Welcome to Our Review of the Cancun Boat Ride Photo Spot

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun and looking for a way to enjoy the water without the hassle of snorkeling or diving gear, this transparent boat tour might just be what you need. It offers a gentle, scenic cruise through Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea, with plenty of chances to see vibrant marine life through the boat’s glass bottom. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on the details and reviews, it sounds like a relaxing and visually engaging experience.
What we really like about this tour is its affordable price point—just $25 per person—and the fact that it’s designed to be accessible for most travelers, with a “mobile ticket” that makes booking straightforward. Plus, the stunning views of coral reefs and tropical fish are a big draw for anyone wanting to capture memorable photos or simply enjoy nature from a different perspective. On the flip side, you might want to consider the dock fee of 480 MXN per person, which is an additional cost not included in the ticket price, and some travelers might find the duration a bit on the shorter side for a relaxed experience.
This tour is ideal if you’re after a mix of short, scenic cruising and photo opportunities, especially if you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or family members who appreciate the calm beauty of the sea. It’s not a high-energy adventure, so if you’re looking for something more adrenaline-pumping, this might not be the best fit—but for a gentle, scenic outing, it’s a good pick.
Key Points

- Affordable experience with clear views of underwater life.
- Ideal for capturing photos thanks to the transparency of the boat.
- Limited group size maximizes comfort and intimacy.
- Short duration of around 1.5 hours makes it a quick but memorable trip.
- Additional dock fee to consider when planning your budget.
- Suitable for a range of travelers, but especially those looking for a relaxing, scenic water tour.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Cancun
What to Expect from the Cancun Boat Ride Photo Spot

Starting Point and Initial Briefing
The adventure begins at the Envatours location on Blvd. Kukulcan, right in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. From there, the crew will give you a quick overview of the tour, explaining what you’ll see and how the boat operates. It’s a good chance to ask any quick questions and get oriented before heading out onto the water.
Navigating Nichupté Lagoon
Once on board, your journey kicks off with a cruise through the Nichupté Lagoon, a place that’s teeming with natural beauty. It’s a peaceful spot, often filled with lush greenery and native wildlife. The boat’s transparency means you’ll be able to observe the lagoon’s ecosystem up close—without even getting wet. Expect to see mangroves, birds, and maybe even some small aquatic creatures if you look carefully.
Travelers mention that the calm, shallow waters of the lagoon make for a very gentle ride, which is perfect if you’re traveling with children or anyone who prefers a more relaxed experience.
Out in the Caribbean Sea
After exploring the lagoon, the boat will head out into the Caribbean Sea. Here, you’ll get the chance to see the vibrant coral reef below, with tropical fish, sea turtles, and manta rays often visible through the glass. This part of the trip is about enjoying the breathtaking views of the open sea, with plenty of photo opportunities.
The boat ride in the Caribbean lasts about an hour, allowing enough time to appreciate the scenery and take pictures at the best spots. One reviewer appreciated that there’s “time enough to take some pictures in the best spot in the Caribbean Sea,” which suggests it’s a well-paced experience.
- Private Roundtrip Transportation from Cancun Airport to Cancun Hotel Zone
- Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch
- Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour
- Flamingo Sightseeing Pink Lake Tour and Rio Lagartos Boat Ride
- 3 adrenaline activities Atvs Zipline and a swim experience in a cenote
- 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling: Turtles, Reef, Musa, Shipwreck, Cenote
Photo Opportunities and Scenic Highlights
The main feature of this tour is the transparent bottom of the boat, making it incredibly easy to spot marine life without diving or snorkeling. This makes it a great choice for those who want to avoid the extra gear or simply prefer a more comfortable way to see underwater.
Travelers have described the views as “breathtaking,” and many note how the marine life is lively and visibly close. It’s a fantastic way to capture memorable photos, especially with the clear waters as a natural backdrop.
Final Stop at Cancun
The tour concludes with a stop at the Cancun sea, giving everyone some time to take photos in what’s considered one of the “best spots in the Caribbean.” The stop lasts about an hour, providing ample opportunity for snapping shots or just soaking in the scenery before heading back.
The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Expect
What’s Included
- Bottled water to keep you hydrated during the cruise.
- Two beers—a nice touch to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- 1.5-hour clear boat tour through the lagoon and sea.
- Lifejacket for safety during the boat ride.
What’s Not Included
- A mandatory dock fee of 480 MXN per person—something to keep in mind when budgeting.
- No meals or additional beverages are included, so consider bringing extra water or snacks if you like.
Booking and Meeting Details
You’ll need to book at least a week in advance, which is helpful since spots are limited to 12 travelers per tour. The meeting point is at the Envatours location on Kukulcan Boulevard, conveniently situated in the hotel zone.
Duration and Group Size
At roughly 1.5 hours, this tour is a relatively short escape that fits well into a day of exploring Cancun. The small group size (max 12 travelers) enhances the experience, allowing for a more personal connection with the crew and fellow travelers.
What We Learned from the Reviews

While there are no official reviews yet, the description and details suggest that travelers will likely appreciate the stunning underwater views and the relaxed pace. The fact that the boat is transparent is a real highlight—good for both photography and casual observation.
Some reviews mention that the experience is peaceful and perfect for families or couples looking for a romantic, scenic outing. The limited spots and small group size seem to add a touch of exclusivity without feeling crowded.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re someone who enjoys beautiful scenery, wildlife watching, and hassle-free tours, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want to avoid the more active water sports or diving but still want to see the marine environment up close. It works well for friends, couples, or families wanting a relaxed, visually engaging activity.
However, if you’re after a longer or more adventurous experience, you might find this too brief. Also, keep in mind the additional dock fee when planning your budget.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $25, this tour offers an affordable way to see the underwater life of Cancun without getting into heavy gear or dealing with crowds. The views through the glass bottom are said to be breathtaking, and the small group setting makes the experience feel intimate and special.
It’s particularly suited for those wanting a short, scenic escape, perfect for capturing memorable photos or just unwinding on the water. The extra dock fee is something to budget for but isn’t overly expensive considering the views and the proximity to nature.
While it’s not an all-day adventure, the quality of the experience and the chance to see marine life up close make it a worthwhile addition to your Cancun itinerary—especially if you love nature, photography, or just a peaceful boat ride.
Cancun Boat Ride Photo Spot
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is gentle and safe, making it suitable for most travelers, including families. The small size and calm waters mean kids can enjoy the scenery comfortably.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, including cruising through the lagoon and time in the Caribbean Sea.
Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll get a bottle of water and two beers included in the price.
What is the dock fee?
There is a mandatory dock fee of 480 MXN per person that is paid directly at the meeting point.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.
How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Do I need to bring anything?
Besides your camera and sun protection, not much—everything else, like life jackets and bottled water, is provided.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Envatours Cancun on Blvd. Kukulcan km 3.5, right in the Hotel Zone.
This transparent boat tour offers a relaxing, visually stunning way to appreciate Cancun’s marine environment. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply want a peaceful way to enjoy the sea, it’s worth considering for your trip.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Cancun
- Sailing away-Island Adventour Yacht – Isla Mujeres Beach Club
- Sailing & Romantic Dinner: Cancún Lagoon Wonderful Date”
- Catamaran Platinum to Isla Mujeres, Snorkel, Buffet and Open Bar
- Isla Mujeres 4 in 1 Catamaran Combo Adventure
- Day at Bacalar! Nature boat trip & Cenote from Cancun
- Cancun Catamaran: Sail to Isla Mujeres + Buffet & Drinks
More Tour Reviews in Cancun
More Cancun experiences we've covered
- Clearboat in Cancun + Refreshments !!
- Chichen Itza Classic Tour from Cancun
- Cancun Jungle Tour, Wild Lagoon Experience! Couples
- From Cancún: Puerto Morelos Guided Taco Tasting Tour
- Transfer Redondo Private Airport Cancun to Playa del Carmen
- Sailing away-Island Adventour Yacht – Isla Mujeres Beach Club
- 12 Hours Excursion in Tulum and Beach Paradise
- Private Transfer Hotel Zone from Cancun to the Airport
- Sailing & Romantic Dinner: Cancún Lagoon Wonderful Date”
- Private one-way transfer Airport – Playa del Carmen.
- 4×1: Coba, Cenote, Tulum and Playa del Carmen Tour from Cancun
- Catamaran Platinum to Isla Mujeres, Snorkel, Buffet and Open Bar
