About this activity
Editor's Note
Let’s be honest, the tourism industry in Cancun is a machine. Everyone is chasing occupancy rates and trying to upsell you the next "authentic" experience. However, amidst the high-volume excursions, this speedboat and snorkel combo actually holds its ground. It’s not just a passive ride; it gives the pax (that's you, the passenger) a bit of agency. Driving your own boat through the mangroves offers a tactile connection to the environment that you just don't get sitting on a crowded catamaran. It’s a solid product that balances the thrill of the drive with the chill of the reef. While many operators are focused purely on yield management, this tour feels like they actually care if you see a turtle or not. It is definitly worth the time away from the all-inclusive buffet.
About the Tour
The experience begins with a warm welcome and the necessary safety briefing. It’s standard procedure, but the guides make sure you’re comfortable with the controls before you set off toward Punta Nizuc.
Once you are out on the water, the vibe changes completely. As you navigate through the winding channels of the lagoon, the noise of the hotel zone fades away. This is the time to sit back—or lean forward if you're driving—and appreciate the raw nature. The lagoon's ecosystem is surprisingly diverse. If you look closely at the mangroves, you might spot leopard frogs, iguanas, white turtles, and various crabs. It is a jungle out there after all, teeming with life that most tourists miss because they never leave the pool deck.
The visual transition is stark as you emerge from the luscious Mangroves into the open Caribbean. The water shifts to that unbelievable turquoise that looks like it has been photoshopped. Here, you will jump in to snorkel the Mesoamerican reef. As the second largest reef system in the world, the underwater "inventory" here is spectacular. You’ll understand why this area is famous for its abundance of sea life and distinct coral formations.
Don't worry if you haven't donned a mask before. The team of snorkel guides is quite sharp; they point out the things not to be missed and are always on hand to assist beginners who might be nervous about the currents.
Highlights
- Tour the incredible Nichupte Lagoon
- Learn about mangrove biodiversity
- Snorkel at Punta Nizuc
Know before you go
- You will receive a locker where you should keep everything that you do not want to get wet