3 Hour Xpuha-60′ Neptunus-Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya

A Detailed Look at the 3-Hour Riviera Maya Xpuha-60′ Neptunus Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing over shimmering Caribbean waters, snorkeling amid vibrant marine life, and savoring authentic Mexican cuisine, this Riviera Maya cruise might just be your ideal escape. Promoted as a 3-hour adventure departing from Playa del Carmen, this tour is designed to blend relaxation with active exploration, all aboard a stylish 60-foot yacht. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the details and reviews suggest it offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, fun, and good food—perfect for those who appreciate comfort and authentic experiences in a stunning setting.

We particularly love how the tour combines spectacular coastal views with snorkeling at Punta Venado, one of the area’s best reefs. The promise of an open bar and a Mexican feast adds a tasty, laid-back vibe to the day. One potential drawback is the fixed duration—if you’re someone who loves to linger longer in water or at the reef, this might feel a bit concise. Still, for those looking for a well-rounded, all-in-one coastal experience without the hassle of planning individual activities, it’s a tempting package. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a taste of both adventure and indulgence, whether on a honeymoon, a family trip, or a group outing.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Cruise over the Caribbean Sea with picturesque vistas of Quintana Roo.
• Expert-Guided Snorkeling: Discover vibrant marine life at Punta Venado with knowledgeable guides.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy an open bar with snacks and drinks while soaking up the sun.
• Delectable Mexican Lunch: Savor a flavorful onboard meal featuring grilled chicken, guacamole, and more.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Paddle boards, life jackets, and beverages included for a hassle-free experience.
• Private Tour Feel: Typically small groups, sometimes feeling like a private charter, with attentive staff.

Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect

Your adventure begins at the Puerto Aventuras marina, where a sleek, 60-foot Neptunus yacht awaits. The boarding process is straightforward—simply make your way to the meeting point, and once aboard, you’ll be treated to a stylish vessel equipped for comfort and fun. As you cruise over the crystal waters, you’ll appreciate the panoramic views of the Riviera Maya coastline, a perfect backdrop for photographs or just taking in the scenery.

The cruise duration of about 3 hours is ideal for travelers with limited time but who still want a meaningful taste of the sea. During the sail, an open bar of cold drinks and snacks keeps the mood lively. Whether you’re toasting to the day or just enjoying the gentle rocking of the boat, this is a relaxing way to connect with nature and fellow travelers.

Snorkeling at Punta Venado

The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop at Punta Venado, renowned as one of the region’s best reefs. You’ll be guided by certified experts, who will assist even novice snorkelers and point out the fascinating marine life. Expect to see sea turtles, sea urchins, and a rainbow of tropical fish darting through the coral. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the vibrant underwater world—a true highlight for snorkelers.

One traveler noted, “The crew is super friendly and the service was top notch,” which suggests you’ll be in capable hands. You should plan to dry off in the warm sun after your underwater adventure and prepare for the onboard lunch, which is a traditional Mexican feast.

The Onboard Mexican Feast

Post-snorkeling, the boat becomes a casual dining room with a spread of delicious local flavors. Expect fire-grilled chicken, fresh guacamole, rice, beans, chips, and tortillas. The food is described as perfect and satisfying, ideal for refueling after water activities. The drinks, included in the open bar, are cold and complementary, making for a laid-back, convivial atmosphere.

This meal, combined with the scenic views and ocean breeze, creates a memorable dining experience that is both simple and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy authentic flavors without venturing ashore.

The Itinerary in Detail

While the tour is relatively straightforward, understanding the flow helps you appreciate what makes it special:

Start at Puerto Aventuras Marina at 10:00 am, where you’ll board the Neptunus yacht. The early start ensures plenty of daylight for the cruise and snorkeling. Once aboard, you’ll cruise over the Caribbean Sea, taking in panoramic views of the Quintana Roo coastline. The sail itself is peaceful, with an expert captain at the helm, making sure your journey is smooth and safe.

After approximately an hour of cruising, you’ll arrive at Punta Venado, where your guides will help you gear up for snorkeling. The reef is protected and packed with marine life, making it a prime spot for beach and underwater photography. Expect to spend around 45 minutes to an hour exploring below the surface.

Returning to the boat, you’ll dry off, relax, and enjoy the Mexican lunch. The friendly crew will keep the drinks flowing, and you can chat with fellow travelers or simply soak in the scenery. The return trip offers a chance to breathe in the coastal views one last time before heading back to Puerto Aventuras, where the tour concludes.

Why This Tour Works

One of the strongest points, according to reviews, is the staff’s attentiveness and friendliness. Multiple guests have mentioned how the crew goes above and beyond to make everyone comfortable, whether by offering assistance or ensuring the open bar remains well-stocked. Several reviews describe the experience as “fun and relaxed”, with some noting that small group sizes made it feel almost like a private charter, adding to the exclusivity.

The value of this tour is worth considering in context. For $1,349 per person, you’re paying for a luxurious yacht experience, guided snorkeling, a hearty lunch, and drinks—all in a scenic setting. The inclusion of paddleboards and life jackets adds options for more active fun, and the all-in-one nature saves you the hassle of booking separate activities.

However, the fixed 3-hour duration might feel short for some, especially those wanting more time in the water or at the reef. The cruise does not include dock fees or private transportation, so consider these additional costs when budgeting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate comfortable, guided tours with good food and drinks. It’s ideal for honeymooners, families, or groups seeking a luxury feel without going overboard on price. If you’re someone who loves scenic sailing, snorkeling with marine life, and Mexican cuisine, this tour covers all those bases.

It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a small-group atmosphere and attentive staff. However, those seeking more extensive underwater exploration or longer excursions might find this 3-hour cruise a little brief.

Final Thoughts

This Riviera Maya cruise offers a beautiful combination of scenery, snorkeling, and delicious food, wrapped up in a luxury boat experience. The knowledgeable guides, stunning coastal views, and tasty Mexican lunch make it a well-rounded outing, especially if you value intimacy and quality service.

For travelers eager for a relaxed yet active day on the water, this tour delivers. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy gourmet experiences with scenic backdrop—perfect for a romantic getaway or a small group adventure. While the price might seem steep at first glance, the all-inclusive nature and premium setting justify the investment for a memorable Riviera Maya experience.

If you’re looking for a convenient, well-reviewed, and genuinely enjoyable day on the Caribbean sea, this cruise checks all the boxes, blending comfort, fun, and flavor seamlessly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include private transportation; you will need to make your way to the meeting point at Puerto Aventuras marina. Round-trip transportation from your Playa del Carmen hotel is not specified, so planning your transfer is advisable.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10:00 am from the designated meeting point in Puerto Aventuras. It’s recommended to arrive a little early to settle in.

Are all travelers able to participate?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. If you have specific mobility or health concerns, it’s best to check with the tour provider directly.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes admission, paddle boards, life jackets, alcoholic beverages, and a Mexican lunch. Dock fees and personal towels are not included.

How long is the snorkeling at Punta Venado?
Expect around 45 minutes to an hour for snorkeling, guided by certified professionals who will help you see sea turtles, colorful fish, and other marine creatures.

What should I bring?
While towels are not included, you may want to bring your own, along with sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof camera. Snorkel gear is provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own mask and snorkel if you prefer.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Always check the forecast before your booking.

In essence, this Riviera Maya cruise is a well-balanced mix of scenic sailing, underwater discovery, and delicious Mexican food—crafted for travelers who want to enjoy the sea in style without sacrificing authenticity.