Cancun: Private Catamaran with Open Bar & Snorkeling Option

Imagine cruising along the turquoise waters of Cancun aboard your very own private catamaran, with an open bar, lively music, and the freedom to set your pace. Sounds pretty appealing, right? While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, this tour consistently garners top reviews, and the details have us intrigued as to why it’s so highly rated. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a day of laid-back luxury, this experience promises an intimate, customizable adventure on the Caribbean.

What we love about this tour is how it combines deluxe comfort with authentic exploration. The boat comes with a professional bilingual crew who keeps drinks flowing and ensures safety, while the itinerary offers options for a quick coastal cruise or a full-day trip with island stops. Plus, the private nature of the charter means you’re not sharing your space with strangers—perfect for groups looking to customize their day.

One thing to keep in mind is that reviews suggest some boats may feel aged or tight for larger groups, so if comfort and modern amenities are a priority, it’s worth verifying. Still, for the value of an exclusive, flexible experience, this tour is ideal for couples, families, or any group wanting a personalized day on the water. If relaxation, privacy, and scenic snorkeling appeal to you, this could be just the ticket.

Good To Know

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your group’s preferences
• Two options: a quick 4-hour coastal cruise or a full 7-hour island adventure
• Includes: open bar, snorkeling gear, and professional bilingual crew
• Highlights: snorkeling at El Meco Reef, relaxing on Isla Mujeres’ Playa Norte, and beachfront lunch on the longer tour
• Potential drawbacks: some reviewers mention boat age and safety issues, so check the vessel condition
• Best for: small groups, celebrations, or travelers seeking exclusivity and flexibility

An Honest Look at the Tour Offerings

This private catamaran experience in Cancun offers the kind of laid-back luxury many travelers crave. Starting at Marina Adventure Bay, your crew greets you aboard a vessel that, based on reviews, can vary in age and condition. Some guests have pointed out that the boat might feel a bit older and tight for larger groups, with parts needing maintenance. This is something to keep in mind if you’re expecting a brand-new vessel or a very spacious boat.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The 4-hour tour is perfect for those who want a taste of the Caribbean without committing to a full day. You’ll cruise along Cancun’s coast, enjoying the breeze and scenic views, while stopping at El Meco Reef for snorkeling. This reef is praised for its vibrant coral and lively marine life, making it an engaging experience even for beginners. The highlight here is how flexible the crew is—reviewers like Amy, who appreciated that they could choose whether to snorkel, swim, or simply relax on deck. The open bar with rum, tequila, whiskey, soda, juice, and water keeps everyone refreshed as you cruise.

The 7-hour tour ups the ante, taking you further to Isla Mujeres. This is where the experience becomes more complete, with time to lounge at Playa Norte, one of Mexico’s most famous beaches known for its calm, crystal-clear waters. After some relaxation, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at a beachfront restaurant with island vibes, according to the itinerary. This full-day option adds the chance to explore Isla Mujeres more thoroughly and soak up the local atmosphere.

Snorkeling at El Meco Reef

Both tours include a guided snorkeling session at one of Cancun’s vibrant coral reef sites. This reef is an accessible and beautiful spot, ideal for those new to snorkeling or seasoned underwater explorers. The included gear makes it easy to jump in, and the crew’s expertise helps ensure safety and enjoyment.

The Isla Mujeres Stop

For the longer tour, cruising to Isla Mujeres is a key highlight. Reviewers have described the scenic sail as relaxing, with some mentioning the lively onboard music creating a festive atmosphere. The island stop is especially recommended by travelers who want a blend of adventure and downtime. One guest recounted how their guide, Jorge, was fantastic at letting everyone decide whether to snorkel, swim, or just explore the island at their own pace.

Beach and Lunch

The beachfront buffet lunch on Isla Mujeres makes the full-day experience stand out. The setting is relaxed, with island vibes that make you feel far from the hustle of Cancun’s hotel zone. This is a good chance to try local flavors, unwind by the sea, and enjoy the sunshine.

Return Journey

No matter which option you choose, the tour ends with a scenic sail back to the marina. Expect good music, refreshing drinks, and some final moments to soak in the Caribbean views. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of adventure.

Value and Pricing: Is It Worth It?

At $950 per group (up to one), this tour is better suited for small groups or private celebrations. While it’s not the cheapest activity in Cancun, the exclusivity, personalized service, and all-inclusive drinks add to its value. The buffet lunch and snorkeling gear are included, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs unless you opt for the dock fee ($20) or optional pick-up service ($20 per person).

Given the reviews and features, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck if privacy and customization are priorities. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an intimate, flexible day on the water rather than a crowded party boat.

What to Expect from the Experience

Vessel and Comfort: The boat’s condition varies according to reviews. Some guests noted parts falling off and safety concerns, so it might be worthwhile to confirm the vessel’s condition before booking. The boat has restroom facilities, which help make your day more comfortable.

Crew and Service: The bilingual crew, including guides like Jorge, are praised for their attentiveness and flexibility. They keep drinks flowing, assist with snorkeling, and respect your group’s pace and interests.

Timing and Group Size: The tours are designed for up to 30 guests, but because it’s a private charter, your group gets exclusive use. The flexible schedule allows you to customize your stops and activities—crucial for making the most of your day.

Booking and Practicalities: Tours are typically booked about a month in advance, and confirmation comes immediately. Optional extras like pick-up add to the convenience, though they come at additional costs.

Authentic Experiences and Considerations

Based on reviews, many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who make snorkeling and island exploring more enjoyable. The calm waters of Playa Norte are perfect for relaxing after snorkeling, and the onboard music creates a lively, festive environment.

However, some feedback points to boat age and safety concerns, emphasizing the importance of checking boat condition before committing. It’s also worth noting that this experience is best suited for those who value privacy, flexibility, and a more intimate atmosphere over large group party vibes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private catamaran is perfect for small groups looking for a personalized day at sea. It’s well-suited to couples celebrating an occasion, families wanting a relaxed day, or friends seeking an exclusive adventure. If you enjoy snorkeling, lounging on beautiful beaches, and having the freedom to craft your itinerary, you’ll find this offering appealing.

It’s less ideal for travelers expecting a modern, spacious vessel or those who prioritize a bustling party scene, as the boat’s condition and safety may vary.

The Sum Up

This Cancun private catamaran tour provides a flexible, intimate way to enjoy the Caribbean’s stunning coastline. With options for a quick coastal cruise or a full-day island adventure, it caters well to those wanting a tailored experience with a private crew, open bar, and scenic stops. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the chance to unwind at Playa Norte add significant value.

While some reviews highlight concerns about vessel age and safety, overall, this experience offers a fantastic blend of relaxation and exploration—especially for groups who cherish exclusivity and personalized service. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a day of Caribbean bliss, this tour can deliver memorable moments on the water.

FAQ

Is the boat private for my group?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate. It allows for customized pacing and activities.

What is included in the tour price?
Your fee covers the private catamaran with crew, snorkeling gear at El Meco Reef, an open bar (rum, tequila, whiskey, soda, juice, water), and, on the 7-hour tour, a buffet lunch at Isla Mujeres.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, a dock fee of $20 per person applies, and optional pick-up service costs $20 per person. These are not included in the base price.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose between approximately 4 hours (coastal cruise) or 7 hours (including Isla Mujeres stop). The full-day option offers more time for snorkeling, beach, and lunch.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Caribean Golden Catamarans, Blvd. Kukulcan km 6.5 Playa Tortugas, Cancun. The experience ends back at the same point.

Can I book this tour for a larger group?
The vessel capacity is up to 30 guests, but it’s designed for small, private groups—ideal for intimate celebrations or family outings.

What is the snorkeling like?
The reef is known for its lively marine life and vibrant coral, making it suitable for snorkelers of all levels, with included gear and a guided session.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, unlimited drinks are provided on deck, and the 7-hour tour includes a buffet lunch on Isla Mujeres.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.