Private fishing charter Boat 48ft 12 pax Good Marlin and Sailfish

A Deep Dive into the Private Cancun Fishing Charter on a 48ft Boat

If you’re eyeing a fishing trip in Cancun, this private 48-foot boat experience is one many travelers consider. It promises a day of serious sea adventure with the chance to hook marlin, sailfish, and more in the Caribbean’s warm waters. While I haven’t been on this exact trip myself, I’ve gathered enough insights from reviews and descriptions to give you a clear picture of what you might expect—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

One thing we really like about this experience is its private setting; only your group will be out on the water, which means more flexibility, fewer crowds, and a personalized experience. Plus, with experienced crew and all the gear provided, there’s a good chance you’ll come away with some memorable catches, especially if you’re into big-game fishing. On the flip side, it’s important to consider that some reviews mention the boat’s condition as a point of inconsistency—so if sleek, modern equipment is a dealbreaker, this might be something to note.

This trip seems best suited for those who want a focused, flexible fishing adventure in Cancun without the hassle of sharing the boat with strangers. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a family looking for a fun day on the water, this could be a solid choice—just keep in mind the need for some basic planning around fees and gear.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized service.
• Versatile fishing: Targets big species like marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi.
• All-in-one package: Includes rods, bait, water, sodas, and crew assistance.
• Cost considerations: Dock fee and license fees payable at the marina, adding to the total cost.
• Boat size and capacity: Spacious 48-foot vessel holds up to 14 guests comfortably.
• Booking tip: On average, trips are booked about 2 months in advance, so plan ahead.

What Makes This Fishing Trip Stand Out?

The charm of this private fishing charter lies in its versatility and exclusivity. With a 48-foot vessel, there’s ample room for up to 14 people, making it ideal for groups or families who want a focused day on the sea without the hustle of larger tour groups. The boat is tailored for both trolling and bottom fishing, so whether you’re after the thrill of catching a sailfish or marlin or just want to try your luck with smaller species like mahi-mahi or barracuda, there’s flexibility.

The experience includes a professional crew who are dedicated to helping you maximize your catch. Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides and the effort they put into finding and catching big fish. One reviewer shared a story of catching a 100-pound shark during a six-hour trip, highlighting just how exciting and successful this outing can be. Another reviewer noted that their crew was fantastic with children, making the day family-friendly.

Expect to cruise between 5 and 35 miles offshore—that’s a significant range and offers plenty of opportunity to find productive fishing spots. You’ll also spend time trolling and bottom fishing, which broadens the chances of a successful day. Plus, the boat’s modern amenities include rods, bait, life vests, and refreshments like sodas and water.

The Itinerary – What You Can Expect

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point near Cancun’s Zona Hotelera. Once aboard, you’ll head out into the Caribbean waters, with the first part of your trip dedicated to getting familiar with the boat and setting your fishing lines. The crew will help you with gear and instructions, especially if you’re new to fishing.

Cruising at varying distances from the coast, up to 35 miles out, you’ll enjoy the stunning views of Isla Mujeres and the turquoise sea. The environment is calm, and the crew often takes the time to share insights about the local marine life and best fishing spots.

As you troll the waters, keep your eyes peeled for signs of activity, and if you’re lucky, you might encounter sailfish, marlin, tuna, or mahi-mahi. The thrill of catching a big fish is often mentioned by past participants, with one noting, “We caught several large fish including a 100-pound shark.” While catching big game fish can sometimes be hit or miss, the crew’s expertise adds reassurance and increases your chances.

The trip usually lasts about 4 hours, which is a decent length to balance excitement and comfort—long enough to get into some solid fishing but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. Toward the end of your trip, the crew often prepares some of your catch into delicious fish tacos, which many reviews rave about, especially the “blackened fish.”

Additional Considerations

• Fees & Licensing: The package price covers most essentials, but you’ll need to pay a $14 USD dock fee per person and $10 USD for fishing licenses at the marina. These are straightforward and paid on-site.
• Refreshments: You’re provided with ice, sodas, and water—bring your own beers if you like, as alcohol isn’t included.
• Boat condition: Some reviews mention the boat’s appearance; while it’s functional and spacious, it might not look brand new. The crew has responded to this, indicating improvements have been made.

Authentic Voices from Reviewers

Justin_O shared a standout experience, saying, “We caught several large fish including a 100-pound shark during our 6-hour trip. The guides were great with our 6 and 8-year-old boys. At the end, Paco cooked fish tacos for everyone. Best blackened fish I’ve had! We’ll be back.” That’s a powerful endorsement for families or groups seeking a memorable, productive day.

On the other hand, Janelle_K’s review was more tempered: “The people were amazing and we caught a lot of fish, but the boat was severely outdated and looked nothing like the picture. We also had 11 people and there were no seats for everyone.” It’s a reminder that the boat’s appearance and comfort might vary, but the quality of the crew and fishing experience can still shine through.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private fishing trip is well-suited for groups seeking exclusivity and the chance to fish in a relaxed, personalized setting. It’s great if you’re after big game species like marlin or sailfish or simply want a flexible, all-in-one fishing day without the crowds. Families with kids can enjoy the experience, especially given the positive feedback about crew friendliness, but be aware of the boat’s size and comfort level.

Travelers who value good value for money will appreciate the inclusive nature of the package—especially considering the all-day potential for catching impressive fish—and the chance to enjoy a customized, private adventure on the Caribbean. If you’re prepared for some additional costs at the marina and don’t mind the possibility of the boat looking a bit worn, this trip offers solid potential for a memorable day at sea.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own fishing gear? No, all fishing rods and bait are included in the package, so you can just focus on enjoying the experience and catching fish.

Are refreshments provided? Yes, iced water, sodas, and waters are included. If you want to bring alcohol, you can, but it’s not supplied.

How far offshore do we go? The trip can take you between 5 and 35 miles from shore, offering a variety of fishing environments and chances to hook big fish.

What fees will I need to pay at the marina? You should be prepared to pay a $14 USD dock fee per person and $10 USD for fishing licenses at the marina.

Is this experience suitable for families? Many reviews note that guides are good with children, making it family-friendly, especially if your kids are interested in fishing and ocean adventures.

What if the weather isn’t good? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This private fishing charter off Cancun combines the thrill of deep-sea fishing with the comfort of a tailored experience. Its spacious boat, expert crew, and good mix of species make it appealing for those wanting a serious day on the water. While the boat’s appearance might vary, the focus on fishing success and customer service shines through, based on reviews.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to chase marlin or sailfish or a group of friends or family wanting a fun, shared adventure, this trip offers a lot of value. It’s especially suited for travelers who want the exclusivity of a private boat and are comfortable handling some extra costs at the marina.

In the end, this experience offers a chance to create stories—whether it’s landing big fish, enjoying freshly cooked fish tacos, or simply soaking up the sun in one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant fishing spots. Just remember to book early, prepare for some additional fees, and keep an open mind about the boat’s condition. But with good crew and a bit of luck, it could turn out to be one of your favorite adventures in Cancun.

Happy fishing, and I hope your trip to Cancun is filled with great catches and even better memories!