From Puerto Aventuras: Share Catamaran Tour

A Practical Look at the Share Catamaran Tour from Puerto Aventuras

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to exploring Mexico’s Riviera Maya, but if you’re craving a blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic seaside charm, the Share Catamaran Tour from Puerto Aventuras might just fit the bill. This 4-hour excursion invites travelers to sail on a luxurious 65-foot catamaran, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, and enjoy a hearty BBQ on deck—all with lively music and breathtaking views.

What we find appealing about this trip is its balanced mix of relaxation and activity. Snorkelers will appreciate the chance to explore the second largest reef in the world, teeming with colorful marine life. Meanwhile, the onboard dining, with its open bar and tasty grill options, keeps the mood lively and satisfying. However, travelers should be aware that the group size can vary, and some reviews suggest that the experience can feel less intimate than advertised, especially if the boat isn’t as small as some might expect.

This tour suits those who love being on the water, enjoy guided snorkeling, and want a scenic, well-organized day out with good food. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, private experience or those with specific health restrictions, such as pregnant women or people with heart problems.

Key Points

• Snorkel at the second largest reef in the world, packed with marine life and coral formations
• Enjoy a scenic cruise aboard a spacious 65-foot catamaran with panoramic views
• Relish a full BBQ meal with four delicious options, complemented by an open bar
• Flexible options include private sunset charters for a more exclusive experience
• Family-friendly, with guides ready to help beginners
• Group size and reviews vary, so manage expectations accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Caribbean on a Luxurious Catamaran

The journey begins as you arrive at the Puerto Aventuras marina, a charming hub known for its laid-back atmosphere and well-equipped docks. The crew, experienced and professional, will greet you warmly and give a safety briefing to ensure everyone’s comfort and security during activities.

Once aboard the luxury 65-foot catamaran, we loved the way the vessel’s design combines spaciousness with comfort. Its ample deck space offers perfect spots for lounging, socializing, or just soaking in the gorgeous Riviera Maya coastline. The sail out to the reef takes approximately an hour—a pleasant amount of time to settle in, enjoy a drink from the open bar, and chat with fellow travelers.

Snorkeling at the INAH Reef

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly snorkeling at the second largest barrier reef in the world. This location is renowned for its vibrant coral heads and an impressive variety of sea life, including tropical fish, colorful invertebrates, and possibly even sea turtles, depending on the day.

Guides and dive masters are present to assist, especially if it’s your first time snorkeling. From one review, we hear that “the staff will help and guide you if it is your first time snorkeling,” making this accessible for beginners. The reef’s clear waters and abundant marine life make for great photos and memorable moments.

A few reviews mention that the snorkeling duration could be longer, with some feeling the time was too short, but most agree the experience is worth it. Since the reef is supported by incredible coral formations, it offers a colorful underwater landscape that’s a feast for the eyes.

Scenic Sailing and Relaxation

Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy a leisurely sail along the coastline of the Riviera Maya. The views of the coast, with its lush greenery and sparkling waters, are genuinely striking. Many travelers appreciate this part of the trip for its relaxing pace and beautiful scenery.

For those opting for the private sunset charter, the same vessel transforms into a more intimate setting, allowing you to admire the magnificent sunset views over the Caribbean. It’s a romantic option for couples or those who want a more exclusive experience.

The Delicious BBQ and Open Bar

Post-snorkel, the crew fires up a full BBQ grill with four options: NY Steak, Fish Filet, Chicken Fajitas, or Hamburgers. The quality of the food is often praised; one review describes it as “a first-class meal at sea,” which is high praise considering the setting.

Complemented by an open bar, you’ll find a selection of exotic drinks—perfect for unwinding and celebrating the day’s adventures. Many reviews highlight the good food and attentive service as one of the trip’s best features.

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What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes snorkel equipment, food, and drinks, but there are a few costs travelers should be aware of. The marina dock fee is $15 in cash, which is not included in the price. Also, note that round-trip transportation isn’t included but can be added for an extra fee—something to consider if you prefer door-to-door service.

The tour operates mainly in the morning and lasts about 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. It’s suitable for families, with kids being welcome, and wheelchair accessibility is noted, which broadens who can participate.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The reviews provide a balanced picture. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious food. One reviewer from the Netherlands called it a “great tour,” noting the top crew and good snorkeling area.

However, some reviews are more critical. A German traveler called it a “rip-off,” complaining about crowds and mediocre food that felt more like fast food. Others pointed out that the group size can be “50+ people,” which may dilute the sense of intimacy some seek. A traveler from the U.S. even shared a disappointing experience where they were turned away due to a private party, highlighting that availability can sometimes be an issue.

This variability underscores the importance of managing expectations—if you’re after a small group or private experience, you may want to confirm details beforehand. But, overall, the tour offers good value for those who enjoy scenic sailing, snorkeling, and hearty meals.

Final Thoughts

This Share Catamaran Tour from Puerto Aventuras offers a well-rounded Caribbean experience. Its combination of stunning reef snorkeling, leisurely sailing, and delicious BBQ makes it attractive for families, couples, or groups wanting a fun, active day at sea. The knowledgeable crew and beautiful scenery are definite plus points, and the option to upgrade to a private sunset cruise adds a dash of exclusivity.

While the group size and food quality can vary, many find it offers solid value, especially considering the all-inclusive drinks and the access to the reef. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, don’t mind a lively environment, and are prepared for the occasional crowd or logistical hiccup.

In sum, if your goal is to explore the Caribbean under the sun, enjoy good food, and snorkel at one of the world’s most impressive reefs, this tour delivers a memorable half-day adventure—worth considering if you’re in Puerto Aventuras and craving a taste of maritime bliss.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. However, you can arrange for round-trip transportation for an extra fee. The meeting point is at the Puerto Aventuras marina.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sandals, biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, an underwater camera, and some cash for souvenirs or the dock fee.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, families with kids are welcome. Guides are available to help beginners, making snorkeling accessible for all ages.

How long is the snorkeling experience?
The tour includes snorkeling at the reef, but some reviews suggest the snorkeling time could be longer. It typically happens after about an hour sailing to the reef.

Are food options suitable for dietary restrictions?
The BBQ offers four options: steak, fish, fajitas, and hamburgers, which cover a range of tastes. However, specifics on dietary restrictions aren’t provided, so it’s best to inquire beforehand.

Can I do a private sunset cruise instead?
Yes, you can opt for a private charter for sunset viewing, which offers a more intimate experience and stunning views of the Caribbean sunset.

What about the group size?
The tour generally hosts around 50 or more people, which could feel crowded for some. Confirming the size might help if you prefer a smaller group.

What are the main criticisms to consider?
Some reviews mention overcrowding, mediocre food, or being turned away due to private bookings. Managing expectations can help ensure a positive experience.

In brief, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and tasty way to explore the Caribbean from Puerto Aventuras. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of everything—snorkeling, sailing, good food, and socializing—making it a lively highlight of any Riviera Maya trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: