Puerto Morelos Secret Sandbar Catamaran Sail

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the Caribbean waters without the crowds, the Puerto Morelos Secret Sandbar Catamaran Sail offers a laid-back, scenic escape that’s perfect for families, non-swimmers, and anyone craving a relaxing day on the water. This tour combines a gentle cruise, a shallow sandbar for swimming and paddleboarding, and a simple but tasty lunch, all in a small group setting.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how approachable and flexible it feels—there’s no need for advanced swimming skills, and the crew’s friendly attitude makes everyone feel at home. Plus, the surprisingly affordable price point of $99 offers solid value, especially considering that drinks, lunch, and equipment are included.

One thing to keep in mind is that there are some additional costs, like park and dock fees ($15 USD per person) and optional hotel pickup, which might bump up the total expense. Also, the tour runs about four hours, so it’s a neat half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other adventures. This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, family-friendly outing with a touch of adventure and plenty of opportunities to unwind in beautiful surroundings.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized service.
• All-inclusive drinks and lunch deliver great value, especially on a budget.
• Shallow sandbar is ideal for non-swimmers and families with children.
• Equipment like paddleboards, towels, and showers are provided, making it convenient.
• Flexible meet-up options include direct marina check-in or hotel pickup.
• Authentic, friendly crew ensures a warm, memorable experience.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

The adventure begins at Marina La Bonita, where you’ll check in and board the sleek catamaran, Adelita. The check-in process is straightforward, with the option for hotel pickup (for an extra charge), which is handy if you’d prefer to skip the hassle of navigating to the marina yourself. Many reviews highlight how punctual and efficient the transportation is, with some noting that the crew is attentive right from the start.

Once aboard, you’re treated to about an hour of sailing through Puerto Morelos National Park. The journey is smooth, with relaxing music and plentiful drinks flowing (if you want). The boat’s design offers shaded spots to sit and cool off, alongside sunnier areas for those craving a tan. The cruise itself offers a wonderful chance to take in the stunning coastal scenery of the Caribbean, with clear waters and lush coastline providing a perfect backdrop.

The Sandbar Experience

The highlight of the trip is reaching the secluded sandbar—a shallow, soft-sand oasis far from the shoreline. Here, the boat drops anchor, and you get to enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, or just lounging on a floating mat. The water is warm and shallow enough for kids and non-swimmers to feel confident jumping in. As one reviewer put it, “The swimming place was gorgeous,” with calm, clear waters that invite you to relax and take in the scenery.

Many visitors love the laid-back atmosphere at the sandbar. It’s a genuine chance to disconnect and enjoy nature in its quietest form. The shallow waters allow for a safe and enjoyable experience, especially for families with children. The paddleboards, towels, and showers are all provided, making it easy to spend as much time in the water as you like.

Lunch and Relaxation

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a light lunch aboard the boat—think ham and cheese baguettes, fresh fruit, and chips. Many reviews mention how surprisingly tasty and satisfying the food is, considering the setting. Plus, unlimited drinks, including alcoholic beverages for those who want them, keep everyone refreshed.

The lounges and shady spots on the boat provide perfect spaces for relaxing after swimming or paddleboarding. Several travelers highlight how attentive the crew is, regularly checking that everyone has everything they need. Towels are provided, and showers are available for rinsing off after swimming.

Return Journey and Optional Extras

The cruise wraps up with a leisurely sail back to Marina La Bonita, giving everyone time to soak in the last views of the coast. If you’ve opted for hotel pickup, you’ll be dropped off directly afterward, easing the logistics of your day.

The Details That Make a Difference

Transportation and Group Size: The tour generally starts at 12:30 pm, with a maximum of 26 travelers onboard. That small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the crew can easily cater to your needs. The optional hotel pickup is a plus, especially for those staying at resorts, as it simplifies the logistics and saves time.

Duration and Cost: At around four hours, the tour strikes a good balance between experiencing the sea and not feeling rushed. The $99 price tag is quite reasonable for what’s included—unlimited drinks, lunch, paddleboards, towels, showers, and a friendly crew—especially considering the reviews consistently praise the exceptional service and value.

Fees and Extras: Keep in mind, there’s a $15 USD fee for national park and dock access, and an additional $15 for marina entry if you check in directly there. These are standard for many Caribbean tours, but worth budgeting for.

Suitability: The tour explicitly states it’s great for kids and non-swimmers, making it perfect for families or anyone wary of deep water. The shallow sandbar is ideal for those who prefer to stay close to the surface, and the crew’s attentiveness can help nervous swimmers feel more comfortable.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews reflect how much people love the friendly, attentive staff. One reviewer noted, “The crew and staff embrace the meaning of family. I am 70 years old and I was treated like a beloved grandmother.” That warmth and personal touch are common themes, making the experience feel inclusive and genuine.

Several visitors mention how the crew makes sure everyone is comfortable and has a drink in hand, which adds a relaxed, social vibe. The cleanliness of the boat, as highlighted by one reviewer, also contributes to a feeling of quality and care.

The scenery consistently earns praise. Travelers describe the water as “crystal clear” and the sandbar as “gorgeous,” with many remarking on how the shallow waters allow for easy swimming and standing around.

Food and drinks are often highlighted as surprisingly good, especially considering the casual setting. The sandwiches are described as “light but satisfying,” and the unlimited drinks keep everyone hydrated and happy.

Valuable Considerations for Travelers

While the experience offers great value, some travelers note the additional costs, such as the $15 dock fee and optional hotel pickup, which could add up. It’s also worth noting that the tour requires walking on the beach and stairs to board, which might be a consideration for travelers with mobility issues.

Weather can influence the trip—poor weather may lead to cancellations, but the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options. The tour’s four-hour window is manageable for most, but those looking for a full-day adventure might want to consider other options.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families with kids, non-swimmers, and travelers seeking a relaxed day in nature. It’s perfect if you value friendly service, beautiful scenery, and good food without the hassle of overcomplicated logistics. If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly escape from the busy beaches or resorts, this experience hits the spot.

It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors wanting to see some of Puerto Morelos’s highlights without committing to a full-day snorkel or dive trip. The shallow water activity and small group setting make it accessible for most.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Puerto Morelos Secret Sandbar Catamaran Sail offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience some of the best Caribbean scenery in a comfortable, family-friendly setting. The combination of gentle sailing, shallow swimming, paddleboarding, and a tasty lunch makes it a balanced adventure that’s about relaxation, fun, and a little bit of adventure.

The tour’s value lies in the friendly crew, the serene environment, and the inclusive atmosphere—something that many travelers cherish after days of busy sightseeing or resort lounging. It’s especially well-suited for families, non-swimmers, and those who want a peaceful, scenic day with good company.

If you’re after an authentic, laid-back day on the water that won’t break the bank, this tour checks all the right boxes. Just remember to bring your swimsuit, some cash for the extra fees, and a relaxed mindset ready to enjoy the calm beauty of Puerto Morelos from the deck of a friendly catamaran.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
You can choose to meet directly at Marina La Bonita or request hotel pickup for an extra charge. Most reviews mention that the pickup service is punctual and convenient.

What’s the best time to start?
The tour departs at 12:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the afternoon in a relaxed setting.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately four hours, which is enough time to sail, enjoy the sandbar, and have lunch without feeling rushed.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s great for kids and non-swimmers because the water at the sandbar is shallow and safe for standing and swimming.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited drinks are available on board, including alcoholic beverages for those over 18. Many reviewers appreciate the attentive service and free-flowing drinks.

What about the lunch?
A light lunch of ham and cheese baguettes, fruit, and chips is provided, and most reviews mention it’s tasty and satisfying.

Are paddleboards included?
Yes, paddleboards are available for use, along with towels and showers.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a $15 USD fee covers national park and dock access. There’s also a $15 fee if you check in directly at Marina La Bonita.

What’s the group size?
The maximum is 26 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this experience weather dependent?
Yes, poor weather may result in cancellations, but full refunds or rescheduling are options.

In sum, the Puerto Morelos Secret Sandbar Catamaran Sail offers a relaxing, scenic, and family-friendly day out. It’s about enjoying the water, good company, and beautiful views without overcomplicating things. If that sounds appealing for your next trip, this tour might just be the perfect choice.