Snorkeling in Playa del Carmen: Private Catamaran with Open Bar

Swim with sea turtles in calm, clear water, then catch and cook your own fish

A 4-hour private catamaran snorkeling tour from Puerto Aventuras marina in Playa del Carmen takes you to In-Ha reef, where you spend about 2 hours in the water with sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and coral. The boat includes an open bar with unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, and homemade ceviche lunch; snorkel gear, life jackets, towels, and fishing equipment are provided. You can also troll fish during the cruise, and anything you catch gets prepared onboard by the chef.

Step-by-step itinerary

Luxury catamaran tour and snorkeling

• Depart from Puerto Aventuras marina
• Cruise north to In-Ha reef
• Swim and snorkel with sea turtles
• Relax onboard and sunbathe
• Enjoy cocktails, snacks, and ceviche lunch
• Try troll fishing and catch preparation
• Cruise back to Puerto Aventuras marina

The Experience

The catamaran departs from Puerto Aventuras marina and heads north for roughly an hour to In-Ha, a semi-sheltered reef area known for calm, crystal-clear water. Once anchored, you have about 2 hours to swim and snorkel—long enough to move at your own pace instead of being herded through a series of quick stops. Sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and coral reef are the draw, but the water's stillness means even nervous swimmers can manage it. Snorkel gear and life jackets are on hand, and an underwater camera is available if you want to capture what you see.

The boat itself is the difference here. It's a 44-foot luxury catamaran, not a crowded speedboat, so there's room to spread out on deck. While others are in the water, you can sunbathe, read, or order from the open bar—tequila, rum, vodka, Mexican beer, water, soft drinks, and juice flow throughout the day. The crew brings out snacks and chips between the main event: homemade ceviche lunch, made fresh from shrimp and fish. If you have dietary restrictions, let them know at booking and they'll prepare something else.

The fishing angle sets this tour apart. Troll lines go out during the cruise, and if you hook something, the chef prepares it onboard with a family sauce recipe. It's optional—you're not expected to fish—but it's there if you want it. The whole day is built around not rushing: the slow cruise back to the marina gives you time to watch the coastline and finish a drink without checking a clock.

What’s included

• Private catamaran tour.
• snorkel gear and life jackets.
• towels and restroom onboard.
• open bar with unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
• homemade ceviche lunch and snacks.
• fishing gear and the option to have your catch prepared by the chef.
• underwater camera and water floats available on request.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Riviera Elite

Is this one for you?Book this if you're based in Playa del Carmen without a car—the catamaran departs from Puerto Aventuras marina, so you'll need separate transport to reach it, but the boat itself includes snorkel gear, fishing equipment, and lunch.

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Top questions

How long do I actually spend snorkeling at In-Ha reef?

You get approximately 2 hours in the water once the catamaran anchors at In-Ha. That's enough time to swim at your own pace, spot sea turtles and reef fish, and explore without feeling hurried. If you'd rather stay onboard and relax, that's fine too—nothing is mandatory.

What's included in the open bar on this snorkeling tour?

The open bar includes tequila, rum, vodka, Mexican beer, bottled water, soft drinks, and juice. You also get snacks like chips throughout the day and a lunch of homemade ceviche (or a prepared alternative if you have dietary restrictions). Towels are provided as well.

Can I fish on this catamaran snorkeling tour, and what happens if I catch something?

Yes, troll fishing is offered during the cruise at no extra cost. If you catch a fish, the chef prepares it onboard with their family sauce recipe. Fishing gear is included, and it's entirely optional—you don't have to participate if you'd rather just snorkel or relax.

Where does the catamaran depart from, and how do I get there?

The boat leaves from Puerto Aventuras marina, about an hour north of Playa del Carmen. If you're staying in Playa del Carmen without a rental car, you'll need to arrange your own transport to the marina or book a separate transfer. The marina is accessible by taxi or ride-share.

Is this snorkeling tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, it's designed for all ages. Children and infants can come aboard—infants must sit on an adult's lap, and young children can ride in a stroller or pram. Snorkeling is optional, so kids who aren't comfortable in the water can stay on deck with an adult and enjoy the boat, the food, and the views.

What snorkel gear and safety equipment do I need to bring?

You don't need to bring anything. Snorkel gear, life jackets, towels, and fishing equipment are all provided. An underwater camera and water floats are available upon request if you want to capture photos or need extra flotation.