Speed Boat & Snorkel Tour with transportation ( only Cancun zone area)

If you’re looking for a quick, action-packed way to enjoy Cancun’s coast, a Speed Boat & Snorkel Tour might just be the ticket. This experience promises the thrill of piloting your own speedboat, exploring lush mangroves, and swimming alongside stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life. Our review dives into what makes this tour appealing—and what to consider before booking.

What we love about this tour is the chance to drive your own speedboat, giving you a sense of freedom and adventure that’s hard to beat. Plus, the guided snorkeling at Puerto Morelos offers a glimpse into one of the world’s most impressive reef systems. On the flip side, some guests have noted that the boats could use a bit more maintenance, and weather can impact the snorkeling experience. This tour works best for active, curious travelers eager to experience Cancun’s waters firsthand.

If you enjoy a mix of adrenaline, scenery, and marine discovery—especially in a small group—this tour is well-suited for you. It’s perfect for those who want to try something a little different from the standard beach day, with the added bonus of transportation included within the Cancun hotel zone.

Key Points

• Self-Driving Excitement: You get the chance to pilot a speedboat, making this experience uniquely personal.
• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable bilingual guide explains marine life, enriching your understanding of the ecosystem.
• Snorkeling at a Reknown Reef: Snorkel gear and a 35-minute reef visit provide a chance to see coral and fish up close.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip hotel pickup within Cancun hotel zone simplifies planning.
• Weather Considerations: Snorkeling may be affected by weather—be flexible or prepared for alternative activities.
• Cost-Effective: At around $60, the tour offers good value, especially as it combines multiple activities and transportation.

What to Expect from the Tour

Meeting and Departure

The tour begins at Sealife Marina, located at Blvd. Kukulcán km 15.6 in Cancun’s hotel zone. You’re advised to arrive 30 minutes early—think of it as a good chance to meet your fellow adventurers and get a briefing on safety and boat operation. The easy access from public transportation makes getting there straightforward for most travelers.

Your transportation from Cancun hotels is included if you’re within the hotel zone, which is a huge plus for convenience. Just be sure to send your hotel details when booking so they can schedule your pickup.

Driving Your Speedboat

This is the highlight for many. The tour provides a speedboat you can drive yourself under supervision. The boats are described as fun and easy to use, even for those with little or no prior experience. As one reviewer noted, “The boats were very fun to drive,” and another appreciated that “being able to drive a boat was a unique and special experience.”

However, a couple of reviews mention that the boats could benefit from maintenance—one reported their boat shutting off in the middle of the ocean, which can be unsettling. The tour guides are there to ensure safety, but it’s worth being aware that older boats may sometimes have minor issues.

Exploring the Mangroves and Coastal Scenery

After the speedboat thrill, your guide will explain the marine ecosystem—specifically the mangrove forests of Nichupte Lagoon—which are vital for coastal health and provide habitat for many species. The route offers scenic views of Cancun’s coast, making it a pleasant break from sunbathing or shopping.

Snorkeling at Puerto Morelos Reef

The second major activity is snorkeling at The Angel Reef, part of the broader Mesoamerican Reef System—the second-largest barrier reef in the world. The reef is celebrated for its vibrant corals and diverse marine life. You’ll use provided gear—mask, snorkel, fins, and life vest—and have about 35 minutes to explore.

From reviews, it’s clear that the reef can sometimes be less populated with fish than expected, but many still find the experience enjoyable. One guest remarked, “The snorkeling was great,” while another noted that the reef was “not as impressive considering the distance we went,” possibly due to weather or the reef’s conditions that day.

Additional Details and Tips

The tour includes bottled water to stay hydrated, and the admission fee to the reef ($20) is paid directly at the marina. Since weather can impact snorkeling, it’s good to be flexible—some guests have experienced weather-related cancellations or changes, but tour operators often offer alternatives.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this is a small-group experience that encourages interaction and personalized attention. Reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and professionalism—many mention how guides like Daniel, Omar, and Enrique made the trip memorable through their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Authentic Experiences Spotted in Reviews

Several travelers highlight the guiding staff’s friendliness and expertise, which elevates the experience beyond just the activities. One reviewer appreciated, “Our guide Enrique was very knowledgeable and friendly,” emphasizing how guides make or break the tour.

Others mentioned the fun aspect of driving a speedboat, with one saying, “The boats were very fun to drive,” making it clear that this aspect is a big hit. Conversely, a few reviews caution about safety and boat maintenance—“boats need maintenance” and “boats cut off in the middle of the ocean”—reminding us that equipment quality can vary.

Weather has also played a role in guest experiences. Several reviews note rescheduling due to wind or rain, but the tour operators are accommodating. If snorkeling is canceled, some guests have enjoyed extended jungle tours or alternative activities, indicating flexibility and customer care.

Cost and Value

Priced at $59.99 per person, this tour offers a solid deal when you consider the included activities, transportation, and gear. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to combine adventure with a bit of education about marine ecosystems, all within a manageable time frame of around 2 hours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with speed and water activities. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a personalized, small-group outing that mixes active fun with scenic views. Families with older children or teenagers will likely enjoy the thrill of driving and snorkeling, but those with very young children or limited mobility might find the boat ride less accessible.

If you’re a nature lover eager to learn about coral reefs and mangroves, this tour provides a meaningful glimpse into Cancun’s marine environment, especially with guides explaining the ecosystem.

The Sum Up

The Speed Boat & Snorkel Tour in Cancun by Cancun Riviera Maya Travel Inc. offers a lively, engaging way to experience the coast. The chance to drive your own boat adds a sense of freedom and adventure that few tours can match. Combining this with snorkeling at Puerto Morelos Reef, it’s a well-rounded activity for those seeking a mix of adrenaline and underwater beauty.

While some boats may show signs of age, the professionalism of guides and the scenic routes help balance that concern. The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention and the ability to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. Plus, the included transportation within Cancun’s hotel zone makes it convenient to participate.

For travelers craving a dynamic day on the water, with a good dose of exploration and fun, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those who value authentic marine encounters and a lively, engaging atmosphere—plus a good story to tell back home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included within Cancun?
Yes, round-trip transportation from hotels in the Cancun hotel zone is included. Just send your hotel details when booking so they can arrange your pickup.

Can I drive the speedboat myself?
Absolutely. The tour provides a speedboat that you can operate under guidance. It’s designed to be easy for beginners and fun for all.

How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll have approximately 35 minutes snorkeling at The Angel Reef, which provides enough time to see corals and marine life, weather permitting.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect the tour, especially snorkeling. The operator may reschedule or offer alternative activities. In case of cancellation due to weather, you’ll receive a full refund or a new date.

Are there age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but very young children or those with medical conditions should check with the tour provider. Children traveling alone need a letter of permission from their parents.

Is the boat ride safe?
Guides are trained, and safety instructions are given before beginning. However, some guests have mentioned minor boat issues, so please listen carefully to instructions and inform staff of any concerns.

If you’re after a fun, interactive, and informative way to explore Cancun’s waters—driving your own boat, discovering marine life, and enjoying scenic views—this tour hits the mark. It offers a balance of adventure, education, and convenience, making it a memorable addition to any Cancun itinerary.