Types of boat tours from Tulum
The most popular option is the shared catamaran tour. A group of 15-20 people sails from Akumal or Puerto Morelos, stops at a coral reef for snorkeling (45-60 minutes), and then visits Akumal Bay to swim with sea turtles in shallow water. The tour lasts 4-5 hours including transfers from Tulum.
Sunset catamaran tours are a different format: smaller boats (10-15 people), later departure (3-4pm), open bar, and usually tapas or snacks. Some include a snorkeling stop in the late afternoon before anchoring for the sunset.
Swimming with sea turtles at Akumal
Akumal Bay has one of the densest populations of green sea turtles in the Caribbean. The water is only 2-4 meters deep at the feeding area, which means you don't need to be a strong swimmer. Snorkel guides keep the group at a respectful distance from the turtles, but they usually come close on their own. Most mornings you'll see 3-5 turtles in the bay.
The catamaran snorkel tour includes this stop as part of the route. It's one of the most memorable experiences in the area, especially for first-time visitors.
Private vs. group tours
Group tours are better value and more sociable. Private charters make sense if you have 6+ people and want to set your own schedule. For a party of 8, a private half-day charter ($400-$600 total) works out around the same price per person as a group tour.
Book a catamaran tour from Tulum
Sea turtles, reef snorkeling, drinks on board. Hotel pickup from Tulum included.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Catamaran and sailing tours depart from Puerto Morelos, Akumal, and Playa del Carmen, all within 45 minutes of Tulum. Tours include snorkeling at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, sea turtle encounters, and return transfers from Tulum hotels.
Yes. Akumal Bay, 30 minutes north of Tulum, is one of the few places in the Caribbean where sea turtles feed daily in shallow water. Most catamaran tours from Tulum include a stop at Akumal Bay with a snorkeling guide.
Group catamaran tours cost $65-$80 per person. Sunset tours with food and open bar run $90-$110. Private yacht charters for 6-10 people start around $400-$600 for a half day. Most tours include hotel pickup from Tulum.
