From Puerto Aventuras: Share Catamaran Tour

If you’re considering a day on the water in the Riviera Maya, the Share Catamaran Tour from Puerto Aventuras offers a compelling mix of snorkeling, scenic sailing, and good food. While it’s not the most intimate or exclusive experience out there, it does deliver a well-rounded taste of what the Caribbean coast has to offer, with options that suit families, groups, or solo travelers craving a fun, relaxing outing.

One thing we love about this tour is how much it packs into just four hours: you get to snorkel at the second largest reef in the world, enjoy a luxury 65-foot catamaran cruise, and indulge in a full BBQ meal with exotic drinks. The second highlight is the crew—many reviews praise their attentiveness and friendliness, making the whole experience feel both safe and lively.

That said, a potential drawback is the variability in reviews about the overall quality and crowd size; some travelers found the experience less “luxury” than expected, with suggestions to manage expectations about the atmosphere and food.

This tour suits anyone looking for a balanced day of adventure and relaxation — families with kids, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to meet others. If you enjoy a scenic cruise combined with snorkeling and good food, this is likely a great pick.

This experience made our article of 4 Top-Rated Puerto Aventuras Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• Snorkeling at the reef: You’ll snorkel at the second largest barrier reef, supporting vibrant coral and sea life.
• Luxury catamaran: The 65-foot vessel promises comfort and style, perfect for a relaxed day at sea.
• Meals and drinks: A full BBQ with four options and an open bar should satisfy most appetites and tastes.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for kids and families, with guides to help first-timers.
• Varied reviews: Some find the experience less exclusive or “luxury” than advertised, so manage expectations.
• Flexible options: Private sunset cruises available, offering beautiful Riviera views at dusk.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Breaking Down the Experience: A Detailed Look

Starting Point and Group Dynamics

The tour begins at the Puerto Aventuras marina, a lively hub that travelers often find easy to reach. The crew welcomes guests and provides a safety briefing, which is especially reassuring for first-time snorkelers. Reviews indicate mixed group sizes; some travelers expected a small, semi-private vibe, but encountered larger groups of over 50 people. This may influence your sense of intimacy or exclusivity—good to keep in mind if you’re craving a more private experience.

The Voyage to the Reef

Once aboard, the vessel sets sail for about an hour across calm waters to reach the second largest barrier reef in the world. The cruise offers scenic views of the Riviera Maya coastline, making the journey itself worth the price. Expect the crew to be lively and engaging, making the ride enjoyable. Some reviews praise the professional guides for their attentiveness and helpfulness, especially for beginners.

Snorkel Adventure

The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop. You’ll be supervised by dive masters and guides, so if you’re new to snorkeling, you’ll likely find the staff helpful and reassuring. The reef is known for its coral heads and diverse sea life, giving you a chance to see vibrant fish, coral formations, and maybe even a sea turtle or two. However, a few reviews mention that if the waves are high, snorkeling may be less enjoyable or even impossible, so check the weather forecast if you’re sensitive to choppy waters.

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The Meal and Open Bar

Back on the boat, it’s time for what many consider the true treat: a full BBQ grill with four main options—NY steak, fish fillet, chicken fajitas, or hamburgers—and drinks from the open bar. The quality of the food receives mixed reviews; some travelers praise it as “delicious” and plentiful, while others describe it as average or comparable to fast food. The good news is that the meal is served hot and fresh during the cruise, providing a satisfying break from the water activity.

Scenic Sailing and Sunset Option

After lunch, the boat leisurely returns along the coast, offering stunning views of the Riviera Maya. If you opt for the private sunset cruise, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience with spectacular sunset vistas—perfect for couples or anyone wanting a romantic end to the day.

Additional Costs and Logistics

Be aware that there’s a $15 marina dock fee payable in cash, which is not included in the ticket price. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but you can arrange round-trip transportation for an extra fee. The activity lasts around four hours and usually departs in the morning, making it an easy addition to your day in the area. It’s accessible for wheelchairs and offers guides in Spanish, English, and German.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

What makes this tour worthwhile?
Many travelers mention the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful reef as highlights. The reef’s coral formations and sea life make snorkeling worthwhile, especially for beginners or those who want an easy, guided experience. The ship itself is described as “beautiful” and spacious, providing a comfortable platform for relaxing and socializing.

Food and drinks are a key part of the appeal, with some reviewers praising the first-class meal and variety of drinks. However, some mention that the food might not be of gourmet quality—more like a hearty BBQ. So, if culinary excellence is your priority, you might find it average, but the convenience and quantity make up for it.

Group size and atmosphere vary based on reviews. Some find it lively and not overly crowded, while others expected a more exclusive feel. If you prefer a small, semi-private tour, it’s worth clarifying with the provider or considering private options if available.

Weather considerations are important—high waves can diminish snorkeling quality. Always check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes. The staff are helpful and will guide you appropriately if conditions aren’t ideal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s suitable for families, groups, or singles eager to see a famous reef while enjoying a day at sea. If you’re looking for a leisurely cruise with good food and snorkeling, this tour hits those marks well.

However, those expecting luxury and exclusivity might be disappointed given the mixed reviews about crowd levels and food quality. It’s more of a lively, fun outing than an ultra-premium experience. It’s also a good choice if you’re curious about the reef and enjoy meeting other travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Share Catamaran Tour from Puerto Aventuras offers a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water. You’ll get to explore the stunning reef, enjoy a relaxed sailing experience, and indulge in a hearty BBQ meal—all for a reasonable price compared to private charters or more exclusive tours. The crew’s friendliness and the scenic views add real value, making it a solid choice for those wanting a dependable, fun day at sea.

If you’re coming to the Riviera Maya and want a versatile activity that combines snorkeling, sailing, and good food, this tour should definitely be on your list. Just keep your expectations in check regarding crowd size and the food’s gourmet level, and you’ll have a memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, the tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. However, you can contact the provider for round-trip transportation at an extra cost.

What should I bring for the snorkel trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, sandals, biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, an underwater camera, and cash for souvenirs or tips.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with kids are welcome, especially since guides are available to help first-time snorkelers.

How long is the snorkeling time?
The exact duration varies depending on conditions, but you can expect to snorkel at the reef with supervision from guides. Some reviews mention the snorkeling experience being too short, but it’s enough for a quick, enjoyable visit.

What are the meal options?
You can choose from NY steak, fish fillet, chicken fajitas, or a hamburger. The meal is served during the cruise and is considered good for a BBQ-style lunch.

Are there any hidden fees?
Yes, there is a $15 marina dock fee payable in cash that’s not included in the ticket cost.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I book a private sunset cruise?
Yes, sunset cruises are available as a private option, offering a more intimate experience with stunning coastal views.

In all, this tour offers a solid day out, blending the natural beauty of the reef with the fun of sailing—a good value for travelers eager to enjoy the Riviera Maya from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby