Sail around cancun in the best transparent boat + 2 drinks

Exploring Cancun from a Glass-Bottom Boat: A Practical Review

If you’re looking for a relaxing, visually engaging way to see some of Cancun’s natural beauty without getting wet, this glass-bottom boat tour around Nichupté Lagoon might be just what you need. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it’s an experience that promises scenic views, marine life spotting, and some fun in a laid-back setting.

Two things that stand out about this tour are the opportunity to enjoy drinks while taking in the scenery and the chance to see underwater treasures like submerged statues and vibrant reef life. On the flip side, one thing to note is that this experience might not be suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or who dislike boat rides.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a short, family-friendly experience that offers both relaxation and visual entertainment. If you’re in Cancun and want a gentle way to explore part of the lagoon and Caribbean waters—especially if you enjoy water-based sightseeing without the hassle of snorkeling or diving—this could fit your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable, guided boat ride with scenic views of Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea.
• Includes 2 drinks per person—both soft drinks and alcohol options—adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
• Highlights marine life and submerged statues, perfect for photo opportunities and underwater curiosity.
• Accessible for most travelers (excluding those with mobility impairments or pregnancy restrictions).
• A relatively short experience at 75 minutes, making it suitable for tight schedules or as a quick sightseeing stop.
• Dock access fee of $15 USD is required, so budget accordingly.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Tour

This tour begins at Envatours Cancún, where you’ll check in just beside a pharmacy under a purple flag. The process is straightforward, and the friendly guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish. Once onboard, you’ll glide into the peaceful waters of Nichupte Lagoon, a vast protected natural area covering over 3,000 hectares.

The boat itself is transparent, giving you an almost floating sensation as you look down into the water. We liked the way the boat allows you to observe marine life and underwater features without any gear or hassle—no need to snorkel or dive, just sit back and take it all in.

Nichupté Lagoon: The First Stop

The first leg of your journey takes about 30 minutes through the lagoon itself. Here, you’ll see the lush scenery of the natural reserve, with plenty of opportunities to spot turtles, snails, stingrays, and starfish. The guides often point out interesting details, and many reviews appreciate the informative commentary. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide pointed out wildlife and explained the significance of different areas along the lagoon.”

Crossing Calinda Bridge

Next, you’ll cross the iconic Calinda Bridge, which offers a fantastic vantage point for photos. This part of the tour lasts around 45 minutes and provides a scenic drive across the bridge, offering a different perspective of Cancun’s coastline. During this stretch, you’ll get a closer look at the vibrant waters and maybe catch some birds or other marine life.

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Discovering Underwater Art and Reefs

One of the unique features of this tour is the opportunity to see submerged statues—hidden treasures beneath the turquoise waters. These underwater sculptures have a mysterious appeal, perfect for snapping some memorable photos. The boat will also stop at a small reef, which is home to lively marine creatures, adding a splash of color and motion to your ride.

The “Blanquizal” Experience

The final highlight is reaching the expansive white sandy area called “El Blanquizal.” Imagine miles of fine white sand stretching out, creating a visual spectacle that’s both calming and awe-inspiring. It’s a peaceful spot, ideal for relaxing, taking photos, or simply soaking in the scenery before heading back.

The Practical Side: Cost, Duration, and Additional Info

At $52 per person, this experience offers a good value considering the 75-minute duration, guided commentary, and inclusion of drinks. The drinks—two per person—are a nice touch, especially if you enjoy sipping a cold soda or beer while gazing over the water. The tour includes a bilingual guide, who also serves as a photographer, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery while they help capture your moments.

Keep in mind, you’ll need to pay a $15 USD dock access fee at the check-in office, which is a standard additional cost. This fee covers your entry to the tour site and is payable at the office, so remember to budget for it.

Accessibility and Suitability

While the boat ride is generally straightforward, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those sensitive to motion sickness. The experience is suited for travelers who are comfortable on small boats and are looking for a peaceful, scenic outing rather than an active adventure.

When to Book and Cancellations

The tour is flexible—offering both morning and afternoon slots—and can be canceled for free up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, which is perfect if you’re still finalizing your plans.

What Real Travelers Say

According to reviews, many appreciated the informative guides and the relaxed pace of the tour. One reviewer shared, “The boat was transparent, and it was fun to see the marine life from above. We also loved the photo stop at Calinda Bridge.” Others mentioned the drinks as a highlight, noting that having a cold beverage while floating on the water made the experience even more enjoyable.

Some critiques include the limited time at each stop, which might feel rushed if you’re keen on exploring more underwater. Also, since photographs aren’t included, if you’re hoping for professional shots, you’ll need to bring your own camera or phone.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic water rides, marine life spotting, and relaxing in a tranquil environment, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially appealing if you want a brief, fun activity without the need for snorkeling or diving gear. Those traveling with friends or a partner who appreciate laid-back experiences will likely find this enjoyable.

However, if you’re seeking an adventure-heavy activity or have mobility limitations, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you dislike boat rides or are sensitive to motion sickness, consider your comfort before booking.

In Summary: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This transparent boat tour offers a simple, beautiful way to see part of Cancun’s natural environment with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxing, family-friendly outing that combines scenery, marine life, and a little fun with drinks included. At a reasonable price, it’s a nice way to take a break from more active excursions and enjoy some slow-paced, scenic beauty on the water.

This tour is well-suited for those with flexible schedules, looking for a short yet memorable experience, and interested in light sightseeing from the comfort of a transparent boat.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? While the tour is generally relaxing, it’s best suited for children who are comfortable on boats and not prone to motion sickness. It is a family-friendly activity, but always check if your kids are comfortable with boat rides.

What should I bring? Just wear comfortable clothes, as no shoes are allowed on the boat. Bringing a camera or phone for photos is a good idea since the guide is also a photographer, but remember, photographs aren’t included.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is 75 minutes, which makes it perfect for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing.

Are drinks included? Yes, you get two drinks per person—soft drinks or alcohol—adding to the fun, especially if you enjoy having a cold beverage while relaxing on the water.

Where do I meet? The check-in is right beside a pharmacy, marked by a purple flag saying “Envatours.” It’s a straightforward process.

Is there an additional fee? Yes, you’ll need to pay a $15 USD dock access fee at the office before the tour begins.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

What language is the tour guided in? Guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible regardless of your language preference.

All in all, this tour provides a laid-back way to see some of Cancun’s marine scenery without the fuss of snorkeling. It’s a calm, scenic outing perfect for those wanting a relaxed, visually appealing experience with friendly guides and some drinks to enjoy along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: