11 Best Boat Tours in Playa del Carmen Mexico in 2025
Looking for the best boat tours in Playa del Carmen? You’re in the right place!
As a travel blogger with that has lived in Playa del Carmen for many years, I’ve had the opportunity to try some of the top boat tours in the area.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, an exciting snorkeling adventure, or a sunset cruise, there’s a perfect option for every traveler.
⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?
The best boat tour in Playa del Carmen is this Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres tour with more than 500 5-star reviews!
In this guide, I’ll share my top recommendations, including itinerary details, booking information, and helpful tips to ensure an unforgettable experience on the Caribbean Sea.
Let’s dive in and discover the best Playa del Carmen boat tours!
Top 3 Picks: Best Boat Tours in Playa del Carmen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling
✅ Uninhabited tropical island
✅ All-inclusive
Best Boat Tours in Playa del Carmen
These are the best boat tours Playa del Carmen has to offer:
⚠️ Before we begin, it’s important to know that there is not a marina in Playa del Carmen. Boat tours will usually depart from these nearby towns:
- Puerto Aventuras
- Cozumel
- Cancun
- Isla Mujeres
Keep in mind this will require a bit of extra travel time (30 min—1 hour)–but it’s definitely worth it as the water and snorkeling are much better in these areas!
1. Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling, Breakfast and Lunch
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars (with more than 500 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 8 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cancun
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres boat trip from Playa del Carmen is the best boat tour in Playa del Carmen with over 500 5-star reviews!
On this full-day tour, you’ll get to explore two incredibly beautiful tropical islands–Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy. Both are must-do activities in the Riviera Maya!
Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun known for its beautiful beaches like Playa Norte and its striking turquoise water.
But the real star of the show is Isla Contoy, an uninhabited island that has the most jaw-dropping beach you’ll ever see!
Best part of our trip!! The island is paradise. We saw a reef shark, huge turtles, starfish and more. 3 hours on Isla Contoy was perfect, lunch was also made for us on the island which was amazing! Great trip, great staff.. 10/10 would do it all again
–Chante (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Trust me, I’ve seen a lot of pretty beaches in Riviera Maya and Isla Contoy is simply THE best there is!
The boat tour whisks you to the best snorkeling spots off Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy.
You’ll also be able to hop off the boat to explore the islands, including souvenir shopping in Isla Mujeres or lounging on the beach at Isla Contoy.
Plus, round-trip transportation with hotel pickup, meals, and equipment are all included so it’s a hassle-free experience.
What’s included in the Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling, Breakfast and Lunch:
- Pickup and dropoff from your hotel in Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Tulum areas
- Boat ride to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy
- Breakfast at the pier
- Guided reef snorkel tour at Isla Contoy National Park
- Several hours at Isla Contoy
- Free time on Isla Mujeres
- Freshly prepared lunch
- Water, soft drinks, and beer
- Snorkel gear
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
2. Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel: Lunch & Open Bar Onboard and Visit to Isla Mujeres
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (with more than 3,000 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5 hours and 30 minutes
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Playa Mujeres
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Catamaran tours are one of the best ways to explore the warm waters around the Riviera Maya, and this is one of the best catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen.
The Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel Tour to Isla Mujeres begins right at the front door of your hotel. From there, you’ll embark on a calm and soothing sail from the coast to Isla Mujeres.
Before you reach the charming island, you’ll stop for a quick snorkel, where you can swim and admire the tropical fish and other marine life.
Amazing excursion! You get to snorkel, swim, and explore Isla Mujeres. Not to mention open bar and lunch included! They also take amazinngggg pictures for you. Definitely recommend
–Capri C. (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Once at Isla Mujeres, you can choose between a guided tour of the island or free time to discover the many things to do in Isla Mujeres on your own.
This half-day tour is the perfect way to explore Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen, with an open bar and a gourmet lunch on board the catamaran.
And with round-trip transportation and plenty of free time to explore the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean and the lively streets of Isla Mujeres, you’ll have the best time.
What’s included in the Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel. Lunch & Open Bar Onboard and Visit to Isla Mujeres:
- Pickup and dropoff from your hotel in Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Tulum areas
- Boat ride to Isla Mujeres
- Break to snorkel
- Free time on Isla Mujeres
- Freshly prepared lunch
- Open bar
- Snorkel gear
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
3. Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (with more than 500 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran Tour is the perfect day trip from Playa del Carmen that includes ample time to explore the waters at Inah Reef (known as one of the best reefs near Playa del Carmen).
The Riviera Maya is right on the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest reef in the world–making this one of the best Playa del Carmen snorkeling tours.
During the cruise, you can admire the scenery, including sailing by the luxury resorts on shore, the lush and tropical jungles, isolated beaches, and the Caribbean Sea.
This was one of my favorite experiences in Mexico so far! The tour guide was fun, and of course, the water was amazing. I had fun snorkeling with a great group of people. Lunch was very good, and the margaritas were delicious! Fabulous!
–Rachel (READ MORE REVIEWS)
While the highlight of this tour is the incredible views and overall experience of sailing along the Caribbean Sea, you can’t miss the snorkeling.
You’ll swim with sea turtles, tropical fish, and other ocean dwellers in their natural habitat. And if that’s not your thing, you can try paddle boarding in the calm waters.
What’s included in the Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour:
- Pickup and dropoff from your hotel in Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Tulum areas
- Catamaran snorkel cruise
- Guided reef snorkel tour Inah Reef
- Freshly prepared lunch
- Open bar
- Snorkel gear
- Paddleboards
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
4. Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya with Light Dinner and Open Bar
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 Stars (with more than 315 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 2 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
What better way to experience the beautiful Caribbean than with a Playa del Carmen sunset boat tour?
This Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise is definitely one of the best luxury boat tours in Playa del Carmen and the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful Riviera Maya sunset!
Amazing experience!! The drinks were great and kept coming, the staff was all amazing, and we had an amazing time! 10/10 recommend. We had so much fun and met new friends!
–Kortnee (READ MORE REVIEWS)
On the 2-hour catamaran cruise, you’ll go gliding along the coast of the Riviera Maya where you’ll get to enjoy a perfect view of the sunset behind the jungle backdrop.
Plus, it includes a light snack with a tropical fruit plate, cheese, meat platter, and an open bar–setting the perfect ambiance to meet new people or enjoy a romantic evening.
What’s included in the Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya:
- Pickup and dropoff from your hotel in the Riviera Maya
- Catamaran cruise along the coast
- Light snacks
- Open bar
- Professional crew
🌅 Interested in a private sunset sailing? Read about my Riviera Maya sunset sailing experience for all the details!
5. 2 Hour Sunset Charter – 47′ Azimut, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya
- ⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 140 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 2 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? No
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
If you want to go all-out with a luxurious boat of your own, this 2-Hour Sunset – 47’ Azimut yacht is a quick trip that’s a bit more affordable.
It’s one of the best yacht rentals in Playa del Carmen, perfect for groups of friends, Mexico bachelorette parties, or couples.
This Playa del Carmen boat rental offers a complete VIP experience, including an optional Inha Reef snorkeling, paddleboarding around the open seas, complimentary cocktails, and a karaoke machine to round out the party.
This was an amazing option! We were celebrating our 29th, so it was a great time. Clean boat, great amenities, loudspeaker system with Bluetooth to connect, accommodating staff. Good drinks! They took pics for us, kept the drinks coming, 2 rooms and 2 bathrooms on board.
–Joiya (READ MORE REVIEWS)
And one of the best things about private luxury yachts is the personalized tour options. You can choose from a set list of water activities based on what you’re most interested in.
Don’t like snorkeling? That’s fine–just sunbathe on the deck. Want some more activity? Go for a quick paddle board trip from the yacht.
What’s included in the 2 Hour Sunset – 47′ Azimut, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya:
- Meetup at Puerto Aventuras
- Private tours with the crew for a 2-hour cruise
- Guided snorkel at Inha Reef
- Snacks and lunch
- Karaoke machine
- Bluetooth sound system
- Open bar
- Snorkel gear
- Paddleboards
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
6. El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (with more than 360 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cozumel downtown ferry pier
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? No
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience is fun way to experience El Cielo and snorkeling in Cozumel.
The Playa del Carmen booze cruise catamaran includes a tour around the island on a massive 65-foot catamaran–with open bar included.
You can hop in the water and swim with all the tropical fish, beautiful coral reef formations, and maybe even sea turtles!
From the beginning till the end, this adventure was simply amazing. The crew was very attentive, detail oriented and made sure Everyone was safe and taken care of. The reef was breathtaking, and all stops had its perk. I didn’t want it to end. The sunset from the catamaran was the icing on the cake. This is a MUST do trip. Kudos to this company and the crew.
–Zsuzsa (READ MORE REVIEWS)
First, you’ll stop at Palancar Reef and then spend time at El Cielo. All the while, you can enjoy unlimited drinks and snacks onboard the boat and beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
This boat tour doesn’t start until the afternoon and returns after sunset. So, you don’t have to worry about getting up early like many other guided boat tours in Playa del Carmen.
It also picks you up at the Cozumel ferry pier, which is right in the center of San Miguel de Cozumel.
What’s included in the El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience:
- Meetup at the ferry pier in Cozumel
- Catamaran boat tour to Palancar and El Cielo
- Guided reef snorkel
- Snacks and lunch
- Open bar
- Snorkel gear
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
7. Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with Freshly Grilled Lunch
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 135 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise is an excellent half-day tour around the Caribbean, and a great way to spend an afternoon in Playa del Carmen.
The tour is on a large catamaran, which is never over 50% capacity, so there’s plenty of space for everyone.
You can enjoy snorkeling at a nearby reef, a beautiful cruise, and even a waterslide. The captain also drags two fishing poles along the reef, so you can try out some fishing if you’re interested.
We had great fun snorkeling, and the food was delicious! The crew members were fun and very friendly. We recommend you take this cruise if you’re in Playa del Carmen.
–Furman (READ MORE REVIEWS)
This fantastic, family-friendly event includes a fresh grilled lunch, drinks, and snacks. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or solo travelers looking to meet other like-minded travelers.
Everything is taken care of for you by the friendly staff, from snorkel equipment to lunch and drinks, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the half day boat tour from Playa del Carmen.
What’s included in the Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with Freshly Grilled Lunch:
- Catamaran boat tour
- Guided reef snorkel
- Possible fishing off the catamaran
- Snacks and freshly grilled lunch
- Open bar
- Snorkel gear
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
8. Puerto Morelos Secret Sandbar Catamaran Sail
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (with more than 260 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Morelos
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya picks you up right from your hotel and then heads to Puerto Morelos–one of the best beach towns in Riviera Maya.
After boarding the catamaran, you’ll head to a secret sandbar off shore and get plenty of time to swim and relax in the shallow waters.
Such a great experience! Staff was so attentive and friendly! Full service from start to finish for adults and children alike. Smooth trip, never without a drink (unless desired), and felt well cared for throughout.
–NICHOLAS (READ MORE REVIEWS)
You can also take advantage of the paddleboards or just relax on a floating mattress in the clear turquoise waters.
A light lunch and unlimited drinks are also included, so you can refuel onboard while enjoying the incredible views.
What’s included in the Puerto Morelos Secret Sandbar Catamaran Sail:
- Roundtrip transportation from the Riviera Maya
- Catamaran boat tour to a secret sandbar
- Lunch
- Alcoholic beverages
- Use of floating mat
- Use of lockers and showers
9. Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.3 out of 5 Stars (with more than 80 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 9 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Punta Sam Ferry Terminal
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Catamaran cruise is the best option for those looking for a Playa del Carmen party boat experience.
The tour departs from Punta Sam near Cancun, but they can pick you up at your hotel in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum. From Punta Sam, you’ll go on a snorkeling tour at Punta Sam Reef.
After snorkeling, you’ll cruise to Isla Mujeres for a few hours and get to do some of the best Isla Mujeres activities like exploring downtown Isla Mujeres or visiting the beautiful Playa Norte.
It was a great day of ocean, snorkeling, and beach fun. The food and drink were good, and the crew kept us safe and entertained.
–Frank (READ MORE REVIEWS)
As one of the best tours to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen, the tour includes roundtrip transportation, a buffet lunch, an open bar, and a tequila party.
This is not a mellow tour but is advertised more for people who want a few drinks and the chance to safely get to Isla Mujeres–hopefully with a good buzz!
What’s included in the Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation:
- Roundtrip transportation from the Riviera Maya
- Catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres
- Guided snorkel of Punta Sam Reef
- Time to explore Isla Mujeres and Playa Norte
- Open Bar
- Buffet lunch
- Snorkel gear
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
- Free beach club access on Isla Mujeres
10. Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling Experience from Riviera Maya
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.1 out of 5 Stars (with more than 15 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling Experience from the Riviera Maya is a luxurious half-day tour at an affordable price.
You’ll travel aboard a French-made catamaran to one of the best snorkeling spots right off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
You’ll have plenty of time for snorkeling, and you might even catch a glimpse of a sea turtle, stingrays, or manta rays.
Great boat with a great crew. The water was really blue, and we saw a lot of fish and rays. Would definitely do it again.
–Richard (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The boat also has state-of-the-art paddleboards for guests to use so that you can explore above the turquoise water.
This is a relatively small tour on a luxurious boat, so you’ll have plenty of space and privacy. It’s one of the best guided boat tours in Playa del Carmen for all travelers: families, solo travelers, and couples.
What’s included in the Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling Experience from Riviera Maya:
- Roundtrip transportation from the Riviera Maya
- Catamaran cruise
- Guided snorkel tour
- Open Bar
- Freshly made lunch
- Snorkel gear
- Paddleboards
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
11. Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch and Open Bar Onboard
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars (with more than 179 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Playa del Carmen ferry to Cozumel
- 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling tour is another excellent way to travel from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, with a stop at all the best reefs and points of interest around Cozumel.
You’ll hop on the ferry to Cozumel and join a fun and exciting catamaran cruise around the island.
Diego and team did a great job with our snorkeling excursion! The team made sure that we saw it all – starfish, sea turtles, coral reef, and many beautiful fish. Thank you, Diego and crew, for making this a once in a lifetime experience!
–Trip Advisor Reviewer (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The catamaran cruise stops at the best snorkeling spots in Cozumel and gives you plenty of time to relax in the sun.
If you want to visit Cozumel but don’t want to deal with the hassle of planning, this is the perfect way to go about it.
What’s included in the Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch and Open Bar Onboard:
- Roundtrip transportation around the Riviera Maya
- Catamaran cruise
- Guided snorkel tour
- Open Bar
- Lunch
- Snorkel gear
- Paddleboards
- Lifejacket
- Professional crew
Playa del Carmen Boat Tours: FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Playa del Carmen boat trips:
There is no marina in Playa del Carmen, so most Playa del Carmen boat rides leave from Puerto Aventuras, which is about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. However, some tours also leave from Cozumel, Cancun, or Punta Maroma.
The cost of boat tours in Playa del Carmen ranges from $50 USD to $500 USD, depending on the type of tour. Most large group tours will be on the lower side, while private yacht tours will be on the higher side.
The number of people on a Playa del Carmen boat tour depends on the boat size, catamaran, or yacht. However, most group excursions have between 10-30 people on it.
You should bring your bathing suit, a beach towel, and reef-safe sunscreen or sun protection clothes. It’s also a good idea to bring a GoPro or waterproof phone pouch if you’d like to take photos on boat cruises in Playa del Carmen.
Most boat tours in Playa del Carmen are with groups of people, but some offer private Playa del Carmen boat tours.
Boat trips in Playa del Carmen last between 2 and 10 hours, depending on what the boat tour involves. The boat tour will be longer if you visit other islands, like Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, or Isla Contoy. If you’re just snorkeling and cruising around, it will be shorter.
Most boat tours in Playa del Carmen include an open bar. However, not all of them do. Double-check with your Playa del Carmen boat tours what they include in the price if an open bar is important to you.
Conclusion: Best Boat Tours Playa del Carmen
So, are you ready for an adventurous and unforgettable sail around the Riviera Maya?
Fortunately, there are hundreds of different boat tours Playa del Carmen has to choose from.
Whether you’re looking to go to Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, or some of the lesser-known reefs off the Yucatan Peninsula, there’s something here for you.
The Beach Escape: Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy Cruise is my top recommendation with over 500 5-star reviews!
You’ll get to visit two absolutely stunning islands and it includes roundtrip-transportation, snorkeling, and lots of fun!
Regardless of your choice, you’ll surely have some unforgettable memories. After all, there’s no better way to experience the Caribbean than to spend the day on it!
🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨 Hotels: I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗 Rental Cars: I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!
🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
