If you’re dreaming of a special night out in Cancun, the Romantic Night Cruise Dinner aboard the Columbus could be just the ticket. This experience promises an elegant evening on a classic Spanish-style galleon, with good food, lively music, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to pause and soak it all in. Whether celebrating an anniversary, a special date, or just wanting to treat yourself to something memorable, it’s worth considering.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to sail on a beautiful wooden galleon across Nichupte Lagoon offers a unique, picture-perfect setting. Second, the included open bar adds an easygoing, celebratory vibe that pairs perfectly with the romantic ambiance.
However, a potential downside is the dock fee of $15 per person, which isn’t included in the ticket price, and some travelers have reported issues with the booking process, particularly regarding the timing confirmation. So, if you’re particular about your schedule or want a seamless experience, it’s worth paying close attention to these details.
This tour suits those looking for a romantic, relaxing evening with top-notch scenery and good food—perfect for couples wanting to celebrate or anyone who appreciates a mix of good music, fine dining, and great views.
Key Points

- Beautiful Setting: Sail on a classic wooden galleon across Nichupte Lagoon, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
- Includes Entertainment: Live saxophone music creates a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
- Delicious Dining Options: Feast on lobster, steak, or surf ‘n’ turf—generous servings that satisfy most appetites.
- Open Bar: An unlimited selection of drinks makes it easy to toast and relax during the cruise.
- Flexible Timing: Choose between sunset or after dark cruises, depending on your mood and preferences.
- Optional Transfers: Round-trip hotel transfers can be added for extra convenience.
The Experience in Detail

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Booking and Pricing
Starting at $95 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded evening for those willing to spend a bit on a memorable night out. The price covers dinner, the open bar, live music, and the sailing tour. Keep in mind, there’s an additional dock fee of $15 per person, so factor that into your budget. Booking on average happens about 42 days in advance, indicating that it’s popular enough to plan ahead.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a three-course meal with options for meat lovers, vegetarians, or surf ‘n’ turf fans. The meals are described as generous, and from reviews, the food consistently receives praise for its quality and tastiness. The open bar is a significant perk, offering a range of alcoholic beverages to keep spirits high as you glide along the lagoon.
While photos are available for purchase, they aren’t included in the ticket price. Transportation from your hotel or meeting point can be added if you prefer not to navigate independently. Just note that the activity starts and ends at the same meeting point: Marina Aquatours, located along Kukulcan Boulevard in Cancun’s Hotel Zone.
The Sailing Itself
Picture yourself aboard a beautifully maintained wooden galleon, gently rocking as waves lap against the hull. The cruise length is about 2 hours 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, music, and conversation. The route around Nichupte Lagoon offers views of Cancun’s skyline, lush mangroves, and open water—an ideal backdrop for romance or relaxed enjoyment.
Music and Atmosphere
The live saxophone player is a major highlight, creating a mood that’s both elegant and lively. As one reviewer put it, the music added a “great touch” to the evening, elevating the experience from simple dinner to a romantic occasion. Expect a smooth, soothing soundtrack as you sip drinks and watch the sunset or night fall.
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Food and Drink
The meals are described as delicious, with a variety of options to suit different tastes. Lobster and surf ‘n’ turf are the standouts, often praised for their generous portions and quality. The open bar allows for unlimited drinks, so you can enjoy cocktails, wine, or beer without worry—perfect for celebrating or just unwinding after a busy day.
The Downsides
A few practical issues have come up in reviews. Some travelers encountered confusion with their pickup times; one reviewer booked a 4:30 pm cruise but was told it was unavailable, and their pickup was scheduled for 6:10 pm. Such miscommunications can be frustrating, so confirming your booking details directly with the operator is a smart move.
Others suggest that the boat could benefit from a little remodeling, especially if you’re expecting a sunset cruise, which wasn’t possible for some because it was fully booked. If you’re keen on a specific timing or sunset experience, early booking is advisable.
Who It’s Best For
This tour is particularly well-suited for couples celebrating a special occasion, those wanting a romantic backdrop for their Cancun trip, or anyone who appreciates good food and music in a scenic setting. It’s also a good choice if you enjoy sailing and want a relaxed evening without the hustle of busy tourist spots.
Final Thoughts
This romantic night cruise aboard Columbus offers a charming blend of beautiful views, delightful food, and lively music. It’s a thoughtful way to spend an evening in Cancun, especially if you’re looking to celebrate or simply enjoy a peaceful, scenic cruise. The inclusion of an open bar and the possibility of choosing sunset or night-time sailing add to its appeal, making it versatile for different preferences.
While it’s not without its small hiccups—like the dock fee and occasional booking confusion—the overall experience tends to leave travelers feeling satisfied. The food consistently earns praise, and the setting is truly stunning, especially for those who love capturing photos or just soaking in the scenery.
If you’re after a romantic, memorable evening that combines great ambiance, tasty food, and the beauty of Cancun’s lagoon, this cruise could very well be worth your while. Just be sure to book early, clarify your timings, and prepare for a relaxing, enjoyable night on the water.
Live a Romantic Night Cruise Dinner at COLUMBUS (open bar included)
“We booked a 16:30 dinner cruise for our Anniversary. We got a pick up time sent to us day prior for 6:10pm. When we called they said they didn't ha…”
FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, transportation isn’t included in the base price, but you can select an option for round-trip transfers when booking.
What is the price of the cruise?
Tickets are $95 per person, which covers dinner, drinks, live music, and the sailing tour.
Are there different cruise times to choose from?
Yes, you can opt for either a sunset cruise or one after dark, depending on your preference.
What’s not included in the ticket?
The ticket price excludes the dock fee of $15 per person, and photos are available for purchase separately.
How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes long, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery, food, and music.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.
Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is geared towards adults, especially couples, but it’s not explicitly described as family-friendly.
Will I see a sunset?
It depends on availability; sunset cruises are offered, but they tend to fill up quickly, so booking early is recommended.
Are there options for different dietary preferences?
Yes, the menu includes options for meat, vegetarian, or surf and turf, catering to various tastes.
If you’re seeking a romantic, scenic, and fun evening in Cancun, this cruise offers a wonderful way to celebrate and unwind. Just plan ahead, confirm your details, and enjoy the ride.
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