Some friendships come and go. Some start in unusual circumstances and become life-changing. Eduardo (founder of Canoa Maya Cozumel), Rocio, and Edson, all canoe enthusiasts, met while participating in the Travesia Sagrada Maya and have since been partners in Canoa Maya for 10 years. They’ve developed an unshakable friendship, inspiring each other and a community of like-minded people.
They made their first Mayan canoe, aptly named Ki’ichpam (the beautiful), in December of 2019. This year marks their 5th anniversary. The intention was to bring the essence of Mayan canoeing to the Cozumel canoeing community. However, people were intrigued and curious, so the canoes became a fun and motivating activity for the locals and visitors.
You cannot buy these canoes in stores or find them on every corner. They are unique and invested in centuries of tradition. Each canoe is crafted by an experienced specialist artisan from the region who understands the Mayan culture and traditions. The materials used are fiberglass and wood designed to endure the turbulent ocean while carrying 11 people. They have to be sturdy enough to endure the Travesia Sagrada Maya.
Every year in May, the Travesia Sagrada Maya is held between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel Island. This event recreates the sacred ancient rituals of the Mayan people between 1250 and 1519 AD when they paid tribute to the goddess Ixchel, goddess of fertility.
Purification ceremonies are held at Polé, now Xcaret, before the canoes set off across the Ekab Sea, rowing for 6 to 7 hours on the unstable ocean, to Chankanaab, Cozumel Island, and then doing it again the next day. It is not a race. It is a two-day pilgrimage with approximately 32 canoes carrying 360 people, enduring a lifetime experience and discovering growth, fellowship, and immense pride.
The Travesia Sagrada Maya is managed and organized by Xcaret Parks, welcoming ages 18 to 60. Training begins in August with a swimming test. It is not a leisurely swim in a pool. It is a grueling test in the ocean. Coaches Edson and Eduardo will train Cozumel participants 3 days a week, developing rowing techniques and physical conditioning. The last 6 months entail teamwork and discipline. Participants cannot miss a training session. This intense training encourages physical, mental, and spiritual tests but reaps strength and perseverance.
Not everyone wants to row in a demanding event. Most just want to row recreationally. Canoa Maya Cozumel is open for sunset rowing on Wednesdays and Fridays at 5 PM (depending on the seasons’ sunsets), where the participants will be introduced to the technique and history of the canoes. You can find them on the Malecon next to La Monina, 10 minutes from the ferry. They also host group activities and retreats at sunrise and special celebrations.
There is something awe-inspiring about watching a sunset. Watching the sunset from a canoe in the middle of the ocean is indescribable. In October 2023 the universe boasted an eclipse of the sun. Canoa Maya Cozumel availed their canoes and special glasses for the event. We witnessed the natural wonder in canoes on the ocean on a perfect sunny day. When the eclipse was over, we swam, enjoyed a cold beverage or two, and fellowshipped with compatible people. Canoa Maya Cozumel made an extraordinary event exceptional.
Book your unforgettable rowing experience with Canoa Maya Cozumel via Instagram, Facebook @canoamayacozumel, or WhatsApp @ +52 984 120 7642