Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club

A Day on the Water: The Riviera Maya Catamaran Snorkeling Experience

If you’re heading to Playa del Carmen or the surrounding Riviera Maya and craving a blend of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing beach time, this catamaran cruise is worth considering. For about $85 per person, you’ll spend roughly three hours on the water, sailing along the Caribbean, exploring coral reefs, and unwinding at a chic beach club.

What we really like about this trip? First, the expert guidance and friendly crew, led by guides like Juan Carlos and Luciano, who make sure everyone’s having a good time and learning about the local marine life. Second, the chance to snorkel at two different reef spots, giving you ample opportunity to see the colorful fish and coral formations that make the Caribbean special.

Of course, a potential consideration is the limited snorkeling time—about 30 minutes at each reef—which might not satisfy those eager to get as much underwater exploring as possible. And, be aware of the additional marina fee of $15 USD per person, which is paid in cash upon arrival.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized, fun outing with a mix of active snorkeling and relaxing scenery. It’s especially good for those who want a knowledgeable guide, beautiful views, and a straightforward half-day adventure.

Key Points

• Snorkeling at two reef locations offers diverse marine encounters.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics for visitors.
• All snorkeling gear and refreshments are included, adding convenience and comfort.
• Learn about marine biodiversity directly from your friendly guides.
• Beach access at Maroma Beach is a bonus after the cruise.
• Value for money is high, considering the full experience and amenities.

This experience made our article of Playa Del Carmen’s 16 Top Snorkeling Experiences (With Prices).

Exploring the Riviera Maya Catamaran Cruise: An Honest Look

When we think about a trip that combines sailing, snorkeling, and a bit of beach relaxation**, it’s easy to imagine a perfect Caribbean day. This Riviera Maya cruise from Playa del Carmen offers just that, with some practical considerations to keep in mind.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

The adventure begins with hotel pickup—a big plus for those who don’t want to hassle with transportation. The pickup service covers most of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun hotels, making the start seamless. Once at Maroma Beach, you’ll get checked in, receive your snorkel gear, and then step aboard a modern, spacious catamaran.

The sailing itself is peaceful, and the views are captivating—the bright blue waters, the gentle sway of the boat, and the distant shoreline make for excellent photo opportunities. The boat crew, including guides like Juan Carlos and Luciano (mentioned fondly in reviews), are known for their friendly, attentive service and knowledgeable commentary about the coral reefs and marine life.

The snorkeling stops are the highlight. You’ll visit two reef sites—one at the second largest coral reef system in the world—where you can see tropical fish, coral formations, and perhaps some rays or small sharks if luck is on your side. The snorkeling duration is approximately 30 minutes at each site, which many reviews find enough to enjoy the underwater world without feeling rushed.

Post-snorkeling, you’re free to towel off and relax on the boat or enjoy some refreshments—water, soft drinks, and beer are included. For those wanting a bit more, the trip offers live commentary in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

The Beach Club: Maroma Beach

After the cruise, the fun continues at Maroma Beach, where the tour includes free access. It’s praised for its clean, uncrowded shoreline—great for a peaceful stroll or to soak up some sun after snorkeling. Reviewers mention the beach amenities as a relaxing bonus, though some note that the food options at the beach club are limited and somewhat overpriced.

The Value: What’s Included and What Costs Extra

The $85 ticket provides a roundtrip transfer, a guided snorkeling tour, snorkeling equipment, and refreshments—a package that makes it easy to see the value when you consider the alternative of booking all these components separately. However, there’s a $15 marina fee per person payable in cash, which can be a surprise if you’re not prepared.

Some reviews mention that snorkeling time could be longer, and the lunch at the beach club is described as small and not very filling, with some feeling it’s not worth the extra cost if you’re expecting a hearty meal. Others appreciate the friendly staff and beautiful scenery, considering it a fair price for a memorable half-day.

The Experience: Authentic, Educational, and Fun

One standout feature is the emphasis on educating guests about the local ecosystems. Guides often share insights about coral health and marine biodiversity, adding an educational layer that enhances the trip. This makes it particularly appealing for curious travelers or families with children.

The guides’ friendliness and expertise are frequently praised. As one reviewer put it, “Juan Carlos and Luciano made sure we enjoyed every minute,” which underlines the importance of good crew in making the experience worthwhile.

Potential Drawbacks: Paying Attention to Details

While most find the trip enjoyable, a few reviews highlight disappointments. Some mention late pickups or miscommunication about the exact timing of return and lunch. A few travelers felt the snorkeling duration was too short or that the beach club didn’t provide much value.

Another issue raised is the additional marina fee—a common frustration for travelers who prefer all costs included upfront. Also, some reviews note that the tour may be longer than three hours, which could be a surprise if you’re on a tight schedule.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect if you’re looking for an easy, scenic outing with a mix of snorkeling, sailing, and beach relaxation. It suits travelers who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable staff and want the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Families, first-time snorkelers, and those seeking a short, high-quality Caribbean experience will find this a good fit.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Adventure for You?

If you love the idea of sailing along turquoise waters, discovering vibrant coral reefs, and unwinding at a well-maintained beach club, this Riviera Maya catamaran tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy those dreams. The included snorkeling gear and refreshments make it easy to relax without fuss, and the friendly guides ensure you learn a bit about the marine environment as you go.

However, if you’re eager for extensive underwater exploration or gourmet food options, you might find this trip a bit light on those comforts. It’s best suited for relaxed, curious travelers who want a balanced mix of activity and leisure with a focus on authentic scenery and friendly service.

Overall, for its value, views, and ease of access, this tour earns a solid 4.5 out of 5. It’s a reliable choice for those wanting a half-day escape that combines the beauty of the Caribbean with friendly guidance.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from most centrally located hotels in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya, making logistics easier.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers roundtrip transportation, guided snorkeling tours, snorkeling equipment, refreshments (water, soft drinks, and beer), and access to Maroma Beach after the tour.

How long is the snorkeling?
Snorkeling at each reef is approximately 30 minutes, with two stops planned during the 3-hour excursion.

Are food and drinks included besides refreshments?
Light drinks are included during the trip, but food options are limited. The tour does not include meals, and lunch at the beach club is an optional extra.

Is there a marina fee?
Yes, a $15 USD per person fee is payable in cash at the marina upon arrival.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 6 and above can join, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum age is 6 years.

Whether you’re looking for a quick taste of the Caribbean’s underwater beauty or a relaxing day on the water, this Riviera Maya catamaran cruise offers a practical, enjoyable experience that captures the essence of the region’s marine charm.