REVIEW · PLAYA DEL CARMEN
5H 42′ Azimut Yacht All-Inclusive from Tulum & Playa del Carmen.
Book on Viator →Operated by Riviera Elite · Bookable on Viator
Turtles and tequila, on a private yacht. This 5-hour Azimut all-inclusive cruise from Puerto Aventuras is built around two snorkeling-friendly stops in the Riviera Maya, plus ceviche lunch and an open bar.
I especially like calm-water snorkeling at In-Ha and the fact that you’re not rationing drinks or snacks. You get a private-group day (up to 15) where you can actually relax between the water time.
One thing to plan for: there’s an extra dock fee of $20 per person, and the day depends on good weather.
In This Review
- Key things I’d plan around
- A private Azimut yacht day in Puerto Aventuras (and what you’re really buying)
- Finding the right “snorkel level” at In-Ha
- La Bocana: the shallow, clear-water “finale party” moment
- Onboard service that makes the day feel personal (hello, Manuel)
- The open bar and ceviche lunch: what’s included, and how to get it right for your diet
- Troll fishing as a side quest (and the chef’s family sauce payoff)
- Timing, meeting point, and the small extras that affect your total cost
- Who this yacht cruise fits best (and who might want a different plan)
- Should you book the 5H 42′ Azimut all-inclusive yacht cruise?
- FAQ
- What is the duration of the yacht tour?
- Where does the tour start and end?
- What is the meeting point address?
- Is this a private tour?
- What snorkeling and safety items are included?
- Is food included?
- Is there an open bar?
- What are the stops during the cruise?
- Is vegetarian or vegan food available?
- Are there extra charges beyond the tour price?
- What is the weather policy if the tour can’t run?
Key things I’d plan around
- Two snorkeling stops with different vibes: calm In-Ha reef first, then shallow La Bocana for a relaxed finale
- Unlimited open bar including tequila, rum, vodka, Mexican beer, plus non-alcoholic drinks
- Snorkel gear, life jackets, and towels are included, so you can travel light
- Ceviche lunch can be adjusted for dietary needs if you request it in advance
- Private tour for up to 15 keeps the pace flexible and the service more personal
- Optional troll fishing is available, and anything you catch can be prepared onboard
A private Azimut yacht day in Puerto Aventuras (and what you’re really buying)
This isn’t a packed-speedboat experience. You’re booking a private tour on a 42-foot Azimut yacht that leaves from the Puerto Aventuras marina and returns there. The vibe is simple: good cruising views, a couple of water stops, and a crew focused on making your group comfortable.
The price is $1,818.19 per group (up to 15) for about 5 hours. That can sound high until you do the math: if you fill the group, it works out to roughly $120 per person before the $20 dock fee. If you don’t fill the boat, your per-person cost goes up—but you still get private service and an all-inclusive setup (snacks, ceviche lunch, and unlimited drinks).
What I like most is what’s included up front. You get snorkel gear, life jackets, and towels, plus a restroom onboard and an open bar that covers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices. Translation: fewer surprises when you’re thirsty and hungry.
Finding the right “snorkel level” at In-Ha
Stop 1 heads north from the Puerto Aventuras marina for about an hour to a semi-sheltered reef area called In-Ha. The payoff here is comfort. It’s described as calm, crystal-clear water—exactly what you want when you’re snorkeling without the “bouncing” that can make some people nervous.
At In-Ha, snorkeling is the main event. You can look for sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and other reef life. Even if you don’t consider yourself a big-time snorkeler, this stop is set up for easy participation: you’ll have the gear, and the area is meant to be swimmer-friendly.
The practical bonus: while you’re in the water, the crew is working the background. They serve snacks, cocktails, and refreshments onboard. Then they bring out ceviche made with shrimp and fish. If you’re staying dry, you can still enjoy the experience—sunbathing and sipping while others snorkel is totally part of the plan.
What to consider: In-water time is a big part of this stop, so if your idea of “snorkeling” is mostly about watching from the boat, you’ll want to manage expectations. You’ll be able to opt out of the water, but your group will still spend a good amount of time snorkeling and swimming.
La Bocana: the shallow, clear-water “finale party” moment
After In-Ha, you cruise to the second stop: La Bocana. This is where the mood shifts. The water here is described as shallow and clear—more like a floating living room for the final stretch than a deep reef experience.
A lot of people choose to enjoy the ceviche lunch and the open bar here. If you want to eat and drink while in the water, you can. If you’d rather keep it simple, you can enjoy the views from the yacht and just soak up the atmosphere.
There’s also a social element built in. The plan calls for music to be played, and you can enjoy that moment from the sea—so it feels less like a “strict excursion schedule” and more like a relaxed celebration.
What to consider: Because the water is shallow, this stop can feel more like “hang out in the sea” than “hardcore snorkeling.” If you’re hunting for the most dramatic reef action possible, you may find In-Ha is the stronger snorkel moment for you.
Onboard service that makes the day feel personal (hello, Manuel)
The best compliment you can give a yacht crew is that they keep things smooth while you’re busy with the fun stuff. Here, that’s the theme. The crew is described as professional and courteous, and one host stood out: Manuel was called out as exceptional.
That matters because it changes the day from “logistics” to “enjoyment.” When your crew is on top of the basics—keeping drinks flowing, timing snacks, and getting everyone back onboard—your group spends more time actually in the water and looking around.
It also shows up in the details of the included offerings:
- Unlimited drinks keep you from doing mental math every time you’re handed a glass
- Snacks are part of the rhythm, not an afterthought
- Ceviche is served fresh onboard, not just delivered as a pre-packed item
If you want a low-stress day where you don’t have to manage anything beyond enjoying yourself, this is the right setup.
The open bar and ceviche lunch: what’s included, and how to get it right for your diet
The open bar is part of the core value of this tour. You’ll have:
- Alcohol: tequila, rum, vodka, Mexican beer
- Non-alcoholic: bottled water, soft drinks, juice
They also include chips and other snacks, plus freshly made shrimp and fish ceviche. And yes, the ceviche lunch can be adjusted based on dietary restrictions if you request it in advance.
One smart move: when booking, tell the provider what you need. Vegetarian/vegan options are available, along with other dietary restrictions. If you wait until you’re already onboard, you might lose flexibility.
Also, there’s a clear rule: the minimum drinking age is 18. If you’re bringing anyone under 18, they must be accompanied by at least one adult.
What to consider: unlimited drinks don’t change the fact that you’re on a yacht in open water. Pace yourself so you can enjoy snorkeling at both stops without feeling worn out.
Troll fishing as a side quest (and the chef’s family sauce payoff)
This tour also offers troll fishing. Fishing gear is provided, so you’re not expected to haul your own setup.
The neat part is the payoff. Anything you catch can be prepared onboard with the chef’s secret family sauce. That turns fishing from a “maybe you’ll catch something” activity into an experience with an actual finish.
If you’re into fishing, great—this adds a layer beyond snorkeling. If you’re not, you can treat it like an optional extra and still enjoy the day’s main plan: cruise, snorkel stops, snacks, and open bar.
Timing, meeting point, and the small extras that affect your total cost
The tour runs about 5 hours. It starts and ends at the same spot in Puerto Aventuras.
Meeting point: Riviera Elite: Yachts in Tulum and Playa Del Carmen, Av. Bahia Yanten Manzana 33, Lot 9, Local 12, 77750 Puerto Aventuras, Q.R., Mexico.
You’ll receive a mobile ticket, and confirmation is expected within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
Two cost items to plan for:
- Dock fee: $20.00 per person
- Private transportation is not included (price varies depending on where you’re coming from)
One more practical note: the experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. So if you’re booking near the end of your trip, keep some wiggle room.
Who this yacht cruise fits best (and who might want a different plan)
This is a strong match for:
- Groups of up to 15 who want a private day without the stress of planning meals and drinks
- People who want great snorkeling but still want the freedom to relax onboard
- Food-and-drink lovers who enjoy ceviche and want unlimited options for the whole cruise
- Anyone traveling with dietary needs who wants flexibility (vegetarian/vegan options are available when requested)
It may be less ideal if:
- You’re looking for a long, onshore cultural stop (this is mostly about the water and the yacht)
- You want a guaranteed “hardcore reef” experience every minute (In-Ha is the snorkel draw, and La Bocana is more about shallow, easy enjoyment)
- Your schedule is tight and you can’t handle weather changes
Should you book the 5H 42′ Azimut all-inclusive yacht cruise?
If you want a day that feels like a treat without being complicated, I’d book this. The big wins are clear: two well-chosen water stops, included snorkel gear and towels, and that all-day open bar setup. Add in the standout service culture—complete with Manuel being singled out—and you get a day that’s designed to feel smooth from start to finish.
I’d particularly recommend booking this when:
- You’re traveling with friends or family and can fill the group (so the per-person value makes sense)
- Snorkeling is a priority, but you also want the option to relax and snack onboard
- You’d like ceviche that can be adapted for your diet
Just remember to factor in the $20 dock fee per person and plan for weather. If you can do that, you’ll be set up for a genuinely enjoyable Riviera Maya yacht day.
FAQ
What is the duration of the yacht tour?
It runs about 5 hours.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends back at the meeting point in Puerto Aventuras.
What is the meeting point address?
Riviera Elite: Yachts in Tulum and Playa Del Carmen, Av. Bahia Yanten Manzana 33, Lot 9, Local 12, 77750 Puerto Aventuras, Q.R., Mexico.
Is this a private tour?
Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates (up to 15).
What snorkeling and safety items are included?
Snorkel gear and life jackets are provided, along with towels.
Is food included?
Yes. Lunch and snacks are included, including shrimp and fish ceviche. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if you advise at booking.
Is there an open bar?
Yes. The open bar includes tequila, rum, vodka, Mexican beer, bottled water, soft drinks, and juice, with unlimited drinks.
What are the stops during the cruise?
Stop 1 is In-Ha for snorkeling in calm, clear water. Stop 2 is La Bocana, where people can enjoy ceviche and the open bar in shallow, clear water.
Is vegetarian or vegan food available?
Yes. Vegetarian/Vegan options and other dietary restrictions are available if you request them at booking.
Are there extra charges beyond the tour price?
Yes. A dock fee of $20 per person is not included, and private transportation is also not included (price varies).
What is the weather policy if the tour can’t run?
The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
