Imagine cruising aboard a sleek 65-foot catamaran over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, with the wind in your hair, a cocktail in hand, and vibrant marine life just a snorkel away. That’s exactly what you get with the Share Catamaran Tour departing from Puerto Aventuras. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of a fun, well-organized day out suitable for families, couples, or anyone craving a taste of Riviera Maya’s coastal charm.
What we love about this experience are the professional guides, the stunning reef snorkeling, and gourmet BBQ lunch served onboard—all for about $125 per person. The one thing to keep in mind is that if you’re seeking exclusive, private sailing, this might not be your best fit, as it’s a shared tour with a small group limit of 10 participants. Nevertheless, it’s ideal for those looking for a balanced adventure that combines relaxation, adventure, and good food.
Key Points
- Comfortable Luxury: A 65-foot catamaran provides ample space and stability for a relaxed cruise.
- Snorkeling at INAH Reef: Second largest in the world, offering diverse marine life.
- Delicious Food & Drinks: Full BBQ menu with four options, complemented by an open bar.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff who make snorkeling easy and fun.
- Flexible Options: Standard tour lasts around 4 hours; private sunset charters available.
- Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 people for a more personalized experience.
An Honest Look at the Experience
The Share Catamaran Tour kicks off right at the Puerto Aventuras marina, a convenient starting point for travelers staying in the Riviera Maya. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, will welcome you aboard and quickly go over safety procedures—especially helpful if snorkeling is new to you. The fact that guides speak in multiple languages (Spanish, English, German) adds to the comfort, making it accessible for international visitors.
Once underway, you’ll enjoy a cruise that lasts about an hour, giving you time to settle into the boat’s relaxed vibe. The boat itself is spacious, with plenty of room to lounge, chat, or simply take in the views of the coastline. From the deck, you’ll see the lush Riviera Maya backdrop—beautiful beaches, mangroves, and distant resorts—setting the perfect scene for your day.
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Snorkeling at the INAH Reef
The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop at the INAH reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world. This site teems with marine life and coral formations that are a photographer’s dream. While one reviewer noted that rough sea conditions prevented reaching the reef on a particular day, guides are flexible and often find sheltered spots for snorkeling. It’s clear that the reef experience is a key draw, and with equipment provided, even beginners can enjoy discovering vibrant fish, stingrays, and colorful coral heads.
Many reviews mention the guides’ helpfulness, especially for first-timers. One reviewer appreciated the staff’s patience and clear instructions, making snorkeling accessible and fun for kids and adults alike. Marine life sightings, according to reviewers, include a diversity of fish and rays, adding a memorable touch to the trip.
The Lunch: A Gourmet BBQ at Sea
After working up an appetite, you’ll return to the boat for the full BBQ lunch. The menu features four main options: NY steak, fish fillet, chicken fajitas, or a hamburger—all cooked fresh on the grill. Several reviewers point out that the food exceeds expectations for a boat meal, describing it as “first-class” and “delicious.” The open bar is also a well-loved feature, with flowing drinks ranging from cocktails to wine and beer, making mealtime a social highlight.
One guest mentioned that the food was “well worth the price,” emphasizing how rare it is to find such a high-quality meal included in a day cruise. The relaxed, laid-back atmosphere of lunch, combined with good drinks and friendly chatter, turns the meal into a highlight rather than just a necessity.
The Return Sail and Optional Sunset Experience
Post-lunch, the boat slowly makes its way back along the Riviera Maya coast. The scenery is stunning, with clear waters, distant islands, and perhaps even a chance to spot marine mammals or seabirds. For those seeking an even more enchanting experience, private sunset departures are available and highly recommended—imagine sipping a cocktail as the sky turns shades of orange and pink, all from the comfort of your own private charter.
The small group size ensures an intimate feel, meaning you’ll have plenty of space and personalized attention from the crew. This is especially appreciated by families with kids, as many reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the staff are with young travelers.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat’s Included and What’s Not
The tour comes with snorkel equipment, food, and drinks, making it a hassle-free experience. The $15 marina dock fee is not included, and you’ll need to carry cash for this, plus any souvenirs you might want to purchase. Notably, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included by default but can be arranged upon request, adding flexibility to your day.
The tour lasts approximately four hours, with available start times depending on the day, so planning around your schedule is straightforward. Given the reviews praising punctuality and organization, you can expect a smooth experience from start to finish.
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Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for travelers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. Families will appreciate the safety and friendliness of the guides, while couples or friends will enjoy the social atmosphere and scenic sailing. If you love good food, lively drinks, and marine exploration, you’ll find this tour ticks all the boxes.
Active snorkelers and first-timers alike will enjoy the reef, and those seeking stunning views and a laid-back vibe will find this experience rewarding. It’s also a good value for the price, given the inclusive lunch, drinks, and personalized service, especially in a setting as beautiful as Puerto Aventuras.
Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives:
- Guests seeking complete privacy or exclusive sailing experiences.
- Travelers wanting to include hotel transfers as part of the package.
- Anyone with mobility issues or pregnant women, as safety and activity limitations apply.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
In the end, the Share Catamaran Tour offers a delightful way to spend a half-day in Riviera Maya. You get the chance to snorkel the impressive INAH reef, enjoy a premium BBQ, and relax on a luxurious boat—all with the camaraderie of a small group. The guides, often praised for their helpfulness and friendliness, make sure everyone feels safe and included, whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time.
The overall value is high, especially considering the delicious lunch, open bar, and scenic sailing. It’s a flexible, family-friendly outing that suits travelers who want to soak up the Caribbean’s beauty without all-day commitments. Plus, the option to add sunset or private charters makes it easy to tailor the experience to your preferences.
If you’re craving a fun, well-organized day with friendly guides, stunning views, and good food, this cruise from Puerto Aventuras is definitely worth considering.
Is there a minimum age for participating?
Children are welcome, and the guides are helpful for families. This makes it an excellent choice for family outings or group trips.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkel equipment is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.
How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, and lunch.
Are drinks included?
Yes, there is an open bar offering wine, beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages during the cruise and meal.
Is transportation provided to and from my hotel?
Not automatically, but you can contact the tour provider to arrange round-trip transportation for an extra fee.
What should I bring on the tour?
Swimwear, towels, biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, an underwater camera, and cash for the dock fee or souvenirs.
Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While guides assist with snorkeling, non-swimmers can enjoy the cruise and marine viewing from the boat.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date.
Are the guides helpful for first-time snorkelers?
Absolutely. Reviewers noted that the staff are very patient, helpful, and clear with instructions, making it easy for beginners.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Share Catamaran Tour from Puerto Aventuras offers a well-rounded day out for those wanting to enjoy the Riviera Maya’s stunning waters. With a friendly crew, excellent food, and memorable snorkeling, it’s a trip that promises to leave you with plenty of stories—and perhaps a few new fish friends.
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