Clear Boat tour in Cancun, 1:30 hours perfect for pictures!

If you’re looking for a relaxing, visually stunning experience in Cancun that’s perfect for photos and easy to enjoy, the Clear Boat Tour might be just what you need. It’s a brief, laid-back journey that showcases some of the best sights from a different perspective — aboard a completely transparent boat. While it’s not a deep-sea adventure or a high-adrenaline activity, it offers a peaceful way to admire the underwater world without getting wet.

What really catches our attention about this tour are its remarkable views of marine life and the crystal-clear waters that surround Cancun. Plus, the inclusion of complimentary drinks makes it feel like a leisurely water-based social gathering. The downside? The tour is quite short — just over an hour — so if you’re craving a longer or more immersive experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour suits travelers who want a light, fun, and scenic experience that’s easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing. It’s especially good for those who enjoy great photo ops and don’t mind paying a small dock fee on arrival. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a relaxed activity that provides plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: About 1 hour 15 minutes of guided boat time, perfect for a quick escape.
• Great for Photos: The transparent boat and scenic stops offer plenty of opportunities to snap stunning pictures.
• Inclusive Drinks: Includes bottled water and 2 beers per adult, adding a relaxed vibe.
• Marine Life and Reef: You’ll see fish, turtles, manta rays, submerged statues, and a reef, all from the comfort of your boat.
• Calm and Scenic: No swimming needed, ideal for those who want a peaceful cruise.
• Additional Cost: You’ll need to pay a mandatory dock fee of MXN 480 per person.

The Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Arrival

The tour begins at Envatours in Cancun’s Zona Hotelera, specifically at Blvd. Kukulcan km 3.5. The meeting point is convenient, close to public transportation, but be prepared to pay the dock fee upon arrival. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

First Stop: Laguna Nichupte

Your journey kicks off in Laguna Nichupte, a peaceful lagoon surrounded by lush mangroves. Here, the calm waters make for an easy, relaxing cruise. We loved the way this part of the tour felt like a gentle glide through nature, with the chance to see submerged statues and colorful marine life beneath the glassy surface. The scene under the water is quite artistic — submerged statues and coral reefs create an interesting blend of natural beauty and man-made art.

Cruising under the Calinda Bridge, the scenery opens up to the Caribbean Sea, giving you a taste of the larger waters that surround Cancun. It’s a great starting point for those who appreciate tranquil, scenic environments.

Into the Caribbean Sea

Once in the Caribbean, the boat slows down to allow you to take in the sights. The view from the transparent bottom of the boat makes it easy to spot fish, turtles, and manta rays — if you’re lucky, they might swim close enough for a good look. We found the views of marine life especially impressive because of the clarity of the water, which adds a magical touch that photos can hardly do justice.

Reaching El Blanquizal

The highlight of the tour is reaching El Blanquizal, a shallow, white-sand seabed that stretches seemingly forever. It’s a breathtaking spot, perfect for soaking in the colors of Cancun from the water and catching some memorable photos. The shallow waters here are calm and inviting, making it a peaceful spot to simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.

The Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, there’s an expert guide providing insights about the marine environment and the sights around you. The relaxed pace and the complimentary drinks — water plus two beers per adult — create a laid-back, social atmosphere. It’s a great way to unwind after a morning or early afternoon of exploring the city.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $29 USD per person, the cost is quite reasonable for a scenic boat ride with fantastic views. The inclusion of drinks and safety equipment adds value, especially considering the short duration. However, there’s the mandatory dock fee of MXN 480 per person, which can feel a bit like an extra hurdle, but it’s a standard practice in many tours.

This price point makes it accessible for most travelers, especially those who want a low-pressure, family-friendly activity without breaking the bank. Keep in mind, this tour isn’t about long-lasting adventure or snorkeling; it’s about enjoying the scenery in a comfortable, relaxed way.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, making it ideal for those with a tight schedule or looking for a quick scenic experience.
• The tour is suitable for all ages, with no swimming required, and the calm waters make it accessible.
• No snacks or glass containers are allowed, which helps keep the environment pristine.
• You’ll need a facemask during the tour, aligning with safety protocols.
• The group is small, with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

While reviews are limited, the positive emphasis on stunning views and the peaceful nature of the cruise shines through. One traveler noted that the highlight was the crystal-clear waters and marine life sightings, while another appreciated the relaxed environment with drinks included. The underwater art in the form of submerged statues adds a quirky, artistic touch — a detail that makes this tour more than just a boat ride.

Some reviews mention the simplicity and calmness of the experience, which is exactly what makes it appealing if you’re after something low-key. It’s not a tour for thrill-seekers or those looking to snorkel, but it’s perfect for fans of scenic water views and light exploration.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for visitors who love scenic views and photography. If you’re after a memorable snapshot of Cancun’s waters in a short amount of time, this tour delivers. It’s also good for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a relaxing, no-stress activity.

However, if you’re hoping for a longer adventure with snorkeling or diving, you’ll want to consider other options. Still, for pure visual enjoyment and a peaceful boat ride with friendly guides, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Clear Boat Tour in Cancun offers a surprisingly beautiful glimpse into the Caribbean’s underwater world, all from the comfort of a transparent boat. For just over $29 USD plus the dock fee, you get a short but visually impressive excursion that’s perfect for those who love photography, serene environments, and a relaxed pace.

It’s a great introduction to Cancun’s marine environment that doesn’t require any swimming or strenuous activity. The inclusion of drinks adds a social touch that makes it feel like a mini vacation within your vacation. While the duration is brief, the views and the experience are memorable enough to justify the trip.

If you’re after a calm, scenic, and easy-to-enjoy activity that allows you to soak in Cancun’s natural beauty without the fuss, this tour might just become one of your favorite moments in the city.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including guided exploration and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
You get the boat tour, a bilingual guide, bottled water, 2 beers per adult, and safety equipment.

Is there a dock fee I need to pay?
Yes, there is a mandatory dock fee of MXN 480 per person, payable at the start of the tour.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, with no swimming required, making it family-friendly.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely — the clear boat offers fantastic opportunities for photos, especially of marine life and Cancun’s waters.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or phone for photos, facemask (mandatory during the tour), and some cash for the dock fee.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water and two beers per adult are included. No other snacks are provided.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour is a straightforward boat ride in calm waters, it should be accessible for most, but it’s best to check with the provider for specific needs.

If you’re seeking a beautiful, laid-back water adventure that’s simple to enjoy and offers great views, the Clear Boat Tour in Cancun is worth considering. It’s a straightforward way to see the marine environment, capture stunning photographs, and unwind with a drink in hand — perfect for a quick escape into the Caribbean’s calm waters.