Tulum: Catamaran Sail & Snorkel with Chef Menu & Open Bar

Summary

Sail from Puerto Aventuras for reef snorkeling, chef snacks, open bar and relaxed moments on the water

You’ll sail out from Puerto Aventuras on a 34' catamaran with a small group, snorkeling Tulum’s calm Caribbean reef with all gear provided. Enjoy chef-prepared snacks (think guacamole and ceviche), unlimited open bar drinks, water toys and time to just relax under the sun—with a local crew who make you feel like you belong out here.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a cold drink before I’ve even found a spot to sit—turns out it’s Ana, part of the crew, and she’s already laughing about how I almost tripped over my own flip-flops. The catamaran rocks gently as we leave Puerto Aventuras behind. Sun’s already warm but not harsh, and there’s this salty-sweet smell in the air that makes you want to breathe deeper. I can’t help grinning at how everyone—friends, couples, even a family with two kids—just seems to loosen up right away. Our guide, Luis, points out pelicans skimming low over the water and tells us how sea turtles come back to these reefs every year. He says it like he’s seen it a hundred times but still finds it cool.

I didn’t expect snorkeling here to feel so easy. The water is clear enough that you see your own shadow on the sand below—kind of surreal. I hear someone shout through their snorkel (I think they spotted a turtle), and for a second all I can focus on is the sound of my own breathing mixed with distant laughter from the boat. When I climb back up, there’s fresh guacamole waiting (with some kind of chili oil drizzled on top—spicy but addictive), plus ceviche that tastes way better than anything I’ve had at home. The chef jokes about his “secret” recipe but won’t give it up.

People drift between sunbathing and grabbing another drink from the open bar—someone tries paddle boarding and falls in almost immediately (we all clap). There are floaties everywhere; one guy just floats face-up for half an hour like he’s meditating or something. I end up talking with Ana again about what it’s like living near Tulum year-round; she shrugs and says she never gets tired of these colors—the blues change every day. I believe her.

Heading back toward shore, there’s this lazy feeling among everyone—no rush to get anywhere else. Salt on my skin, hair tangled from wind—I still think about that view off the bow when nobody was talking for a minute or two. If you’re looking for something loud or flashy, this probably isn’t it…but if you want four hours where you forget your phone exists? Yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury sailing and snorkeling adventure

• Depart from Puerto Aventuras
• Sail to Mexican Caribbean reef
• Snorkel in crystal-clear waters
• Observe tropical fish and sea turtles
• Relax in tranquil shallow waters
• Enjoy chef-prepared snacks and drinks
• Choose additional snacks and main dishes
• Indulge in dessert options
• Return to Puerto Aventuras

Top questions

How long does the Tulum catamaran sail & snorkel tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from departure at Puerto Aventuras marina until return.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, all snorkel gear is provided as part of your day trip experience.

Are meals or drinks included during the sail?

The tour includes unlimited open bar drinks and a premium chef-prepared menu with snacks and lunch options.

Where does the catamaran depart from?

The catamaran departs from Puerto Aventuras marina near Tulum in Mexico's Riviera Maya.

Is this tour suitable for families or LGBTQ+ travelers?

Yes, it's suitable for families as well as LGBTQ+ travelers—the atmosphere is relaxed and inclusive.

What kind of food is served onboard?

You’ll have seasonal fruit, Mayan guacamole, ceviche or sushi options, sandwiches like shrimp tacos or empanadas, plus dessert choices.

Can I use paddle boards or floaties during the trip?

Paddle boards and floaties are available onboard for guests to use while anchored at the reef area.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing on a 34' catamaran from Puerto Aventuras with all snorkel equipment provided, unlimited open bar drinks throughout the trip, chef-prepared snacks and lunch options served onboard by a local crew, plus access to paddle boards and floaties so you can relax or play in the warm Caribbean water before heading back in the afternoon.