10 Top-Rated Tulum Boat Tours You Need to Book ASAP
READY TO BOOK THE BEST BOAT TOURS IN TULUM?
You’re in the right place because the Top 10 Tulum Boat Tours are all featured here. How do I know they’re the best?
I have lived in Mexico since 2018, and visit Tulum often, so I have a unique perspective into this magic town.
While there are so many amazing things to do in Tulum, nothing that captures my heart quite like a serene day on the waters of Tulum.
From personal excursions I’ve been on to expert recommendations, I’ve curated this list to ensure you’re seeing the cream of the crop.
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Don’t have time to read the whole article? Book this Sian Ka’an Adventure — a full-day boat tour to the famous Tulum UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
If that one’s not for you, no worries; you have plenty of other options! Each of the other tours listed below offers a unique slice of Tulum’s marine wonder, with memories waiting at every turn. Don’t just visit Tulum — experience its essence from the sea!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset cruise, the best hip hop boat party Tulum has, a snorkeling tour, yacht cruise, visit to a coastal mangrove habitat, or an action-packed Tulum boat excursion — there is a boat tour on this list for you.
Ready to learn about the best boat tours Tulum has to offer? Below, you’ll find the 10 top-rated Tulum boat tours, so you know you’re making the right choice when booking your tour.
Top 3 Picks: Best Tulum Boat Tours
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sian Ka’an Adventure Boat Tour
✔️ Lunch in Punta Allen
✔️ Snorkeling equipment
✔️ Hotel pickup & drop-off
#2 PICK
Tulum Private Yacht Cruise (All Inclusive, 48′)
✔️ Up to 14 guests
✔️ Open bar & Caribbean lunch
✔️ Snorkels & SUP paddleboards
#3 PICK
Tulum Snorkeling & Cenote Tour
✔️ Snorkeling equipment
✔️ Cenote entrance included
✔️ Lunch included
The Best Tulum Boat Tours
1. Tulum to Sian Ka’an Boat Tour Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | 🚣🏼 Check Rates and Availability
This Sian Ka’an Full Day Tour is an action-packed excursion from Tulum to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka’an. At more than one-million acres, a boat tour is by far the best way to visit Sian Ka’an.
On this tour, you’ll enjoy guided tours through mangroves to see rich marine life, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife spotting. A delicious Caribbean lunch in Punta Allen is included as part of the tour package.
Just absolutely amazing. It was the best thing I did in Tulum and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. The guides are awesome and very informative.
sai (see more reviews)
You’ll also have a decent amount of free time here, and small-group tours ensure personalized attention.
The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off service, though there are transportation fees if you’re staying outside Tulum.
This is one of the highest-rated boat tours in Tulum, with fantastic reviews and exceptional tour guides who are trained and knowledgeable about the area.
Best Tulum boat tours
2. Private Tulum Yacht: All-Inclusive 48-Footer
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🛥️ Check Rates and Availability
Ready to cruise on the beautiful oceans of Riviera Maya? Looking for the best private boat tour Tulum offers? Then this is the perfect tour for you and 13 additional guests.
🛥️ Note: In total, this private yacht has a capacity for 14 people.
Your Tulum private boat charter tour starts at Puerto Aventuras, where you’ll board a 48-foot yacht bound for the In-Ha Reef area and a secluded virgin beach. Here, you’ll enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding (and all equipment is included).
Best Excursion Ever! Inka, David and Eddie were such amazing hosts. They made sure that we had the best time and everything was taken care of from start to end.
Kristina (see more reviews)
To and from the snorkeling location, you will enjoy a booze cruise Tulum on an all-inclusive boat, with complimentary alcoholic drinks, lunch (ceviche, guacamole, quesadillas), WiFi on board, and excellent hosts.
This Tulum booze cruise is one of the more expensive Tulum private boat tours on this list — but it’s not too bad if you split the cost with your family or bachelor/bachelorette party for a Tulum party boat day.
Note: With this private boat Tulum tour, make sure to set your travel dates in stone before booking, as the tour is non-refundable.
Best Tulum boat tours
3. Tulum Snorkeling Tour, Casa Cenote Swim & Lunch
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🤿 Check Rates and Availability
This Guided Snorkeling Tour is one of the best boat tours Tulum Mexico has available for tourists because you get to enjoy two different swimming environments.
This boat cruise Tulum itinerary allows you to snorkel in both freshwater snorkeling (Casa Cenote) and saltwater snorkeling (Tulum Barrier Reef in the Caribbean Sea).
This was one of the highlights of our trip. Our guides, Ricardo (also known as the Caribbean Pirate!) and Carlos, took us to two incredible cenotes to snorkel.
Mark (see more reviews)
All necessary equipment, including fins, life jackets, and masks, are part of the tour. The price also includes a traditional Mayan lunch on board the boat.
This tour emphasizes small groups, so visitors can get personalized attention from their guide while enjoying their boat cruise in Tulum.
Best Tulum boat tours
4. Best Tulum Whale Sharks Tour Boat (June-September Only)
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | 🐋 Check Rates and Availability
Ready to swim with whale sharks in Tulum!? As someone who has experienced this Mexico bucket list activity first-hand, you’re in for a real treat 🐳
Once aboard, you’ll travel by boat along the Yucatan Coast, which offers visitors the rare opportunity to swim with whale sharks — the largest fish in the sea. You may also see dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, and other tropical marine life while at sea.
This is the most surreal, amazing experience you can have. The whale sharks are huge, and when you swim with them, you realize just how vast they are. It is incredible to see nature up so close.
thomas (see more reviews)
After snorkeling with whale sharks in Mexico, the boat crew will treat you to a delicious lunch on board right off the shore of Playa Norte, the best beach in Isla Mujeres.
This is an excellent opportunity to swim with whale sharks without making a long journey to the Philippines, Bali or Maldives. It’s one of Tulum’s best adventures for first-time visitors, and it’s relatively affordable, too.
Note 1: This Seven-Hour Tulum Boat Trip begins in Playa del Carmen, but they offer free pickup and drop-off from many hotels in Tulum, so you don’t have to worry about how to get from Tulum to Playa del Carmen.
Note 2: There is a $15 fee per person in cash for environmental tax, not included in the cost of booking.
Best Tulum boat tours
5. Tulum Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour in Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | 🤿 Check Rates and Availability
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO Site, and a must-visit in Tulum for nature lovers. On this Top-Rated Sian Ka’an Tour, you get to kayak through its mangrove mazes, dive into open cenotes, and snorkel with the dynamic array of marine life in Sian Ka’an.
📸 Bonus: This Tulum boat ride has a designated photographer who takes pictures and videos of the experience, and sends them to you for FREE.
This was an amazing eco-friendly experience. We really enjoyed snorkeling in a cenote and hanging out with our guides and other visitors for a delicious lunch.
ron (see more reviews)
The protected biosphere allows visitors to see nature above and below the surface, and in their natural habitat.
As with any great Tulum boat tour with snorkeling, your fins, masks, life jackets, snacks, and a local meal are provided.
Here are a few things to note before booking:
- The small group size limits of up to 13 travelers creates an intimate boat trip Tulum experience.
- The basic tour does not include transportation to/from the port, but they can arrange a Tulum hotel transfer for an additional fee.
Best Tulum boat tours
6. Luxury Tulum Sunset Cruise with Open Bar
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ Check Rates and Availability
If you are looking for the perfect luxury sunset cruise Tulum-style, then this Romantic Riviera Maya Cruise fits the bill.
It’s not a private tour, but instead of a Tulum boat party atmosphere, this boat trip in Tulum is ideal for couples on a honeymoon or intimate vacation in Mexico. If you were in the market for romantic things to do in Tulum, look no further ❤️
Amazing experience!! The drinks were great and kept coming, the staff was all amazing and we had an amazing time! 10/10 recommend.
Kortnee (see more reviews)
You’ll sail along the magnificent coastline of the Riviera Maya in a luxury Tulum catamaran, enjoying drinks from a catamaran Tulum open bar and tasty snacks served by the expert crew.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are available from most hotels in Tulum up to Cancun — the drive of which lasts up to 90 minutes each way.
Best Tulum boat tours
7. All-Inclusive Tulum Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-9 hours | ⛵ Check Rates and Availability
Join this Tulum Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres and enjoy some of the Caribbean’s bluest waters and whitest sands on a private, stylish catamaran.
There is also a Mexican buffet lunch and an open bar throughout the trip to Isla Mujeres.
Amazing tour! Wonderful views, beautiful water, great people and fun experience. Awesome snorkeling! Lots of colorful fish. Very family friendly.
chris (see more reviews)
After arriving at Isla Mujeres, you’ll get to snorkel in turquoise waters near colorful coral reefs, and also enjoy access to an exclusive beach club.
For the brave, there’s an extreme spinnaker onboard for those looking for more than just relaxation (a type of sail designed for sailing downwind or off-wind).
This is hands-down on the best Tulum boat tours from Tulum if you want to try sailing for yourself.
Best Tulum boat tours
8. Tulum Private Sailing Tour with Snorkeling
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.15 hours | ⛵ Check Rates and Availability
This Private Boat in Tulum offers a beautiful catamaran journey through the Caribbean Sea, with views of Tulum Beach and the ancient ruins along the way.
After boarding a stylish catamaran powered only by wind, each traveler receives snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling gear to explore the colorful coral offshore the Mayan Ruins of Tulum.
This was the highlight of our trip!! Incredible group of people and a truly amazing experience. The catamaran was perfect for our small group. The
Catherine (see more reviews)
Customers highly rate this tour, reporting that it’s an excellent value for a Tulum boat trip that includes both Tulum sailing and snorkeling.
The tour operator for this small-group boat cruise in Tulum, Full Vision Tulum, offers FREE cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip, which is a nice perk in case your Tulum itinerary changes.
Best Tulum boat tours
9. Tulum Snorkel Boat Tour & Caleta Visit
⭐️ RATING: 4.97 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🤿 Check Rates and Availability
Another one of the best Boat Tours in Tulum is this adventure Airbnb experience. It takes you snorkeling in front of the iconic Mayan Ruins, where you can observe a great diversity of colorful fish, sea turtles, and manta rays.
My friends and I had a great time on this snorkeling adventure. Our Captain and guides were super friendly and showed us all the cool sea creatures, as well as made sure we were safe the whole time.
Maggie (see more reviews)
After snorkeling, this Tulum Boat Cruise continues to see two hidden sites that you can only access from the sea. Among these, you’ll visit a caleta, which is a private cove perfect for swimming.
With drinks and equipment included, this experience is worth the price, and the host is energetic and passionate about sharing her culture with travelers.
Best Tulum boat tours
10. Snorkeling Tour Near Tulum Archaeological Site
⭐️ RATING: 4.83 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | 🤿 Check Rates and Availability
The final boat ride Tulum to consider booking is this Snorkeling and Archaeological Tour.
While snorkeling around the reef, you’ll see tropical fish, manta rays, sea turtles, and vibrant coral. The boat Tulum tour provides all the snorkeling equipment.
Beautiful great adventure! Staff is super friendly! Beautiful experience so worth the price!
Faith (see more reviews)
Edier, the tour guide, is a Tulum native with valuable local insights about the area.
Of all the boat rides in Tulum, this is one of the most scenic, with views of the Mayan ruins, Mayan temples, a lighthouse, and even a private cove perfect for swimming.
Tulum Boat Tours: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best boat tours in Tulum?
This is a subjective question, but based on a lot of 5-Star ratings and numerous glaring reviews, my recommendations include this Best Private Tulum Yacht Tour and this Tulum Sian Ka’an Tour, which is a group tour.
Best Tulum boat tours
What do I pack for Tulum boat tours?
For boating in Tulum, you need a bathing suit, cover-up attire, waterproof phone holder, sandals or water shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, dry bag to keep your things dry onboard, quick-dry towel and reef-safe sunscreen.
Wondering what to put on your Tulum packing list? Head to the linked article for everything you need to know about what to pack for Tulum (and what to leave at home).
Best Tulum boat tours
Can I go on a sailing tour in Tulum?
Yes — There are a few Tulum sailing tours (and sailing tours near Tulum), like this Tulum Catamaran Sailing Tour and this Tulum Private Sailing Tour.
Is there a Tulum booze cruise I can join?
Yes — You can do a booze cruise in Tulum when you book this All-Inclusive Tulum Private Yacht, which has an open bar. A 48-foot-vessel, you and 13 of your friends will have this private booze cruise all to yourself.
Best Tulum boat tours
Are there yacht tours from Tulum to Isla Mujeres?
Yes — If you want to go on a Riviera Maya cruise to Isla Mujeres, opt for this Top-Rated Tulum to Isla Mujeres Cruise.
What is the Tulum clear boat photoshoot?
Have you come across the viral clear kayak photos, and are now hoping to book a photographer for clear boat tour Tulum photos? If you’re looking to have an Instagram moment on the clear boats in Tulum and Yucatan Mexico, check out these options.
Best Tulum boat tours
What is Tulum known for?
Tulum is known for its ancient Mayan Ruins, authentic Mexican cuisine, stunning natural cenotes, tropical jungles, bohemian vibes, beautiful beaches and beach clubs.
The city attracts wellness enthusiasts and foodies from around the world, with its unique balance of luxury travel and traditional culture.
For foodies, you’ll find authentic cooking classes or mezcal tastings in Tulum with locals.
Historians will take advantage of visiting Chichen Itza Ruins in Yucatan, and nature lovers will find their way to the protected nature reserves, UNESCO Heritage sites and Mayan jungles.
Wellness retreats attract visitors looking for yoga, breath-work, meditation, holistic cleanses and more, while the Tulum coworking hostels attract digital nomads working on the beaches.
Tulum is known for attracting a diverse group of travelers — no matter what you’re looking for, whether that’s budget travel or luxury things to do in Tulum, you’ll find it in this stunning city.
Best Tulum boat tours
Is Tulum worth going to?
Absolutely — Tulum is worth going to for a variety of reasons. With authentic culture, mouth-watering cuisine, beautiful beaches and rich history, there’s something for everyone in Tulum.
Plus, the Instagram-worthy beaches and cenotes provide stunning backdrops and relaxation.
The impeccably preserved Mayan Ruins offer a glimpse into the ancient history of the region. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends and family, Tulum is worth visiting.
Best Tulum boat tours
How much time should I spend in Tulum?
Three to five days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Tulum — but of course, you could also easily spend a week in Tulum and not get bored, because there are so many things to do in Tulum!
First, spend a day or two relaxing on the Tulum beaches, tour cenotes galore, and enjoy one of Tulum’s famous wellness retreats and healing sessions.
Then, plan to do some cultural activities like a taco tour, mezcal tasting, or cooking class.
Last, set aside a day for Mayan history to explore the well-preserved Mayan Ruins located around the region.
With three days in Tulum, four days in Tulum, or even five days in Tulum, you’re giving yourself plenty of time to visit the most important spots in Tulum and really get a sense of this Mexico pueblo magico (magic town).
🌡️ Average Tulum Weather
If you’d prefer to travel on a budget, June and July will be a better option. These summer months are during the rainy season and Tulum off-season, which means warm weather and intense humidity, but also lower prices.
Best Tulum boat tours
Is Tulum safe for travelers?
For the most part, Tulum is safe for travelers. With millions of visitors each year, the number of violent incidents and the Tulum crime rates are relatively low.
That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Tulum; they do.
However, if you always remain aware of yourself, your surroundings and your belongings, and you abide by general travel safety measures, you should be safe in Tulum Mexico.
🚨 Note: If Tulum and Mexico travel safety are on your mind, check out this Is Tulum Safe to Travel to Right Now article, and purchase travel insurance for Mexico.
Best Tulum boat tours
Where is Tulum Mexico located?
Tulum is located in Quintana Roo State, one of the three states that make up Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
📍Tulum Map
It is located about two hours south of Cancun, and one hour south of Playa del Carmen. To the west, you’ll find the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza and the colorful colonial city of Merida.
Best Tulum boat tours
What’s the closest airport to Tulum?
Tulum Airport — The closest airport is actually just outside of Tulum. It’s called Aeropuerto Internacional de Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto, or Tulum International Airport (code: TQO).
However, for a long time the closest airport to Tulum was Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), and many people still use Cancun Airport to get to Tulum.
If you need to or want to fly there, you’ll then have to make your way 1.5-2 hours south to Tulum by car. But don’t worry — it’s very easy to travel from Cancun to Tulum Mexico.
How far is Tulum from Cancun?
The distance from Cancun to Tulum is about 73 miles (118 km), and about 1.5 hours of drive time in normal traffic. of drive time in normal traffic.
Best Tulum boat tours
What’s the best way to get from Cancun to Tulum?
The best way to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum is via this private shuttle service with Cancun Airport Transportation.
This is by far the safest, easiest, fastest, most stress-free way to get from Cancun Airport to your Tulum all-inclusive resort or hotel, with door to door service.
🚗💨 Note: While there is Uber in Cancun itself, they can not legally pick you up from Cancun International Airport. However, there is no Uber in Tulum Mexico.
Best Tulum boat tours
What are the best things to do in Tulum Mexico?
You can explore the ancient Mayan Ruins near Tulum (including the Tulum Ruins), take photos at the Tulum Instagram spots (like Azulik Tulum), go for a swim in the Tulum cenotes, and enjoy some Tulum boat tours.
As you’re on a beach vacation, don’t miss the most popular beach clubs in Tulum.
These include Casa Malca, once owned by Pablo Escobar (home to the famous underground indoor swimming pool and hanging course), La Zebra, Coco Tulum, and Nomade Tulum, which is one of the best Tulum Mexico hotels.
There are also many amazing Tulum day trips if you’re getting a Tulum rental car or don’t mind getting around on public transportation.
For a day trip, there’s Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town), Lake Bacalar, Coba Ruins, Izamal “The Yellow City,” and more.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of Tulum things to do!
Best Tulum boat tours
Final Thoughts: Best Tulum Boat Tours
Tulum, Mexico, is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the world. Located at the edge of the Yucatan Peninsula, travelers can embark on incredible Tulum boat trips into the Caribbean that will make any vacation unforgettable.
Tulum is an excellent destination for boat tours, offering a variety of activities and Tulum excursions to choose from.
In fact, I sometimes wonder why anyone would travel to Tulum and not book a Tulum boat tour 🤷♀️
Still not sure which Tulum boat tours to book? I recommend you book this Tulum to Sian Ka’an Tour — a full day trip that has a perfect 5 Star rating.
If you’re looking for a private group experience, this is the best of the Tulum Private Boat Tours.
However, if you want a group tour that provides a lot of value for your dollar, I recommend this Tulum Snorkeling Boat Tour with Lunch Included.
If those don’t work for you, no worries; you still have plenty of options! Whether you’re looking to explore the Tulum Ruins from the sea, or snorkel around one of the world’s largest reefs, I hope this list helps you book the Tulum boat charters of your dreams.
Want to book even more Tulum tours?
Looking to take more tours in Tulum during your visit? Tours are so convenient because you don’t have to worry about planning anything — you just show up and enjoy!
Here are all of my recommendations for the top-rated Tulum tours: