A Lazy Day on the Riviera Maya: The 4-Hour Private Yacht Experience

Imagine slipping aboard a sleek 53-foot Hatteras yacht and setting out across the shimmering waters of the Riviera Maya. For four hours, you and your group—up to 15 people included—can enjoy a tailored cruise that mixes relaxation with adventure. Whether you’re floating and sipping on free drinks, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or just soaking up the sun, this experience offers a taste of luxury combined with authentic fun.
The cost is $1,450 per group, which might seem steep at first, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature—delicious food, unlimited drinks, and the option to use paddleboards and snorkeling gear—the value stacks up nicely. We particularly love how flexible the trip is: you can lounge, dance, swim, or all of the above. A possible drawback? The $20 marina fee per person is an extra, and you’ll need to be punctual as the schedule is tight.
This tour is ideal for groups looking for a private, customizable day out on the sea. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just craving a laid-back day with friends, you’ll find this trip fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of socializing and water-based activities, but want the comfort of a guided, all-inclusive experience.
Key Points

- Private and customizable: You’ll have your own yacht for four hours, tailoring the experience to your preferences.
- All-inclusive: Food, drinks, snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and karaoke are all covered, making it a hassle-free day.
- Value for groups: The price covers up to 15 people, with options to add more for an extra fee—great for larger gatherings.
- Highlights: Snorkeling at Inha Reef and enjoying the lively onboard atmosphere with music and karaoke.
- Practical tips: Arrive 20 minutes early, bring swim gear and sun protection, and be aware of the $20 marina fee per person.
- Authentic fun: Many reviews praise the friendly, attentive staff and the delicious, well-seasoned food.
Planning more time in Playa del Carmen? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Exploring the Riviera Maya in Style

Setting out from Puerto Aventuras aboard the Dos Piratas, this private yacht cruise offers a smooth blend of comfort and adventure. The 4-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy multiple water activities without feeling rushed. The boat itself is spacious and well-equipped, with a Bluetooth sound system, karaoke setup, and plenty of room for lounging or dancing.
What makes this tour stand out is its customizable nature. You can relax onboard with a drink in hand, or borrow snorkeling gear and paddleboards to explore the vibrant underwater world. The tour’s highlight, a visit to Inha Reef, promises some of the best snorkeling in the region—crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Many travelers rave about the service: “The staff was remarkable and took great care of us,” says one reviewer, highlighting the attentive crew that makes you feel like royalty. The onboard food is another thumbs-up, with fire-grilled chicken, fresh guacamole, and Mexican salsas that keep everyone satisfied. The inclusion of unlimited margaritas, beers, and mixed drinks ensures you’re well hydrated for a day in the sun.
A practical note: the $20 marina fee per person is an additional cost, so keep that in mind when budgeting. Also, the strict schedule—departing and returning on time—is crucial. Arriving 20 minutes early helps ensure a smooth check-in and safety briefing before setting sail.
The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s main attraction is the 4-hour private charter, but what do you actually do during that time? The journey begins at the designated meeting point in Puerto Aventuras, with a brief safety overview. From there, the captain and crew guide you out into the waters of the Riviera Maya.
The first stop is Inha Reef, a renowned snorkeling spot. Here, you can gear up with provided equipment and discover the underwater world teeming with colorful fish and coral. Many guests mention that the water clarity is excellent, making for memorable snorkeling moments.
Back on the boat, you’re free to relax, or if you’re feeling lively, you can jump onto paddleboards to enjoy a different perspective of the coastline. The onboard karaoke machine—with over 18,000 songs—lends itself to spontaneous sing-alongs, especially during the sunset or after a few drinks. The HD TV with lyrics and microphones make it easy for everyone to participate.
Throughout, the staff keeps the drinks flowing—unlimited margaritas, beers, and mixed cocktails—so you can indulge without worry. The lunch is served mid-cruise, with juicy, fire-grilled chicken, fresh guacamole, and Mexican-style salsa that many reviewers describe as deliciously seasoned. Vegetarians can request options, adding to the inclusive vibe.
As you return to the dock, many guests reflect on how the trip exceeded expectations—great value, memorable moments, and a sense of genuine care from the crew.
Practical Aspects and Tips

The price of $1,450 covers the entire group, making it a good deal for larger parties. For smaller groups, splitting the cost might be more affordable than other private boat options, especially given the inclusive food and drinks.
The $20 marina fee is per person and paid on-site, so remember to budget accordingly. Towels aren’t included, so bringing your own swim gear is a good idea. Sunscreen (preferably eco-friendly), sunglasses, and hats are essential to protect against the Caribbean sun.
The tour is most suitable for ages 18 and up, particularly because of the unlimited alcohol and the strict policies against illegal activities and unruly behavior. Pregnant women after five months are advised against participating, which is a thoughtful safety note.
Arrive 20 minutes early to allow for check-in and safety instructions. The schedule is strict—departures and returns are on time—so punctuality is appreciated. The crew and captain maintain authority onboard to ensure everyone’s safety, so attentiveness to their instructions is important.
Who Should Book This Tour?

This private yacht experience is perfect for groups celebrating special occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries, or anyone wanting a flexible, relaxed day on the water. It’s especially appealing to travelers who enjoy a mix of socializing, water activities, and good food.
If you’re seeking a fun, lively atmosphere combined with personalized service, this tour checks all those boxes. But if you prefer a more structured or laid-back trip with fixed stops, you might want to consider other options.
Travelers who appreciated attentive guides and tasty food, according to reviews, will find this experience satisfying. It’s also an excellent choice for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a private, tailored adventure in the Riviera Maya.
FAQs

- What’s included in the tour?
All food, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and karaoke are included, making for a comprehensive, hassle-free experience. - Can I bring my own alcohol?
No, all alcohol must be provided by the yacht company. Outside beverages are not permitted onboard. - Is there a minimum group size?
The price is for up to 15 people, but larger groups can be accommodated for an extra fee. - What should I bring?
Towels, swim gear, eco-friendly sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and light clothing are recommended. - Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested at the time of booking. - How early should I arrive?
Arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in and go over safety instructions. - What happens in bad weather?
The trip is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. - Is alcohol served during the trip?
Unlimited standard bar options are available onboard, including margaritas, beer, and mixed cocktails. - Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but a responsible adult must accompany children, and the minimum drinking age is 18.
Final Thoughts

This private yacht trip along the Riviera Maya offers a well-rounded blend of leisure and adventure, perfect for groups seeking an exclusive day on the water. The all-inclusive setup means you can relax without constant planning—just enjoy the sun, sea, and good company. The friendly staff and tasty food, combined with options for snorkeling and paddleboarding, make it a genuinely enjoyable experience.
While the additional marina fee and strict punctuality might require some planning, the trip’s flexibility and personalized vibe make it a standout choice for those wanting a memorable, fun-filled day. Whether celebrating a special event or simply craving a private escape, this cruise delivers a lively, authentic taste of the Riviera Maya’s waters.
If you value attentive guides, delicious snacks, and a lively onboard atmosphere, this tour is sure to satisfy. For travelers eager to mix relaxed lounging with water adventures, it offers a well-priced, memorable escape to the Caribbean.
More Tour Reviews in Playa del Carmen
- Tulum, Coba & Cenote Kuxtal! Deluxe Tour from Playa Del Carmen
- ATV (Shared) Express & Cenote with Transfer from Riviera Maya
- Playa del Carmen Jungle Tour: Tulum, Cenote Snorkeling, Ziplining and Lunch
- Tour Las Coloradas – Natural Pink Lake only from Playa del Carmen
- Private Transfer from Playa del Carmen to Cancun International Airport
- Xcaret Eco Archaeological Park Tour
More Playa del Carmen experiences we've covered
- Tulum, Coba & Cenote Kuxtal! Deluxe Tour from Playa Del Carmen
- ATV (Shared) Express & Cenote with Transfer from Riviera Maya
- Playa del Carmen Jungle Tour: Tulum, Cenote Snorkeling, Ziplining and Lunch
- Tour Las Coloradas – Natural Pink Lake only from Playa del Carmen
- Private Transfer from Playa del Carmen to Cancun International Airport
- Xcaret Eco Archaeological Park Tour
- Tour to swim with turtles
- 4 Hour Private Fishing Tour in Puerto Aventuras Riviera Maya
- Departures in Mercedes Benz from Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport
- Tulum and Exclusive Cave Cenote Discovery with Lunch
- Private Tour with 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip-lines + Mayan Lunch
- Playa del Carmen to Tulum – Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing
