Cancun Private Catamaran with Snorkeling & Open Bar

Imagine cruising across the shimmering Caribbean on a sleek, private catamaran, drinks in hand, snorkel gear ready, and the breeze gently tousling your hair. That’s exactly what this Cancun Private Catamaran experience promises — and honestly, it delivers plenty of memorable moments. Designed for groups of up to 20 (or even 30 with the right arrangements), this tour offers an enticing blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.

We love the way this trip balances stunning coastal views with fun-filled activities like snorkeling at El Meco Reef and lounging on some of the world’s best beaches. The open bar keeps spirits high, and the option to extend the experience to Isla Mujeres makes it versatile for different types of travelers. However, one thing to consider is the extra costs like the dock fee and pick-up fee, which can add up. Still, for those craving a private, customizable day on the water, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is best suited for couples, friends, or families who want a more intimate, flexible way to explore Cancun’s coastline. If you’re after an all-in-one adventure that combines snorkeling, beach time, and island exploration, this could be your ideal day out. Still, it’s worth noting that it’s not designed for pregnant women, those with back problems, or visitors prone to seasickness, making it important to read the fine print.

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: Choose between 4 or 7 hours, ideal for customizing your day.
• Stunning Views & Snorkeling: Enjoy vibrant marine life at El Meco Reef and panoramic coastal scenery.
• Inclusive Experience: Drinks, snacks, and a buffet lunch at a beach club are all included.
• Cultural & Beach Time: Explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace, with options for shopping, relaxing, or dining.
• Additional Costs: Be aware of extra fees such as the dock fee ($20 USD per person) and optional pick-up fee.
• Environmentally Friendly: Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the reef and marine habitat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Check-In

Your adventure begins at Marina Adventure Bay, where the staff and crew, including friendly guides, will help you check in smoothly. Once onboard the 36-foot Seabird, a sleek catamaran suitable for groups of up to 30, you can settle in and get ready for a day of fun. The crew’s attentiveness and the lively marina atmosphere set a welcoming tone right from the start.

Coastline Cruising & Open Bar

As the boat gently departs, you’ll cruise along Cancun’s coast, taking in spectacular views of the turquoise waters and sandy beaches. We loved the way the crew kept the drinks flowing, offering refreshing beverages like rum, tequila, and whisky from the open bar — a real highlight for many guests. We’ll note that the tour includes bottled water, sodas, and orange juice, making it easy to stay hydrated under the sun.

Snorkeling at El Meco Reef

One of the standout features of this trip is the opportunity to snorkel at El Meco Reef. The reef is packed with colorful corals and tropical fish, making it a favorite for marine life lovers. According to reviews, the reef teems with vibrant sea creatures, and the snorkeling equipment provided makes it easy for beginners to join in. An experienced guide often accompanies the swim, helping everyone spot the best sights and ensuring safety.

More Great Tours Nearby

Relaxing on Playa Norte

The 7-hour version of this tour offers a generous stop at Playa Norte, often regarded as one of the world’s top beaches. Here, travelers can swim in the calm, clear waters, lounge on powdery white sands, or stroll along the shore. The reviews confirm that the beach is stunning, with some mentioning it as the highlight of the trip.

Isla Mujeres Exploration

For those opting for the full 7-hour adventure, you’ll get to explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace. Whether shopping for local souvenirs, sampling street food, or simply soaking up island vibes, this part of the tour adds a cultural flavor to the day. The optional visit to a beach club with a buffet and open bar makes for a relaxing lunch, while wandering the streets offers an authentic feel of island life.

Sunset and Return

The trip naturally winds down with a scenic sail back to Cancun, often accompanied by a stunning sunset. Guests frequently mention how the view of the sun dipping over the Caribbean adds a perfect ending to the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Bottled water, soda, orange juice
• Snacks after snorkeling
• International buffet lunch at the beach club
• Unlimited alcoholic drinks from the open bar (rum, tequila, whisky)
• Restroom facilities onboard

Not Included

• Dock fee ($20 USD per person)
• Pickup service ($20 USD per person) (check if your hotel is covered)
• Extra activities or souvenirs not specified

Practical Details & Tips

Meeting Point & Check-In

Start your day at Marina Adventure Bay. Arrive about 15 minutes early to get checked in and settle before departure. The staff’s friendly assistance makes the process straightforward. The tour ends back at the same point, so transportation logistics are simplified.

What to Bring

• Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
• Swimwear and a towel
• Camera to capture seaside views
• Sunscreen (biodegradable preferred to protect marine life)
• Water and snacks to stay energized
• Comfortable clothes and waterproof footwear

Important Considerations

• Not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or anyone prone to seasickness
• Be aware of the additional fees (dock and pick-up)
• Arrive early to ensure a smooth start
• Consider the weather; tours are subject to weather conditions, especially for snorkeling safety

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While many guests praised the stunning views and friendly crew, a few pointed out issues. One reviewer, David, described the crew as attentive but expressed frustration with a photographer who tried to sell him photos at an exorbitant price — $550 for a few shots, which seemed like a rip-off given the overall trip cost. This highlights the importance of setting expectations about photo prices beforehand.

Another guest appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and highlighted the beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life as the trip’s key draws. The flexibility of the private group setup also allows for a more tailored experience, which many travelers find valuable.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private catamaran adventure offers a rare chance to enjoy Cancun’s coastline in a personalized way. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a day on the water, you’ll appreciate the luxury of privacy, combined with the lively social vibe of sailing in the Caribbean. The inclusion of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and optional island exploration makes this a versatile choice.

The food and drink options are plentiful, making it a good value for the price, especially since you’re not sharing the boat with strangers. However, the added costs like dock fees and optional transport should be factored into your budget.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a customizable, memorable day in Cancun’s waters, especially if you value a scenic cruise combined with activities and cultural exploration.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private group experience, designed for up to 20 people, making it suitable for family gatherings, friends, or couples.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose between a 4-hour or 7-hour adventure, depending on how much time you want to spend on the water and exploring.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the use of snorkeling equipment, snacks, lunch, unlimited drinks from the open bar, and restroom access onboard.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, there is a dock fee of $20 USD per person and a pick-up fee of $20 USD per person if applicable.

Can we explore Isla Mujeres?
Yes, the 7-hour tour includes time to explore Isla Mujeres, shop, or relax at a beach club with a buffet lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, a camera, snacks, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It can be, but consider the age and comfort of children with water activities and boat rides. The review mentions posing for photos, which may not appeal to very young kids.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are subject to weather conditions. It’s best to check the cancellation policy; you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Cancun private catamaran tour offers a well-rounded, relaxed, and scenic day on the Caribbean Sea. The combination of snorkeling, beach lounging, and optional island exploration makes it a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a more personal and flexible experience. While extra costs and weather dependency are factors to consider, the stunning coastal views and marine encounters are truly worth it.

If you’re eager to enjoy Cancun’s waters with the comfort of privacy and the variety of activities included, this tour provides solid value and memorable moments. It’s especially ideal for those who prioritize customized experiences, quality scenery, and a lively, social atmosphere on the sea.

Remember to factor in extra fees, bring eco-friendly sunscreen, and arrive early for smooth check-in. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your love of the ocean, this trip can become a highlight of your Cancun visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: