Planning a day in Cancun that’s packed with excitement and authentic adventure? This SpeedBoat Tour with Snorkeling at Punta Nizuc promises just that — a chance to steer your own boat, explore vibrant underwater life, and enjoy the natural beauty of Nichupte Lagoon. While it’s a short outing of around 2.5 hours, the memories made here can last much longer.
What makes this tour especially appealing? First, you get trained to drive a speedboat, turning a typical boat ride into a hands-on experience. Second, the small group size (max 12 travelers) offers a more personal and engaging atmosphere. Third, the chance to snorkel in a protected area where the sea meets the lagoon, revealing coral reefs and colorful fish, makes it a true highlight.
One potential consideration is the additional port tax of $20 per person, which travelers should budget for. Also, this activity is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some physical activity and comfort on a boat. Overall, it’s ideal for adventurous travelers looking for a lively, authentic experience in Cancun rather than a passive sightseeing tour.
Who should consider this tour? If you’re craving a mix of adrenaline, nature, and hands-on fun, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who want to learn a new skill, see underwater marvels, and enjoy a small-group vibe away from the crowds.
Good To Know

- Self-Driving Adventure: You’ll be shown how to operate a speedboat before heading out, adding a personal touch to the experience.
- Unique Lagoon Exploration: The tour takes you through Nichupte Lagoon, revealing birds, crocodiles, and mangroves.
- Snorkel at Punta Nizuc: Expect vibrant coral, tropical fish, and even underwater statues at the famous underwater museum.
- Small Group Experience: With a limit of 12 travelers, guides can provide more attention and answer questions thoroughly.
- Includes Essential Gear: Snorkeling equipment, lifejackets, and bottled water are all provided for comfort and safety.
- Additional Fee: Remember the $20 federal port tax payable on-site, which is not included in the tour price.
A Closer Look at the Experience
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Cancun.
Starting Out: Training and Safety
Your adventure kicks off at Jungle Tour Adventure Cancun, located conveniently at Boulevard Kukulcan km 14.6. Upon arrival, a professional guide welcomes you and provides a comprehensive briefing on how to handle the speedboat. This includes safety instructions, controls, and what to expect during the ride. The guide, whose expertise shines through, ensures everyone feels comfortable before the engines roar to life.
Many reviews highlight the guide’s professionalism, noting that they are knowledgeable and friendly. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide made us feel confident from the start, explaining everything clearly and answering all our questions.” This kind of personal attention really enhances the experience, especially if it’s your first time behind the wheel of a speedboat.
Driving Your Speedboat
Once trained, you don your lifejacket and hop aboard your own boat. The tour maintains a small group size of about five boats, which helps keep the experience intimate and safe. You’re encouraged to follow your guide closely as the fleet winds through the lagoon.
Driving the boat is surprisingly straightforward — most participants say the controls are intuitive, and the guide’s instructions make the process easy to pick up. It’s a thrill to steer your own vessel, with some reviewers noting that “it felt like a real adventure” and “the perfect mix of fun and skill.”
Exploring the Mangroves
The first stop takes you through the mangroves, where you can spot local wildlife such as birds and even crocodiles, giving a glimpse of Cancun’s natural ecosystems. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by nature lovers, who enjoy seeing a different side of the region away from beaches and resorts.
Reaching Punta Nizuc for Snorkeling
After the lagoon adventure, the fleet heads to Punta Nizuc, a renowned snorkeling spot where the lagoon meets the sea. Here, the underwater scenery is a highlight — expect to see colorful coral formations, tropical fish of various sizes and hues, and even statues from an underwater museum.
One reviewer described the snorkeling as “spectacular,” adding that “the fish were abundant, and the underwater statues added an almost mystical element.” The calm, protected waters make for easy snorkeling, even if you’re a beginner.
- Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves
- Puerto Morelos Catamaran Secret Sandbar Sail With Lunch and Drinks
- Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling, Lunch & Drinks Included
- Tulum, Coba, & Cenote: Full-Day Tour
- Chichen Itza Early Access, Cenote, Tequila & Traditional Lunch
- Selvatica Adventure Park: Ziplines and Cenote Tour From Cancun and Riviera Maya
Return Journey and Final Notes
After about an hour of exploring beneath the surface, your guide will lead the group back to the marina. The whole experience, from start to finish, lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity that won’t overcommit your schedule.
What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides speedboats, snorkeling gear, lifejackets, and bottled water — everything you need for safety and comfort. The only extra cost is the $20 federal port tax, payable at the meeting point, which is important to keep in mind when budgeting.
Practical Considerations
- The activity is suitable for moderate physical fitness — you’ll need to handle some physical activity, especially if you’re driving the boat.
- It’s recommended to arrive prepared with sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera for capturing underwater moments.
- Since the tour depends on good weather, it’s wise to check the forecast and possibly plan for a flexible date.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For just $59 per person, you’re getting a hands-on adventure that combines thrilling boat handling with the beauty of Cancun’s marine environment. The guide’s expertise and the small group size mean you’re well looked after, making this more than just a generic boat ride.
Compared to larger, less personal tours, this option offers an interactive experience that appeals to active travelers and those wanting a memorable, authentic day out. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and bottled water adds convenience, while the $20 port tax is a modest extra for such a unique experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adrenaline seekers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s for those eager to drive a boat, learn about local wildlife, and snorkel in a protected, vibrant environment. It’s also suitable for families or groups who want a small, guided experience that feels exclusive and fun.
If you’re looking for a quick, memorable, and engaging activity that combines adventure with nature, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s not meant to be a relaxing, lounge-by-the-beach kind of day but rather a dynamic, fun-filled outing that will leave you with stories to tell.
The Sum Up

In essence, this speedboat and snorkel tour offers a fantastic way to combine excitement with discovery in Cancun. The self-driving element adds an empowering twist, giving you the feeling of being in control of your adventure. Meanwhile, the snorkel spot at Punta Nizuc reveals a vibrant underwater world that many travelers find mesmerizing.
The presence of knowledgeable guides and a small-group setting elevates the experience, ensuring safety, personal attention, and a relaxed vibe. The included gear and bottled water make it hassle-free, while the additional port fee is a small price for such an engaging outing.
This tour suits adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to explore beyond the typical beach day. It’s perfect for those who want an active, hands-on experience that’s also visually stunning and full of surprises.
Overall, if you’re after a memorable, fun-packed half-day in Cancun that offers both thrill and scenic beauty, this speedboat tour is well worth considering.
FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guide provides a complete briefing on how to drive the speedboat, making it accessible even for first-timers.
What should I bring for the snorkeling part?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, and consider a waterproof camera. The snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want your own if preferred.
How long does the whole activity last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from start to finish, including training, driving, snorkeling, and returning.
Is there an age limit for participants?
The tour is geared toward travelers with moderate physical fitness. Specific age restrictions aren’t listed, but it’s best for those comfortable on boats and capable of some physical activity.
Do I need to pay extra for anything?
Yes, there’s a $20 federal port tax payable at the meeting point, which is not included in the initial price.
Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Jungle Tour Adventure Cancun, located conveniently at Boulevard Kukulcan km 14.6. Public transportation options are near, but check local schedules.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This speedboat and snorkel adventure in Cancun offers a lively, engaging way to see the lagoon, learn new skills, and explore underwater artistry. It’s a day packed with activity, new sights, and stunning scenery — perfect for spirited travelers ready for a splash of adventure.
More Tours in Cancun
- Half Day Cenotes Tour
- Unforgettable Tour Holbox 2 Islands & Cenote Yalahau from Cancún
- Casa Tortugas cenotes, Tulum Mayan site and Madre Naturaleza tour
- Basic Mayan Tour – Tulum Ruins, Coba, Cenote from Cancun
- Chichen itza regular tour with lunch and Cenote experience.
- 4×1 Full Day Tour Tulum Coba Cenote Swim
More Tour Reviews in Cancun
Looking for something different? Other Cancun activities we've written about
- Cancun Private Driver
- Half Day Cenotes Tour
- Unforgettable Tour Holbox 2 Islands & Cenote Yalahau from Cancún
- Tulum & Dolphin Connection from Cancun
- 3 adrenaline activities Atvs Zipline and a swim experience in a cenote
- 4 activities in 1 Horse Riding, ATV Shared, Cenote & Ziplines from Cancún
- 3 Islands Snorkel on boat, Isla Blanca, Contoy, Mujeres
- Yacht experience in Cancun: cruise, swim and sunset views
- Chichén Itzá, Cenote Suytún & Cenote Ik-kil Expedition
- Casa Tortugas cenotes, Tulum Mayan site and Madre Naturaleza tour
- Hands-On Cooking Class in Cancun: Drink & Cook Authentic Dishes
- Basic Mayan Tour – Tulum Ruins, Coba, Cenote from Cancun
