Cancun: Columbus The Romantic Dinner Cruise

Looking for an evening that combines scenic beauty, good food, and a touch of romance? The Columbus Romantic Dinner Cruise in Cancun offers just that. For $79 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour cruise around the Nichupté Lagoon, complete with a three-course dinner, an open bar, and live saxophone music. It’s a picture-perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply add a memorable experience to your trip.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the atmosphere of sailing aboard a Spanish Galleon — which adds a sense of adventure and romance — and the quality of the food, with several tasty options including surf ‘n’ turf, lobster, or vegetarian dishes. The live saxophone sets a relaxed and elegant mood, perfect for dancing or just swaying to the music. However, a potential downside is that there’s a dock fee of $15 per person payable at check-in, and no hotel pickup is included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the marina.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a romantic, enjoyable evening with beautiful lagoon views, tasty dining, and live entertainment. It also appeals to those who want to indulge in drinks without worrying about driving afterward. Couples celebrating a special moment or anyone seeking an authentic, relaxed cruise experience will find this tour a good fit.

Key Points

Scenic Lagoon Tour: Breath-taking views of Nichupté Lagoon make for a picturesque backdrop throughout the cruise.
Gourmet Dining Options: Multiple menu choices, including surf ‘n’ turf and lobster, cater to different tastes and make the experience feel special.
Live Music & Atmosphere: A saxophonist plays live, creating a romantic, relaxed vibe perfect for couples.
Open Bar: Unlimited domestic drinks add to the fun and help keep the mood lively.
Limited Seating: Only a couple of proper tables are available on deck, so arriving early improves your chances of securing a good spot.
No hotel transfer: You’ll need to make your own way to Marina Aquatours, which is located at Km 6.5 on Boulevard Kukulcan in front of Playa Tortugas.
Age Restrictions: The tour is suitable for those 14 and older; not ideal for very young children or wheelchair users.
Worth the price: Reviews highlight the good value, delicious food, and friendly staff, making it a memorable night out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Cancun

Boarding and Setting Sail

The adventure begins at Marina Aquatours, situated on the lagoon side of Cancun’s Boulevard Kukulcan. Most hotel guests will need to arrange transport, as there’s no included pickup. The boarding process is straightforward but can be a bit orderly—most board in the order of arrival, and as some reviewers suggest, arriving early guarantees a better seat on the deck. The boat itself is styled like a traditional Spanish Galleon, adding a romantic, old-world charm to the evening.

The Cruise & Lagoon Views

Once underway, you’ll cruise around the Nichupté Lagoon, which offers stunning vistas of the water, lush mangroves, and the Cancun skyline in the distance. We loved the way the sunset reflects off the water, creating a magical atmosphere (as one reviewer shared, “the sunset was so beautiful”). The views are especially beautiful from the deck, where you can get a panoramic perspective of Cancun’s natural and urban scenery.

The Dining Experience

The highlight for many is the three-course dinner. You’ll choose from menus like surf ‘n’ turf, featuring steak and lobster, or opt for a vegetarian selection. The steak receives particular praise for being tender and well-seasoned, with some reviews noting it’s overcooked for their taste, but generally, the quality impresses. It’s served with steamed vegetables and a baked potato, making for a hearty meal.

The dessert options include cheesecake, which adds a sweet ending. Reviewers frequently mention the deliciousness of the food and the generous servings, making it good value for the price. The food is served well, even if not tailored to special dietary requests, so keep that in mind if you have specific preferences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Live Saxophone & Atmosphere

The live saxophone music sets a relaxed, elegant tone. The music adds a layer of sophistication, making it more than just a dinner—it’s a mood. Several reviews mention the music’s quality and how it enhances the entire experience. Some guests find themselves dancing on deck or simply swaying with their loved ones, soaking in the sunset and the tranquil waters.

While in Cancun, here are other experiences we've covered

Drinks & the Open Bar

One of the tour’s big draws is the unlimited open bar, which features domestic drinks. Reviewers highlight the quality of the cocktails, often describing the drinks as some of the best in Cancun. This is a huge plus for those who enjoy having a few drinks without worrying about additional costs or last call.

The End of the Cruise

As the cruise winds down, the night sky begins to glow, and many guests reflect on how magical the experience has been. From the romantic setting to the delicious food and friendly service, the reviews consistently praise the overall value.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Booking and Pricing

At $79 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the included dinner, drinks, and entertainment. It’s possible to reserve a spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which gives some flexibility if your plans change. Remember there’s a $15 dock fee payable at check-in, which slightly increases the actual cost but is clearly disclosed upfront.

The Itinerary

Meet at Marina Aquatours on the lagoon side of Kukulcan Blvd.
Board the Galleon-style boat, with a limited number of proper tables on deck.
Set sail around Nichupté Lagoon, enjoying the sunset and breathtaking views.
Enjoy a three-course dinner with options tailored to different tastes.
Listen to live saxophone music and dance or relax in the evening breeze.
Return after 2.5 hours of leisurely cruising.

The Experience: What Comes Through in Reviews

Guests rave about the friendly, attentive staff. One reviewer notes, “Noe (Noah) was an outstanding host, making us feel very comfortable,” highlighting the importance of good service. The food also gets glowing remarks, especially the well-seasoned steak and tasty lobster. Multiple reviews mention the good vibes, beautiful sunsets, and relaxing atmosphere.

Considerations and Tips

Arrive early to secure a good seat, as boarding is first-come, first-served.
Dress comfortably but avoid sandals or flip-flops, as they’re not allowed.
Bring cash for the dock fee and any souvenirs or photos if you’re interested.
Remember it’s not suitable for children under 14 or those with mobility challenges.
Plan transportation to the marina, as no hotel pickup is included.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is a great pick for couples celebrating a special occasion, such as an anniversary or proposal, thanks to its romantic setting and elegant vibe. It’s also ideal for any traveler who enjoys good food, live music, and beautiful scenery without the fuss of a crowded nightclub or guided tour. If you’re looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing or want a memorable dinner with stunning lagoon views, this cruise hits the right note.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, or need wheelchair access, this may not be the best fit. Also, those seeking a more energetic or active experience might prefer a different type of tour.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, guests need to make their own way to Marina Aquatours, located at Km 6.5 in front of Playa Tortugas.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including boarding, dining, and entertainment.

What’s the price? The cost is $79 per person, with an additional $15 dock fee payable at check-in.

Are drinks included? Yes, there is an open bar with unlimited domestic drinks during the cruise.

What menus are available? You can choose from surf ‘n’ turf, lobster, ribeye, or vegetarian options.

Is it suitable for children? The minimum age for participation is 14 years old.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably; avoid sandals or flip-flops. Bring warm clothing for the evening.

Is there live music? Yes, a saxophonist performs live, creating a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.

Final Words

The Columbus Romantic Dinner Cruise in Cancun offers a compelling blend of stunning lagoon views, flavorful dining, and live entertainment, all wrapped in a charming boat setting. It’s an experience that feels both special and relaxed, making it perfect for couples, anniversary celebrants, or anyone looking to enjoy Cancun from a different angle. With good reviews emphasizing friendly staff, delicious food, and an atmosphere of elegance, this cruise stands out as a worthwhile addition to your vacation.

While it’s not a perfect fit for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or very young children—the overall consensus is clear: this cruise is a well-priced way to enjoy a romantic, scenic evening. For travelers who want a taste of Cancun’s natural beauty paired with good food and lively music, this tour really delivers.