If you’re itching for a good time on the water in Cancun without burning a hole in your wallet, you’re in the right place! From family-friendly cruises to adults-only boat parties and heart-pounding water activities, to off the beaten patch adventures, there are boatload of options for every vibe. Let’s dive in:
1. All Inclusive Party Cruise to Isla Mujeres
Price: Starts at $79.99
Hey, party people! Taking a day trip to Isla Mujeres is one of the top Cancun boat tours among tourists. What better way to get there than to party your way with this all-inclusive boat tour to this island with crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy beaches? Departing at 10 a.m., set sail on the ultimate 7-hour fiesta from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. This tour does not include hotel pick-up; you’ll have to get yourself to the meeting point at Sail Away Cancun, located right in the hotel zone. This boat trip is tailor-made for those who live for the party scene. It has an open bar serving unlimited drinks and live music to keep up the vibe. But it’s not just about the party; this boat tour has a snorkeling pitstop at colorful coral reefs full of marine life. Then, touchdown at Isla Mujeres for 1.5 hours of free time to shop, swim, and explore the island. And did I mention the buffet lunch? It includes dishes like fish, chicken, pasta, salads, and more! This adults-only, all-inclusive party boat is perfect for those looking to party it up without having to worry about anything. If you prefer another boat option, this day tour includes all of the same all-inclusive perks but on a catamaran. Either way, you’ll be sure to have a great time.
2. Half Day Sunset Cruise to Isla Mujeres
Price: Starts at $69
If you only have half a day to spare, you will find plenty of party-half-day sailing and catamaran tours to Isla Muejres. If partying is not your vibe, this sunset cruise departing at 4 p.m. is the perfect option to head to Isla Muejeres while relaxing. With this sunset cruise, you can experience Isla Mujeres without the usual crowd chaos. Sip on some cocktails and soft drinks, soak in the Mexican Caribbean coast view, and just chill. The first is Isla Mujeres, where you’ll learn about the vibrant streets and history of this small island. Check out the colonial church. You’ll spend about 3 hours there before heading to the second stop to take in the sunset views at Playa Norte. Playa Norte is one of the top beaches in the entire world, so it is undoubtedly one of the best places to view the sunset in Cancun. This boat tour provides a laid-back evening float, perfect for couples craving a bit of romance. And the cherry on top is that hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
4. Clear Glass Boat Tour to Playa Langostra Reef
Price: Starts at $30
This transparent boat brings the ocean’s wonders up close, where you can see flora, fauna, and the famous Mayan reef. This boat tour with Envatours based in the hotel zone lasts only about 1 hour, making it one of the perfect water activities to do if you’re short on time. This snorkeling tour is affordable, starting at only $30, but you’ll have to get yourself to the marina where the Envatours office is located. The good news is that it’s right in the hotel zone and only about 10 minutes from downtown Cancun. This activity is child-friendly, making it a perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy. Glide through mangroves, spot cool wildlife, and cruise in the Caribbean Sea. With the clear glass bottom boats, there’s no need to get in the water if you don’t want to; just hop on and see the underwater world without a single splash. You will have the chance to check out the Siegfried Channel, where the underwater scene is legit magical. Plus, they hook you up with refreshments like beer, soft drinks, and water, which are included in the price.
5. Island Hop & Take the Off Beaten Path to Isla Holbox
Price: Starts at $119
If you want to escape the Cancun hustle and want to do something a little off the beaten path, head to Isla Holbox. Isla Holbox, located north of the Yucatan Peninsula, is a protected wildlife reserve due to the diverse species that live on the island, making it the perfect boat trip for wildlife enthusiasts. We’re talking whale sharks, manta rays, and numerous bird species. The small island of “Isla Holbox” has miles of white-sand beaches with turquoise waters and a serene vibe. You definitely will not find party boats on this island like you will on Isla Mujeres. This boat tour is my favorite that I’ve booked because it includes four stops, making it an immersive experience that adventure seekers will appreciate.
After a 2-hour drive from Cancun and a speed boat ride, the first stop on this tour will be a 30-minute stop at Isla Passion, a secluded, uninhabited island that is a sanctuary for over a dozen bird species like flamingos, frigatebirds, pelicans, and more! The next stop will be a 1-hour stop at Punta Mosquito, another serene spot renowned for its diverse wildlife. A highlight is the stunning natural sandbar bar that opens during low tide. Lunch will be served on the boat after spending time in Punta Mosquito. The lunch served was homemade shrimp ceviche with tortillas, a chicken sandwich, and potato salad. The next stop is the mainland of Isla Holbox, where you’ll have 2 hours of free time to explore the island. Isla Holbox is not developed like mainland Cancun( although that has stated to change) and has a raw natural beauty with laid-back streets, pristine beaches, and beautiful street art. Cars other than commercial ones are not allowed on the island due to its protected status, so you’ll see lots of golf carts and bikes, which you can rent to explore the island. After Isla Holbox, the last stop is Yalahau Lagoon, a freshwater lagoon to take a dip in before the 2-hour drive back to Cancun.
6. Underwater Shipwreck Snorkeling Boat Tour
Price: Starts at $65
Dive into the ultimate Cancun underwater adventure with this shipwreck swim and snorkel tour. You will be paddling through blue waters, vibrant coral reefs, chilling with tropical fish, and catching a sneak peek at giant sea turtles. It’s like Finding Nemo, but better! You can book the snorkeling option, specifically tailored for beginners, at an extra cost. With a small group tour, you’re guaranteed personal attention and service. Even if you’re a newbie snorkeler or not-so-fishy swimmer, the guides will make it a breeze for you to explore multiple sites in no time. This tour includes pickup from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. This tour lasts about 3 hours and a half and starts at $65 USD. This activity has four departure times ranging from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., which makes it easy to include it in your itinerary.
7. Parasailing Boat Tour
Price: Starts at $63
This is not your typical boat tour, this is a boat tour and parasailing mixed into one. This includes only a 10 minute boat ride, but 15 minutes of parasailing over your choice of the ocean or lagoon. Feel that rush as you take off and soak in views of the hotel zone, Isla Mujeres, and the lush jungle below. You get to pick whether you want an ocean or lagoon vibe for your scenic flight. This activity starts at $63 per person and is 30 minutes of pure thrill.
8. Puerto Morelos National Reef
Price: Starts at $49
Get ready for a killer day in Puerto Morelos, Mexico, for the ultimate snorkeling adventure. This 5-hour tour includes a meeting point or hotel pickup, then a boat ride to the small fishing town of Puerto Morelos. You’ll be diving into the National Reef Park, the world’s second-biggest reef wall and one of the best options to spot various marine species. Trust me, you’ve never seen coral like this, and this activity is a must! After 45 minutes of underwater bliss, the next stop will be a private beach club for some tacos. Then, you will take a walking tour of Puerto Morelos, learning about the local life and culture in addition to checking out some of the handmade crafts. But wait, there’s more; this tour includes a tequila tasting, which liquor enthusiasts will appreciate.
9. Self- Drive Speed Boat to Puerto Morelos National Reef
Price: Starts at $59.99
What makes this boat tour special is that you get to drive your own speedboat; no experience is needed! Forget the usual touristy stuff; we’re talking about steering your own speedboat through the Cancún waters like a boss! Get ready for a wild self-drive adventure as you navigate lagoons and mangrove channels. You will follow the guide boat along the coast, where you’ll have the chance to spot tropical birds, action, and other wildlife that call the mangroves home. But hold up, that’s not all. You will take a dip into the crystal-clear Caribbean waters for a snorkeling session in the protected Puerto Morelos National Reef Park to marvel at the vibrant corals and catch a glimpse of colorful fish. This tour lasts 2 hours and starts at $60 USD.
10. Sunset Boat Tour to Nichupte Lagoon
Price: Starts at $89
Set sail for a chill 4-hour boat ride in Cancun, where the vibes are as laid-back as it gets. Cruise through the mangrove forests in Nichupte Lagoon, your personal VIP route, to spot tons of wildlife and witness ecological activities. The guides will share lots of information on the local ecosystems, introducing you to birds on the fly, crocodiles, and more! This is a nice, relaxed activity that the entire family can enjoy. As the day winds down, kick back on the boat and take in the Caribbean sunset; no Instagram filter is needed. Snacks? This tour has you covered. Plus, it includes hotel pick-up for a hassle-free experience. It’s not just a cruise; it’s a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s evening show.
11. All Inclusive Boat Day Tour to Cozumel
Price: Starts at $96
Dive into the underwater paradise at Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel! This tour includes more than just a boat ride; it includes transfers from Cancun and the Riviera Maya, ferry tickets, and even a snorkel tour on a clear glass boat. Brace yourself for a 12-hour snorkeling adventure amidst a vibrant world of fish, corals, and incredible marine life that’s unique to the reefs of Cozumel. It also includes a grab-and-go lunch and a restaurant lunch, with your choice of water, soda, or beer to wash it down. Oh, and did I mention you get to take your snorkel home as a sweet little souvenir?
In conclusion, experiencing one of the top 11 boat tours from Cancun promises an unforgettable adventure, from crystal-clear waters to vibrant marine life. However, keep an eye out for the dock fees that are often not included in the tour prices and you’re usually expected to pay this the day of your tour. Remember to factor in this additional costs when planning your boat adventure.
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