The Riviera Maya is much more than paradisiac beaches and all-inclusive resorts. If you’re an active traveler, this destination offers plenty of exciting activities.
If you ask me, one of the best day trips from Playa del Carmen is a catamaran cruise. This way you’ll get to marvel at the turquoise, warm waters of the Caribbean Sea while taking in the glorious coastline.
You can swim, bask in the sun, and sometimes visit the islands of Cozumel or Isla Mujeres. How does it get better than that?
Oh, with snorkeling stops at the world’s second-largest barrier reef, an open bar, or a tasty lunch on the sea – right? Good thing most catamaran cruises include them all!
So, are you ready to embark on an adventure? Check out the very best Riviera Maya & Playa del Carmen catamaran tours, and take your pick!
➥ Why can you trust my selections? I have a decade of experience curating travel guides around the world. On top of that, I spent six months traveling around Mexico and enjoying many (many!) of its magnificent attractions. You’ll only find extraordinary, high-quality excursions below.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide for booking activities during my travels. Both platforms are reliable and offer a free cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can get a full refund by canceling most tours up to 24 hours in advance.
Looking for the short version? These are your best options:
| THE BEST TOUR | Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling with Lunch and Drinks |
| SUNSET CRUISE | Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Open Bar |
| PRIVATE BOAT CHARTER | 4-Hour Private 38′ Catamaran Tour to Paamul Beach |
| BOOZE CRUISE | Isla Mujeres Unlimited: Fun & Party |
| BACALAR TOUR | Magical Bacalar Tour with Pontoon Boat ride |
OUR PICK: The BEST Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tour
This Riviera Maya Luxury Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch and Drinks is our favorite tour. It’s a half-day adventure that takes you sailing on the shimmering waters of the Mexican Caribbean.
You’ll board a lavish catamaran, equipped with a friendly crew, an open bar, and an expansive deck to relax. Enjoy snorkeling stops at the barrier reef, and use the paddleboards and snorkeling equipment for some aquatic fun.
You might even be able to spot stingrays and turtles at Inah Reef, one of the best spots for snorkeling in the area.
A freshly-made lunch (similar to a bento box but the Mexican version of it) will be served along with unlimited drinks onboard, so all there’s left to do is enjoy. Morning and afternoon departures are available for utmost convenience.
➤ Why is this the best tour? Over 450 5-star reviews vouch for its top-notch service. In only 4 hours the tour allows you to explore the colorful reefs of the Caribbean Sea, swim in turquoise waters, and try the local cuisine. As a plus, it starts and ends at your hotel – nothing for you to plan!
Read what the reviews say:
“It was a wonderful day to sail and enjoy the Riviera Maya in this Catamaran. Amazing weather, spectacular water, incredible reefs, corals, Sea Rays, fish, and everything was just perfect. The crew, captain, hosts, bartenders – all of them work attentively to make you feel relaxed and happy to be there. Lunch was excellent, drinks were cold and with many options. I recommend 1000% this tour.”
Erika_C – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, snorkel gear, paddleboards, lunch, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other GREAT Playa del Carmen Catamaran Cruises
▶️ Check out this Full Experience Isla Mujeres: Food Aboard + Premium Drinks + Snorkel + Free Time. It’s a half-day sailing trip that takes you to the most popular island in the region. Unmissable!
Enjoy a snorkeling stop at El Meco Reef, where you can swim with colorful schools of fish. Then, relax on deck with a drink from the open bar as you sail toward Isla Mujeres. There you’ll have a few hours to explore on your own or chill at the beach.
Back onboard relish a box lunch and sip on more drinks as you glide on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a sailing cruise, an open bar, lunch, snorkel gear, and free time in Isla Mujeres. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch and Open Bar Onboard is the perfect tour to enjoy with friends. You’ll hop aboard a luxurious catamaran, and sail on the turquoise waters to the island of Cozumel.
Along the way, jump into the water to snorkel with colorful fish and corals, and try your balance with Stand-Up Paddleboards. While chilling on the boat’s deck, enjoy the glorious views as you drink your favorite cocktail from the open bar, and refuel with lunch.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, snorkel gear, paddleboards, lunch, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling is an 8-hour excursion. It combines the best of snorkeling tours with a sailing trip, and beach time – aka: a perfect day!
Leave the mainland in the morning and set sail toward Isla Contoy. This inhabited island is known for being a bird sanctuary, and you’ll get to marvel at the numerous species of birds living there. Go snorkeling at a nearby coral reef before making your way to Isla Mujeres.
On this popular island, you’ll have free time to do some shopping, explore, or relax on its main beach, Playa Norte. Breakfast and lunch, along with soft drinks and beer, will keep you going throughout the day.
This tour includes: Transfers, a guide, snorkel gear, breakfast, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Playa del Carmen Sunset Cruise
Eager to enjoy the spectacular views of the sunset from the water? Join this Riviera Maya Luxury Sunset Sailing plus Light Dinner and Open Bar.
You’ll sail along the coastline, relaxing on deck with a cocktail as you witness the stunning views bathed in golden light. As the day comes to an end, you’ll indulge in delicious bites onboard paired with unlimited drinks from the onboard open bar. Name a better way to cap off your busy day!
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a sunset cruise, dinner, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Boat Charters from Playa del Carmen
▶️ Want to be in charge of your own private boat? Book this 4-Hour Private 38′ Catamaran Tour to Paamul Beach with Food, Open Bar & Snorkel.
You’ll travel in a luxurious vessel reserved for your group of 10, sailing on the spectacular Caribbean Sea. Enjoy snorkeling stops in prime locations, go for a swim, and fish with the provided equipment.
Onboard, indulge in fresh ceviche and unlimited drinks from the open bar. The tour can be scheduled for the morning or afternoon, so it’s easily accommodated on your travel schedule.
This catamaran tour includes: A private cruise, snorkel gear, life jackets, lunch, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The 3 Hour Xpu-Ha – 51′ Sea Ray Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya is a great alternative. You’ll board a magnificent, all-inclusive yacht equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system, so you can get the party started.
Drinks will flow continuously from the open bar, and you’ll enjoy stops to go snorkeling and paddle boarding in clear waters. A scrumptious lunch will be served aboard before you return to the mainland. It’s a group trip to remember!
This tour includes: A private catamaran trip, snorkel gear, paddleboards, lunch, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Another great option is this 4-hour Private 48ft Yacht All-Inclusive in Playa del Carmen. The tour departs from Puerto Aventuras and takes you to explore the stunning coastline of Riviera Maya.
Visit In-Ha, a semi-sheltered reef area with spectacular snorkeling opportunities. You’ll also have time to swim and paddleboard in the turquoise waters.
Back onboard, savor a delicious lunch with alcoholic drinks, and make the most of the wifi to stay connected (or don’t!). You can upgrade to include transfers to the departure point.
This tour includes: A private cruise, snorkel gear, paddleboards, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Booze Cruise from Playa del Carmen
Looking for an unforgettable Playa del Carmen boat party? Isla Mujeres Unlimited: Fun & Party with Transportation is the one. During a full day out on the sea, you’ll meet other party animals to share games, drinks, and contests with!
There will be a snorkeling stop at Punta Sam Reef, access to a private beach club in Isla Mujeres, and free time on the island. Go shopping, explore some landmarks, or relax by the beach – your choice!
A buffet lunch and unlimited drinks from the open bar will keep you going.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Riviera Maya Catamaran Cruise + Maroma Beach Club
The Riviera Maya: Catamaran at Maroma Beach & Reef Snorkel is a half-day trip that takes you sailing in the pristine waters of the Caribbean.
You’ll have the chance to jump into the sea for a snorkeling session in the Great Barrier Reef, meeting all its inhabitants and coral formations. You’ll enjoy another swimming stop next to Maroma Beach, and gain access to the Maroma Beach Club after the cruise.
You’ll be served beer and soft drinks at the club’s restaurant, and enjoy a ride back to your hotel.
This tour includes: Hotel transfers, a guide, a cruise, snorkeling gear, admission to Maroma Beach Club, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Bacalar Tour from Playa del Carmen with Boat Ride
Ready for a trip to the most awe-striking Mexican lagoon? Join this Magical Bacalar Tour with Pontoon Boat ride (Transportation + Breakfast + Food). You’ll visit this mesmerizing location with a guide, and enjoy plenty of adventures.
A boat tour across the lagoon will take you to landmarks such as Cenote Azul and Cenote Cocalitos, a natural spa, Bird Island, and Canal de los Piratas.
You’ll also have time to explore the enchanting Bacalar town. Breakfast and lunch will help you refuel between activities!
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a guide, a boat cruise, entrance fees, breakfast, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
