This sandbar is made for easy water time. From Marina La Bonita, you’ll cruise the Puerto Morelos lagoon and anchor on a secluded secret sandbar with shallow entry, so even kids and non-swimmers can feel confident in the water. I especially like the small-group setup, capped at 26 people, which keeps the vibe calm instead of chaotic.

What makes this one different is how the crew runs the day. With staff like Jose, Captain Martin, Arturo, and Ulises/Ulysses (names you’ll likely hear a lot), you get hands-on help at the dock, constant drink offers on board, and real attention when kids are in the water.

One drawback to plan around: if anyone in your group has strict food needs, don’t assume lunch will automatically match. I’d bring a simple backup snack if dietary restrictions are part of your trip.

Key points before you go

• Shallow, sandbar-style water that’s friendly for kids and nervous swimmers
• Small-group sailing (maximum 26) with a more personal crew experience
• Lunch plus unlimited drinks served right on the catamaran stop
• Water fun that doesn’t require swimming skills: floating mats and paddleboards
• A crew that stays alert to comfort and safety, especially around kids

Marina La Bonita departure: an easy start that sets the tone

Your afternoon begins at Marina La Bonita in Puerto Morelos. The usual start time is 12:30 pm, and the schedule is built around a relaxed, half-day sail—long enough to enjoy the water, short enough that you’re not stuck away from your hotel all day.

You can usually meet directly at the marina, or request hotel pickup (extra charge). Pickup is offered from locations between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, and you can also request pickup from other areas for an additional cost. If you’re using pickup, be ready to be in the van and moving promptly—one tight schedule issue can snowball fast with shared transportation.

Once you check in and head to the dock, you board the catamaran Adelita. This matters for expectations: you’re not waiting around for a big boat with a long line. The smaller group size keeps boarding and movement on board smoother, which is a big deal if you’ve got kids (or anyone who doesn’t love crowds).

Cruising through Puerto Morelos waters: calm sailing, plus onboard fun

After boarding, you set sail through the Puerto Morelos area, taking in the lagoon and the surrounding national reef park waters. This part is more about the ride than the “activity pressure.” You’ll spend time watching the water, settling into a seat, and working your way toward the day’s main event: the sandbar.

Onboard, the energy tends to stay upbeat but not wild. Music is part of the vibe, and the crew works continuously to keep people comfortable—bringing drinks and snacks, and checking in without making you feel rushed. More than once, I’d expect you’ll notice how quickly staff move around the boat, especially when families are onboard.

If your group is prone to motion or you’re sensitive to boats, this can still be a pleasant trip because you’re not doing extreme conditions. That said, you should know that transportation to the marina can include rougher stretches; one common heads-up from people who took the shared van is that the final road segments can have potholes. If you’re even mildly carsick, plan accordingly with whatever usually helps you.

The Secret Sandbar anchor stop: why non-swimmers feel included

The whole point of this excursion is the anchored stop at the Secret Sandbar, far enough from shore to feel like your own little stretch of sea time. When the boat drops anchor, you get the chance to hop in, swim, paddleboard, or simply float and relax.

Here’s the key detail that makes this tour a strong match for kids and non-swimmers: the water is very shallow around the sandbar area, so people can often stand confidently in the shallows. That means you’re not stuck with the “jump in and hope for the best” feeling. Kids can play without the same level of risk you’d face at deeper, open-water swim stops.

During this stop, you can expect a menu of easy options:

• Swim time if you want it
• Paddle boards for those ready to move around on the water
• Floating mats to lounge without fighting buoyancy
• A chance to relax and soak up the sun or find shade on the catamaran

You’ll also likely see rafts or float options used in the water area, which helps if you want a buoyant “hang out” moment instead of a swim session. And because the sandbar is designed for this kind of stop, you’re not expected to be an athlete. Think stand, float, and enjoy.

Practical tip: bring goggles if you like seeing what’s under the surface. Even in shallow zones, the water clarity can make it more fun than you’d expect. And for anyone unsure about swimming, you can still have a great time by staying close to the boat and using the floating options.

The onboard lunch and unlimited drinks: where the value really shows up

The price you pay is only part of the story. On the catamaran, you’ll get a light lunch and drinks included. That’s the core value here because the “good stuff” happens in the water time itself, not after you’re already tired and hungry.

Included on board:

• A light lunch: ham and cheese baguette, fruit, and chips
• Alcoholic beverages (served under the standard drinking rules)
• Use of a floating mat

So yes, this is a proper meal-and-drinks outing, not a “snacks only” deal.

But you should budget for extra fees. The tour price is $140 per person, and then there are additional per-person charges listed separately: National Park & dock fees ($20 USD) and Marina La Bonita admission ($20 USD). Hotel pickup can add another layer depending on where you’re starting from.

How does that play into value? You’re paying for:

• Boat time (catamaran sailing experience)
• Access to a specific stop at a sandbar location
• Lunch and unlimited drinks during the main water window

For families, that’s often the real money-saver. When you’re feeding kids, keeping everyone in a good mood, and not paying for drinks separately, the per-person cost can feel much more reasonable.

One caution: if vegetarian or other dietary needs are part of your plan, don’t treat the lunch as guaranteed to match a special request. I’d pack a backup snack just in case, especially if picky eaters or strict diets are involved.

Also, towels are a little confusing in the details provided. The experience mentions towels available, but it also notes towels (toallas) as not included. If you care about this—especially for kids after swimming—send a quick message before you go or be ready to buy or borrow what you need.

Crew service on the water: Jose, Captain Martin, and the “always helping” approach

This tour has a reputation for one thing more than anything else: crew attention. Names that come up in the day-to-day experience include Jose, Captain Martin, Arturo, and Ulises/Ulysses, and you’ll likely feel their presence in small moments, not just big speeches.

What stands out in practice:

• Drinks often appear before you realize you’re out
• Food and snacks are offered during the main hangout time
• Staff help with comfort items like pillows
• Safety is active, not passive (especially for kids around the water edge)

If your group includes children, you should know the crew tends to treat them like part of the day, not an interruption. There are stories of kids getting to steer the catamaran for a moment during the return sail and even help with docking-style tasks. That kind of involvement can turn a normal “swim stop” into a memory your kids talk about later.

And for adults who just want to relax: this crew style still works. You’re not being dragged into a strict schedule. You can float, swim lightly, or stay onboard, and the staff still keep you comfortable.

Who should book this Puerto Morelos sandbar catamaran sail

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A family-friendly water experience
• A relaxing afternoon on a catamaran (not a hard excursion)
• Clear water time at a shallow sandbar where non-swimmers can participate
• A group experience without a massive crowd (max 26)

It also works well for couples who want something simple and scenic. One reason people like the Puerto Morelos area is the sense of calm you get away from the big Cancun party energy. A catamaran day like this delivers that vibe without forcing you into a full-day plan.

Solo travelers often like it too, since the boat is social and the crew keeps the atmosphere easy.

Who should think twice:

• If you have trouble with physical movement: you must be able to walk on the beach, climb dock stairs, and board the boat.
• If you’re pregnant, the experience is not recommended based on the tour guidance.
• If your group has strict dietary restrictions, bring a backup snack and double-check needs early.
• If your priority is deep-water snorkeling or lots of advanced swim time, this may feel more “shallow sandbar fun” than “serious underwater exploring.”

Alcohol rules also matter. The minimum drinking age is 18, so teens in the group can enjoy the day, but they won’t be the ones ordering drinks.

Practical tips for a smooth sandbar day

A few practical things can make the difference between a good afternoon and a great one.

Pack for the water:

• Sunscreen and ideally something for your eyes like goggles
• Swimwear you can easily change in and out of
• A light cover-up for when you’re cooling off

Plan for comfort:

• Wear footwear that works on dock surfaces and beach areas where you’ll walk
• Bring a small bag you can keep with you while swimming
• If you’re prone to feeling carsick, keep that in mind if you’re using shared transportation to the marina

Think “shade and sun” balance:

The sandbar area and the return sail can include both sunny and shaded spots. If you burn easily, spend some time on the boat until you can find the right balance. If you like heat, you can lean into the sun during the anchored stop.

Have realistic expectations about the lunch:

This is a light lunch—good and filling for a catamaran stop, but it’s not a full restaurant spread. With kids, that’s usually perfect. With adults who eat bigger meals, you may want a snack plan for before or after.

Should you book the Puerto Morelos Secret Sandbar catamaran sail?

I think you should book this if your trip includes kids, non-swimmers, or anyone who wants water time without stressful logistics. The shallow sandbar setup, floating options, included lunch, and constant crew help make it an easy win for families and for couples wanting a calm afternoon.

You might skip it or adjust your expectations if:

• Dietary restrictions are strict and non-negotiable for everyone in your group
• You don’t want to deal with boarding stairs or walking on uneven dock/beach surfaces
• You’re looking for deep-water snorkeling as the main event

If you want a straightforward, good-value half-day with clear water fun, this one fits the bill. The kind of attention you get from staff like Jose and Captain Martin is exactly what turns a simple boat ride into a day that feels cared for.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point?

You meet at Marina La Bonita. You can also request hotel pickup (extra charge).

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 12:30 pm.

How long is the catamaran experience?

It’s about 4 hours (approx.).

Is pickup offered?

Yes. Pickup is offered from locations between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, and pickup from other locations can be arranged for an additional price.

What’s included in the price?

Lunch (ham and cheese baguette, fruit, and chips), floating mat use, and alcoholic beverages are included.

Are there extra fees not included in the $140 price?

Yes. National Park & dock fees ($20 USD per person) and Marina La Bonita admission ($20 USD per person) are not included.

Is the sandbar good for kids and non-swimmers?

Yes. The water at the sandbar is very shallow, and the experience is described as perfect for kids and non-swimmers.

What activities can you do during the sandbar stop?

You can swim, relax on floating mats, and use paddle boards. Showers are available as well.

Are towels included?

Towels are described as available with the experience, but the details also list towels (toallas) as not included. It’s smart to confirm based on your reservation.

Who can drink alcohol?

The minimum drinking age is 18.

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