Catamaran Sail and Snorkeling Tour with Open Bar in Puerto Morelos

A Dive into the Caribbean: Catamaran Sail and Snorkeling Tour with Open Bar in Puerto Morelos

If you’re craving a day that combines sailing, vibrant marine life, and Caribbean relaxation, this catamaran tour from Cancun might just be what you’re looking for. For around $119 per person, you’ll spend roughly 7 hours cruising along the coast of Puerto Morelos, with opportunities to snorkel over the Great Mayan Reef system, enjoy a gourmet lunch, and sip from an open bar onboard. The tour promises hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free, and offers morning or afternoon departures to fit your schedule.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see the stunning coastline of Riviera Maya while sailing on a comfortable catamaran, and the quality of the included amenities—snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and a friendly crew. The semi-private feel created by smaller groups makes this a relaxing escape for travelers of all ages. That said, one point to note is the capacity limit, which has increased from 15 to 45 due to COVID restrictions, meaning it can get busier than some might expect, sometimes cutting into snorkeling time.

This tour is well-suited for couples, small groups, or families seeking a lively yet relaxed day on the water. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic marine experiences with a touch of comfort and fun, this trip offers a good balance. However, those looking for a very intimate or secluded experience may find it a bit crowded at times. Overall, it’s a solid option for travelers who want value, scenic views, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying transportation.
• Snorkeling at Puerto Morelos National Reef Park offers vibrant coral and marine life.
• Open bar and gourmet lunch enhance the relaxing vibe, with drinks flowing during and after snorkeling.
• Group sizes have increased to a maximum of 45, so expect a lively and social atmosphere.
• Flexible departure times cater to different schedules, whether you’re an early riser or prefer a lazy afternoon.
• Some reviews mention capacity issues affecting snorkeling time, so plan accordingly if snorkeling is your priority.

The Perfect Caribbean Day: What You Can Expect

Starting with hotel pickup, we find the convenience of being transported directly from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or the Riviera Maya to Puerto Morelos marina. This means no worries about navigating or parking—just sit back and enjoy the tropical scenery. Once aboard, the crew welcomes you with friendly professionalism, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Cruising the Riviera Maya

As we set sail from Puerto Morelos, we’re treated to beautiful views of Riviera Maya beaches. The sailing portion of the trip lasts about an hour, giving everyone a chance to relax, socialize, and admire the coastline. The boat’s design ensures stability and comfort, making it suitable for anyone who might be new to sailing.

Snorkeling at Puerto Morelos Reef

The real highlight is the snorkeling! You’ll don your gear and explore the Puerto Morelos National Reef Park, part of the larger Great Mayan Reef system. Expect to see colorful coral formations, fans, and a lively array of fish, according to reviews praising the “vibrant underwater world.” The hour-long snorkeling stop is generally well-organized with guides helping you find your fit with masks and snorkels, although some first-timers mention a slight challenge fitting their masks—something to keep in mind if you’re inexperienced.

Beach and Relaxation

After snorkeling, the boat sails to some of the most stunning beaches in the Riviera Maya. Our group spent about two hours in this area, giving plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking up the Caribbean atmosphere. Some reviews note that the crowd size can influence how much time is spent at each stop, as larger groups may require splitting into smaller snorkel teams.

Lunch and Drinks

Back at the marina, a delicious lunch awaits, often highlighted as a standout in reviews. You’ll enjoy local flavors and fresh ingredients, with some mentioning particularly good guacamole. The onboard open bar begins during snorkeling and continues throughout the day, offering unlimited drinks—from sodas and water to cocktails and beer, for those who are legal drinking age. One reviewer noted that the drinks helped make the experience even more relaxing, especially with the warm sun and gentle breeze.

Final Thoughts

The tour wraps up with a return transfer to your hotel, leaving you refreshed and with plenty of stories to tell. Throughout, the friendly guides and crew receive high praise, often described as knowledgeable and entertaining.

Deep Dive: The Itinerary in Detail

Wake-up and Pickup

Depending on your hotel location, you’ll be picked up between early morning and early afternoon. The pickup process is generally smooth, although some reviews mention confusion or delays—so it’s worth confirming your pickup time in advance.

Marina Arrival and Boarding

At Puerto Morelos marina, the crew’s friendliness shines. The catamaran itself is a spacious vessel capable of holding up to 45 passengers, which some reviews point out is larger than initially expected when booking. This increased capacity can affect snorkeling group sizes and personal space, but it also means more lively camaraderie onboard.

Sailing and Sightseeing

The sailing segment offers panoramic views of the coast, with the crew sharing insights about the region. This part of the trip is ideal for relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying the sea breeze.

Snorkeling at the Reef

Once anchored near the reef, you’ll gear up and jump into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life. The reef’s coral formations and schools of fish make this a memorable underwater experience. Guides are available for those who need assistance, and snorkel gear is provided.

Beach and Free Time

After snorkeling, the boat heads to a stretch of beautiful beaches. You’ll have about two hours here, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking quick beach walks. Keep in mind that large groups sometimes require organizers to split groups, which can cut into free time or snorkeling duration.

Lunch and Return

Back at the marina, a buffet-style lunch is served, often praised for its local flavors and fresh ingredients. The two drinks included with lunch are a nice touch, and the unlimited open bar means you can continue enjoying drinks after the snorkeling. The return transfer gets you back to your hotel, usually smoothly and on time.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Several travelers have commented positively on the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One review states, “Great time, great crew—we were really taken care of,” highlighting the importance of attentive staff. Others appreciated the stunning views and the quality of the lunch, with one reviewer calling the guacamole “the best.”

However, not all feedback is perfect. Some mention capacity issues leading to reduced snorkeling time or crowding, which might affect those seeking a more intimate experience. A few also noted initial confusion with transportation arrangements, so it’s wise to double-check your pickup details beforehand.

Is This Tour Worth The Price?

At $119, this tour offers a mix of sailing, snorkeling, and dining, making it fairly good value for a full day’s adventure. The inclusive amenities—snorkel gear, lunch, drinks, and hotel transfers—help justify the cost, especially when you consider the convenience and the chance to explore the Caribbean’s underwater beauty without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

The lively atmosphere, combined with professional guides, makes it an appealing option for families, couples, or groups looking to enjoy a fun day in the sun. For travelers wanting more privacy or a more subdued experience, it might feel a bit crowded, but for those who enjoy a social vibe, this trip hits the right notes.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors curious about the reef but not wanting to snorkel independently. It’s also suited for small groups or couples seeking a lively, relaxed day on the water with great scenery and good food. If you’re eager to indulge in unlimited drinks and enjoy a friendly crew, you’ll find it very satisfying.

However, if you’re a snorkel enthusiast aiming for maximum time underwater or prefer quiet, secluded beaches, you might want to consider other options. Also, travelers who prioritize small-group intimacy should be aware of the larger capacity, which might compromise the experience slightly.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making the day more convenient and stress-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, sailing, snorkeling, and lunch.

Can I choose a morning or afternoon departure?
Yes, you can select either a morning or an afternoon departure to suit your schedule.

Are snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided?
Absolutely; all snorkeling gear and life jackets are included in the tour.

Is there an age restriction for drinking?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18 years.

What is the capacity of the boat?
The boat can carry up to 45 passengers, which has increased from the originally promised 15 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a dock fee of $20 per person payable at the marina. Souvenir photos are available for purchase.

How is the food?
Reviews highlight the lunch as delicious, with some mentioning the best guacamole they’ve had—a nice touch after snorkeling.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this catamaran sail and snorkeling tour offers a lively, scenic day out with friendly guides, great food, and the chance to see vibrant marine life—all at a reasonable price. It’s well-suited to those who enjoy social atmospheres, comfortable amenities, and memorable views. While it can get crowded and may sometimes cut into snorkeling time, for many travelers, the combination of sailing, snorkeling, and Caribbean sun makes it a worthwhile adventure that captures the laid-back spirit of Mexico’s Caribbean coast.