4H Lux 40′ Catamaran All-Inclusive in Tulum and Playa del Carmen.

If you’re dreaming of spending a laid-back afternoon cruising along Mexico’s stunning Riviera Maya coastline, this 4H Lux 40′ Catamaran tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary give us a good sense of what to expect. It’s a private, all-in-one experience that combines sailing, snorkeling, beach time, and plenty of good eats and drinks.

What we love about this tour is first, the flexibility of having a private charter, which means your group gets a personalized experience—no crowded boats here. Second, the combination of relaxing at sea and stepping onto the beach, along with the quality of the food and drinks, really sets it apart. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price—at nearly $1,900 for up to 15 people, it’s definitely a splurge. But if you’re traveling in a group and want a memorable, inclusive day on the water, this one could be worth the cost.

This tour is best suited for groups looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially those who enjoy good food, drinks, and snorkeling, without the hassle of crowded tour groups or strict schedules. Families, friends, or even couples who want a more private, luxurious day out will find this appealing. Just remember, it’s a four-hour experience, so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might need to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive experience provides a customized day on the water without the crowds.
• Includes snorkeling gear, towels, and life jackets, making it easy to jump right in.
• Enjoy unlimited drinks and a delicious onboard lunch, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
• Stops at Paamul Bay offer calm waters for snorkeling and a chance to hit the beach.
• Optional trolling for fish adds a fun, interactive element for those interested.
• The boat accommodates up to 15 guests, ideal for small groups or families.
• Cancellations are flexible, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Experience in Detail

This tour is centered around a 40-foot catamaran, giving you plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the ride. The vessel’s size and the private nature of the charter mean you won’t feel crowded, which adds to the relaxation factor. The crew seems attentive and friendly, according to reviews, and they’re ready to cater to your needs whether that’s serving drinks, preparing your catch, or guiding you while snorkeling.

Itinerary-wise, the trip kicks off from the Puerto Aventuras marina, heading north along the Riviera Maya. The main stop is at Paamul Bay, a calm, clear spot perfect for snorkeling and swimming. If the weather cooperates, the boat might sail further along the coast—about an hour’s sail—to reach Paamul Bay, giving you ample time to enjoy the water. The flexibility here is nice because if conditions aren’t ideal, the crew can adjust the plan, or you can simply relax on the boat or at the beach.

Snorkeling and beach time are the highlights here. You’ll get snorkeling gear and towels, and the water is often described as clear and calm—ideal for spotting colorful marine life. One reviewer mentioned that they often see vibrant fish during snorkeling, making it a memorable activity. Plus, because the tour stops at the beach, you can swim ashore if you want a quick paddle, or just lay out in the sun.

Fishing is an optional activity onboard; if you troll for fish and catch something, the crew will prepare it for your lunch. This adds a fun, interactive element that’s rare on standard tours. Several reviews emphasized the quality of the onboard food, describing it as “wonderful,” which makes sense given the emphasis on fresh, made-on-board lunch options.

Food and drinks are a big selling point. The open bar includes unlimited alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages, so you can sip as much as you like while enjoying the scenic views. The onboard lunch is praised for its quality, and with vegetarian and vegan options available, dietary restrictions seem well catered for. It’s perfect for groups who want to indulge without worrying about finding food elsewhere.

The Highlights and What To Expect

Sailing on a private catamaran means you get to set your own pace. Whether you want to lounge, take photos, or dip into the water repeatedly, your schedule is flexible. The boat can hold up to 15 guests, making it ideal for small groups or families who prefer an intimate setting.

Snorkeling gear, towels, and life jackets are provided, making it easy to jump into the water without extra hassle. When snorkeling, expect to see colorful reef fish and clear Caribbean waters—especially around Paamul Bay. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for beginners or those hesitant about snorkeling.

Lunch and unlimited drinks keep everyone happy and energized. You can relax on deck, sip cocktails, and enjoy stunning sea views. The reviews frequently mention how attentive and friendly the crew is, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Beach stop at Paamul is a unique feature of this tour. Unlike many boat trips that just stick to the water, this one gives you the chance to swim ashore and relax on the sand, maybe build a sandcastle or just soak up the sun. It’s a nice break from being solely on the boat.

Fishing and catching your own lunch may sound adventurous, and several guests have enjoyed this feature, with the crew preparing their catch right onboard. It’s a great way for those who love to fish or want a more interactive experience.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At roughly $1,873 for a group of up to 15 people, you’re looking at about $125 per person. That’s not cheap, but it’s important to consider what you’re getting—private, all-inclusive, and highly customizable. Compared to larger, less personal tours, this setup offers more control over your day, and the quality of the food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment is a step above.

Several reviews highlight how the experience was a hit with groups celebrating special occasions—like bachelorette trips or girls’ getaways—where privacy and personalized service matter. The convenience of having everything included, from lunch to drinks, means fewer worries about additional costs or logistics during your time on the water.

Practical Details and Tips

Timing-wise, the tour lasts about four hours. Starting from the marina, you can expect to be on the water for a good chunk of the afternoon. Arriving early to the meeting point is advisable, especially if you’re coordinating transfers or arriving from nearby hotels.

Group size is capped at 15, which keeps the experience intimate. If you’re traveling with a larger group, consider splitting into two bookings or checking if the operator can accommodate you.

Payment and booking: The tour is usually booked around 49 days in advance, so early planning is smart if you want to secure your preferred date. The cost is fixed per group, not per person, which makes it easier to budget.

Cancellations are flexible, with full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Weather can impact the trip, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Additional costs include a small dock fee of $20 per person, which is payable at the marina. Private transportation costs vary depending on your location, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Certainly, if you’re someone who appreciates luxury and privacy, this experience offers a relaxed, personalized vibe. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with friends or family, and want a flexible, all-in-one day on the water. If snorkeling, beach lounging, delicious food, and unlimited drinks sound like your kind of fun, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, keep in mind the premium price—if you’re budget-conscious or looking for a more active, full-day adventure, you might want to explore other options. It’s best suited for groups that prioritize comfort, quality, and exclusivity over sheer quantity of activities.

Final Thoughts

This 4-hour private catamaran tour in Tulum and Playa del Carmen offers a well-rounded, laid-back day on the water. The combination of snorkeling, beach time, and a delicious onboard lunch, all wrapped into an intimate, private experience, makes it stand out. The reviews speak volumes about the quality of the crew, the food, and the overall atmosphere, which seem to elevate this from a typical boat trip to a memorable occasion.

If you want a flexible, all-inclusive experience with stunning views, good food, and the chance to enjoy Mexico’s coast in comfort, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly suitable for groups wanting exclusivity and a touch of luxury without sacrificing adventure.

For anyone seeking a stress-free, scenic escape—where your only job is to chill, snorkel, and enjoy the moment—this catamaran tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get snorkel gear, towels, life jackets, unlimited drinks from the open bar, lunch, snacks, and use of the restroom on board.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat accommodates up to 15 guests, making it perfect for small groups or families looking for an intimate experience.

Is there a beach stop?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at Paamul Bay, where you can swim, snorkel, or walk ashore to relax on the beach.

What activities are available?
Snorkeling is the main activity, with the option to troll for fish—if you catch something, the crew will prepare it for you onboard.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is adaptable based on weather conditions and group preferences. The crew can adjust plans if needed.

What is the cost?
The total price is around $1,873.28 per group, which covers all activities, food, drinks, and private service.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available; just inform the operator when booking.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Weather cancellations are also fully refundable or reschedulable.

Is this suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is best suited for those comfortable on a boat and in the water.

If this sounds like your kind of getaway—relaxed, scenic, and all-inclusive—you’ll likely find this private catamaran trip a highlight of your trip to Mexico.