Private Swim, 1 Hour 15 Minutes

This is a private snorkeling session in Akumal Bay, run by local guides, lasting 1 hour 15 minutes from start to finish.

Overview

Only your group takes part. You meet the team at the David Manzano module in Urbana Akumal, get fitted with snorkeling gear, and head into the protected bay with a guide who spots the wildlife and explains the rules for swimming near the turtles.

Akumal is a protected area and the turtles come first, so every group gets a briefing on how to behave in the water before the swim begins. Once out in the bay, guides point out sea turtles, stingrays, and plenty of fish. Reviewers regularly report seeing multiple turtles on a single outing, along with rays, puffer fish and even a starfish.

The pace is relaxed and the short length suits travellers who want the turtle experience without giving up a whole day. Gear, guide, beach access tax, environmental tax, and bathroom and shower use are covered. Parking, lockers and hotel transport are not.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet At AkumalThe group meets at the David Manzano module in Urbana Akumal, Quintana Roo. The activity ends back at this same point.
2. Gear And BriefingSnorkeling equipment is provided and fitted, and the guide explains how to swim in the protected bay without disturbing the turtles.
3. Snorkel Akumal BayThe guide leads the group into the water to look for sea turtles, stingrays, rays and fish.
4. Return And RinseBack on the beach, bathrooms and showers are available. Lockers can be rented at the beach for an extra fee.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the session smoother, from sun protection to what the guides do and do not provide.

• Sun protection. One reviewer brought long sleeve swim shirts in place of sunscreen, and another suggested a sun shirt or biodegradable sunscreen. Plan for this before arriving, since suitable products are not part of the package.
• Cameras and photos. One reviewer brought a GoPro and a waterproof floating phone case and got good pictures and video.
• Fitness and pace. One reviewer who normally struggles with masks reported the guides helped make snorkeling workable. It is not recommended for pregnant travellers or people with serious heart conditions, per the listing.
• Group feel. This is a private tour, so only your group joins.
• Getting there. Hotel pickup is not included, and parking is not covered either. The meeting point sits near public transport, and travellers have arranged private transport with the operator by quote when needed. Communication from the operator was repeatedly praised in reviews.
• Kids and access. The listing states the activity is wheelchair and pushchair accessible with accessible surfaces. Reviews from families with children aged roughly ten to sixteen were positive, and the listing says most travellers can participate.

Common issues. One reviewer described the changing and locker area as chaotic before heading out, though it thins out in the water. Parking, lockers and hotel transport cost extra, so budget for those if needed. The tour requires good weather, and poor conditions can mean cancellation, with the option of a different date or a full refund. Pregnant travellers and people with serious heart problems are advised not to join.

Common Questions