The Best Boat Rentals in Cancún

For most private motor yachts in Cancun, expect about $150–$250 per hour for 40–50 foot boats with a 4-hour minimum, while larger luxury yachts (60 feet and up) often run $400–$700 per hour. Private sailing or power catamarans for groups commonly price by the trip rather than the hour, starting around $1,200–$1,800 for 4–5 hours for smaller groups and $2,500–$5,500+ for larger-capacity vessels and full-day charters. Smaller center consoles and sportfishing boats can start near $100–$150 per hour depending on size and itinerary. Most prices include a licensed captain and crew, fuel for standard routes, a cooler with ice and bottled water or soft drinks, and basic snorkel gear. Common extras are open bar or catering, marina or marine-park/dock fees of about $10–$20 per person, ground transportation, and crew gratuity. Booking early for weekends and holidays helps secure the best rates and time slots.

You can choose from motor yachts for cruising and celebrations, sailing catamarans for stable group outings to Isla Mujeres, sportfishing boats and center consoles for reef or offshore runs, and sailboats for a slower-paced day under canvas. There are also guided two-seat speedboat tours through the Nichupté Lagoon mangroves for a quick, self-drive thrill. If you’re planning a birthday or bachelorette, catamarans and mid-size yachts are the most popular because they balance deck space, comfort, and pricing.

Most Cancun charters are captained, which means you don’t need any boating experience and can relax while a licensed local crew handles navigation, docking, and safety. A handful of operators offer self-drive options only for small boats on guided lagoon routes, and true bareboat yacht rentals are uncommon. If you do find a self-operated option, be ready to show photo ID and proof of boating competency, meet age requirements, and leave a security deposit; policies are set by the owner and local Harbor Master rules. For visitors, a captained charter is usually the easiest and fastest way to get on the water.

Common departure points include marinas in the Hotel Zone such as Marina Las Perlas at Km 2.5 and Marina Chac Chi at Km 3.2 on Boulevard Kukulcán, plus Puerto Cancún’s marina area near the Town Center. Boats also frequently leave from Puerto Juárez just north of downtown, especially Marina Hacienda del Mar on the road to Punta Sam, and from the Playa Mujeres area’s V&V Marina (La Amada). Your confirmation will list the exact check-in point and any pier fees due on arrival.

Most itineraries cruise across Bahía de Mujeres toward Isla Mujeres, where you can snorkel shallow reefs like El Farito, swim over the famous MUSA underwater sculptures near Punta Nizuc or Manchones, and anchor off Playa Norte’s sand-bottom shallows for that waist-deep, turquoise-water vibe. Closer to the Hotel Zone, you’ll pass the skyline and weave through the Nichupté Lagoon’s mangrove channels. With a longer charter you can circle to Punta Sur for cliff views and lighthouses or add a stop at a beach club on Isla Mujeres.

If your charter includes a captain (which is standard in Cancun), you don’t need a boating license. If you plan to operate a boat yourself, the owner may require proof of competency, a boater card, or similar documentation, and the Harbor Master can check safety compliance. Separate licenses are required for fishing when gear is onboard, and all vessels must carry approved safety equipment. When in doubt, choose a captained rental to streamline the experience.

Yes, families are welcome on most boats. Charters provide life jackets and carry required safety gear; child-sized vests are typically available, and they’re mandatory during water activities and on many snorkel stops. Infants and children count toward the boat’s legal passenger capacity, so include them in your headcount. For little ones, morning departures are usually calmer and less crowded, and shaded deck space plus reef-safe sunscreen and hats make the day easier for everyone.

Policies vary by boat. Many private charters allow you to bring snacks, birthday cakes, and your own beverages, while others offer all-inclusive options with open bar and a set menu and may limit outside alcohol. Operators often provide coolers and ice; glass containers can be restricted for safety. Mexico’s legal drinking age is 18, and ID may be checked at boarding. Plan for common add-ons like per-person dock or marine-park fees, and let your captain know about any allergies or special requests in advance.

Some private charters are pet-friendly with advance notice, while shared tours and certain yachts do not allow animals. If bringing a dog, confirm before booking, bring a pet life vest if you have one, keep them leashed on deck, and pack water, shade, and clean-up supplies. Crews may ask you to keep pets off upholstered areas to protect the boat.

Captains follow the local Harbor Master’s guidance. On windy or stormy days, authorities can partially or fully close the port to small craft; when that happens, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded according to the operator’s policy. Cancun’s dry season runs roughly November through April, while hurricane season is June through November with the windiest months often in September and October. Morning departures tend to be calmer, and flexible timing helps if a brief weather hold is issued.

Absolutely. Yachts and catamarans are set up for celebrations with Bluetooth sound, spacious decks, and easy access to Isla Mujeres swim stops. Many crews can arrange decorations, premium bar upgrades, catering, photographers, and even jet skis or DJs where permitted. To keep things smooth, confirm your final guest count early, arrive 20–30 minutes before departure, and review any house rules like no shoes, no smoking inside, or restrictions on red wine or glitter.

For the calmest weather and clear skies, December through April is peak boating season, with the busiest periods around Christmas–New Year’s and spring break. Summer brings warm water and popular wildlife experiences, while September and October can be windier and rainier. Demand also spikes on long weekends popular with U.S. travelers—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—even though they’re not local holidays, so book early for those dates. Weekdays and morning departures are your best bet for lighter crowds and smoother seas, and early December can be lively around the Cancun International Boat Show, which may add traffic near select marinas.

A 4–5 hour outing is perfect for crossing to Isla Mujeres, snorkeling at a reef or MUSA gallery, and anchoring off Playa Norte for a swim before cruising back along the Hotel Zone. With 6–8 hours you can add time ashore in Isla Mujeres’ town, extend snorkeling, or venture farther to Punta Sur and scenic coves. Your captain will adjust the route for conditions and timing so you’re never rushed.

Yes. Seasonal whale shark safaris typically run from early summer through mid-September, with the highest likelihood of encounters in July and August off Isla Mujeres and the northern Yucatán. These are regulated wildlife trips with set procedures, limited turns in the water, and weather-dependent departures. If this is a must-do for your group, build in a backup day in case of wind or port closures and book with an operator that includes all required permits and safety briefings.