If you’re visiting or living in Cancún, you should know the cost of a yacht charter in Cancún— I highly recommend chartering a yacht for the day. Trips usually run about six hours and typically include snorkeling, cruising around, and spending time at Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres. Some include big floating mats.
What a day charter costs in Cancún
I don’t recommend specific charter companies, but you’ll find plenty of options online and on Facebook for yacht charter costs in Cancún. For a comfortable 45–60-footer with a small crew of two or three, expect to pay roughly $1,000–$2,000 USD for the day, so shop around. That usually includes fuel and basic refreshments, such as bottled water and domestic beer.
You can also arrange catering in advance with the provider or bring your own food and drinks. My friends and I usually pre-order some ceviche or aguachile and bring our own snacks and beverages. Then we stop for lunch at a beach club such as Marbella, or at El Varadero, a quaint Cuban restaurant with amazing food that often has a live band.
The costs that come on top
A few additional costs usually apply:
- dock fees, typically around $10–$30 USD per person
- a tip for the crew,
- food,
- additional drinks or alcohol,
- and any other upgrades not included in the charter.
What is included, and what to confirm before booking
The crew usually includes a captain plus one or two deckhands. They handle the drinks and food, help you get in and out of the water, set the anchor, take you snorkeling gear is usually included, and keep an eye out for turtles and manta rays. They may also set up a floating mat, which is great for sunbathing or playing king of the mat, but it is not always included, so ask before booking. The crew is there to help and keep the day running smoothly.
It’s also worth confirming exactly what is included before you book: snorkeling gear, towels, ice, food and drink policies, dock fees, the floating mat, and the weather or cancellation policy. Bring sunscreen, towels, sunglasses, and some cash for dock fees and crew tips. An earlier departure can also mean calmer water and more time to enjoy Playa Norte. We usually go from 12-6 pm. This way we catch an early dinner and usually get home to knock-out early because sun, swimming, drinking, and a big meal will exhaust you!
Is it worth it?
If you think it’s expensive, the price doesn’t hurt as much when split between six people. More passengers can make the boat feel crowded, so six is usually a comfortable number. And the cost definitely hurts less than owning the boat yourself. Haha.
Oh, one last thing I almost forgot to mention. Another benefit of renting a boat is getting to enjoy the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea from the water itself. And you can cruise around and usually find a beach without sargassum, which has become more abundant in recent years.
Happy sailing
