribbean is the chance to blend beachside bliss with cultural discovery—and Cozumel offers just that. If you’re sailing aboard the spectacular MSC World America, make sure to carve out time to explore the ancient Mayan ruins just a short distance from the cruise port. These sacred sites transport you into a world of mysticism, temples, and jungle-shrouded history.

Here are the top Mayan ruins to visit while docked in Cozumel:

️ 1. San Gervasio Ruins (On Cozumel Island)

Travel Time from Port: ~20 minutes
Why Go: San Gervasio was once a pilgrimage site for Ix Chel, the Mayan goddess of fertility. Nestled in the jungle, the ruins feature ceremonial platforms, stone structures, and quiet trails where iguanas and butterflies roam freely.

Tips:

Wear breathable clothing and mosquito repellent.
Hire a local guide or join an MSC excursion to get the full history.
Combine this trip with a visit to a beach club or eco-park nearby.

⛴️ 2. Tulum Ruins (Mainland – via ferry from Cozumel)

Travel Time: ~45-minute ferry to Playa del Carmen + 45-minute drive to Tulum
Why Go: Perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, Tulum is one of the most iconic Mayan sites. It’s postcard-perfect and packed with historical intrigue, including the Temple of the Wind and ancient coastal trade routes.

Tips:

Book a shore excursion through MSC for a seamless round-trip journey.
Bring a swimsuit—you can dip in the ocean right below the ruins.
Time your ferry return carefully if exploring independently.

3. Chichen Itza (Ambitious but Possible)

Travel Time: ~45-min ferry + 2.5-hour bus ride
Why Go: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous El Castillo pyramid. If you’re a history buff, this full-day excursion is worth every minute.

Tips: