12 Best Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tours in 2025
Looking for the best catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen? You’ve come to the right guide!
As a travel blogger that has spent many years living in Playa del Carmen, I’ve been able to personally experience many of the catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya.
And without hesitation, I can say it’s a pretty incredible experience!
But with so many Riviera Maya catamaran tours to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones are worth your time and money.
MY TOP PICK
⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?
The best catamaran tour in Playa del Carmen is this Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar with over 3,000 5-star reviews!
In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations for the best catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen, including group catamaran tours and private catamaran charters.
So whether you’re looking for an incredible snorkeling experience, a party boat, a sunset sail, or something private and luxurious, I’ve got you covered!
Ready to find out which of these Playa del Carmen catamaran experiences is right for you? Let’s get started!
Top 3 Picks: Best Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tours
Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar
✅ All Inclusive
✅ 3,000+ 5-Star reviews
El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience
✅ Starfish Snorkeling in Cozumel
✅ Beach Club + Water Activities
Best Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tours
These are the best catamarans 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. Catamarans will 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!
Travelista Tip: Group catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen can often be crowded and have mixed reviews. I would highly recommend splurging on one of these private catamaran charters for an epic catamaran experience without the crowds!
1. Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (with more than 3,000 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5-7 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cancun
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
If I had to choose the best place for a catamaran sail near Playa del Carmen, it would definitely be Isla Mujeres, a tiny island off the coast of Cancun.
The water near Isla Mujeres is honestly the brightest turquoise color I’ve seen in Riviera Maya and so unbelievably clear that it will leave you with a jaw dropping first impression!
This Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel Tour is my top pick for an Isla Mujeres catamaran tour, which will take you sailing around the island’s crystal clear waters.
Experience was great! Snorkeling was fun! A person does need to be a good swimmer but we saw some colorful fish, statues and coral. We had a good lunch and drinks on board. Walked around the island and got some souvenirs. Staff was great!!
–Troy (Read more REVIEWS)
While onboard, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of Playa Norte and the surrounding areas, while sipping drinks from the open bar and enjoying a gourmet lunch.
You’ll also stop for a bit of snorkeling before getting to enjoy free time on Isla Mujeres. Explore the island on foot and check out some of best things to do in Isla Mujeres like shopping or visiting Playa Norte.
And with roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Playa del Carmen included, this is one of the best Isla Mujeres tours from Playa del Carmen that is convenient and hassle-free!
What’s included in the Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel:
- Catamaran sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
- Snorkeling
- Free time to explore Isla Mujeres at leisure
- Gourmet lunch
- Open bar while onboard
- Snorkeling gear
- Life jacket
- Docking fee
- Professional crew
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen hotels
2. Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (with more than 500 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Located about half way between Playa del Carmen and Tulum and home to a large marina, Puerto Aventuras is another popular departure point for Playa del Carmen catamaran cruises.
This half-day Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling tour departs from Puerto Aventuras and includes a snorkeling stop at Inah Reef.
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)
You’ll also get to enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, as well as a gourmet lunch and open bar onboard.
Plus, roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Playa del Carmen is included for added convenience.
I’ve been on a few Puerto Aventuras catamaran tours and they have always been a lot of fun!
What’s included in the Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling:
- Catamaran sailing tour from Playa del Carmen
- Guided snorkeling at Inah Reef
- Snorkel equipment
- Paddle boards
- Beverages throughout the tour (alcoholic after water activities)
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
3. El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (with more than 375 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cozumel
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience combines a snorkeling excursion, catamaran cruise, and beach party—allowing you to experience multiple island highlights in one day.
Board a 65-foot catamaran and a cruise along the Cozumel coastline where you’ll enjoy reef snorkeling at the renowned Palancar reef before heading to El Cielo.
This was a great experience. We loved every minute of it. You were able to snorkel in beautiful waters and see many different kinds of fish. My family loved it. The crew were very energetic and helpful when asked questions. I would recommend this excursion for anyone that wants a beautiful view of the island.
–Susan (Read more REVIEWS)
A visit to El Cielo is one of the top things to do in Cozumel, where you’ll get to snorkel with giant starfish in unbelievably clear water.
After snorkeling, you’ll be to be treated to drinks, music, and dancing on board before heading to shore for an island-style beach party.
At the private beach club, you’ll enjoy burgers and drinks and there’s also a Cozumel aqua park with water floats, slides, and trampolines–perfect for all ages.
⛴ Note: This Cozumel catamaran tour starts departs from Cozumel so you’ll need to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. You can read my Cozumel day trip guide for more detailed info–it’s very easy!
What’s included in the El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience:
- Catamaran cruise around Cozumel on a 65 ft sailing catamaran
- Snorkeling at Palancar Reef
- Snorkeling at El Cielo
- Entrance fee to National Parks
- Certified snorkel and safety guide
- Snorkel and safety equipment
- Visit to a private beach club
- Angus cheeseburger
- Aqua park with water floats, slides, and trampolines for all ages
- Private beach cabanas, lounge chairs, and hammocks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Volleyball, kayak, and stand up paddleboards
- The best party-on-a boat during your return, with music and dancing!
4. Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 Stars (with more than 315 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 2 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Morelos
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Ideal for couples, this Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in Riviera Maya is the perfect evening excursion.
On this 2-hour Playa del Carmen sunset catamaran sail, you’ll get enjoy an open bar and light snacks like fruit, cheese, and meat platters.
Wonderful experience. Friendly staff. The sunset was gorgeous. Food and drinks were good. Great experience and well worth the money.
–Margaret (Read more REVIEWS)
Being on the luxury Playa del Carmen catamaran at night with evening sunset hues will set the perfect scene for a romantic experience.
And roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Playa del Carmen is included so you can get there and back with ease.
What’s included in the Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya:
- Sunset catamaran cruise in Riviera Maya
- Snacks
- Open bar
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
5. 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: Cancun
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
If you’re looking for a party experience, this Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation catamaran cruise promises to provide a good time!
On this Playa del Carmen booze cruise from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, you’ll get to enjoy an open bar, live entertainment, games and contests, and a buffet lunch.
And two snorkeling stops are included–Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte–for a chance to see the underwater world up close.
Everything ran smoothly, from the shuttle pickup at our resort to getting on and off the boat at the different stops. I would recommend this to everyone, especially if you enjoy drinking, shopping, snorkeling, and cruising on a boat in beautiful blue water. We really enjoyed it and we would definitely book it again.
–Ishan (Read more REVIEWS)
You’ll also be given free time to explore Isla Mujeres, where you can shop, stroll, or park yourself at a beach club.
Plus, transportation is included from Playa del Carmen, so you can drink all you want and not have to worry about getting back to your hotel.
What’s included in the Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation:
- Catamaran cruise around Isla Mujeres
- 2 snorkeling stops–Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte
- Free time on Isla Mujeres
- Buffet lunch
- Open bar on board
- Tequila party
- Snorkeling equipment
- Round trip transportation from Playa del Carmen
6. Isla Contoy Eco Adventure
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars (with more than 135 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 8 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cancun
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Located just a few miles off the coast of Cancun, Isla Contoy is an uninhabited tropical island that will leave you with a jaw-dropping first impression!
Only allowing 200 visitors per day, Isla Contoy is a protected island that can only be visited by boat, so you’ll need to book a tour to get there.
This Isla Contoy Eco Adventure tour is a large catamaran that includes a visit to both Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy, as well as reef snorkeling along the way.
This was the most amazing day trip!! The whole day felt surreal and is an experience that we will never forget! The guides and all the people on the boat were amazing and so knowledgeable and made the whole experience brilliant!
–Karine (Read more REVIEWS)
Plus, breakfast, lunch, equipment, and roundtrip transportation from Playa del Carmen is included.
I’ve personally done this Isla Contoy tour and visiting the island is absolutely incredible–you won’t believe your eyes!
What’s included in the Isla Contoy Eco Adventure:
- Catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy
- Light breakfast
- 2 snorkeling spots – Ixlache Reef and Contoy Island Beach
- Sterilized snorkeling gear
- Tour of the island with certified guide
- Domestic open bar (water, soft drinks, beer and cocktails)
- Lunch at Isla Contoy Contoy
- Free time in Isla Mujeres
- Roundtrip ground transportation from most hotels in Playa del Carmen
7. Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran with Premium Open Bar
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.3 out of 5 Stars (with more than 260 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 7 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cancun
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran with Premium Open Bar is smaller group experience (30 passenger max), which includes a sail on a catamaran from Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres.
While onboard, you’ll get to enjoy a premium open bar, a welcome cocktail, and snacks. And you’ll stop for a bit of snorkeling before docking at a private beach club in Isla Mujeres for a buffet lunch.
Grace and an amazing crew made this a trip to remember. Great drinks, lunch and a fun shopping experience. I would definitely recommend this to anyone considering Isla Mujeres.
–TOBY (Read more REVIEWS)
You’ll also have some free time in Isla Mujeres for shopping or exploring the island on foot.
And since hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen is also included, you won’t have to worry about taking buses, taxis, and ferries if you were to go on an Isla Mujeres day trip on your own.
What’s included in the Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran with Premium Open Bar:
- Catamaran sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
- Premium open bar
- Buffet lunch at a private VIP Beach Club (Zama or IXI)
- Dry snacks on board and welcome cocktail
- Towels
- Round-trip transportation from hotels in Playa del Carmen
Best Private Playa del Carmen Catamaran Charters
These are the best private catamaran charters Playa del Carmen has to offer:
8. 4 Hour Private All-Inclusive Catamaran
- ⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 250 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🛥 BOAT SIZE: 38′
- 👨👩👧👦 CAPACITY: 8
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Departing from Puerto Aventuras, board this 4 Hour Private All-Inclusive Catamaran for a private experience without the crowds.
With this 4-hour catamaran sailing Playa del Carmen excursion, you can choose a morning or afternoon departure and completely customize your itinerary.
I cannot say enough good things about this trip!!! The crew anticipated literally every single need. They were so kind and personable. The food was the best thing we’ve eaten our entire week long trip! The catamaran was so perfect and Mexico scenery delivered! If you’re debating, just do it!!!
–TripAdvisor Reviewer (Read more REVIEWS)
The private Playa del Carmen catamaran rental is perfect for families or larger groups and includes a seafood lunch, open bar, and snorkeling for up to 8 people.
The most popular destination is Paamul Bay, which is a great place to anchor and enjoy some snorkeling before heading back to the marina.
What’s included in the 4 Hour Private All-Inclusive Catamaran:
- 4-hour private catamaran charter from Puerto Aventuras
- Lunch
- Open Bar w/ unlimited drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
- Snorkel gear and life jackets
- Restroom on board
- Private captain and crew
9. 4-Hour Private Catamaran All-Inclusive Tour
- ⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 110 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🛥 BOAT SIZE: 38′
- 👨👩👧👦 CAPACITY: 15
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Embark on an exclusive and luxurious adventure on this 4-Hour Private Catamaran All-Inclusive Tour.
This half-day tour offers the ultimate Playa del Carmen private tour experience, complete with an open bar and impeccable service.
Step aboard your own private catamaran, where a dedicated crew awaits to cater to your every need.
We traveled with 5 children and the crew went out of their way to make sure every accommodation was made for us. The whole experience was a definite highlight of our vacation and we can’t thank them enough for helping make that a reality.
–Chad (Read more REVIEWS)
As you set sail, you’ll be whisked away to the beautiful In-Ha Reef, where you can snorkel amidst sea turtles and tropical fish.
While you explore the vibrant underwater world, the attentive crew will be preparing snacks, refreshing cocktails, and fresh ceviche for you to enjoy.
You’ll also have the option to fish or swim at your leisure at La Bacona. If you happen to catch a fish, simply request the crew to expertly grill and cook it for you!
What’s included in the 4-Hour Private Catamaran All-Inclusive Tour:
- 4-hour private catamaran charter on a 38′ catamaran
- Snorkeling at In-Ha Reef
- Lunch
- Snorkel gear and life jackets
- Open bar with unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Towels
- Restroom on board
10. Lagoon 39ft Private Catamaran in Cozumel
- ⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 480 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 5 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cozumel
- 🛥 BOAT SIZE: 39′
- 👨👩👧👦 CAPACITY: 15 people
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
This Lagoon 39 ft Private Catamaran in Cozumel for up to 15 people is ideal for groups of families or friends.
The 5-hour private charter includes a professional captain and crew where you can design your own sailing itinerary to the prime spots in Cozumel.
Our experience was fabulous thanks to an incredibly attentive crew and captain. The food and drink was excellent and plentiful…. Highly recommend for large group or family!
–Craig (Read more REVIEWS)
Open bar, lunch, snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, and floating mats are included.
Enjoy the crystal clear waters around Cozumel without the crowds while the dedicated captain and crew take care of your every need!
What’s included in the Lagoon 39ft Private Catamaran in Cozumel:
- 5-hour private charter around Cozumel on a 39′ catamaran
- Alcoholic beverages
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Paddle board
11. Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour From Cancun with Open Bar
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars (with more than 430 5-star reviews)
- 🕘 DURATION: 4-7 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cancun
- 🛥 BOAT SIZE: 32′
- 👨👩👧👦 CAPACITY: 9
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →
Set sail on a half-day or full-day completely customizable private catamaran sail to Isla Mujeres and Playa Norte.
This 32-ft private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour from Cancun holds up to 9 people and comes with a full crew and open bar.
Simply WOW! This was an amazing experience, it felt like a dream. Everything about it was perfect. They made this a very, very enjoyable catamaran ride to Isla Mujeres for me and my boyfriend. Book it, you won’t regret it!
–Brissa (Read more REVIEWS)
With a customizable itinerary, you can choose to sail around the bay or head to secluded beaches with the option to snorkel along the way.
Unlimited alcoholic beverages are included and transportation from Playa del Carmen can be quoted for an additional cost.
What’s included in the Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour From Cancun with Open Bar:
- 4-hour or 7-hour private catamaran charter to Isla Mujeres from Cancun
- Unlimited drinks (open bar)
- Captain/guide
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Alcoholic beverages
- Hotel pickup (extra charge)
12. Da Vinci 34ft Private Catamaran Rental
- ⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars
- 🕘 DURATION: 4 hours
- 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras
- 🛥 BOAT SIZE: 34′
- 👨👩👧👦 CAPACITY: 10
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Submit booking inquiry here →
Departing from Puerto Aventuras, the Da Vinci 34ft Private Catamaran Rental is perfect for small groups looking for an intimate sailing experience.
This catamaran can hold up to 10 people and includes private sailing, snorkeling, a chef, and an open bar.
Plus, you’ll have a dedicated hostess, crew, and mates to make sure your drinks are refreshed at all times.
This company is absolutely fantastic!! They are attentive, easy to work with and make it a priority to ensure you have an amazing time from booking to coordination and day of. It was a great add to a group trip and overall wonderful experience!!
–Jennifer
I personally went on the Da Vinci for a luxury sunset sailing experience in Riviera Maya and it was unforgettable!
It was a Playa del Carmen catamaran dinner experience under the starts and I was so impressed with the service, amenities, and attention to detail. This company truly goes above and beyond to create memorable experiences!
If you fill out this booking form, they’ll know I sent you and will take extra special care of you!
What’s included in the Da Vinci 34ft Private Catamaran Rental:
- 4-hour private catamaran charter on a 34ft catamaran
- Hostess, mates, and crew
- Snorkeling and snorkeling equipment
- Lunch
- Open bar
- Round-trip transportation (added cost)
More About Playa del Carmen Catamarans
Here are some of the basics on catamarans in Playa del Carmen:
What can you do on a catamaran?
Catamaran tours from Playa del Carmen are typically a boat tour that will take you sailing around the bright turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean.
Each catamaran experience is different but they most commonly will include:
- Catamaran sail
- Snorkeling
- Paddle boarding
- Open Bar
- Dancing and/or DJ
- Some food and beverage
Why go on a Playa del Carmen catamaran sail?
Going on a catamaran from Playa del Carmen is one of the most unique things to do in the Riviera Maya and is one of the best ways to see and experience the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
It’s a fun and totally unforgettable experience if you love the ocean and being on a boat.
Who are catamarans not suited for?
If you tend to suffer from motion or sea sickness, then catamarans are probably not for you.
I know some people that have had luck using these sea sickness bracelets but if you’re not comfortable being on a boat, then it probably won’t be fun for you.
Where do the Playa del Carmen catamarans leave from?
Catamarans do not leave directly from Playa del Carmen, as Playa del Carmen does not have a marina.
Depending on which catamaran experience you choose, you’ll need to go to the marina in nearby destinations such as Puerto Aventuras, Cozumel, Cancun, or Isla Mujeres.
How much do Playa del Carmen catamarans cost?
There are catamaran tours available for every budget. You can expect to pay around $60-$150 USD per person for a group catamaran tour.
On the other hand, Playa del Carmen private catamaran charters can cost anywhere from $900-$2,500 USD depending on the size of the boat and duration.
Keep in mind you’ll also need to factor ground transportation costs into the total cost of the catamaran experience.
Catamarans don’t leave directly from Playa del Carmen so you’ll still need to pay for a taxi or transfer to get to the marina where the boat is leaving from.
Transportation is included in some of the Playa del Carmen excursions or can be added for an additional fee so be sure to check for this when booking your catamaran experience.
How long do catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen last?
You can expect most catamaran tours to last around 4-6 hours. When you factor transportation time on top of that, it will likely be a full day experience.
More About Private Playa del Carmen Catamaran Charters
If you have a larger group or want a more exclusive experience, then definitely consider booking a private catamaran Playa del Carmen rental.
Why book a private catamaran?
With a private catamaran rental, you’ll be able to completely customize the experience by choosing your desired locations and the amount of time spent at each stop.
Plus, on private Playa del Carmen boat rentals, you can choose the food and beverage menu and even select all of your favorite food, drinks, and alcohol. Not to mention, tee up your favorite music and party tunes.
And best of all, the staff and service will be completely dedicated to your group alone so no waiting for drinks or attention. Sounds pretty great right?!
Who should book a private catamaran?
Private catamarans are the absolute best option for large or multi-generational families, groups of friends, and bachelor and bachelorette parties in Mexico.
How much do private catamarans cost?
Playa del Carmen private catamaran rentals can cost anywhere from $900-$2,500 USD depending on the size of the boat and duration.
Yes, private catamaran rentals are much more expensive than group tours. But consider this–you have a group of 15 friends and it might only come out to around $100 USD per person, which is around the same price as the group tours.
And trust me, a private catamaran rental in Playa del Carmen is just so worth it! No dealing with obnoxious, annoying, or over intoxicated strangers ruining your catamaran experience.
What to Bring on a Playa del Carmen Catamaran Tour
Here are some of the Mexico travel essentials I would recommend bringing on a catamaran tour:
- Swimsuit: You will more than likely be getting in the water so you’ll want to wear a swimsuit and coverup.
- Sunglasses: Don’t forget sunglasses to wear on the catamaran–it will likely be very bright and sunny!
- Beach towel: Bring a beach towel to dry off after you get out of the water. These microfiber beach towels are great options because they are super light weight and dry quickly between the multiple stops.
- Biodegradable sunscreen: Any time you are going to be swimming in the ocean, it is so important to bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect and preserve the coral reefs. You can pick up my favorite brand on Amazon here.
- Snorkel set: If you’re concerned about comfort or cleanliness, I would recommend bringing your own snorkel set instead of using the one provided on the tour. I’ve been on snorkeling tours where my snorkel mask didn’t fit well and it totally ruined the experience so now I always bring my own.
- GoPro or waterproof camera: I would highly recommend bringing a GoPro or waterproof camera to capture your snorkeling and catamaran experience. I always bring my GoPro and am constantly amazed by the picture quality.
- Change of clothes: You’ll also want to bring a change of clothes so you can change out of your wet swimsuit before the ride back to your hotel or resort.
Tips for Playa del Carmen Catamarans
Follow these tips to make the most of your Playa del Carmen catamaran experience:
- Book in advance: I would highly recommend booking online in advance to reserve your spot as Playa del Carmen boat tours can fill up quickly. Most tour companies like Viator offer flexible booking options and allow you to cancel without penalty up to 24 hours before the booking date.
- Go private if you can: If you have a larger group or are willing to pay more for an exclusive experience, then definitely consider booking a private catamaran tour. The experience will be much more personalized and you won’t have to worry about obnoxious tour-goers ruining your experience.
- Bring your own snorkel set: If you plan to snorkel, I would recommend bringing your own snorkel set to ensure the best comfort and cleanliness.
- Wear biodegradable sunscreen: As I mentioned, don’t forget to bring biodegradable sunscreen. It’s absolutely essential if you need sun protection.
- Take lots of pictures: A catamaran is truly a bucket list experience you won’t want to forget! If you don’t have a GoPro or waterproof camera, bring a waterproof phone pouch to protect your phone and still take lots of pictures around the water.
Playa del Carmen Catamaran: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about catamaran excursions in Playa del Carmen:
Yes, you can absolutely rent a private catamaran in Playa del Carmen for total exclusivity, a private crew, and the ability to customize your entire experience.
Yes, most catamaran sails in Riviera Maya include snorkeling stops and provide snorkel gear.
The best places near Playa del Carmen for a catamaran sail are Isla Mujeres and Cozumel, as these locations have the clearest turquoise water.
Many catamaran sails in Riviera Maya include transportation with hotel pickup for an additional cost.
Final Thoughts: Playa del Carmen Catamaran Guide
So, what do you think–are you ready to set sail on a catamaran excursion from Playa del Carmen?!
I hope this catamaran guide was helpful if you’re considering a catamaran tour during your vacation in Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya.
There are many different options to choose from whether you’re looking for a snorkeling adventure, party cruise, or sunset sail.
My top pick for the best catamaran trip in Riviera Maya is this Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar. It has over 3,000 positive reviews and includes hotel pickup!
And if you want to ditch the crowds, then definitely consider booking a private catamaran charter to have your own private crew and for the freedom to customize your entire experience including the itinerary, food, drinks, and music.
No matter which experience you choose, a catamaran sail from Playa del Carmen is is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss!
READ NEXT:
- Best Playa del Carmen Boat Tours
- Best Playa del Carmen Yacht Rentals
- Best Playa del Carmen Snorkeling Tours
🇲🇽 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.
