Cancún: Nichupté Lagoon Transparent Boat Tour with Drinks

Our review focuses on a popular transparent boat tour in Cancún’s Nichupté Lagoon, an experience that promises scenic views, marine life spotting, and a laid-back vibe. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the details shared by travelers, combined with our own insights, paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing way to enjoy Cancún’s natural beauty or looking for a fun activity that’s not too strenuous, this tour hits several of the right notes.

What we particularly like about this experience is how accessible and straightforward it is—no complicated logistics or long durations, just 1.5 hours of floating in a glass-bottom boat with drinks in hand. The second is the chance to see marine life, like fish and turtles, in their natural environment, which adds a layer of authenticity to the scenery. The only possible downside? Some travelers have mentioned the occasional challenge with directions and minor motion sickness, so a heads-up if you’re prone to that.

This tour is best suited for folks who want a relaxed, scenic activity that’s easy to fit into a day of exploring Cancún. It’s ideal for those who enjoy photography, nature, or simply soaking up the views without much physical effort. Families with older children who can handle a boat ride might also find this a peaceful, engaging outing. It’s a simple, enjoyable way to appreciate the lagoon’s beauty without diving into more complex excursions.

Key Points

• Accessible and simple: a short, 1.5-hour tour that fits easily into most itineraries.
• Great for photos: the transparent boat offers stunning views of the reef and marine life.
• Relaxing experience: enjoy drinks and scenic vistas, making it perfect for unwinding.
• Good value: at $40 per person, it offers a combination of scenery, drinks, and marine life viewing.
• Guides are professional: reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and captain.
• Potential minor drawbacks: directions to the meeting point can be confusing, and motion sickness might affect some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Tour All About?

This Nichupté Lagoon transparent boat tour is a laid-back, 1.5-hour cruise through the turquoise waters of Cancún’s famous lagoon. You’ll hop on a boat with a nearly see-through bottom, giving you an unobstructed view of the underwater world as you glide along. It’s a visually striking way to experience the lagoon, especially if you love taking photos or just want a different perspective of Cancún’s natural landscape.

The tour starts at Envatours Cancún, with a quick walk from the meeting point at Marina Kaybal. The location is easy enough to find, though a few travelers have noted that the directions can be a little confusing, especially if you’re relying on Uber or navigation apps. Once aboard, the guide and captain will lead you through the lagoon, sharing insights about the area’s flora and fauna.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Check-In

You’ll meet at Marina Kaybal, which is just a short walk from a few local landmarks. Arriving a little early is always a good idea to exchange your mobile voucher and get familiar with the spot. The front desk is conveniently located in front of the hotel “Temptation,” next to Starbucks, beneath the “Hijas de la Tostada” restaurant. Be aware that the tour doesn’t include transportation, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Scenic Cruise Through Nichupté Lagoon (25 minutes)

The first part of the tour involves cruising through the lagoon, where you’ll be treated to views of vibrant mangroves and lush greenery. The water is stunningly clear—expect to see shades of blue and green that look almost unreal. According to guest reviews, the scenery here is mesmerizing and makes for some fantastic photos. One traveler said, “The view from Lagoon to open sea is amazing with very clear green/blue water.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Marine Life Viewing (25 minutes)

Next, you’ll drift into a section of the lagoon known for its marine inhabitants. Fish swim just below the boat’s transparent bottom, offering a close-up of underwater life. Some lucky visitors have spotted turtles, although reviews suggest this isn’t guaranteed—sightings can be hit or miss. One guest mentioned only seeing two turtles and some fish but still enjoyed the experience overall. The guides are professional, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the most of the marine life spotting opportunities.

Photo Stop (10 minutes)

The tour includes a designated photo stop—a chance to take memorable photos of the scenery and your group. The transparency of the boat and the natural backdrop create a perfect setting to capture the trip’s highlights. Many guests share that the scenery is picturesque enough to produce stunning images to show friends or keep as souvenirs.

Return and Reflection

After the photo stop, you’ll cruise back to the starting point, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views. Some travelers have mentioned that motion sickness can be an issue, especially if the water gets a little choppier, so bring your own remedies if needed.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included:

• A guided tour with a professional guide and captain
• Dock tax
• Two beers per adult
• Water

Not included:

• Transportation to the meeting point
• Photos (though you’ll want to bring your own camera or phone)

The price of $40 per person seems reasonable for the experience, especially considering the drinks and the chance to see marine life up close. It’s a straightforward activity that’s light on cost but can be high on the memories and photos you’ll take home.

The Experience on the Water

Expect a calm, scenic cruise that’s mostly about relaxing and taking in the views. The boat itself is designed to give maximum visibility of the underwater world, which many reviewers find captivating. The guide and captain are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, adding to the overall relaxed atmosphere.

The drinks—two beers per adult—are a nice touch, letting you sip and enjoy the scenery without rushing. Water is also provided, so you can stay hydrated during the trip. Just keep in mind, sunscreen is not allowed on the boat, so be sure to apply it beforehand if you plan to stay out for longer.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers generally rate this tour around 4.4 out of 5, citing the scenery and guides as major highlights. One traveler from the U.S. said, “It was a good tour albeit with one glitch. The direction to Envatour location was confusing… but I enjoyed the first half of the tour.” Others appreciated the chance to see turtles and fish, with one reviewer from Belgium remarking, “Très bien. Nous avons pu voir différents types de poissons et des tortues.”

A few reviews note minor frustrations, such as getting dropped off on the wrong side of the street or feeling motion sick, but these seem to be manageable or avoidable with a little planning. The consensus is that it’s a worthwhile, low-key activity providing a different perspective of Cancún’s lagoon.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This transparent boat tour is well-suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic activity that’s easy to enjoy without much physical exertion. If you’re someone who loves photography or simply enjoys beautiful water views, you’ll appreciate the unique perspective this boat offers. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want a casual outing with drinks to unwind.

It’s less ideal for those with mobility issues or those seeking active or adventurous experiences, as the boat ride is gentle but not meant for vigorous activity. And if you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions before boarding.

Final Thoughts

For around $40, this Nichupté Lagoon transparent boat tour offers a gentle, scenic experience that captures the essence of Cancún’s natural beauty. The views are stunning, the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the chance to sip a cold drink while gliding over clear waters makes for a relaxing escape from the busy beaches. While it’s not a high-adventure activity, it’s one that provides plenty of photo opportunities and a peaceful way to connect with nature.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable experience with the chance to see marine life and enjoy scenic vistas, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want an easy, no-fuss activity that still delivers memorable moments. Just keep in mind the directions to the meeting point, and consider your comfort with boat rides if motion sickness is a concern.

FAQ

Do I need to bring anything special?
Just bring sunglasses and a hat to shield yourself from the sun. Sunscreen is not allowed on the boat, so apply it beforehand.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to get to Marina Kaybal on your own, so plan your route accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Can I see marine life during the tour?
Yes, you might see fish swimming below and, occasionally, turtles. Sightings depend on the day, but the marine environment is definitely a highlight.

Are drinks included?
Yes, each adult gets two beers, plus water, to enjoy during the cruise.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly advertised as family-friendly, older children who enjoy boat rides and scenery should find it enjoyable. It’s best for those comfortable on a boat and not prone to motion sickness.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This transparent boat tour in Cancún’s Nichupté Lagoon is a relaxed, scenic escape that offers a window into the lagoon’s beauty, making it an inviting choice for many travelers. Whether you’re snapping photos, sipping a cold drink, or simply soaking up the views, it’s a peaceful way to enjoy Cancún’s natural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: