Set Sail to Adventure

Mirror-calm seas and cloudless skies are perfect conditions for a summer day of sailing in the Caribbean and there are plenty of exciting options to choose from if you fancy a day at sea.

For starters, cast off from the marina for a morning of snorkeling in Puerto Morelos National Marine Park. A few minutes of speeding through crystal-clear waters will have you out at the reef where wonders await you when you take the plunge.

Part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second longest coral reef system, the Puerto Morelos reef is rich in biodiversity. Keep a look out for schools of blue tangs, pork fish and grunts, pairs of angelfish, tiny damsel and butterfly fish. Other reef inhabitants include sea turtles, octopus and moray eels.

Next stop, charter a luxury yacht and set sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. As you cross the bay relax and admire the view of shimmering turquoise waters. You can stop for a spot of snorkeling on the way and after exploring Isla, sit down for a delicious seafood lunch at one of the restaurants along the waterfront. You’ll want to stay on for the sunset; the views are incredible.

Go in search of nature and plan a trip to Contoy, the palm-fringed desert island of Caribbean legend and lore that is an important bird sanctuary. Over 150 species make their home on the island year round or are migratory visitors in the winter. They include colonies of frigate birds and cormorants, terns, ibis, roseate spoonbills, herons and egrets.

Contoy is a two and a half hour boat trip north of Cancun and the shades of turquoise and blue water that you’ll pass through en route are breathtaking. Spend the day watching the birds, relaxing on the beach or snorkeling and swimming with rays and other fish in the sheltered bay.

If you enjoyed your trip to Contoy and are ready for more incredible wildlife encounters, board a boat for a whale shark trip during the summer. From mid-May to mid-September, these gentle giants gather to feed on plankton and fish eggs in the waters to the east of Contoy and Isla Mujeres and also off Holbox Island and Cabo Catoche.

Eco trips will take you out to the whale shark feeding grounds where you will see the world’s largest fish wherever you turn. You may be lucky enough to spot giant manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins too.

Follow the maritime routes of the ancient Maya along the Riviera Maya shoreline on a catamaran or yacht cruise and see beaches and palm-lined bays that you didn’t even know existed.

Charter a yacht for a morning of fishing, the seasoned fishermen of Puerto Morelos will take you right to where the fish are running.

Finally, after a leisurely day on the beach or by the pool, our weekly catamaran cruise is the perfect start to an unforgettable evening in paradise. Sip champagne and nibble hors d’oeuvres as you watch the sunset.

For information on cruises and yacht charters, eco trips and fishing excursions ask your Concierge.