Mexico’s Quintana Roo coastline delivers four standout drinking tours worth your precious vacation time. The best combines natural beauty with libations: a day trip to Contoy Island’s nature reserve includes a satisfying lunch and open bar. Another winner sails to Isla Mujeres, mixing snorkeling with a hearty Mexican buffet and drinks. For evening entertainment, the pirate cruise off Cozumel pairs theatrical fun with gourmet dining and unlimited beverages. My personal favorite takes you snorkeling at El Cielo and Palancar Reef, where fresh ceviche and cold drinks await back on board. Let’s explore these top-rated tours.
Good To Know
- The Cozumel Pirate Ship Cruise offers an immersive pirate-themed experience with a gourmet dinner and open bar for $82.19 per person.
- The Catamaran to Isla Mujeres tour includes a 2-hour sail, snorkeling at Arrecife El Meco reef, and a Mexican buffet lunch for $54.75 per person.
- The Contoy Island Tour provides an opportunity to see seabirds, sea turtles, and marine life with round-trip transportation, guided boat ride, lunch, and open bar for $134.45 per person.
- The Cozumel El Cielo & Palancar Snorkel tour offers a small-group experience with an open bar, ceviche, fruits, and tostadas for $54.80 per person.
- These tours in Quintana Roo cater to diverse preferences, with positive customer feedback and emphasize safety measures and knowledgeable guides.
Cancun: Contoy Island With Lunch and Open Bar
One of the top day trips from Cancun is the Contoy Island With Lunch and Open Bar tour. This 9-hour excursion takes travelers to the beautiful Isla Contoy, a protected nature reserve known for its diverse wildlife and stunning beaches.
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from 643 reviews, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided boat ride, and a delicious lunch accompanied by an open bar.
Visitors can expect to see an array of seabirds, including frigatebirds and pelicans, as well as the opportunity to spot sea turtles and other marine life. The tour also includes time for snorkeling, allowing guests to explore the island’s vibrant coral reefs.
With a price tag of $134.45 per person, this tour offers an immersive and memorable experience for those looking to discover the natural wonders of Quintana Roo. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, the Contoy Island tour is a popular choice for visitors to the Riviera Maya.
Read our full review: Cancun: Contoy Island With Lunch and Open Bar Review
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Catamaran to Isla Mujeres, Lunch, Open Bar & Snorkel
For those seeking a more laidback island experience, the Catamaran to Isla Mujeres, Lunch, Open Bar & Snorkel tour offers a delightful alternative to the Contoy Island excursion. Priced at $54.75 per person, this 8-hour adventure departs from the Cancun Hotel Zone and includes roundtrip transportation, snorkeling, a Mexican buffet lunch, and free-flowing alcoholic beverages.
The itinerary starts with a 30-minute van ride to Playa Tortugas, where guests board a catamaran for the 2-hour sail to Isla Mujeres. Upon arrival, they’ll have the opportunity to snorkel at the Arrecife El Meco reef before enjoying a leisurely lunch aboard the catamaran.
The return journey to Cancun takes another 2 hours, allowing ample time to relax on the pristine beaches of Isla Mujeres or explore the island’s charming shops.
Despite a single customer review noting unclear credit card payment information, this tour promises a well-rounded day of island exploration, snorkeling, and indulgence.
Read our full review: Catamaran to Isla Mujeres, Lunch, Open Bar & Snorkel Review
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Cozumel: Pirate Ship Cruise With Open Bar, Dinner, and Show
The Cozumel: Pirate Ship Cruise With Open Bar, Dinner, and Show offers a unique and immersive experience for guests. Priced from $82.19 per person, the 3.5-hour tour includes a pirate show, gourmet dinner, and an open bar.
Guests can expect entertainment such as pirate stories, sword fights, games, and dances. The menu features a salad, vegetables, rice, baked potatoes, lobster, and steak. The open bar is included, and a deluxe option with premium brands is available.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 119 reviews, the tour receives praise for its engaging staff and memorable experiences, even in inclement weather. The tour accommodates seniors and introverts, and it’s wheelchair accessible.
Guests should arrive 30 minutes before the 5:45 PM departure time. A $5 dock surcharge is payable in cash on the day. Infants can board for free with a paying adult, and tips are included in the experience.
Read our full review: Cozumel: Pirate Ship Cruise With Open Bar, Dinner, and Show Review
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Cozumel: El Cielo & Palancar Snorkel With Open Bar & Ceviche
Travelers can embark on a rejuvenating 4.5-hour excursion with the Cozumel: The Sky & Palancar Snorkel with Open Bar & Ceviche tour. Priced at $54.80 per person, this small-group adventure allows participants to explore the breathtaking El Cielo and Palancar Reef.
At El Cielo, they’ll swim amid the stunning starfish and turquoise waters, while Palancar Reef offers the chance to spot corals, rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish. The tour includes an open bar, ceviche, fruits, and tostadas, all while accompanied by knowledgeable guides with over 15 years of experience.
With a maximum group size of 14, travelers can enjoy a personalized experience. Though the $5 port fee per person is an additional cost, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While some guests have reported missing ceviche or price discrepancies, the overall feedback remains positive, praising the guides’ expertise and the tour’s safety measures.
Read our full review: Cozumel: El Cielo & Palancar Snorkel With Open Bar & Ceviche Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Are the Tours Typically?
The length of the tours typically varies, but they’re often around 2-4 hours long. This allows enough time to visit multiple locations and sample a range of drinks or other experiences without feeling rushed.
What Is the Cancelation Policy for These Tours?
The cancelation policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled 24-48 hours in advance. Many tours have flexible policies, so it’s best to check with the tour operator about their specific cancelation terms.
Are the Open Bars Unlimited or Have Restrictions?
The open bars on these tours often have restrictions, with a set number of drinks included or a time limit on the unlimited service. Guests should check the tour details to understand the specific open bar policies.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated on the Tours?
Most drinking tour providers can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. They’ll work to ensure guests with special dietary needs can fully participate and enjoy the experience.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tours?
Many drinking tours have age and fitness requirements. They often require participants to be of legal drinking age and able to walk moderate distances. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific details.
The Sum Up
Quintana Roo offers a wide range of drinking tours, catering to various interests. From exploring the stunning Contoy Island to indulging in a Pirate Ship Cruise, visitors can enjoy open bars, delicious meals, and captivating experiences. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing catamaran ride or an adventurous snorkeling adventure, Quintana Roo has a lot to offer looking to quench their thirst and create lasting memories.