Riviera Maya: Private Catamaran Sailing for 42 Guests

Thinking about a day out on the water in Riviera Maya? This private catamaran tour offers a well-rounded mix of snorkeling, beach lounging, local culture, and lively fun, all tailored for groups up to 42. While it’s not a budget activity, the exclusivity and flexibility make it a solid choice if you’re after a personalized experience with friends or family.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines multiple highlights—snorkeling at El Meco Reef, a delicious buffet in Isla Mujeres, and relaxing at North Beach—into one seamless day. Plus, the option to customize your itinerary adds a touch of personal flair. That said, the price tag of $2,655 for a group might seem steep to some, especially when considering the overall spend per person, but the exclusivity and the private setting definitely justify that for many travelers.

On the flip side, the tour lasts about 7 hours, which is a good chunk of the day but can feel a little long if you’re not into extensive on-water activities or if you prefer more structured, guided experiences. It’s best suited for groups who enjoy a mix of adventure, lounging, and culture without the crowds.

All in all, if you’re looking for a flexible, fun-filled day on a private boat with some of the best views in Riviera Maya, this tour could be just your thing. Let’s break down what it really involves so you can decide if it’s the right fit.

Key Points

• Private group experience with up to 45 guests, ideal for those wanting exclusivity.
• Includes snorkeling at El Meco Reef, offering vibrant marine life and underwater statues.
• Authentic buffet lunch at Isla Mujeres, along with time to explore the town.
• Relaxing at North Beach, known for its clear waters and lack of seaweed.
• Lively tequila party on the way back for a fun, cultural finish.
• Flexible itinerary options—if you contact the provider, you might customize your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Private Catamaran Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Riviera Maya, this private catamaran tour packs a lot into a 7-hour window. It’s a chance to combine adventure, relaxation, and cultural flavor all in one go, tailored for groups of up to 45 people. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to do something memorable, this experience is designed to deliver.

The Boat & Comfort

The adventure begins aboard a spacious 42ft sailing catamaran, which feels generous when you’re on deck with friends or family. The boat features two onboard bathrooms—a surprisingly nice touch for a day trip—and plenty of space to sunbathe or seek shaded comfort. We like that there’s room to stretch out, and the crew is described as friendly, helping to create a welcoming vibe from the start.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

First Stop: El Meco Reef

The tour kicks off with a visit to the stunning El Meco Reef, which is highlighted as a highlight by many past travelers. Here, you’ll find vibrant underwater statues and plenty of marine life to enjoy while snorkeling. The gear is provided and guided by professionals, so even if you’re new to snorkeling, you can feel safe exploring this lively underwater scene.

Travelers often mention how “vibrant” and “colorful” the reef is, with some noting the abundance of marine life. One reviewer quipped that the underwater statues add an extra layer of interest, making snorkeling here more than just swimming around.

Lunch & Downtown Exploration at Isla Mujeres

After the reef, the boat heads to Isla Mujeres, where a buffet lunch awaits. The food is described as authentic, offering a taste of local flavors, accompanied by soft drinks and alcohol. It’s a good opportunity to fuel up after the snorkeling or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Post-lunch, you get about an hour to wander around Isla Mujeres’ downtown. Many appreciate this free time to browse shops, markets, or just soak in the island vibe. It’s a laid-back, authentic experience that allows some personal exploration away from the beach.

North Beach Relaxation

Next, the journey continues to North Beach, a spot famous for its clear waters and absence of seaweed—something many travelers appreciate, especially if they’ve experienced less pristine beaches elsewhere. Here, you can swim, lounge, or rent a golf cart to quickly explore the island.

Travelers often say the views here are “stunning,” and it’s an ideal place for photos or just unwinding in calm surroundings. The beach’s reputation makes it a highlight for many, especially those looking for picture-perfect Caribbean scenery.

The Return & Cultural Touch

On the way back to the marina, the atmosphere really heats up with a lively tequila party. It’s a fun, cultural way to wrap up the tour, with drinks flowing and the energy high. This aspect is especially popular among groups wanting a relaxed, festive vibe.

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Customization & Flexibility

One of the unique selling points is the possibility to design your own itinerary. If you contact the provider in advance, you might tailor the stops or activities to suit your group’s interests. This flexibility sets the tour apart from more rigid, scheduled excursions.

What’s Included & What You Should Know

The tour includes ground transportation from your hotel to the marina, bilingual guides (Spanish and English), the boat ride itself, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and an open bar both on board and at the beach club (domestic drinks only). Plus, there’s a free hour in Isla Mujeres downtown for shopping or exploring.

It’s worth noting that cancellation is straightforward—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—and you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, and beachwear to stay comfortable.
• A little cash is handy for small purchases or tips.
• If you’re interested in exploring more or customizing your experience, contact the tour provider beforehand.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for groups looking for a private, flexible day on the water—perfect for friends celebrating special occasions or families wanting a shared adventure. It’s not overly structured, so if you enjoy making your own plans and exploring at your own pace, you’ll appreciate the option to customize.

Travelers who value stunning views, vibrant snorkeling, and a lively culture vibe will find plenty to enjoy here. Keep in mind that a full day on the water can be a long stretch, so if you’re not keen on extended outdoor activities, you might want to pace yourself.

The Verdict

For those wanting a personalized, fun-filled day with a good mix of snorkeling, beach lounging, and local culture, this private catamaran tour offers a compelling package. The price tag of around $2,655 might seem high, but when you consider the exclusivity, private transport, and all-inclusive amenities, it offers good value—especially for groups.

The standout moments are undoubtedly the snorkeling at El Meco Reef and the relaxed time at North Beach, both of which leave many travelers with lasting memories. The flexibility in the itinerary and the lively tequila party finish help make this experience feel both authentic and festive.

If you’re after a luxurious, intimate day on the water in Riviera Maya, and you want the option to tweak your plans, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, it’s designed for groups of up to 45 guests, making it a good choice for friends, families, or special celebrations.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?
Yes, top-notch snorkeling gear is provided and guided by professionals, so you can enjoy exploring El Meco Reef comfortably.

Can I customize the itinerary?
It’s possible—just contact the provider in advance to discuss tailoring the stops or activities to suit your preferences.

What is included in the price?
The price covers ground transportation, bilingual guides, the boat ride, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and open bar service at the boat and beach club.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 7 hours, from start to finish.

Is there free time at Isla Mujeres?
Yes, you get about one hour to explore downtown Isla Mujeres on your own.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, beachwear, and some cash for small purchases or tips.

Is this activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re after a lively, personalized day on the water with plenty of options to relax and explore, this private catamaran adventure in Riviera Maya could be just what you need. It’s a mix of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and good old-fashioned fun—hard to beat for a group outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: