8H 38′ Catamaran All-Incl. to Cozumel in Tulum & Playa del Carmen

A Relaxed, All-Inclusive Catamaran Adventure from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water with plenty of chances to snorkel, fish, relax, and enjoy good company, this private 8-hour catamaran tour might just be what you’re after. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, fun-filled experience designed for travelers who want to indulge in the beauty of the Riviera Maya, all from a comfortable, private boat.

What really catches our eye are two things: the personalized nature of the private tour—meaning you set your pace—and the inclusive vibe, with unlimited drinks, snacks, and the chance to snorkel or fish at secluded spots. The one aspect to keep in mind? The price per group can seem steep at over $2,900 for up to 15 people, but when you consider the all-in nature, private setting, and the quality of the reviews, it appears to offer solid value for those seeking a premium, hassle-free day on the water.

If you’re a group looking to celebrate, unwind, or simply escape the crowds, this tour suits those who appreciate a tailored experience with top-notch service. It’s also ideal if you want a flexible schedule—spending about 4 hours on the boat and having the rest of the day free to explore Playa del Carmen or Tulum at your leisure.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored for your group.
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks ensure you won’t go thirsty or hungry.
• Snorkeling and fishing gear provided, making spontaneous adventures easy.
• Stops at secluded beaches and bays offer peaceful spots away from crowds.
• Great for celebrations or relaxed days on the water with friends or family.
• Well-rated service and knowledgeable crew add to the overall experience.

An In-Depth Look at the 8-Hour Catamaran Tour

This tour offers a refreshing way to explore the Riviera Maya’s waters from the comfort of a private 38-foot catamaran. Designed for up to 15 guests, it balances an active day of snorkeling and fishing with plenty of downtime for sunbathing and unwinding. The flexible, private nature of the trip makes it perfect for groups who want to avoid the typical large tour crowd and prefer a more personalized experience.

The Overall Experience

The reviews consistently highlight the exceptional service and friendly crew. From the moment you meet at the designated marina in Puerto Aventuras, the staff—Aldo, Luis, David, Yahir, Charly, and others—are praised for their attentiveness, making sure your needs are met without being intrusive. This kind of service sets the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable day.

Most reviews mention the delicious food and plentiful drinks. The onboard catering includes snacks, ceviche, guacamole, and even freshly caught sashimi, which folks find a surprising highlight. With unlimited drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—you’ll find yourself comfortably sipping throughout the trip, whether you prefer a cold beer, a tropical cocktail, or a soft drink.

The boat itself, a stable catamaran, provides a smooth ride, great for those who can be prone to seasickness. Plus, the onboard restroom and towels make the day comfortable and convenient.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The First Stop: Paamul Bay

Your journey begins at the marina, heading north along the coast of Riviera Maya. Weather permitting, you’ll set sail about an hour up the coast to Paamul Bay—an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming, or just lounging on the beach. One aspect that’s quite special about this tour is the option to go ashore—something rare for boat trips. Bring your paddle tennis gear or sandcastle supplies if you like, because you’re encouraged to hit the beach or just relax under the sun.

The calm, clear waters make snorkeling here enjoyable, with many reviews noting vibrant marine life. One reviewer shared, “Since the beginning, the trip was perfect! Aldo, Luis, David, Yahir & Charly made our day just magical,” emphasizing the friendly atmosphere and attentive service. The shallow waters and calm environment are perfect for beginners or those just looking to cool off.

Fishing and Snorkeling Options

For those into fishing, troll fishing is available on board. Anything caught can be prepared right there—another highlight that some travelers mention as a fun and tasty addition. It’s a rare chance to fish in such a beautiful setting with gear provided, making the experience accessible without extra effort.

Snorkeling is often a favorite activity, with reviews mentioning colorful fish, stingrays, and turtles. The water clarity and vibrant marine life are consistently praised, and the crew’s knowledge makes the snorkeling experience more enjoyable.

Return and Free Time

After about four hours on the water, the tour concludes back at the marina. The rest of your day in Playa del Carmen or Tulum is free—giving you plenty of time to explore more on your own or relax after your aquatic adventure. Many travelers feel that this flexible schedule is a big plus, allowing for a balanced vacation day.

What People Love About This Tour

The reviews repeatedly mention how attentive crew members go above and beyond. Reviewers rave about the “incredible service,” with crew members like Fernanda, Alex, Manuel, Axel, and Cruz making guests feel special. The crew’s genuine friendliness and expertise turn a fun activity into a memorable experience.

Another aspect that receives high praise is the quality of the food and drinks; from fresh ceviche and guacamole to tropical cocktails, many feel that the onboard catering is a major highlight. One reviewer said, “The ceviche and guacamole were very fresh and delicious,” and others mention being served sashimi caught that morning.

The Price and Its Value

At $2,920.12 per group, the price might seem steep at first glance, especially if you’re traveling solo or a smaller group. But considering it’s a private tour for up to 15 people, the cost breaks down to a reasonable amount per person, especially when you factor in the all-inclusive drinks, snacks, and personalized service. Many reviews speak positively about the value, with guests feeling they received a memorable, stress-free day with top-notch amenities.

This is not a budget activity, but for those who want a seamless, luxurious experience—without the crowds or hassle of larger tours—this tour offers solid value.

Practical Considerations

A few key points to keep in mind: There’s a $20 dock fee per person, and transportation from your hotel varies in cost—so plan accordingly. The tour operates with good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or reschedule is offered, which adds a layer of peace of mind. The minimum age for alcohol is 18, but children and teens under 18 can still enjoy the trip if accompanied by adults.

Booking is typically done several days in advance—about 5 days ahead on average—so plan accordingly for your trip dates. The tour lasts around 4 hours on the boat, with the rest of your day free, making it a perfect half-day adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private catamaran tour is especially suited for groups wanting a high-quality, relaxed day on the water without the chaos often associated with larger tours. It’s perfect for celebrations like birthdays or bachelorette parties, given the VIP vibe, or for families with older children who can enjoy snorkeling and fishing. The all-inclusive concept and flexible schedule appeal to travelers who want comfort and convenience, while the attentive crew ensures a memorable time.

If you’re after an intimate, luxurious experience with the freedom to set your own pace, this trip fits beautifully. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more structured, less customizable experience, there might be more economical options out there.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children are welcome, the tour has a minimum drinking age of 18 for alcohol. Kids under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult, and activities like snorkeling and swimming are generally safe for most ages, but parental discretion is advised. The tour focuses more on adult-friendly activities, so families with very young children might want to consider their specific needs.

How long is the tour?
The boat ride itself lasts about 4 hours, with the rest of the day free. This makes it a great option if you want a half-day adventure that won’t take up your entire afternoon.

What meals are included?
Snacks, ceviche, guacamole, and freshly caught sashimi are served on board. Food options are generally fresh and well-received, with vegetarian options available if advised at booking.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkel gear and life jackets are included, making it easy to jump in and explore the waters without extra hassle.

Can I fish during the trip?
Absolutely. Troll fishing is available, and anything caught can be prepared for you to enjoy on the spot. Many reviews mention how much fun fishing can be.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, a different date or a full refund is offered.

How many people can join?
Up to 15 guests per group, making it ideal for small to medium parties.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Riviera Elite: Yachts in Tulum and Playa del Carmen and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, an open bar with unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is included throughout the trip.

How can I book this experience?
You can book through Viator or directly via Riviera Elite’s contact details. It’s recommended to book several days in advance due to high demand.

Final Thoughts

This private, all-inclusive catamaran tour offers a blend of relaxed luxury, personalized service, and fun activities like snorkeling, fishing, and beach visits. It’s ideal for travelers eager to indulge in a worry-free day on the water with friends or family, surrounded by friendly crew and stunning scenery. The reviews suggest it truly delivers on the promise of a memorable day, with many guests noting their experience was “the best day ever” and praising the crew’s attentiveness and the quality of the food and drinks.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the exclusivity and level of service make it a solid choice for those seeking a special, stress-free escape in the Caribbean waters. If you value comfort, good company, and a flexible schedule, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and maybe even surpass them.

Ready for a day of adventure and relaxation? This catamaran trip might be just what you need to make your Riviera Maya vacation unforgettable.