The Riviera Maya and the Yucatan Peninsula are prime spots for exploring the Caribbean’s shimmering waters. Their clear, warm seas and scenic coastlines make boat tours a must-do activity. Whether you’re after a luxurious private yacht, a fun-filled party cruise, or an eco-friendly sail, this region offers options that suit many tastes. We’re especially fond of the DIVA 60ft Elite Italian Yacht Experience in Cancun, which combines style with flexibility, letting you customize your time at sea. If a more relaxed day with snorkeling and island hopping appeals, some options include stops at Isla Mujeres or Bacalar’s lagoon.
While the options vary from private charters to all-inclusive party sails, each promises a unique way to see the coast, relax, and enjoy the Caribbean vibe. Planning your perfect trip just got easier with this list of the top boat tours and cruises—the best way to enjoy Mexico’s stunning waters.
Quick Overview
This list features a wide range of boat tours and cruises—from private yacht rentals and sailing experiences to lively party catamarans and all-inclusive day trips. Many options include stops at islands like Isla Mujeres or explore Bacalar’s colorful lagoon. Prices and durations vary, with some tours tailored for intimate groups and others suited for larger parties. Now, let’s dive into each experience to see what makes them special. For a more detailed look at each, visit the linked pages.
1. DIVA 60ft Elite Italian Yacht Experience in Cancun
At number 1 on our list, the DIVA 60ft Elite Italian Yacht Experience in Cancun offers a top-tier private yacht adventure that combines elegance with flexibility. This luxury yacht seats up to 15 guests, with rental durations from 1 to 8 hours, so you can tailor your day at sea. The yacht itself is a sleek, 60-foot vessel, perfect for those who want comfort and style, along with panoramic views of the Caribbean.
What makes this experience stand out is the ability to customize your trip: stop for a swim or snorkel in crystalline waters, explore secluded beaches, or simply relax on deck. The crew provides all the essentials—goggles, towels, drinks—making it suitable for romantic getaways, family outings, or celebrations. The reviews speak volumes, with a perfect 5-star rating based on 78 reviews, praising the boat’s luxury and the attentive service.
Bottom line: If privacy, comfort, and personalized service rank high on your list, this yacht charter delivers a memorable day on the Caribbean. Its flexibility and the high-end Italian design make it one of the most attractive options for those seeking an upscale experience.
2. Luxury Private Yacht Rental by the Turquoise Waters of the Caribbean
Next up, the Luxury Private Yacht Rental offers an immersive day around Cancun’s waters with a full 6-hour itinerary. Starting from Marina Ponta del Sol, this tour includes a cruise through Nichupte Lagoon to the bridge Calinda, where the lagoon meets the bay of Cancun. The tour includes options for swimming and snorkeling, with some stops at renowned spots like Isla Mujeres and Parque Natural de Arrecifes Garrafon.
The highlight is the visit to Isla Mujeres, a small island packed with Caribbean charm, beaches, and Mayan relics. The reef near Garrafon offers some of the best snorkeling around—adventure seekers will love the marine life. The tour’s price is high at $1,300 per group, but it caters to up to 15 people, making it very competitive for a private, luxury experience. The reviews are excellent, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 8 guests, emphasizing the beauty of the beaches and the clarity of the waters.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers wanting an all-encompassing day with island visits, snorkeling, and a splash of luxury. It’s particularly good for those who want a structured but flexible itinerary with the best of Cancun’s marine environment.
3. Private Yacht Rental Cancun Up to 15 passengers Isla Mujeres
For those seeking privacy and flexibility, the Private Yacht Rental Cancun is a solid choice. This experience is perfect if you want to control your schedule. It allows up to 15 passengers and can last from 1 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of options for a day at sea.
Guests rave about the yacht’s comfort and safety, with reviews highlighting how well-equipped it is—garments, goggles, towels, and more. The focus is on a personalized trip, whether that’s a romantic day, a celebration, or just escaping the crowds. The price is very reasonable at $289.80 for up to 15 guests, making it an excellent value for a private experience.
One reviewer noted, “We rented the yacht for 6 hours for a bachelor party and it was perfect—comfortable, safe, and well-stocked.” The vessel’s versatility and private setting make it ideal for intimacy or exclusive fun.
Bottom line: If you want the freedom to craft your own day out on the water without a large group, this private yacht offers comfort and privacy at a great price point.
$289.80 per group (up to 15)
4. Isla Mujeres All Inclusive Sailboat Experience
Number 4 is the Isla Mujeres All Inclusive Sailboat Experience, a lively 7-hour cruise that’s perfect for party lovers. This boat, with a capacity of 20, features an open bar, continental breakfast, and a buffet lunch at a beach club. The sailboat’s fun vibe is complemented by snorkeling, snorkeling at the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, and the possibility to fly a spinnaker sail if weather permits.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of relaxation and celebration. The reviews reflect a fun, friendly atmosphere, with one reviewer noting, “Everyone was really nice and kept our drinks full.” It’s best suited for travelers who want to socialize and enjoy a festive day on the water. The price is $115.50 per person, making it an accessible option for those traveling on a budget but still craving a lively experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for groups who want to party, snorkel, and indulge in drinks, all while exploring Isla Mujeres in a carefree, festive setting.
5. Luxury Sailing Experience to Isla Mujeres with Lunch & Open Bar
Number 5, the Luxury Sailing Experience to Isla Mujeres, combines elegance with adventure. This trip departs on a French-made catamaran, complete with snorkeling gear and paddleboards. You’ll snorkel among colorful fish and sunken sculptures, then enjoy a gourmet lunch and unlimited drinks on board.
The experience includes door-to-door transfers from many Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels, adding convenience. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy comfort and a touch of luxury but still want active experiences like snorkeling and paddleboarding. It’s priced at $149 per person for about 6 hours, which is good value considering the inclusions.
A typical review describes the crew as attentive, and the mix of water activities and gourmet dining makes it a standout. The flexible schedule on this tour suits those who want a well-rounded day with plenty of options.
Bottom line: This tour is best for couples or groups seeking a refined day on the water, with active options and gourmet dining included.
$149.00 per person
6. Bacalar Must-dos | Ichkabal Ruins, Boat Trip & Los Rápidos
Number 6 takes you to Bacalar for a full-day adventure combining Mayan ruins, lagoon boat rides, and natural rapids. Starting with the Ichkabal ruins—still largely unexcavated—this tour immerses you in ancient history. After exploring the ruins, you’ll cruise Bacalar’s “Lake of Seven Colors,” marveling at its shifting shades from the boat. The day wraps up at Los Rápidos, where you can float through a stunning natural channel.
This 11.5-hour tour is an excellent choice for travelers interested in combining history, nature, and water fun. It’s priced at $145.23 per person, making it a competitive option for a comprehensive day trip. While reviews are currently unavailable, the itinerary’s diversity promises a memorable experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want a mix of archaeological exploration, scenic boat rides, and relaxing river swimming.
$145.23 per person
7. Cancun Baby Dancer Catamaran Party
For a lively, party-centric experience, the Cancun Baby Dancer Catamaran Party delivers four hours of fun. This double-deck vessel is designed for socializing, with shaded lounges, a lively DJ, and interactive games. The boat features water toys like a trampoline and slide, keeping everyone entertained, especially families or groups of friends.
The itinerary includes snorkeling at El Meco Reef, enjoying a grilled lunch, and dancing on the way back to port. The price is $75 per person, making it an affordable option for a high-energy day on the water. Reviewers have praised the crew’s friendliness and the lively atmosphere.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want to combine water activities, music, and socializing into a compact, fun-filled cruise.
$75.00 per person
8. Incredible Party in Unlimited Catamaran to Isla Mujeres! + Transportation
Number 8 offers an 8-hour party cruise aboard a catamaran with open bar, transportation, and island visits. Starting with pickup from your hotel, you’ll sail to Punta Sam reef for snorkeling, then enjoy free time exploring Isla Mujeres. The beach club offers pool access and relaxing views, perfect for soaking up the Caribbean sun. The return journey features drinks and music as the sun sets.
This experience is geared toward lively groups who want a mix of adventure and celebration. For $88 per person, it offers good value for a full day of fun, including transportation. Reviewers emphasize the social vibe and the well-organized logistics.
Bottom line: If your ideal trip involves partying on the water, snorkeling, and relaxing on a beautiful island, this cruise is a top choice.
$88.00 per person
9. Isla Mujeres Catamaran Open Bar & Transportation from Cancun
Number 9 is a full-day Catamaran Cruise to Isla Mujeres, complete with open bar, snorkeling, and shopping. Starting with transfer from Cancun, you’ll sail to Punta Sam reef for snorkeling amid vibrant marine life. Afterwards, enjoy free time in Isla Mujeres, exploring shops, and beaches, then finish your day lounging at an exclusive beach club.
This tour offers a great combination of active and relaxed moments, priced at $92 per person for around 7 hours. Reviewers mention excellent service and a smooth experience, though some note that the day can be busy.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine snorkeling, island exploration, and shopping on a well-organized, all-inclusive day.
$92.00 per person
10. Yacht rental in Cancun
Finally, the Yacht rental in Cancun is designed for those seeking complete privacy and relaxed luxury. This 4-hour charter is ideal for small groups up to 15, offering a peaceful way to enjoy Cancun’s coastline, with options to stop for swimming or snorkeling. The yacht features a comfortable deck, with space to sunbathe and enjoy drinks while watching the skyline.
Starting from Marina Puesta del Sol, this tour is about unwinding with personalized service. At $1,100 per group, it offers excellent value for a private, intimate experience. Guests can expect attentive staff and a flexible itinerary tailored to their wishes.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or small groups who want a serene, upscale experience at their own pace.
$1,100.00 per group (up to 15)
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour or Cruise
When picking your perfect boat experience, consider your budget, the type of atmosphere you want (party, private, family-friendly), and how much activity you prefer. For a luxurious, customizable day, the DIVA Yacht or Yacht rental in Cancun deliver privacy and comfort. If you’re after lively socializing, the Party catamaran or Incredible Party Catamaran are hard to beat. For families or those exploring Bacalar, the full-day Bacalar tour offers a great mix of history, nature, and water fun.
Pay attention to the duration—some tours are a half-day, others a full day—and whether they include food and drinks. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
To sum it up, the Riviera Maya and Yucatan region offer a fantastic variety of boat tours and cruises—from luxury private yachts to energetic party boats. Whether you seek peace and privacy or lively fun, you’ll find an experience that matches your style. For history lovers, Bacalar’s lagoon combined with ruins offers a different kind of adventure. For those craving social fun, Cancun’s party boats provide a lively atmosphere. Whatever your choice, these tours will give you a fresh perspective of the stunning Caribbean coast. Be sure to book early, especially during high season, to secure your spot on the water.