5-Hour 38’Luxury Catamaran All-Inclusive Tulum & Playa del Carmen

Exploring the 5-Hour Luxury Catamaran All-Inclusive Tour from Playa del Carmen

If you’re dreaming of cruising the Riviera Maya in style, this 5-hour private catamaran tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and plenty of relaxation, all wrapped up in a carefully curated package that feels exclusive but accessible. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the attention to detail — top-notch amenities, tantalizing onboard food, and unlimited drinks, all while enjoying some of the best snorkeling spots in the area.

What we love about this experience is how it combines comfort with adventure. First, the unlimited alcohol and soft drinks make for a laid-back vibe, perfect for celebrating special occasions or just unwinding with friends. Second, the delicious ceviche lunch and the chance to snorkel with sea turtles create memorable moments and authentic touches that elevate the whole trip. However, it’s worth noting that at over $1,900 for a group of up to 15, this is a splurge — but one that many find worth it for the privacy and luxury.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a private, all-in-one experience with comfort, good food, and beautiful scenery. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply prefer a more personalized experience away from crowded boats, this could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Private luxury experience for up to 15 people
• Includes unlimited drinks and ceviche lunch
• Snorkeling equipment provided at two scenic stops
• Flexible and customizable, with dietary options available
• Ideal for groups seeking relaxation and adventure on the water
• Covers two beautiful snorkeling spots, offering chances to see sea turtles and tropical fish

A Deep Dive into the Experience

If you’re considering this tour, you’ll want to understand what makes it stand out — or what might hold you back. First, the departure point from Puerto Aventuras is central and manageable for most travelers staying in Playa del Carmen or Tulum. The boat itself is a luxurious 38-foot catamaran, designed to comfortably host up to 15 guests, which means you’ll be part of an intimate group rather than a packed crowd.

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully planned. After departing from the marina, the first stop is the semi-sheltered reef at In-Ha, about an hour north. This spot is praised for its calm, crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for snorkeling, especially if you’re interested in spotting sea turtles and vibrant reef fish. Many reviews highlight how beautiful the water is, and the fact that the snorkeling gear is included makes it even easier to enjoy this part of the trip without extra hassle.

Travelers often note that the crew is attentive and friendly, making the onboard experience smooth and enjoyable. As one reviewer stated, “Service was excellent & even with some choppy water we still had the perfect day on the water.” The crew’s professionalism and warm attitude seem to be a highlight, especially given the sometimes unpredictable nature of open water.

After your time snorkeling, you’ll head to the second stop, La Bocana. This shallow, clear water area is perfect for a relaxed swim or just floating around with your favorite tunes. The flexible itinerary allows you to soak up the sun and enjoy the surroundings, which many find to be a peaceful, rejuvenating experience.

Food and Drinks – A Highlight

One of the standout features of this tour is undoubtedly the onboard open bar and the lunch of ceviche. The ceviche, made fresh, includes shrimp or fish, and is a refreshing treat after swimming or relaxing in the water. If you have dietary restrictions, like vegetarian or vegan preferences, these can usually be accommodated with prior notice — a thoughtful touch for those with specific needs.

The unlimited alcohol includes beer, liquor, soft drinks, and mixers, which means you can toast your experience or simply enjoy a cold drink whenever you like. This all-inclusive aspect is especially appealing for groups wanting to avoid the hassle of buying drinks separately or worrying about limits during the cruise.

From reviews, we see that many guests find the food quality to be a definite plus, with one noting how “food & drinks were fabulous” and that the service was attentive and friendly throughout the trip.

The Price and What You’re Getting

At just over $1,900 for the entire private charter (up to 15 people), this tour breaks down to roughly $127 per person, assuming the full group. Considering the exclusivity, private nature, and inclusions — such as snorkeling gear, lunch, and unlimited drinks — many see it as good value, especially if you’re celebrating or traveling with a group.

However, the dock fee of $20 per person is an extra you’d need to budget for, and private transportation isn’t included, which could add to your costs if you’re coming from farther away.

Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounters

The first stop at In-Ha reef is where the magic happens. Many guests mention the chance to see sea turtles and vibrant tropical fish, making it a favorite for snorkeling enthusiasts. The calm waters mean beginners can easily enjoy this activity, while experienced snorkelers will appreciate the clear visibility and marine diversity.

The second stop at La Bocana offers a shallow, shallow-water environment perfect for relaxing in the water or enjoying a light swim. Some reviews highlight how the water is really shallow and clear, ideal for families or those who prefer calmer waters.

The Crew and Overall Service

Guests consistently praise the crew members like Celeste, NerI, Angel, and Omar for their friendly, professional, and attentive service. Even when waters are choppy, the team manages to keep spirits high and ensure everyone is comfortable.

This personalized service, combined with a well-maintained boat, creates a relaxed atmosphere that feels more like a private party than a typical tourist excursion. It’s clear from reviews that the crew’s helpfulness and genuine friendliness are what make this experience memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys luxury, wants to avoid crowds, and appreciates good food and drinks, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for groups of friends, celebrating a special occasion, or couples looking for a private getaway. While families with older kids could also enjoy it, the minimum drinking age is 18, so younger children might not be the best fit.

The tour’s exclusivity and focus on comfort mean it’s less about adventure and more about laid-back enjoyment—ideal if you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water with a touch of elegance.

Final Thoughts

This luxury private catamaran cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic snorkeling, premium service, and gourmet food. It’s an experience that elevates a typical boat trip into a memorable, tailored adventure. The attention to detail—especially with the included drinks and food—makes it stand out among other tours in the area.

While it’s a pricier option, many find that the privacy, comfort, and quality make it worth the splurge. It’s especially well-suited for groups who value exclusivity, good service, and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re after a special day on the water in the Riviera Maya, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

How many people can fit on this boat?
The boat accommodates up to 15 guests, making it perfect for small groups seeking privacy and a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private charter, unlimited beer, liquor, soft drinks, mixers, water, snorkeling equipment, lunch (ceviche or alternative), and snacks.

Are dietary restrictions available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice, ensuring everyone enjoys the meal.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Riviera Elite: Yachts in Puerto Aventuras, with detailed location info provided when you book. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While children over 18 can participate, the minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s best suited for adults or older teens.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 28 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spot.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and any personal items you might need for a relaxed day on the water.

This private catamaran tour balances comfort, adventure, and luxury beautifully. If you’re looking to enjoy the Riviera Maya from the water with great food and drinks in a small group setting, it’s definitely worth considering.