Thinking about a snorkeling trip in Cancun? This tour to Puerto Morelos offers a chance to experience one of the world’s second-largest reef walls, along with a taste of local culture and cuisine. While the adventure is generally well-liked, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for so you can decide if it’s right for you.
What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with cultural insights—seeing vibrant coral and marine life, plus enjoying authentic Mexican snacks and tequila tastings. It’s also a package that’s quite accessible, with round-trip transportation included, removing the hassle of logistics. On the flip side, some reviews mention the tour can run longer than expected or feel rushed, so time management might be a consideration.
This tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to see underwater marvels without heavy physical exertion, and those interested in a bit of local flavor afterward. If you’re a family with kids who are comfortable in the water, or just someone looking for a fun, all-in-one day out, this experience could be a good fit. However, if you’re after a more intense or in-depth snorkeling adventure, you might want to explore other options.
Key Points

- Stunning reef scenery and marine life are the main highlights, making it ideal for underwater enthusiasts.
- Includes transportation and snacks, providing good value and convenience.
- Cultural and culinary elements like Mexican tacos and tequila tasting add a nice local touch.
- Variable timing can make the trip feel longer or shorter depending on the day.
- Group size is limited to 20, allowing for a more personal experience.
- Suitable for most travelers, though some reviews note potential challenges with wait times and logistics.
An Overview of the Tour

This snorkeling adventure takes you to Puerto Morelos, a charming fishing town known for its vibrant marine ecosystem. The tour lasts approximately five hours, with about 45 minutes spent in the water snorkeling, and the rest dedicated to cultural activities, food, and travel. The price is $65 per person, which includes most of what you need for a memorable day, from equipment to snacks.
The experience kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point. Once in Puerto Morelos, you’ll board a well-maintained boat heading toward the National Reef Park — a UNESCO-recognized site home to the world’s second-largest coral reef wall. The reef is famous for its incredible biodiversity, and when you’re in the water, you’ll see everything from colorful fish and sea fans to possibly rays and eels.
The guide staff is generally praised for helping both beginners and seasoned snorkelers, with some reviews highlighting how guides assist children and inexperienced swimmers, making the activity accessible for families. Expect to snorkel for around 45 minutes at the reef, which is enough time to take in the beauty without feeling overwhelmed.
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What Makes the Snorkeling Special

The reef in Puerto Morelos is notably close to shore, making it more accessible and less intimidating for those new to snorkeling. While some reviews mention the coral appearing bleached and less vibrant than other sites, the abundance of fish and marine life still impresses visitors. Several guests point out that the shallow waters and variety of sea creatures create a lively underwater scene that’s perfect for photos and memorable moments.
The guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with one reviewer mentioning, “They really helped my little girl learn to snorkel” — a sign that the staff prioritizes safety and education. Seeing the different kinds of fish and coral in their natural environment offers a perspective that is both calming and exhilarating.
The Post-Snorkeling Experience
After snorkeling, the tour takes you to a private beach club where you can unwind with a Mexican snack — usually tacos. The tacos are well-liked, with visitors describing them as “delicious” and the tacos near the restaurant as “phenomenal.” This break is a chance to relax, enjoy the ocean views, and chat about what you’ve just seen underwater.
Next, you’ll explore Puerto Morelos on foot, strolling through the heart of this laid-back town. The local artisans sell handicrafts, and you can get a sense of community and local craftsmanship. The tour also features a tequila tasting, where guides share insights about the spirits and even the Mayan calendar, chewing gum, vanilla, and cochinita—adding educational value to the cultural aspect of the trip.
Transport and Logistics

Transportation is a key part of this tour. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is appreciated after time spent in the sun. The group size caps at 20, so the experience remains intimate — but be prepared for some wait times, as some reviews mention delays with pickups and returns.
One reviewer noted that the tour included about 45 minutes of water activity, but the overall time in the day extends beyond that, sometimes feeling lengthy due to waiting around or additional sightseeing. For some, this means a full day of activities and travel, which can be tiring but also filling.
The Value for Money

At $65 per person, this tour offers a fair deal considering the inclusions: snorkel gear, transportation, snacks, and cultural activities. The reviews highlight that guides are friendly and helpful, and the experience provides a good introduction to the reef and local culture, especially for first-timers.
However, some comments point out that the actual snorkeling duration can seem brief in comparison to the total tour length, and there might be other tours offering more snorkeling for slightly more money. Still, the convenience of round-trip transport and the variety of activities make it an overall attractive option.
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Real Experiences and Honest Feedback

Reviewers’ comments paint a realistic picture. Many loved the guides’ friendliness and the chance to see marine life. One reviewer said, “The guides really helped my little girl learn to snorkel,” showing the tour’s family-friendly aspect. Others appreciated the cultural component, especially the tequila tasting, which added depth to their trip.
Some guests, however, expressed frustration over long waits, crowded boats, or shorter-than-expected snorkeling time. For instance, “The reef was nice but the staff was rude and always trying to sell overpriced items,” reflects how some might feel about the service side of things. Another pointed out that the snorkel stop was only about 30 minutes, less than some expect from a “3 snorkel locations” claim.
These mixed reviews underscore the importance of managing expectations — this is a fun, well-rounded day, but it might not satisfy those seeking a purely intensive snorkeling trip or a perfectly seamless experience.
The Bottom Line

This tour provides a balanced mix of natural wonder, culture, and convenience. It’s especially good for travelers new to snorkeling or those wanting a taste of Mexico’s vibrant coastal life without the hassle of planning multiple activities separately. The inclusion of food, drinks, and transportation makes it a hassle-free way to spend a day.
The experience is also quite adaptable, with guides who are generally attentive and knowledgeable. If you’re comfortable with some waiting and are okay with a somewhat flexible schedule, you’ll find this tour rewarding.
That said, if your main goal is a deep, lengthy exploration of the reef or a more exclusive, less crowded experience, you might want to research other options. The reef’s coral has seen some bleaching, but the sheer number of fish and marine species keeps it visually interesting even in less-than-peak conditions.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for first-time snorkelers, families with kids, or travelers who want a mix of underwater scenery and cultural activities. Those who enjoy trying local food and spirits will appreciate the tacos and tequila tasting as part of the day. It’s also a good choice for anyone who values round-trip transportation and a relaxed pace.
However, if you’re seeking a highly in-depth or private snorkeling experience, or if you prefer to spend more time in the water, you might opt for a different tour. Also, keep in mind that some reviews mention delays and shorter snorkeling periods, so patience and flexibility are key.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the actual snorkeling activity?
You’ll snorkel for about 45 minutes at the reef, which is enough to enjoy the marine life without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the tour?
Your tour includes admission to the National Reef Park, snorkeling equipment, a lifejacket, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Snacks, water, and cultural activities like tequila tasting are also part of the package.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention guides helping children learn to snorkel, which suggests it’s family-friendly for kids who are comfortable in the water.
Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s a federal port tax of $10 per person not included in the booking price.
How long does the whole tour last?
Expect about 5 hours total, although some guests find that waiting times can extend the day.
What about the weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I bring my own snorkel gear?
It’s suggested to use the equipment provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer. The tour supplies fins, goggles, and snorkels.
How crowded is the boat?
The group size is limited to 20 travelers, which generally helps keep the experience more comfortable.
What should I wear and bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some cash for souvenirs or tips. The boat ride can be windy, so bring a light jacket if needed.
Snorkeling Adventure in Puerto Morelos Includes snack, Water and Round Trip.
“I have been wanting to do this since 2009. Now it's my birthday i got experience it for a short time but enjoyed it. My body would not let me go al…”
Final Thoughts
This snorkeling tour in Puerto Morelos offers a solid blend of underwater adventure, cultural discovery, and local cuisine. It’s well suited for those who want a relaxed, enjoyable day with the convenience of round-trip transport. While the experience might not be as long or exclusive as some might hope, it delivers enough highlights and friendly guides to make it worthwhile.
If you’re looking to explore the second-largest reef wall, learn about Mayan culture, and enjoy authentic Mexican snacks, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to be patient with the logistics — the beauty of the reef and the warmth of the guides often make it worth it.
Whether you’re a first-timer or someone wanting a hassle-free day out, this adventure can add a memorable chapter to your trip. Just go with an open mind, and you’ll likely leave with stories and photos to cherish.
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