From Puerto Aventuras: Share Catamaran Tour

If you’re thinking about a day on the water in Quintana Roo, this Share Catamaran Tour from Puerto Aventuras might catch your eye. Offered at $125 per person for a four-hour experience, it promises a mix of snorkeling, scenic cruising, and delicious food. While it’s not a private charter, it offers a social atmosphere with a lot packed into a relatively short window, making it appealing for travelers who want a balance of adventure and relaxation.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines snorkeling at the second largest reef in the world with the chance to enjoy a luxury 65-foot catamaran—a vessel that’s big enough for comfort but not so crowded that you feel lost in the crowd. Plus, the full BBQ meal with four different options and an open bar adds a real touch of indulgence to the day.

On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned that the experience might not live up to expectations if you’re looking for something ultra-exclusive or highly private. The occasional confusion about group size or the quality of food has come up, so it’s worth going in with realistic expectations.

This tour is best suited for those who want a lively day at sea, enjoy snorkeling, and appreciate good food and drinks, all within a well-organized setting. If you’re traveling in a group or family and love being on the water, this could definitely be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Snorkeling at a Major Reef: You’ll visit a renowned underwater site teeming with coral and sea life.
• Comfortable Catamaran: A spacious 65-foot vessel means plenty of room and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Scenic Views: Expect beautiful vistas of the Riviera Maya during your cruise.
• Tasty Meal & Open Bar: A full BBQ with four options and unlimited drinks create a satisfying meal at sea.
• Group Size Variability: Some reviews mention larger crowds, which might impact your experience.
• Family Friendly: The tour welcomes families with kids, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

When we picture a day on the water in Mexico, we imagine bright sun, sparkling sea, and a laid-back vibe. This Share Catamaran Tour offers just that, beginning at the Puerto Aventuras marina, where a friendly and professional crew welcomes you aboard. They start with a safety briefing and quick overview of what to expect, setting the stage for a relaxed day.

The Journey to the Reef

Most of the time, you’ll set sail for about an hour to reach the reef, which is the second largest barrier reef in the world. That’s a good length of time to settle into the boat’s comfortable deck, enjoy a drink from the open bar, or just soak up the sunshine while taking in views of the coastline. The journey itself is part of the fun, offering a chance to spot the coastlines and possibly some marine life along the way.

Snorkeling at the Reef

Once you arrive, the focus shifts to snorkeling. The reef is known for its stunning coral formations and vibrant sea creatures, so bring your underwater camera and be ready for some memorable sights. The guides and dive masters are experienced and helpful, especially if it’s your first time snorkelng. Several reviews highlight this aspect positively — “The staff were excellent, very attentive,” noted a traveler from Latvia, and “Good snorkeling area under the guidance of a guide,” said a traveler from the Netherlands.

However, some experienced snorkelers have pointed out that the duration of snorkeling is somewhat limited, which can feel rushed. Still, the chance to swim in such a renowned spot is often worth the quick visit.

The Food and Drinks

Back on board, the highlight for many is the full BBQ grill. You’ll have four options to choose from: NY Steak, Fish Filet, Chicken Fajitas, or a Hamburger. The quality of the food varies in reviews, with some travelers praising the meal as “a very nice lunch” and others feeling it’s a bit basic — a simple, satisfying meal rather than a gourmet experience. The open bar is a definite plus, allowing you to enjoy drinks freely as you glide along the coast.

One reviewer noted, “Great crew. Good food and a very nice snorkeling area,” which echoes how many travelers feel about the overall value. But a few mention that the food isn’t quite up to the “luxury” description, with some claiming it’s more like a barbecue at a casual gathering.

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The Return and Additional Options

After lunch, you can relax and enjoy the sail back along the Riviera Maya, taking in the views and possibly spotting wildlife or coastal landmarks. For those interested in a more romantic or peaceful experience, a private sunset charter is available, offering a chance to see the coast in a different light.

Group Dynamics and Size

Some reviews point out inconsistencies between the tour description and the actual experience. For example, one traveler from the US mentioned, “It was fine, but the advertisement says small group—limited to 10 people—and I thought it was semi-private, only to see 50+ people upon arrival.” This highlights the importance of checking current group sizes and expectations, especially if you’re seeking a more intimate experience.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour lasts about four hours, mostly in the morning, which is perfect if you want a full experience without it taking up your entire day. It includes snorkel equipment, a delicious meal, and drinks, which contribute heavily to the perceived value.

However, there are some extras to consider: a $15 marina dock fee payable in cash and the lack of included hotel pickup and drop-off. If you prefer door-to-door service, arranging transportation might be worth it, especially if you’re staying further out.

This tour is wheelchair accessible and offers guides in Spanish, English, and German, making it accessible for many travelers. Keep in mind that pregnant women and those with heart problems are advised not to participate, mainly due to safety considerations during snorkeling and being on a boat.

What Travelers Are Saying

Positives:
– “Great tour! Top crew. Good food and a very nice snorkeling area,” said a traveler from the Netherlands. Many reviews agree that the crew is attentive and friendly, which makes a notable difference.
– “Beautiful catamaran, not too crowded,” mentioned a traveler from Germany, highlighting the vessel’s comfort despite some reports of larger groups.
– Guests enjoy the scenic cruise, the lively atmosphere, and the delicious, straightforward BBQ meal.

Negatives:
– Several reviews voice concerns over larger-than-expected groups, which can reduce the sense of exclusivity.
– The quality of the food has mixed reviews, with some feeling it’s rather basic or not as fresh as hoped.
– A few travelers experienced short snorkeling durations or found the overall value less impressive considering additional costs like the dock fee and transportation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for those who want a fun, social day on the water. It’s great for travelers who prioritize snorkeling at a renowned reef, enjoying a relaxed cruise, and indulging in a casual yet tasty meal and drinks. Families with kids can find it suitable, especially since the tour is described as family-friendly.

However, if you’re after an intimate or private experience, or expect gourmet food, this might not meet your expectations. It’s also worth noting that if you’re sensitive to larger crowds or seeking a very quiet, exclusive outing, you might want to explore other options.

In The Sum Up

The From Puerto Aventuras: Share Catamaran Tour offers a balanced taste of Caribbean adventure and relaxation. The combination of scenic sailing, snorkeling at a major reef, and a hearty BBQ meal makes it an appealing choice for many travelers. The crew’s attentiveness and the vessel’s comfort level tend to receive praise, creating a generally enjoyable atmosphere.

While some reviews highlight issues with group sizes or food quality, these don’t overshadow the overall experience for most. It’s important to go in with realistic expectations—this tour provides good value for those who love being on the water, enjoy snorkeling, and want a lively, social day in the Riviera Maya.

If you’re looking for a fun, straightforward day with good scenery, decent food, and friendly guides, this tour will likely serve you well. Just consider the potential for larger groups and check if any additional costs, like the marina dock fee, fit into your budget.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour welcomes families with kids and is considered family-friendly, especially since staff can help guide first-time snorkelers.

How long is the snorkeling session?
The tour includes snorkeling at the reef, but some reviews mention that the snorkeling time can be brief or feel rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sandals, biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, an underwater camera, and cash for tips or souvenirs.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the open bar provides a variety of exotic drinks throughout the tour.

Can I bring my own snorkel equipment?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

What’s not included in the price?
A $15 marina dock fee (cash) is not included, and hotel pickup/drop-off is also not part of the package unless specially arranged.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour offers wheelchair accessibility.

What if I need transportation?
You can contact the provider to add round-trip transportation at an additional cost, depending on your location.

If you’re looking for a lively day on the water with good food, friendly guides, and the chance to snorkel at one of the world’s top reefs, this tour might be just what you need. Just keep in mind the group size and food comments, and plan accordingly. It’s a decent option for many travelers wanting a balanced, enjoyable experience in the Riviera Maya.

You can check availability for your dates here: