3 Hour Xpu-Ha – 51′ Sea Ray Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya

Travelers looking for a taste of luxury on the water in Riviera Maya will find this private yacht experience a compelling choice. H2OH Sun Cruises offers a 3-hour cruise aboard a sleek 51-foot Sea Ray Tulum, combining comfort, fun, and scenic beauty. While we haven’t personally been aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this is a well-crafted experience that balances indulgence with authenticity.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it offers a refined yet relaxed way to explore the coast—no crowded boat rides here, just your own group enjoying the sea and sunshine. The inclusion of delicious grilled lunch and an open bar makes it feel like a celebration, whether for a family gathering or a special occasion.

On the flip side, some travelers note that weather can influence the experience, with rough seas potentially limiting certain activities like swimming or snorkeling. This is common with boat trips in open water, so it’s worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness or expecting windy conditions.

This tour seems best suited for groups seeking a luxurious, private experience with plenty of amenities, good food, and a relaxed vibe. It’s a fantastic way to create memories, but do keep in mind the weather dependency and the price point, which is quite reasonable given the level of service and exclusivity.

Key Points

• Luxury and privacy: A private cruise tailored for your group, offering a high-end experience.
• Scenic coastline: See parts of the Riviera Maya many visitors miss, with views from the water.
• Inclusive amenities: Lunch, unlimited drinks, paddleboards, and a sound system are included.
• Family-friendly and party-ready: Suitable for families, celebrations, and groups of friends.
• Weather considerations: Strong seas might limit swimming or water activities.
• Booking in advance: Tours are usually booked about a month ahead, so plan early.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure begins at H2OH Sun Cruises dock in Puerto Aventuras. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a cocktail, setting a relaxed, celebratory tone. Boarding the vessel feels exclusive but welcoming—it’s clear this isn’t one of those crowded party boats. The 6,000-watt sound system and the array of decks promise plenty of space to lounge or dance.

The crew’s hospitality is a recurring theme in reviews. One reviewer fondly mentions how the staff catered to their group of nine adults and an 11-year-old, emphasizing friendliness and attentiveness. They even caught fish during the trip, adding a touch of local authenticity to the experience.

The Cruise and Activities

Once everyone’s aboard, the boat gently pulls away from the dock, giving you a chance to acclimate to the surroundings. The views of the Riviera Maya coastline are impressive; you’ll see remote beaches and coves that are often missed from land.

The highlight for many is the stop at Xpu-Ha, where the boat drops anchor. Here, guests receive a quick safety briefing before jumping into the turquoise waters. The availability of stand-up paddleboards and life jackets means active travelers can enjoy some water fun or simply relax floating in the gentle waves.

For thrill-seekers or brave souls, there’s an upper-level high dive—a feature that gets mentioned positively in reviews, adding a splash of adrenaline. If the sea is rough, you might find your water activities limited, but the crew adapts quickly, suggesting alternative options like lounging on deck or enjoying the scenery.

Food and Beverages

One of the tour’s standout features is the deliciously seasoned fire-grilled chicken served during the meal, accompanied by fresh guacamole, Mexican-style salsa, rice, beans, tortillas, and chips. The food’s quality and generous servings have earned praise from guests. The open bar is equally popular, with unlimited margaritas, beers, mixed drinks, and non-alcoholic options.

The reviews consistently mention the friendly service and the fact that the crew makes sure everyone’s needs are met. The drinks flow freely, making the cruise feel like a laid-back celebration—without the chaos of a crowded party.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

As the cruise winds down, the boat heads back toward the marina. Guests often remark on the fun vibe—easygoing, friendly, and perfect for unwinding. The boat’s design and amenities make it easy to socialize or relax solo, with plenty of deck space and music to set the mood.

Analyzing Value and Practicalities

At $1,049 per group for up to 15 people, the price might seem steep, but when you break down what’s included—a private, luxury experience, a delicious meal, unlimited drinks, paddleboards, and a professional crew—the value becomes clearer. Compared to larger, less personalized tours, this one offers intimacy and exclusivity.

Booking about 30 days in advance is recommended, indicating its popularity. The tour duration of approximately three hours fits well within a manageable window for most travelers, offering enough time to enjoy the water, scenery, and amenities without feeling rushed.

While transportation to the dock isn’t included, the meeting point is accessible, and the overall experience seems well-organized, with good communication from the provider.

What to Keep in Mind

• Weather dependency: Seas can be rough, and activities like swimming may be limited.
• Landing fee: An additional $20 per person applies, which is a common practice for marina facilities.
• Towels and private transport: Not included, so plan accordingly.
• Suitable for: Families, groups celebrating, or anyone wanting a luxurious, relaxed day on the water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after an upscale, private experience that combines scenic cruising with excellent food and drinks, this is a strong choice. It’s ideal for celebrating special moments—birthdays, anniversaries, or just a luxurious escape with friends or family. The inclusion of paddleboards and snorkeling offers a chance to stay active, but the focus remains on comfort and enjoyment.

It’s also perfect if you’re keen to see a less-touristed side of the Riviera Maya coast, with the privacy and flexibility to customize your time on the water.

The Sum Up

This private yacht cruise offers an appealing mix of luxury, fun, and scenic beauty, making it a memorable way to enjoy the Riviera Maya. The combination of delicious food, unlimited drinks, and well-thought-out amenities ensures you’ll feel pampered, yet relaxed enough to soak in the views and unwind. The boat’s crew earns high marks for friendliness and attentiveness, which makes all the difference in creating a seamless experience.

While weather conditions can be a consideration, most guests seem to find the overall value and ambiance well worth the price. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a day of leisure, this tour can cater to a variety of travelers seeking a high-end adventure on the water.

For groups looking to combine comfort, authenticity, and fun in a stunning setting, this private yacht trip stands out as an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, this experience can work well for families, especially since paddleboards and water activities are available. Just consider the age of your children and their comfort with water and boat rides.

What is included in the price?
The $1,049 fee covers the entire private cruise for up to 15 people, including the boat, lunch, unlimited alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks, paddleboards, life jackets, and a sound system with Spotify.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there is a $20 per person landing and facility fee at the marina. Private transportation and towels are not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the cruise may be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long in advance should I book?
Most trips are booked about 30 days ahead, so it’s wise to plan early to secure your preferred date.

Can I bring my own music?
Absolutely. The boat has a Bluetooth sound system, and you can connect your own playlist for a personalized soundtrack.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
The tour starts at 10:00 am, which is ideal for enjoying the morning sun, cooler weather, and calm seas. It’s also the best time to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

This private yacht adventure offers more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to enjoy the Riviera Maya in style, with comfort, good food, and stunning views all wrapped into a memorable three-hour escape.