Sail Under Light of the Moon & Enjoy a Romantic Dinner in Spanish Galleon

Introduction

If you’re looking for a unique way to add a touch of romance to your Cancun getaway, a sail under the moonlight on a Spanish galleon might just be your perfect evening. This dinner cruise promises a memorable blend of stunning views, delicious food, and an intimate atmosphere—all within a cozy group setting. While it’s not a full-day adventure, the 2.5-hour cruise offers enough time to unwind, indulge, and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the combination of scenic sailing around Nichupté lagoon and the delightful three-course meal, paired with a national open bar. Plus, the chance to listen to live saxophone or trova music while watching the sunset makes it stand out from more standard boat tours. One thing to consider, however, is the relatively smaller group size—maximum 25 guests—which means you’ll want to book early if you’re hoping for a more private, romantic setting. This cruise seems well-suited for couples seeking an elegant, relaxed evening, or anyone wanting to celebrate a special occasion in style.

Key Points

• Romantic setting with moonlit sailing and live music
• Gourmet three-course dinner included, with vegetarian options available
• Open bar featuring the best national drinks
• Small group size (max 25), ensuring a more intimate experience
• Approximate duration of 2 hours 30 minutes, perfect for an evening outing
• Additional fee of $20 USD for government dock fees

The Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point: Marina Aquatours

Your journey begins at Marina Aquatours, located on Kukulcan Boulevard in Cancun’s hotel zone. This is a convenient spot close to public transport, making it easy to reach. The check-in process is straightforward, and since you’ll be booked in a small group (up to 25 people), the experience feels more personal than crowded.

The Vessel: A Spanish Galleon

The cruise takes place aboard a beautifully decorated Spanish galleon-style ship. While the original ships of this style sailed centuries ago, today’s version offers a charming ambiance with shimmering finishes and classic details. From the deck, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the lagoon and the Cancun skyline at sunset.

Note: From November 3 to December 16, a maintenance period means a different vessel, “Discovery Too,” will be used. This swap shouldn’t affect the overall experience significantly but is worth noting if you’re planning around that time.

The Dinner: Three-Course Excellence

The highlight for many is the dinner. Expect a well-presented three-course meal featuring options like lobster tail, steak with lobster, or full steak. An appetizer and dessert are also included, with vegetarian options available upon 24-hour notice. Reviewers repeatedly praise the quality of the food, calling it “delicious,” and appreciate the elegant presentation and generous portions.

Drinks and Entertainment

The national open bar offers a selection of top-tier drinks, from classic cocktails to local favorites. It’s included in the price, which adds excellent value for a relaxed evening. As the sun sets over the lagoon, a live saxophonist serenades guests with smooth tunes, creating a refined, romantic soundtrack. Some reviews mention the captain being personable and engaging, adding a warm, friendly touch to the evening.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

With only 25 guests maximum, this tour avoids the hustle and bustle of larger boat parties. This smaller group fosters a cozy environment, ideal for couples or small groups looking for intimacy. The semi-formal dress code encourages a polished look, but comfortable shoes and a sweater are recommended, especially since the breeze can turn chilly after sunset.

Final Touches

Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy soaking up the shimmering views of Cancun’s skyline and lagoon, all while listening to live music and sipping drinks. Many reviews highlight how beautiful the scenery is after dark, especially when the city lights begin to twinkle.

The Pros and Cons

What Travelers Love

Multiple reviews praise the outstanding service and delicious food, often describing the experience as “the best night ever.” One reviewer noted that the services were top-notch and the entertainment was “outstanding,” making it a perfect choice for a special night. Another guest shared that despite accidentally booking the later trip, they found the evening “quite beautiful,” emphasizing the flexibility and charm of the cruise.

Potential Drawbacks

A review recounts a frustrating delay caused by payment issues, which nearly spoiled a wedding anniversary. This highlights the importance of confirming reservations well in advance. Also, the $20 USD dock fee adds to the overall cost—something to keep in mind when budgeting. The experience is weather-dependent; if skies are cloudy or rain disrupts the cruise, it might be canceled or rescheduled.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking romance, small groups wanting an intimate evening, or anyone celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or honeymoon. It’s perfect for those who appreciate fine dining, live music, and scenic vistas in a relaxed setting.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Start at the Marina Aquatours, where check-in is smooth and the group size makes for a personal experience. As you board the ship, the elegant styling of the galleon sets a romantic tone. The cruise begins by sailing around the Nichupté lagoon, offering stunning views of Cancun’s skyline and the surrounding natural beauty.

The dinner is served shortly after departure, featuring a three-course meal that impresses with quality and variety. You can choose between options like lobster tail, steak with lobster, or a full steak, all served with a warm appetizer and satisfying dessert. The comments about the delicious food make it clear that this isn’t just a sightseeing boat; it’s an evening of indulgence.

During the cruise, the live saxophone performance provides a soothing, romantic soundtrack. The music isn’t overpowering but perfectly suited for conversation and enjoying the sunset. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in the crowd, making it easier to connect with your partner or friends.

The cruise concludes back at the marina, with the shimmering night views leaving you with lasting memories of Cancun’s beauty from a unique vantage point. The additional dock fee is paid on-site, so budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts on Value and Authenticity

At $110 per person, the experience offers good value for a special, upscale evening in Cancun. The combination of gourmet dining, live music, scenic sailing, and open bar creates an intimate atmosphere that’s hard to match in larger, more commercial tours. While the experience isn’t lengthy, its quality and setting justify the price, especially for those celebrating a meaningful moment.

It’s worth noting that the small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity, making it more suited for couples or small parties rather than large groups. The semi-formal dress code encourages guests to dress nicely, adding to the overall sense of occasion.

The Sum Up

This Sail Under the Light of the Moon & Enjoy a Romantic Dinner in a Spanish Galleon offers a refined, intimate way to experience Cancun after sunset. The gorgeous lagoon views, delicious three-course dinner, and live saxophone music create a memorable setting for romance or a special celebration. The small group size and attentive service make it feel personal and exclusive, rather than commercial.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic cruises combined with gourmet food and a touch of live entertainment, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suitable for couples and small groups seeking an elegant, relaxed evening away from the busy beaches and nightlife.

However, keep in mind the extra costs (dock fee) and weather dependency. Booking early and confirming reservation details will help ensure your evening goes smoothly. Overall, it’s a lovely way to enjoy Cancun’s natural and cityscape beauty in a comfortable, refined setting.

FAQ

Is the dinner included in the price?
Yes, the price covers a three-course dinner with options like lobster tail, steak, or both, along with an appetizer and dessert.

What’s the age limit for this cruise?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers can participate, and the semi-formal dress code suggests a more mature ambiance. It’s family-friendly if you consider children, but it’s mainly targeted at adults.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. It’s a perfect length for an evening activity without feeling rushed.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged with 24-hour notice.

Is there live music, and what kind?
Yes, there is live saxophone or trova music, adding a romantic, relaxing soundtrack to your evening.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a government dock fee of $20 USD applies. Remember, drinks are included, but tipping is at your discretion.

This cruise is a lovely way to savor Cancun’s evenings, combining scenic beauty, fine dining, and good company. It’s best for those seeking a memorable, intimate experience that balances comfort and elegance.