Two snorkeling stops, pure Caribbean joy. This private 44′ catamaran runs out of Puerto Aventuras with big water views and a day built around open bar energy, not a rushed itinerary.

What I like most is the way the snorkeling is set up for real enjoyment. The first stop is a semi-sheltered reef area where you can swim and snorkel in calm water, and you may spot sea turtles and plenty of colorful reef fish. And I really like that lunch isn’t an afterthought: you get freshly made shrimp and fish ceviche, plus snacks, with options for vegetarian or vegan requests if you tell them ahead of time.

One consideration: this trip is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t good, you may be offered a different date or a refund, so it helps to leave some flexibility in your schedule.

Key things you’ll notice right away

• In-Ha snorkeling in calmer water: a semi-sheltered reef area, great for an easy first swim.
• Two swim stops with a built-in vibe shift: reef first, then a shallow, clear “finale” stop at La Bocana.
• Open bar stays part of the plan: tequila, rum, vodka, Mexican beer, soft drinks, juices, and bottled water.
• Ceviche lunch is the main event: shrimp and fish ceviche served onboard, with music at the second stop.
• Snorkel and fishing gear are included: plus towels and a restroom onboard.
• Crew focus is real: names like Vicky, Neri, Omar, Yair, Ramón, Dale, Aldo, Angel, and chef Pablo Mae show up in the praise for attentive service.

A private catamaran day that feels custom-made

If you’re choosing between a big group cruise and a private boat, this is the kind of day that makes the private option feel worth it. You’re not waiting in line to board, you’re not packed in with strangers, and you can actually settle into the rhythm of the trip.

This charter is built around comfort and small moments: sunbathing on a 44-foot catamaran, easy access to the water at two different stops, and crew members who keep checking in. In multiple accounts, the standout theme is attention—drinks showing up often, food arriving at the right time, and guidance when it’s time to snorkel.

The 5-hour flow: Puerto Aventuras out, reef first, then La Bocana

The tour runs about five hours, so it’s long enough to feel like a real escape, but short enough that you’ll still want dinner afterward. You’ll depart from the Puerto Aventuras marina area and head north for the first swim/snorkel stop.

The day splits into two distinct sections. First comes In-Ha, where the water is calmer and snorkeling is the focus. Then the trip shifts to La Bocana for a shallow, clear stop that’s more like a fun finale—great for hanging out in the water while lunch and open bar take center stage.

Stop 1: In-Ha reef for calm snorkeling and sea turtle odds

In-Ha is described as a semi-sheltered reef area, which matters more than it sounds. Calmer water usually means less stress in the surf and more time with your face in the water (in a good way).

Here’s what you’re aiming for: swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear conditions, with the chance to see sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. The vibe is also practical—if you don’t feel like getting in the water, you can stay onboard, relax, and enjoy the snacks and drinks while others snorkel.

A smart detail: the crew serves refreshments during the snorkeling time, so you’re not left overheating and waiting. And since snacks are part of the plan, you’re set up for the lunch later without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: La Bocana, shallow and clear with music and ceviche

La Bocana is the second stop and it’s where the day turns into a relaxed party-at-sea moment. It’s described as shallow and very clear, which means you can float, wade, and take breaks without feeling like you’re committed to deep-water snorkeling.

This is also where the lunch and open bar energy peaks. Many people treat this as their favorite stretch because it’s easy to enjoy the sea from multiple angles—out in the water, or onboard with a drink and music in the background.

One practical upside of this stop: it works for different comfort levels. If you snorkeled earlier and want a gentler plan now, you can still enjoy La Bocana without needing to do anything technical.

Food and drinks onboard: what the open bar actually includes

A lot of charters say open bar. This one spells it out, and that’s helpful when you’re planning your day.

You can expect an open bar with tequila, rum, vodka, Mexican beer, bottled water, soft drinks, and juice. On top of that, there are chips and other snacks, plus freshly made shrimp and fish ceviche.

The ceviche detail is a big reason this tour gets strong praise. People call out the guacamole and ceviche as standouts, and the description backs it up by placing ceviche right in both the onboard snack flow and the La Bocana portion of the day.

If you have dietary restrictions, tell them when you book. Vegetarian/vegan options (and other dietary needs) are available with advance notice, including lunch requests based on restrictions.

The crew makes it: real service names you can look for

Private tours live or die by the crew. This one has a strong track record of friendly, accommodating attention, and multiple crew names come up repeatedly in the praise.

You may see names like Vicky, Neri, Omar, Yair, Ramón, Dale, Aldo, and Angel attached to excellent service. Chef Pablo Mae also gets specific credit for the food experience. The common theme is that they anticipate what you need—tending to drinks, checking how you’re doing, and keeping the day fun rather than chaotic.

There’s also mention of a photographer named Trinity who helps with poses. That’s not listed as a guaranteed add-on in the core tour description, but it’s a nice clue that some outings go beyond the basic “sit and wait” style.

Optional trolling fishing and the chef’s sauce twist

If you want more than snorkeling, this tour includes an option for troll fishing. Fishing gear is provided, and anything you catch can be prepared onboard with the chef’s family-style sauce.

Whether that ends up being a highlight depends on conditions and what you catch, but it adds variety. It turns the day into something for people who don’t always love snorkeling for a full stretch.

Even if you don’t fish, it’s a good sign that the boat setup isn’t just for show. Gear is part of the package, and the kitchen is clearly involved in what you eat.

Group size: up to 15 pricing, but space for more comfort

The price is listed per group, up to 15 people. At the same time, the catamaran is described as having space for up to 30 people.

That difference is useful for you to understand. Practically, it suggests the boat can handle larger headcounts, but your booking is priced for a smaller private group. So if you’re splitting the cost with friends or family, you’re likely to feel the space more than you would on a mass charter.

This matters for comfort at two different moments: when everyone wants to snorkel, and when lunch plus drinks are happening. With a private group, you’re not constantly negotiating space.

Price and value: what $2,479.34 per group really buys

The headline price is $2,479.34 per group for up to 15 people, for an about five-hour experience. That sounds like a lot until you break down what’s included.

Here’s the value math that matters on the water:

• Open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Lunch with snacks, including shrimp and fish ceviche
• Towels, snorkeling gear, and fishing gear
• A restroom onboard
• Two swim/snorkel stops with crew assistance

Then add the “hidden cost” feeling of a lot of other tours. Many day trips force you to pay separately for gear, snacks, or water access time. Here, those essentials are wrapped into the charter experience.

The two costs to budget for are also clearly stated:

• Dock fee: $20.00 per person (not included)
• Private transportation: varies based on where you’re coming from

If you’re doing the day with a group, this is one of those tours where splitting the total makes it feel more reasonable fast. And if you’d otherwise pay for multiple paid activities—snorkel rental, boat transport, meals, and drinks—this starts to look like a cleaner deal.

Where you meet: Puerto Aventuras, not the middle of nowhere

Your departure point is the Riviera Elite location in the Puerto Aventuras area. The meeting address listed is:

Riviera Elite: Yachts in Tulum and Playa Del Carmen, Av. Bahia Yanten Manzana 33, Lot 9, Local 12, 77750 Puerto Aventuras, Q.R., Mexico.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point. You’ll also have a mobile ticket, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, based on availability.

Tips to make your day smoother

Keep these in mind before you show up, so you can focus on the sea part of the plan.

• Bring swim-friendly clothing you don’t mind getting sandy. You’ll likely spend time wading and boarding again between stops.
• Use sunscreen early, especially before the first reef stop. Sun shows up fast out there, and you’ll be in the water.
• If you have dietary needs, message them when booking. That’s how you get vegetarian or vegan options and avoid last-minute confusion.
• If you’re celebrating something (bachelorette, birthday, wedding weekend), this kind of private setup helps everyone stay together. Multiple accounts describe it as a perfect group day.
• If you want photos, ask if any photographer support is available. One name that pops up in praise is Trinity, known for helping with poses.

Who this tour is best for

This charter fits best when you want a private, comfort-first day on the water with real snorkeling time.

It’s great for:

• Couples who want a relaxing day with good food and drink
• Friend groups who want a fun “on the boat” party vibe without large crowds
• Families who want a guided day that includes snorkeling options and simple relaxation
• Wedding or milestone groups that want one coordinated block of time

If you’re the kind of traveler who hates spending your afternoon “trying to make things work,” this private structure is the whole point.

Should you book it for Tulum and Playa del Carmen?

I’d book this if your top priorities are: two Caribbean swim stops, a crew that runs the day with attention, and food + drinks that are actually part of the experience. The combination of calm-water snorkeling at In-Ha, a shallow and clear second stop at La Bocana, and ceviche paired with open bar makes it feel like more than just transportation to the water.

I’d pause if you’re extremely timing-sensitive or you can’t handle weather-related changes. Since the trip depends on conditions, plan your schedule with some slack so you’re not stuck with regret if seas are rough.

If you want one day that feels like a real upgrade from the standard beach routine, this is a strong bet.

FAQ

How long is the 5H Private 44′ Catamaran tour?

It runs for about 5 hours.

What’s included on board?

You get lunch with snacks, towels, and snorkeling and fishing gear. There’s also an open bar with unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), plus a restroom on board.

Where does the tour start?

It starts at the Riviera Elite meeting point in the Puerto Aventuras area, listed at Av. Bahia Yanten Manzana 33, Lot 9, Local 12, 77750 Puerto Aventuras, Q.R., Mexico, and it ends back at the same place.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?

Yes. Vegetarian/Vegan options (and other dietary restrictions) are available if you advise them at the time of booking.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

Is there an age limit?

Children and young adults under 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult. The minimum drinking age is 18.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded. If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.