Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club

If you’re dreaming of spending a few hours on the Caribbean waters, soaking up the sun, and discovering vibrant marine life, the Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya with Snorkeling & Beach Club might just be your ticket. This tour offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and stunning scenery—all woven into an easy 3-hour package that’s perfect for a quick escape from the hustle.

What we love about this experience is how it combines guided snorkeling over coral reefs with the chance to unwind at Maroma Beach afterward. Plus, the included drinks and snorkel gear make it straightforward and hassle-free. On the flip side, potential travelers should consider that the tour might feel a little short for those craving more time underwater or on the water.

This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of water-based fun and beach relaxation, especially if you’re staying near Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Rivera Maya. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups wanting a taste of Caribbean marine beauty without a full-day commitment. If you’re after a more extensive snorkeling adventure or gourmet lunch, you might want to explore other options—but for many, this trip hits the right note.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: A 3-hour tour perfect for a quick Caribbean escape.
• Guided Snorkeling: Learn about marine ecosystems with knowledgeable guides.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, water, soft drinks, and beers included.
• Hotel Pickup: Convenient pickup and drop-off from most Riviera Maya, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen hotels.
• Scenic Routes: Sail along coral reefs and enjoy stunning water views.
• Relaxation & Refreshment: Post-snorkeling access to Maroma Beach for lounging or swimming.

What to Expect from the Catamaran Cruise

This experience is designed to give you a taste of Caribbean maritime beauty in a manageable, enjoyable package. The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, making logistics simple and removing the hassle of finding your way to the dock. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by a modern, spacious catamaran that’s perfect for relaxing while sailing across the shimmering waters of the Caribbean.

The Itinerary: From Sailing to Snorkeling and Sunbathing

The highlight of the trip is the snorkeling at two reef locations, which is a fantastic opportunity to see tropical fish and coral formations in their natural environment. The first stop is Maroma Beach, a stretch of pristine shoreline famous for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. You’ll be guided through two snorkeling sessions—each offering a chance to explore different sections of the reef—before returning to the boat for a well-deserved break.

Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated the guides’ knowledge. One happily noted, “Juan Carlos and Luciano made sure we enjoyed every minute.” Their insights help make the snorkeling even more engaging, especially if you’re new to underwater exploration.

The Reef Experience: What You’ll See

The coral reefs are home to a stunning variety of marine creatures, including tropical fish and colorful corals. Some reviews highlight the stunning views and the chance to see marine life in a natural setting, which is exactly what makes snorkeling worthwhile. The tour’s focus on local ecosystems offers a little educational element, making it more than just a swim in pretty water.

Time on the Water: Reviewers mention that the actual snorkeling time is about 30 minutes, which some find a bit brief. One person said, “More time actually snorkeling would have been better,” suggesting that if you’re looking for extended underwater adventure, this might feel slightly limited.

Post-Snorkeling Relaxation at Maroma Beach

After your reef adventures, you’ll return to Maroma Beach—a beautiful, relatively uncrowded spot perfect for unwinding. Here, you can soak up the sun, wade in the shallow waters, or simply lounge and enjoy the scenic backdrop. Some reviewers appreciated the free access to the beach after the tour, making it a seamless transition from water activity to relaxation.

The Return and Additional Details

The tour ends with a short sail back to the starting point, after which you’re free to stay at Maroma Beach or head back to your hotel. The roundtrip transportation is a big plus, especially for travelers who prefer not to navigate local transport. The total duration clocks in at around 3 hours, including the sailing, snorkeling, and beach time—an ideal quick escape that won’t eat up your whole day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers good value for the price of $85 per person. Included are:

• Roundtrip transportation from most centrally located hotels in Riviera Maya, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen
• Guided snorkeling with equipment provided
• Live commentary in English and Spanish
• Water, soft drinks, and beers (beer served after snorkeling)
• Access to Maroma Beach after the activity

What’s extra? Marina fees ($15 USD per person), souvneir photos (available for purchase), and lockers (if you wish to store valuables). Food isn’t included, but some reviews mention the lunch at the beach club as underwhelming, with a simple salad or tacos, so if you’re a foodie, you might want to bring snacks.

The Experience from Real Travelers

Many guests rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer stating, “The crew was awesome, and Juan Carlos and Luciano made sure we enjoyed every minute.” The scenic views and marine life also get high marks, with comments like, “Beautiful experience in nice water that covered corals and grassy areas.”

However, some honest feedback points out the short snorkeling periods—about 30 minutes—and that the lunch options at the beach club are quite limited. A few reviewers also expressed frustration over pickup issues or late arrivals, emphasizing the importance of timely arrivals for a smooth experience.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The pickup service is a strong convenience, covering most centrally located hotels. The group size is capped at around 100 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere lively but manageable. The tour’s 3-hour duration includes sailing, snorkeling, and beach time—short enough for a quick trip but packed with enough activity to feel worthwhile.

The timing is flexible, with the boat generally leaving in the morning, giving plenty of time to relax afterward. The group size and live bilingual commentary mean you’ll get more personalized attention compared to larger, more crowded excursions.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Based on the reviews and features, this tour offers strong value for those wanting a straightforward, scenic, and well-organized Caribbean experience. The guides and crew receive high praise for their friendliness and expertise, making sure novices and seasoned snorkelers alike have a good time.

The snorkeling at reefs provides a glimpse into the vibrant underwater world, and the hotel pickup simplifies logistics—especially if you’re not keen on navigating local transportation. The beach access afterwards is the cherry on top, giving you time to relax and reflect on your underwater adventures.

However, if you’re looking for more extensive snorkeling or gourmet meals, this might not be the best choice. The short snorkeling time and limited lunch mean it’s best suited for those who want a quick, scenic, and laid-back experience rather than a full-day adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a short, enjoyable escape on the water, especially if you’re staying near Playa del Carmen or Cancun. It’s perfect for families with kids over 6, couples, or groups who want an easygoing day of snorkeling and beach time. If you’re new to snorkeling or marine exploration, you’ll appreciate the guidance, equipment, and manageable schedule.

Those on a budget will find the price point reasonable given the inclusive nature of transportation, drinks, and guided commentary. But if you’re craving more snorkeling or a longer day, consider other options.

FAQ: Your Practical Tour Guide Questions Answered

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, and beach time.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered from most centrally located hotels in Riviera Maya, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen.

What is included in the price?
Guided snorkeling, snorkeling equipment, transportation, live commentary, water, soft drinks, and beers are included. Access to Maroma Beach after the tour is also free.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, there’s a marina fee of $15 USD per person payable in cash. Souvenir photos and lockers are optional extras.

Can children participate?
Children aged 6 and up can join, but must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum age is 6 years old.

What about food?
Food is not included in the tour. You can purchase snacks or meals at the beach club, but some reviews mention the options are limited and not very satisfying.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How does snorkeling work?
You’ll visit two reef sites, with guided snorkel sessions that typically last about 30 minutes each. Equipment is provided, and guides help make the most of your underwater time.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have mobility issues, back problems, or are pregnant, consult the provider first. You can still enjoy the water with a life jacket and guided assistance.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, waterproof camera if desired, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. Light clothing and swimwear are recommended.

The Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya with Snorkeling & Beach Club offers an excellent way to sample the beauty of the Caribbean without overcommitting your day. Its combination of guided reef snorkeling, easy transportation, and relaxing beach access makes it an attractive choice for travelers wanting a snapshot of local marine life and coastal scenery.

While not a full-day adventure, it strikes a good balance between activity and downtime, especially with the positive vibe created by attentive guides and scenic views. It’s most suited for those seeking a convenient, affordable, and enjoyable Caribbean experience with a touch of education and plenty of sun.

If you’re looking for a straightforward day on the water that won’t break the bank, this tour might just be your perfect fit. Be prepared for a short snorkeling window and a simple beachside lunch, but rest assured that many guests leave with smiles and some fantastic photos of marine life.

In essence, this tour is a smart choice for travelers eager to see the reefs, relax at a beautiful beach, and enjoy friendly guidance—all in just a few hours.