The waters around Isla Holbox sparkle with opportunity for memorable boat excursions. Several superb tours stand out: the private 3-island expedition lets you bird-watch and swim at your own pace – perfect for families or small groups. Speedboat wildlife tours zip through crystalline waters to a hidden cenote, while shared boat excursions offer great value with expert local guides who know every nook of these islands.
I especially love the classic 3-island tour for its unhurried pace and chances to spot flamingos and sea life. For those seeking more solitude, private fishing and snorkeling trips provide intimate encounters with marine life away from the crowds.
Check out these top-rated Holbox boat tours to start your island adventure.
Key Points
- Private boat tours offer personalized 2.5-3.5 hour experiences for up to 4 guests, with a 94% recommendation rate and highlights like bird watching and swimming.
- Speedboat cruises showcase the natural wonders around Isla Holbox, including a visit to Bird Island and an opportunity to swim in the Yalahau cenote.
- Comprehensive island tours provide a boat tour of three islands, with activities like bird watching, swimming, and scenic views, offering good value at $35.17 per person.
- Fishing and snorkeling tours provide a relaxing private boat experience, including seafood lunch, snorkeling equipment, and beverages, priced at $420 for up to 6 guests.
- Classic shared boat tours offer a 3-island tour with entrance to the Yalahau cenote, led by licensed guides and featuring a personalized small group experience.
Private Boat to Visit Holbox Surroundings (3-Island Tour)
While visiting Isla Holbox, travelers can embark on a private boat tour to explore the surrounding islands of Passion Island, Isla Pajaros, and Yalahau Spring.
The 2.5 to 3.5-hour tour, which accommodates up to four guests, has earned a 4.7 rating based on 90 reviews and is recommended by 94% of travelers.
Highlights include observing over 35 species of nesting birds on Isla Pajaros, flamingos on Passion Island, and swimming in the rejuvenating cenote at Yalahau Lagoon.
Guided by an expert English or Spanish-speaking naturalist, the tour provides a personalized and flexible experience, with binoculars available for bird watching.
Read our full review: Private Boat to Visit Holbox Surroundings (3-Island Tour) Review
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From Holbox: Speedboat Cruise With Lagoon Swim
Travelers visiting Isla Holbox can embark on a 3-hour speedboat cruise that showcases the natural wonders surrounding the island. Priced from $39.26 per person, the tour includes a visit to Bird Island, a sanctuary for numerous bird species like flamingos and pelicans.
Guests can also swim in the Yalahau cenote, known as the “fountain of youth,” and explore the Punta Mosquito sandbank. The tour provides complimentary bottled water and concludes with drop-off at the downtown dock.
While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the experience offers an opportunity to learn about the island’s history as a former pirate haven. Cancellations are eligible for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: From Holbox: Speedboat Cruise With Lagoon Swim Review
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Boat Tour of Three Islands in Holbox With Transportation
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Isla Holbox’s natural wonders, the Boat Tour of Three Islands in Holbox With Transportation offers an immersive experience.
With 117 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour takes visitors to a variety of islands, allowing them to enjoy bird watching, swimming, and breathtaking scenery.
Despite some logistical challenges and feedback about missing certain locations, the tour operator is committed to improving the service.
At $35.17 per person, the tour represents a good value, though travelers may want to consider booking similar experiences from local stands for potentially lower prices.
The emphasis on environmental concerns is also a positive aspect of this offering.
Read our full review: Boat Tour of Three Islands in Holbox With Transportation Review
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Relaxing Private Boat Tour to Cabo Catoche With Fishing and Snorkeling
The Relaxing Private Boat Tour to Cabo Catoche With Fishing and Snorkeling provides a personalized, immersive experience for visitors to Isla Holbox.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this 4.9-rated tour offers opportunities to fish, snorkel, and swim in calm waters while looking out for dolphins, coral, and nurse sharks.
The tour includes a seafood lunch, snorkeling equipment, and water/soft drinks.
Pickup and drop-off are provided at the VIP Holbox Meeting Point, with staff identifiable by orange t-shirts.
Priced at $420 for groups up to 6, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Relaxing Private Boat Tour to Cabo Catoche With Fishing and Snorkeling Review
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Private Boat Tour (3 Islands Tour)
Visiting the three islands of Isla Holbox on a private boat tour offers travelers a unique chance to explore the area’s natural beauty.
The tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, includes coffee, tea, alcoholic beverages, and entrance to the cenote Yalahau.
With private transportation and a perfect 5.0 rating from 12 reviews, this tour provides an all-inclusive experience.
Operating daily from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM, the tour is available from May 3, 2022, to November 27, 2025.
Priced at $236.50 per group (up to 8 people), it’s a cost-effective way to discover the islands.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Private Boat Tour (3 Islands Tour) Review
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This classic 3-island tour on a shared boat allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of Isla Holbox.
The tour includes entrance to the Yalahau cenote and is highly recommended by travelers, with a 96% recommendation rate.
Led by licensed guides, the tour provides bottled water and taxi transportation to the meeting point.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
The small group size of up to 13 travelers is appreciated, offering a personalized experience.
With positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and relaxing nature of the tour, this 3-island experience is an excellent option for those seeking to discover the highlights of Isla Holbox.
Read our full review: Classic 3-Island Tour on a Shared Boat Review
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Recap
Isla Holbox offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the surrounding islands and natural wonders. From private tours to shared boat excursions, there’s an option to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, fishing, or simply taking in the scenic views, these boat tours provide an opportunity to fully experience the beauty of Isla Holbox and its pristine environment.