Cancun: Boat trip with transparent bottom and drinks

If you’re dreaming of a fresh perspective on Cancun’s stunning waters, a boat trip with a transparent bottom might just be your next favorite adventure. This tour offers a rare chance to glide across the crystal-clear waters of Nichupté Lagoon and out into the Caribbean Sea, all while comfortably seated on a totally see-through vessel. It’s an experience that combines natural beauty, a splash of fun, and a dash of relaxation, all in about 90 minutes.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the unique perspective you get — floating above the water on a totally transparent boat that lets you observe marine life without getting wet. Second, the relaxed vibe, with included drinks that keep everything light and cheerful. But, of course, there are a few considerations to keep in mind, like the additional dock fee and the fact that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers eager to see Cancun’s waters from a fresh angle and enjoy a laid-back, fun outing.

Key Points

• Unique transparent boat experience offering clear views of marine life and reefs.
• Natural reserve of Nichupté Lagoon is a stunning setting to start your adventure.
• Includes two drinks (water or beer), making it a casual, social outing.
• Limited group size (up to 10 participants) for a more personalized experience.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Dock fee (100 MXN per person) payable upon arrival, not included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Love This Tour

This tour captures the essence of Cancun’s waters in a way few other activities do. If you’re a fan of adventure and nature, the see-through boat provides an unusual window into the underwater world of reef systems and marine flora. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a floating observation deck, giving you a panoramic view of marine life, which is especially appealing for those interested in photography or wildlife spotting.

We loved the way the tour starts in Envatours Cancun, with a friendly staff that seems genuinely eager to share the beauty of their natural environment. The 75-minute cruise through the lagoon is a relaxed but visually captivating experience, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the lush mangroves and waterways.

The Itinerary—A Closer Look

Starting Point: Envatours Cancun

Your adventure begins at this central location, where the friendly staff gives a quick overview and prepares you for the boat ride. The small group size adds a welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Nichupté Lagoon Exploration

The first major stop is the 75-minute cruise through the Nichupté Lagoon, a vast natural reserve covering over 3,000 hectares. This lagoon is a maze of mangroves and waterways teeming with birdlife and aquatic flora. We found that the scenic views here are particularly tranquil, with lots of opportunities to observe the lush environment from the comfort of the boat.

The real highlight, of course, is the view from underneath — the transparent bottom lets you see the water’s depths, adding a level of excitement and curiosity. You might spot schools of fish, crabs, or even the occasional turtle. The calm lagoon setting makes this part accessible and safe, especially for families or travelers who prefer a gentle cruise.

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Out into the Caribbean Sea

After the lagoon, the boat heads out into the open sea. Here, the landscape changes dramatically — the coastline stretches out, reefs appear beneath the surface, and the marine scenery becomes more vibrant. The fascinating reefs are visible through the clear waters, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get a glimpse of colorful fish darting around the coral formations.

The view from the transparent boat is particularly striking here, as you can peer directly down into the water, making it feel like you’re floating just above a natural aquarium. The live marine life viewing is one of the most appreciated aspects, especially when the water visibility is good.

Drinks and Relaxation

Throughout the trip, two drinks are included — your choice of water or beer. This not only keeps you refreshed but also adds to the laid-back, social atmosphere. Many reviewers mention how the drinks help loosen everyone up and make the experience feel more like a casual outing with friends.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included elements are straightforward: the transparent boat ride and two drinks per person. This simplicity helps keep the experience focused on the scenery and marine encounters.

However, there are a few extras to consider. The dock fee of 100 MXN per person is payable upon arrival and is not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly. Also, round-trip transportation to and from your hotel is not included, so plan your own transport or arrange it via your hotel.

The tour is live-guided in both English and Spanish, which is helpful for those who want a bit of context about what they’re seeing.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros include the novelty of the transparent boat, the chance to see underwater life without diving, and the friendly guides who are knowledgeable about the environment. Several reviewers, including one from the U.S., praised the stunning views and helpful staff.

Potential drawbacks? The photos are expensive, according to a review, so if capturing memories is important, you might want to bring your own camera or smartphone—though, be cautious with water exposure. The boat’s transparency, while spectacular, can be affected by water clarity and weather conditions, meaning some days may be less visually striking than others.

Limited accessibility is another consideration; the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so travelers with mobility issues might need to look elsewhere.

Pricing and Value

At $52 per person, this tour offers a good bang for your buck if you’re seeking a memorable, visually engaging activity. The small group format (up to 10 participants) ensures a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of drinks adds a relaxed, social element.

Compared to other Cancun excursions, this is a shorter, more relaxed activity, ideal for those with limited time or looking for a gentle adventure. It’s an affordable way to experience the underwater scenery without the need for snorkeling or diving skills.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy nature, water, and a bit of novelty. It’s especially suitable for those wanting to see marine life without getting wet or diving deep. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it a good choice for travelers who prefer a more personalized touch.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or those looking for a more active or physically demanding experience. If your priority is photography or capturing quality photos, be prepared for the costs of extra photos, or bring your own camera.

Final thoughts

This transparent boat tour in Cancun offers a memorable and visually striking way to explore the region’s waters. With friendly guides, a lush lagoon setting, and the chance to see marine life from a completely new angle, it’s a solid pick for anyone eager to combine nature, relaxation, and a pinch of adventure.

While it’s a relatively short activity, the stunning views and unique perspective make it worthwhile. Just remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and possibly your camera — but beware of the extra photo costs. For a relaxed, family-friendly outing with a touch of wow factor, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is transportation to the tour included?
No, round-trip transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Envatours Cancun.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 1.5 hours, including the lagoon cruise and time out on the Caribbean Sea.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get two drinks per person — water or beer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for family groups, but consider the water and boat environment if traveling with very young children.

Can I book in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which helps keep your plans flexible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, cash for the dock fee, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this experience accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if I want to take photos?
Photos can be expensive to purchase afterward, so consider bringing your own camera or smartphone for snapshots.

What’s the weather like?
The tour usually runs in the morning and afternoon, so check the weather forecast—clear days will give the best water visibility.

Are there any age restrictions?
Beer is only for those over 18. The tour itself is open to all ages, but check with the operator if you have specific questions about children.

To sum it up, the Cancun transparent boat tour offers a unique, visually captivating experience at a reasonable price point. Its focus on natural beauty and marine life makes it an excellent choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic outing. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate authentic encounters with nature, friendly guides, and stunning vistas. Just come prepared with sunscreen, a camera, and a sense of adventure — this is one activity you’ll talk about long after your trip wraps up.

You can check availability for your dates here: