Planning a special night in Cancun? If you’re looking for an experience that combines scenic sailing, fine dining, and a touch of romance, the Columbus Dinner Cruise might just be worth considering. We’ve looked into what this tour offers, and here’s the honest scoop to help you decide if it’s right for your trip.

What we especially like about this cruise is the romantic atmosphere it creates—sailing through calm waters with live saxophone music setting a soothing mood. Plus, the gourmet three-course dinner means you won’t be missing out on quality cuisine while enjoying the views. However, a potential downside is its price point—$95 per person—so you’ll want to consider whether the experience matches your budget and expectations.

This kind of tour is best suited for couples, romantic getaways, or anyone wanting a calm, elegant way to see Cancun’s lagoon in the evening. It’s not perfect for children under 14, but if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable night out, it could be a lovely choice.

Key Points

Romantic Setting: Ideal for couples seeking an intimate experience with beautiful lagoon views.
Gourmet Dining: Offers a three-course dinner with options like steak, veggie dishes, surf and turf, or lobster to satisfy various tastes.
Live Music: The saxophonist adds a charming, relaxing soundtrack to your evening.
Open Bar: Enjoy a wide selection of drinks, including cocktails, beer, and wine, included in the price.
Flexible Schedules: Available at sunset or moonlight, with departures punctual to the schedule.
Additional Costs: A federal dock fee of $15 USD per person applies, and optional extras like transportation or photos are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Offers

Imagine cruising through the tranquil waters of Nichupte Lagoon aboard a beautiful Spanish Galleon Columbus. You’re either watching the sunset paint the sky or gazing at the moon’s reflection on the water—either way, the scenery is peaceful, inviting, and perfect for a romantic evening. This cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, giving just enough time to relax and soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

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The Cruise Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise begins at Marina Aquatours, situated in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, right in front of Playa Tortugas, also known as Turtles Beach. You’ll want to arrive about half an hour early to get settled and ensure a smooth start. Once on board, the galleon-style vessel sets sail through Nichupte Lagoon, giving you fantastic views of the water, mangroves, and the surrounding nature.

The main highlight is, of course, the gourmet dinner. You’ll have the choice of a main dish that suits your palate—be it tender steak, a veggie option, surf and turf, or decadent lobster. The dishes are prepared with care, and many reviews commend the quality of the food, noting it’s a step above typical cruise fare.

Drinks and Music

While dining, you can indulge in the included open bar, which features a variety of drinks like cocktails, beer, and wine. The availability of soda and water ensures everyone stays refreshed. As you float along, a talented saxophonist provides live music, adding a layer of sophistication and romance. Travelers have enjoyed the music’s mellow, jazzy vibe, which complements the peaceful water scenery.

Weather and Dress Code

The cruise runs rain or shine, so packing a rain jacket or umbrella might be smart if rain is forecasted. The dress code is semi-formal, so think smart-casual attire with comfortable shoes—no flip-flops or overly casual wear. This isn’t a night for jeans and sneakers; instead, aim for polished but comfortable clothing suited for an elegant evening.

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Is It Worth the Price?

At $95 per person, this cruise falls into a moderate price range for Cancun’s river and sunset cruises. Considering it includes dinner, drinks, live music, and scenic sailing, the value is decent if you’re after a romantic, all-inclusive experience. Reviews mention the quality of the food and the relaxing atmosphere as strong points. But keep in mind, there’s a $15 USD dock fee that’s not included in the ticket price, and optional extras like transportation or photos cost extra.

Some travelers find that the experience matches the price, especially those celebrating anniversaries or special dates. Others might find it a tad pricey compared to more casual or daytime excursions. Still, for an evening that combines scenery, fine dining, and music, many feel it’s a worthwhile splurge.

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Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer said, “The live saxophone music was beautiful and added so much ambiance,” highlighting how music truly enhances the experience. Another pointed out, “The dinner was surprisingly good—better than I expected for a cruise,” emphasizing the quality of the meal. Conversely, a few noted that the group size could be large, which might affect intimacy, so if you prefer privacy, consider that.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own ride to Marina Aquatours unless you opt for the additional transfer service. The meeting point is clearly marked, and arriving early is recommended. The tour lasts about 3 hours in total, including check-in and sailing time, so plan your evening accordingly.

For those with dietary restrictions, it’s best to inform the provider in advance as the menu offers options like veggie dishes and lobster. The tour isn’t canceled in case of rain, so bring appropriate clothing. No minors under 14 are allowed, so this experience is best suited for adult couples or groups.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for romantic couples looking to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a peaceful, scenic evening. If you love live music, particularly jazz or saxophone tunes, you’ll find the soundtrack quite delightful. It’s an elegant way to see Cancun from the water, especially if you want a memorable night without the hustle of daytime excursions.

Travelers seeking a laid-back, romantic atmosphere with good food and drinks will appreciate the balance of comfort and scenic beauty. However, if you prefer a more energetic or adventurous activity, this cruise might not be the best fit. Also, those traveling with kids under 14 should know that the tour isn’t suitable for children.

Final Thoughts

The Cancun Romantic Evening in Galleon with Dinner and Open Bar offers a charming way to experience the lagoon at night, blending scenery, good food, and live music into a relaxing package. While it’s priced at a moderate level, many find the experience justifies the cost, especially with the included drinks and quality cuisine. It’s a wonderful choice if you’re celebrating, seeking a romantic escape, or simply want to enjoy a peaceful cruise with elegant touches.

If you’re someone who values a tranquil setting, good entertainment, and gourmet dining, this cruise could be a highlight of your Cancun trip. Just remember to arrive early, dress semi-formally, and prepare for a calm, scenic journey that’s all about unwinding and enjoying each other’s company.

Ready to Book?

Cancun: Romantic evening in galleon with dinner and open bar

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 14 years old, as it’s geared toward adults seeking a romantic and relaxed experience.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the gourmet three-course dinner, national open bar (including drinks like cocktails, beer, wine), live saxophone music, and the sailing experience.

Are transportation options available?
Transportation isn’t included in the standard package, but you can arrange for a transfer at an extra cost. The meeting point is at Marina Aquatours in the Hotel Zone of Cancun.

What should I wear?
A semi-formal outfit is recommended, along with comfortable shoes. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops or athletic wear.

What if it rains?
The cruise is not canceled in case of rain, so bring appropriate rain gear if needed. The experience takes place on the water, so weather can vary.

How long does the cruise last?
The total experience runs about 3 hours, including check-in and sailing time. The cruise itself is around 2.5 hours.

Is there an option for photos?
Yes, there’s an optional photo package available at an additional cost, so you can capture memories of your romantic evening.

If you’re after an elegant, scenic, and musical night in Cancun, this cruise offers a peaceful and enjoyable way to see the lagoon from a different perspective. Just keep in mind the costs and dress code, and you’ll be set for a lovely evening on the water.