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15 Best Playa del Carmen Boat Tours to Book This Year!
Have you been wondering about Playa del Carmen boat tours? You’ve come to the right place!
I lived in Playa del Carmen with my family for almost a year and we spent a lot of time on various excursions, including boat tours!
I quickly realized I was spoiled for choice when it came to Playa del Carmen boat tours! From sunset sailing cruises to whale shark snorkeling, there are plenty of options available.
As a local and digital nomad, I’ve had the privilege of taking some incredible boat tours in Playa del Carmen.
Sailing cruises are a great way to experience breathtaking views of Playa del Carmen from the water. You can rent catamarans or sailboats to take you along the Riviera Maya coastline.
There are also snorkel tours and excursions to other bodies of water near Playa del Carmen, so it’s easy to find something for everyone to enjoy!
So let’s jump in! Here are the top Playa del Carmen boat tours for your next trip!
My Top 3 Picks: Playa del Carmen Boat Tours
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beach Escape:
Isla Contoy
✅ Isla Contoy
National Park
✅ Breakfast &
Lunch Included
✅ Visit Isla Mujeres
Swim with Whale Sharks
✅ Breakfast & Lunch Included
✅ Swim with Nature’s Gentle Giants
✅ May-Sept Only
Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran Snorkeling
✅ Lunch & Drinks Included
✅ Snorkel Inah Reef
✅ Morning or Afternoon Departures
Best Playa del Carmen Boat Tours
1. Beach Escape: Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres w/Snorkeling
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8 hours | ✅ Book Now
Our Isla Contoy day trip was one of the most memorable Playa del Carmen boat tours we took! On your Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres tour, you’ll explore the beautiful islands of Isla Contoy and the funky island of Isla Mujeres.
You can even do some snorkeling in a coral reef location, watch the birds in a nature sanctuary, relax on the beach, and shop around at Isla Mujeres.
Breakfast, lunch, and hotel transport are all included on this amazing tour. You’ll have so much fun when you’re snorkeling off the shores of Isla Contoy, admiring all of the colorful fish.
After that, head over to Isla Mujeres where you can find many unique gifts and souvenirs that make great memories for your vacation. To top it all off, enjoy a delicious Mexican lunch at one of the local palapas.
Best part of our trip!! The island is paradise, we saw a reef shark, huge turtles, star fish & more…3 hours on Isla Contoy was perfect…Great trip, great staff. 10/10 would do it again!
Chante B (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Professional guide
☑️ Round transportation with AC
☑️ Snorkel equipment
☑️ Mandatory life jacket
☑️ Breakfast
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Water, soft drinks, & beer
2. Swim with Whale Sharks
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8 hours | ✅ Book Now
Swimming with whale sharks off the coast of Mexico is one of the most incredible experiences a traveler or vacationer can have. You may also spot dolphins, turtles, and manta rays while you wait for the whales to arrive. We saw all three!
Note: This unique experience is only available from May through mid-September, so make sure to plan accordingly!
You’ll start your tour with breakfast at the pier. Snacks and unlimited beverages are provided throughout the day while on board, too. Plus, hotel transport is included, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
On the way back, you’ll stop at Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres for fresh Ceviche, chips, and guac! It’s a beautiful and relaxing way to end the tour.
Plus, there’s even an option to purchase photos and videos of your encounter if you’d like something tangible to remember this incredible experience by, (We did this add-on and I highly recommend it!)
It was amazing!! I will absolutely do it again! The tour guide and crew were great and made us feel comfortable the whole way. This was an incredible experience!
Kristen N (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Round Transportation with AC
☑️ Continental Breakfast (pastries, coffee, juice, fresh fruit)
☑️ Water and soft drinks
☑️ Fish or shrimp ceviche with chips & guacamole
☑️ Snorkel equipment
☑️ Life Jacket
3. Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran Snorkeling Trip
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | ✅ Book Now
Looking for decadence on vacation? Embark on a breathtaking Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran Snorkeling Trip from Playa del Carmen, Mexico!
With this half-day catamaran sailing adventure, you’ll explore the warm Caribbean Sea and take in some of the most beautiful views of the Riviera Maya coastline. You’ll stop at Inah Reef, one of the best locations in the region for snorkeling.
There, you can search for coral formations and colorful fish while immersed in all that nature has to offer. If you’re looking for an extra thrill, try your luck at stand-up paddleboarding while you’re out there too!
After all your water activities, enjoy a gourmet lunch and an open bar with efficient service from your crew. Plus, round-trip hotel transport is included, and you’ll choose from morning or afternoon departures for this luxurious boat tour.
The food was great & drinks were delicious. Service on the boat was top notch…I highly recommend this. I’ve tried three different catamaran/snorkeling companies. This is by far the best.
Kayla D (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Guided snorkeling
☑️ Snorkel equipment
☑️ Paddle Boards
☑️ Beverages throughout the tour (alcoholic after-water activities)
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Hotel pickup and drop-off
4. Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise w/Snacks & Open Bar
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | ✅ Book Now
With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife, Playa del Carmen is the perfect destination for anyone who loves the tropics. What better way to take in the beauty of this beach paradise than aboard a Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise?
Set sail along the magnificent coastline of the Riviera Maya aboard a luxury catamaran and gaze at the soft hues of sunset. Relax with a cocktail from the open bar while you’re served snacks by an expert crew and captain.
Onboard, you can expect to experience plenty of fun activities such as snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear blue waters. There’s also plenty of time to take stunning photos of the beautiful landscape around you!
Hotel transport is provided from most hotels for this excursion. Families should note that the minimum age for this tour is 10 years old. Be sure to eat before you go because some reviewers noted it wasn’t filling but the food is scrumptious!
It was so much fun. Just watching the beautiful sunset, non stop drinks, a yummy snack and fun group of people. The crew was amazing!
sasha m (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Snacks
☑️ Open bar
☑️ Sunset cruise
☑️ Hotel pickup and drop-off
☑️ 40 people max on the tour
5. 4-Hour Tour on a 47′ Private Yacht
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | ✅ Book Now
This 4-Hour private yacht tour is one of the best private boat tours in Playa del Carmen. It’s a perfect excursion for travelers looking to add a special touch to a Playa del Carmen vacation.
The charming Italian Azimut yacht is the ideal blend of European luxury with Caribbean finesse and comes equipped with all the water sports gear you’ll need on your adventure, including paddle boards and snorkeling gear.
Explore hidden beaches, coves, mangroves, and pristine reefs like Inah Reef. Enjoy amazing views while lounging on the spacious sun deck or relaxing in an air-conditioned salon.
Or, head up to the 360-degree flybridge for unobstructed panoramic views of this paradise coast! The expert crew and fun lovin’ staff are there to make sure you have everything that you need as you cruise down the coast.
We had a wonderful day with Apollo & the crew! Everything was tailored to our preferences, the food was delicious, & we saw some beautiful fish while snorkeling. Thank you!
tripadvisor reviewer (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Drinks (Non-Alcoholic and Alcoholic Beverages)
☑️ Use of Snorkel Equipment & Paddle Boards
☑️ Professional Guide
☑️ Karaoke (18,000+ songs, HD TV for lyrics, and microphones)
☑️ Bluetooth Sound System and Spotify
6. 5-Hour Private 42′ Azimut Yacht 2-Stop Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | ✅ Book Now
Is a 4-hour cruise not long enough? With this 5-Hour private 2-stop yacht tour, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the most beautiful shorelines and natural wonders in all of Playa del Carmen!
Board the yacht at Puerto Aventuras Marina, then set sail for your first stop, the semi-sheltered In-Ha reef area. Here, you can swim, snorkel or just sunbathe onboard and enjoy free-flow drinks from the open bar.
At the second stop, La Bocana, you can enjoy open bar drinks and lunch from the shallow waters. Troll fishing is also an option and whatever catch you make will be prepared by the chef onboard.
The tour comes equipped with snorkel gear, life jackets, and towels so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything extra. The ceviche lunch that’s included will also be adjusted based on your dietary restrictions if needed.
Start to finish this trip was amazing!! The crew was professional & courteous! The drinks were delicious & abundant; food was delicious & our group felt like we were royalty!
Michael W (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Restroom on board
☑️ Private Tour
☑️ Towels
☑️ Snorkel gear and life jackets
☑️ Open Bar w/ unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
7. 4-Hour Private 44′ Leopard Luxury Catamaran Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | ✅ Book Now
If powerboat tours aren’t your thing, then this 4-Hour Private 44′ Leopard Luxury Catamaran Tour is a perfect option! Luxury sailing the Caribbean in style is a must-have experience for any Playa del Carmen vacationer.
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind sailboat ride without worrying about overcrowding or other hassles. Whether it’s snorkeling in the turquoise waters of In-Ha Reef or fishing with your own private chef aboard, it’s an unforgettable day on the sea.
The vessel itself is a 44-foot-long Leopard catamaran that is equipped to host up to 30 passengers at once! The open bar provides free-flow soft drinks, water, beer, and spirits so you can stay hydrated and ready to explore all day.
Snacks and lunch are also included as well as snorkeling and fishing gear so you can discover some of the many wonders of In-Ha reef. If you’re lucky enough to catch something, your chef will happily prepare it for lunch or snacks.
Fernando and his crew were the best!! The food was delicious!! So helpful and kind. The boat was very clean and organized.
Jessica J (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Private tour
☑️ Snorkel gear and life jackets
☑️ Towels
☑️ Fishing gear
☑️ Open Bar w/ unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
☑️ Restroom on board
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
8. 60′ Neptunus Inha Reef V.I.P Snorkel Cruise
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | ✅ Book Now
The 60′ Última Pirata yacht features a flybridge that allows you to take in the majestic views from different angles, plus a spacious salon area complete with comfortable seating.
The boat is powered by two high-performance marine engines allowing it to cruise comfortably at speeds up to 12 knots. With a maximum capacity of 24 passengers, you can invite friends and family on your adventure.
Onboard you will be treated to classic Mexican dishes like fish tacos or guacamole and international flavors like fresh sushi or Caprese salad. There’s something for everyone. Plus, there are cold beers, margaritas, and other drinks on hand, too!
Take advantage of all the amenities this beautiful motor yacht has to offer during your day tour – including snorkeling gear and floaties if you want to take a dip in the crystal clear waters and explore the underwater world around you!
Uriel captain Oscar Leo and Russel made this day amazing! The food was perfect the snorkelling was divine and they all are super nice!! Would recommend highly!❤️
tripadvsior reviewer (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Use of Snorkeling equipment
☑️ Unlimited Open Bar
☑️ Water floaties
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
9. 8-Hour Private All-Inclusive Catamaran Tour to Cozumel
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | ✅ Book Now
Take in views of the Riviera Maya coast from the Caribbean Sea as the 8-Hour Private All-Inclusive Catamaran Tour to Cozumel takes you to Playa Palancar, one of the most spectacular beaches you’ll ever see.
Its clear aquamarine waters make it perfect for snorkeling. And explore another nearby reef where you can swim with sea turtles and view tropical fish and coral reefs up close.
And, enjoy lunch on board the yacht or on the beach under a “palapa” with your feet in the sand! To top it off, take in a beautiful Caribbean sunset over the jungle region of Riviera Maya – just another amazing part of this biodiverse region.
This fully customizable Playa del Carmen boat trip to Cozumel provides all necessary snorkeling and fishing gear, paddleboards, towels, and floats so all you have to do is enjoy paradise!
The BEST day ever!! Our crew…were so attentive, catered to every request & were so kind, they truly made our experience incredible. 10/10 recommend this for any occasion!
tripadvisor reviewer (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Towels
☑️ Private tour
☑️ Snorkel gear and life jackets
☑️ Open Bar w/ unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Restroom on board
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
10. 3-in-1 Ruins, Cenote & Reef Snorkeling Private Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8 hours | ✅ Book Now
This 3-in-1 private tour is an amazing way to experience the best of Playa del Carmen. Starting with the ruins of Tulum, you’ll be able to explore the ancient Maya city and its breathtaking view of the Caribbean Sea.
After this, you’ll head out on a boat tour, snorkeling in the nearby reefs and cenotes in the jungle. Your local guide will be able to explain fascinating facts about each location and provide you with a unique experience that no other tour can offer.
Just keep in mind that if the water is too rough for snorkeling, then the Playa del Carmen tours portion may be canceled and your guide will take you to a second cenote instead.
The 3-in-1 Ruins, Cenote & Reef Snorkeling Private Tour is ideal for those looking for a unique adventure while visiting Playa del Carmen. The tour starts early to avoid crowds, but even so, it’s still worth seeing all that this region has to offer.
My family of 5 with 3 teenage boys…loved the Tulum ruins overall then right into snorkeling the reef w/a fantastic beach-side taco lunch & off to cenote swim…wholeheartedly recommend!
tripadvisor reviewer (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Private transportation
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Snacks
☑️ Bottled water
☑️ Use of Snorkeling equipment
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
11. Private Sian Kaan Muyil Lazy River Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | ✅ Book Now
The private Sian Kaan Muyil Lazy River Tour is one of the most unique and fun Playa del Carmen boat tours you can take while visiting Riviera Maya. It takes you along the tranquil, turquoise waters of Chunyaxche, to soak up the stunning views.
Immerse yourself in the beautiful natural beauty and cultural history of the Riviera Maya as you explore the Muyil archaeological zone, one of the earliest and longest inhabited Mayan cities on Quintana Roo’s east coast.
What makes this tour even more special is that it’s a personalized experience tailored to your interests. Your guide will provide insights into Mayan culture throughout your journey, giving you an unforgettable educational experience.
Plus, with pickup from your Cancun or Playa del Carmen hotel or port included in your package, getting to and from this beautiful destination has never been easier!
I am very happy I chose this trip to Muyil lagoon, its probably one of the prettiest outings I’ve done. Salvador was a great guide I would definitely do it again next time!
Shelly D (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Professional guide
☑️ All entrance fees
☑️ Private transportation
☑️ Mangrove boat tour of Chunyaxche
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
12. Tulum Private Boat Tour & Turtle Snorkeling Experience
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | ✅ Book Now
Tulum Private Boat Tour & Turtle Snorkeling Experience is the perfect way to take a fun trip from Playa Del Carmen! It combines snorkeling with a visit to the beautiful Tulum Mayan archaeological site for a truly unique experience.
The trip begins when your guide picks you up at your hotel in Playa del Carmen and heads to the Tulum archaeological site, where you will get an in-depth look at this ancient Mayan civilization from a knowledgeable professional guide.
After exploring the ruins, it’s time to snorkel and look for sea turtles. A delicious seafood lunch will also be served up at a local restaurant during your excursion, and all necessary snorkeling equipment is provided.
For those looking to do something different than the crowded beach clubs of Playa Del Carmen, this excursion offers an amazing opportunity for adventure while enjoying some of Playa del Carmen’s best snorkeling sites.
This was a tour of Tulum with a snorkeling experience. We had a driver/tour guide pick up just our family of 4 at our hotel…Overall a great half day!
lauri k (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Lunch
☑️ Bottled water
☑️ Use of Snorkeling equipment
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
13. Private Rio Lagartos Flamingo & Pink Lakes
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8 hours | ✅ Book Now
On this private boat tour of the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, you’ll get to explore one of the jewels of the Yucatan Peninsula. Located in Mexico’s state of Quintana Roo, this area is home to some spectacular sights and wildlife.
From your Playa del Carmen hotel, you’ll head out on a journey of discovery to this stunning nature reserve, where you will have an opportunity to observe some of the amazing creatures that call it home.
Your driver will take you by a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle along the coast until you reach the small fishing village where your boat awaits. Here, you’ll board a small motorboat and embark on your own private guided tour.
The highlight of this tour is definitely the chance to catch a glimpse of the famous pink flamingos that inhabit this reserve. You won’t believe how many there are! You may also see crocodiles, iguanas, birds, or other wildlife, too!
If you want something a little more relaxing and different, this is the one for you…I didn’t expect the pink lakes experience to be as informative and beautiful as they actually were!
elizabeth s (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Air-conditioned vehicle
☑️ Private tour
☑️ Knowledgeable guide
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
14. Private, All-Inclusive 2-stop 45′ Catamaran to Cozumel
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | ✅ Book Now
This private, all-inclusive 2-stop 45′ Catamaran tour you’re sure to have a great day of sun and fun on the waves. Everyone even gets a personalized welcome drink as soon as you board!
With this exclusive private charter, you can customize your tour based on your interests and desired itinerary so it’s perfect for anyone looking to explore the Riviera Maya from the Caribbean Sea with your favorite people.
You’ll first stop at Playa Palancar, one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. With crystal-clear aquamarine waters, it’s been declared an ideal spot for snorkeling. It’s also perfect for a dip after lunch, onboard or under a palapa!
Your second stop will take you to an amazing nearby coral reef where you can swim up close with turtles and colorful tropical fish. Bring along some fishing gear if you’d like, since this is one of the best spots in Playa del Carmen for fishing!
We had a great time and everything was perfect!!! Thank you so much for an awesome experience. I would recommend this to anyone vacationing here!!
tripadvisor reviewer (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Snorkel gear and life jackets
☑️ Towels
☑️ Open Bar w/ unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
☑️ Private tour
☑️ Restroom on board
☑️ Lunch
🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩
15. 6-Hour Private Riviera Maya Fishing Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 6 hours | ✅ Book Now
With an experienced, English-speaking crew, you’ll experience all that Riviera Maya has to offer in terms of fishing trips. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or just looking for a fun time on the sea, you can find something for everyone.
This 6-hour Riviera Maya Fishing Tour gives tourists a chance to tackle some of the most pristine waters in Mexico. Boats depart from Playa del Carmen daily to take visitors out onto the Caribbean Sea. Cast your lines as far as you can see!
The waters off of the Riviera Maya are teeming with fish, so there’s no doubt that you’ll catch your fair share. Plus, it makes for great entertainment as well! Your guide also provides tips and tricks that help increase your angling success rate.
So if you’re planning a vacation to Playa del Carmen and want to experience something truly unique, book yourself a spot today. You’ll get to enjoy some amazing sights, learn some new techniques, and maybe even snag your own big fish story!
Our day started out fabulous and ended the same…just really fabulous!…I highly recommend this crew!!!
tripadvisor reviewer (read more Reviews)
Tour Includes:
☑️ Use of Snorkeling equipment
☑️ Rods, reels & tackle
☑️ Fighting Chair
☑️ Live Bait
☑️ All Fees and Taxes
☑️ Fishing License
☑️ Brunch
☑️ Alcoholic Beverages
☑️ Soda/Pop
☑️ Bottled water
Final Thoughts: Boat Tours in Playa del Carmen
The vast white beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets of Playa del Carmen are a sight to behold! They’ve been some of our favorite excursions in all our time living in and visiting Playa del Carmen.
🤩 This Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres tour is the best Playa del Carmen boat tour because you visit 2 beautiful islands & see some amazing wildlife! 🤩
Whether you’re looking for the perfect relaxing getaway or an afternoon of fun with friends, boat tours in Playa del Carmen offer a unique experience that can’t be beaten.
The experienced captains make sure that those on board are safe at all times while they take them to breathtakingly beautiful locations. They are always happy to answer questions and provide information about the area during the tour.
Booking a boat tour is easy. Simply pick the tour above that sounds best and you’ll be ready to go! Don’t wait any longer to explore Playa del Carmen from the sea!
Book your boat tour of Playa del Carmen today and experience one of the most beautiful parts of Mexico like never before!
👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!
