Catamaran Sail and Snorkeling Tour with Open Bar in Puerto Morelos

Our review explores a popular 7-hour catamaran tour departing from Cancun that promises sailing along the coast, snorkeling over the vibrant reefs, and enjoying generous drinks and a gourmet lunch. If you’re craving a day of relaxing on the water with a splash of adventure, this tour balances fun and value—though it’s worth knowing a few details beforehand.

What we love: The chance to sail along the Caribbean coast, soaking up beautiful views, and the excellent onboard snorkeling gear and open bar that keep the experience lively. The staff’s friendliness and the quality of the lunch also garner praise.

One consideration: The group size can sometimes be larger than expected—reviews mention more than 15 people on the boat, which might impact your snorkeling time or the serenity of the trip.

This experience suits travelers looking for a social, lively day on the water with plenty of drinks, good food, and easy access to some of the area’s most celebrated reefs. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a balance of adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya, simplifying logistics.
• Snorkeling at Puerto Morelos National Reef Park offers vibrant coral and fish, part of the renowned Great Mayan Reef.
• All meals and drinks are covered, with an open bar providing unlimited drinks on board.
• The group size can be larger than initially expected, which may affect the experience.
• The tour offers morning or afternoon departures to fit your schedule.
• It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, comfortable with water activities and some walking.

Starting the Day: Easy Access and Comfortable Transfers

From the moment we consider this tour, the convenience of hotel pickup in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or the Riviera Maya is a major plus. It removes the hassle of navigating to the marina and ensures a relaxed start. The tour begins at Marina El Cid Puerto Morelos, a scenic point along the coast, easily reachable and near public transportation options.

The transfer is timed to get you to the boat ready for the adventure ahead, with most travelers booking this at least 18 days in advance, indicating its popularity. Once on the boat, the crew greets you with warmth, setting the tone for a friendly, fun-filled day.

The Catamaran Experience and Coastal Views

As you set sail, you’ll enjoy beautiful coastal scenery—ribbons of beaches, resorts, and lush greenery. The catamaran’s spacious deck provides plenty of room for lounging, chatting, or simply soaking in the breeze and sunshine.

The crew offers insightful commentary—highlighting landmarks and sharing tidbits about the area—which is appreciated as you glide past the Riviera Maya. We liked the way they kept the atmosphere lively but relaxed, making it suitable for groups or couples alike.

Snorkeling at Puerto Morelos National Reef Park

The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop at the Puerto Morelos National Reef Park, part of the Great Mayan Reef system. The water here is crystal clear, with coral formations teeming with colorful fish and marine life. Up to an hour is allocated here, giving ample time to explore the underwater world.

Based on reviews, the snorkel gear and life jackets are provided, and the crew is helpful in assisting first-timers. One reviewer noted, “we had some first-time snorkelers who struggled with the masks, but the staff helped them get comfortable.” This suggests the tour is accommodating to less experienced snorkelers, though you should be prepared for a brief introduction and assistance.

Lunch and Refreshments: Savoring Caribbean Flavors

Post-snorkel, you’ll return to the boat to enjoy unlimited drinks from the onboard open bar, including cocktails, beers, and soft drinks. The gourmet lunch at the marina restaurant offers a welcome opportunity to refuel. One traveler praised the guacamole, calling it the “best” they’d had, and reviews indicate that the lunch quality surpasses what you might expect for a tour at this price point.

The lunch lasts about an hour, giving you time to relax and discuss the morning’s highlights. The included drinks with lunch, along with the open bar earlier, make this a very drink-friendly experience, especially for those wanting to unwind and socialize.

Sailing Back and Additional Beach Time

After lunch, the boat heads to explore some of the most stunning beaches in the Riviera Maya. The two-hour sail back offers more scenic views, perfect for photos and continued relaxation. Some reviews mention feeling a bit rushed, as group size and snorkeling timing can occasionally cut into beach time, but overall, the balance between activities keeps the day engaging.

At $119 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the included transportation, meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided experience. While some reviews note larger-than-expected groups—more than 15 guests—this can be a trade-off for a lively, social atmosphere. The professional guides and crew tend to get high marks for friendliness and attentiveness, which adds to the overall experience.

One of the tour’s strong points is its flexibility: you can choose a morning or afternoon departure to fit your schedule, making it adaptable to your travel plans. The hotel pickup and drop-off streamline your day, freeing you from logistical worries.

Common Drawbacks and Tips

A few guests have expressed concerns about capacity and snorkeling time, with some feeling that a larger group limited their ability to enjoy the water fully. If small group intimacy is your priority, this might be a consideration.

Another point to keep in mind is the dock fee of $20 per person, payable locally—something to budget for in advance. The tour also requires moderate physical fitness, mainly because of water activities and walking around the marina.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who appreciate a lively vibe and a day on the water. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or groups who enjoy socializing with drinks and good company, especially given the open bar and friendly guides.

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day with some snorkeling and don’t mind sharing the boat with a larger group, this package hits the mark. Families with older children or those comfortable in the water will find it enjoyable, though younger kids might find the boat’s size and activities less ideal.

This catamaran sail and snorkeling tour offers a balanced mix of coastal views, vibrant marine life, and lively social atmosphere. The included meals and drinks make it a hassle-free way to enjoy a Caribbean day, especially for those who love meeting new people and making the most of the onboard amenities.

The professional guides and friendly crew are consistent highlights, helping you feel safe and cared for during your aquatic adventures. While some may find the group size a bit crowded, others will appreciate the energetic, bustling environment.

If you’re after a well-rounded Caribbean experience that combines sailing, snorkeling, good food, and drinks, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to maximize fun without over-complicating their plans or spending a fortune.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya, making logistics simple.

How long is the snorkeling time?
You’ll have about an hour to snorkel at Puerto Morelos National Reef Park, enough to see vibrant coral and marine life.

What’s the group size?
While the tour can accommodate up to 40 travelers, some reviews mention groups larger than 15 people, which may impact snorkeling or beach time.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a gourmet lunch and unlimited drinks from the onboard open bar during the trip, with an additional lunch at the marina.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided.

Can beginners snorkel?
Yes, the crew assists first-timers, and the water conditions are suitable for beginners—just remember it’s a moderate physical activity.

This tour strikes a balance between adventure, relaxation, and social fun, making it a great choice for travelers eager to enjoy the Caribbean’s best sights and flavors in a lively, friendly setting.