Reviewed · PLAYA DEL CARMEN ATV AND BUGGY TOURS

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing

5.0 · 498 reviews 2 hours (approx.) From $150 Operated by Maroma Adventures · Bookable on Viator
Book on Viator →

The appeal here is simple: in about two hours, you can trade jungle trails for open Caribbean water without arranging separate tours. You choose two activities, then spend 45 minutes on each, with ATV routes running through wooded paths and sand dunes and the water activities following a guided route along Maroma Bay.

I like the flexible combo format and the fact that food, drinks, beach access, and roundtrip transportation are included. I also like the careful safety setup, with about 15 minutes of instructions and protective equipment before each activity. The main concern is the extra cost for the marina, locker, insurance options, and photos, plus occasional confusion about pickup and return transportation.

Key points to know before you book

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - Key points to know before you book

  • Two 45-minute activities: Choose two from ATV, WaveRunner, speedboat, or parasailing.
  • ATV route: Ride through jungle trails before reaching small sand dunes where the pace can pick up.
  • Guided water time: WaveRunners and speedboats follow a route along the bay, rather than letting you roam alone.
  • Beach-club stop: Included food, nonalcoholic drinks, and access to Maroma Beach add value beyond the motorized activities.
  • Extra charges: Bring cash for the $15 marina fee and consider the $10 locker charge, plus possible photo and damage-waiver costs.
  • Age and weight rules: Children must be at least 6 to participate, drivers must be at least 16, and weight limits apply.

What your two-hour Maroma adventure looks like

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - What your two-hour Maroma adventure looks like

This is a compact activity day built around a simple choice. You select two of four options offered through the program: ATV, WaveRunner, speedboat, or parasailing. The supplied details describe the main combination as two 45-minute activities, giving you roughly 90 minutes of active time within an outing of about two hours.

Before each activity, allow about 15 minutes for safety instructions. You receive protective equipment, and the activities are guided. That matters if you have never driven an ATV or personal watercraft. Guides such as Jorge, David, Pedro, Eduardo, and Steve have been singled out for clear instructions, good humor, and close attention to first-time drivers.

The schedule can feel tight. Food and drinks are included, but your eating time may depend on when your activities finish and when the kitchen closes. If you want the included meal, confirm the pickup and activity schedule in advance rather than assuming you can eat whenever you like.

More ATV and Buggy Tours in Playa del Carmen:

ATV trails from jungle paths to sand dunes

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - ATV trails from jungle paths to sand dunes

The ATV portion begins with a guided ride through the wooded interior of the Maroma Beach area. The first part of the route is on a road, which gives you time to get used to the controls before the surface becomes bumpier.

The route then moves onto jungle trails and small sand dunes. That change in terrain is what gives this ride more character than a basic vehicle loop. You get a little practice, then a rougher section where the ride feels more active. Some groups may have a chance to switch drivers between the earlier and more uneven sections.

The ATV ride is not a long expedition. Its strength is variety rather than distance. In 45 minutes, you get a taste of driving on firm ground, rough tracks, and sand. If you are looking for several hours of off-road riding, this will feel short. If you want to combine an ATV with a water activity, the length is sensible.

Take the safety briefing seriously. The sand can be soft, and the route includes curves and uneven ground. The minimum age to drive alone is 16, and a handling test is required. A passenger can be as young as 6, subject to the operator’s rules, but parents should think carefully about the child’s size, comfort, and ability to hold on.

The activity is not a good choice if you have limited mobility, back problems, a recent surgery, or a pregnancy. The route can be bumpy, and the operator specifically recommends choosing a lower-impact activity in those cases.

WaveRunner and speedboat time on Maroma Bay

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - WaveRunner and speedboat time on Maroma Bay

The WaveRunner is the most hands-on water choice. You operate the machine while following a guide along the bay. The route is guided, with time set aside for safety instructions before you head out.

Expect a controlled group ride rather than a completely free-form outing. The guide leads the route and may use turns and zigzags to keep the group together. The water can also bring real motion. Strong waves may make the ride more exciting, though rain and rough conditions can reduce visibility and comfort.

First-time drivers should appreciate the structure. Guides named Pedro and Eduardo have been praised for keeping an eye on less experienced riders, and the safety process is a clear part of the experience. You should still drive within your comfort level. A WaveRunner is fun because it responds quickly, not because you need to push it as hard as possible.

The speedboat option offers a different kind of thrill. You ride with the group along the bay instead of handling the craft in the same way as a WaveRunner. It suits couples, families, or friends who want speed and sea views without each person needing to operate a personal watercraft.

Mechanical problems are possible with any motorized water activity. One reported speedboat lost power during the later part of a ride, apparently in an area with seaweed, and eventually returned to the dock. That kind of problem may be unusual, but it is a reminder to signal the guide clearly if your boat has trouble.

Parasailing for a quieter view from above

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - Parasailing for a quieter view from above

Parasailing is the calmer choice among the listed options. Instead of bouncing over trails or driving across the water, you get a view from above the bay. It can be a good fit if one person in your group wants a scenic activity and another wants something more physical.

The supplied schedule gives the clearest detail for ATV, WaveRunner, and speedboat combinations. Parasailing is listed as one of the choices, but its exact launch sequence and time should be confirmed when you book. You still receive safety guidance and equipment as part of the activity program.

If you are deciding between parasailing and a WaveRunner, think about the kind of day you want. Parasailing is about height and views. The WaveRunner is about control, speed, and movement on the water. The two choices create very different memories even though both use the same coastal setting.

A different kind of day out along the same coast:

Maroma Beach adds value to the package

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - Maroma Beach adds value to the package

The beach-club access helps make the $150 price easier to judge. You are not paying only for two short motorized activities. You also get access to Maroma Beach, food, and nonalcoholic drinks, with a buffet-style meal available according to the schedule.

The food has been a strong point, especially the barbecue and ice cream. The beach-club staff have also been praised for friendly service, and the setting gives you a place to slow down after the ATV dust or salt spray.

Still, do not assume you are booking a full beach day. The activity itself is listed at about two hours, and the exact free time depends on pickup, safety briefings, activity timing, and meal service. If you want long hours on the sand, check the schedule carefully and ask when you can use the beach facilities.

The food service also has a closing time. One group had to hurry to eat because the kitchen closed in the late afternoon. If you book a later departure, confirm whether your meal comes before or after the activities and plan around the kitchen hours.

Transportation is useful, but confirm every detail

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - Transportation is useful, but confirm every detail

Roundtrip transportation is offered from most centrally located hotels in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya. Pickup time depends on your hotel, so the time shown during booking may not tell the whole story.

This is one area where you should take charge. Confirm the pickup location, time, vehicle arrangement, and return plan before the day of the activity. Some people have had trouble finding the correct meeting point in Playa del Carmen, while others have faced a long wait for the return ride.

The return may be shared, even if the outbound ride feels more private. A shared van can also stop at another resort, adding time to the trip. Uber service is not available to rely on in that area, so do not leave without knowing how and when you will get back.

If you are staying at a resort, hotel pickup is the better choice. A town meeting point can work, but only if the instructions are clear and the operator confirms them. Save the contact number and ask the hotel desk for help if the pickup instructions seem inconsistent.

The real price is closer to $150 plus extras

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - The real price is closer to $150 plus extras

The advertised price is $150 per person. For a compact combination of two activities, transportation, beach access, food, drinks, guides, and insurance, that can be fair for a visitor who wants convenience.

The extra charges change the calculation:

  • Marina fee: $15 per person, paid in cash on arrival
  • Locker and key: $10
  • Souvenir photos and videos: sold separately
  • Optional ATV damage insurance: reported at about $20 per ATV
  • Tips: not required in the supplied inclusions, but you may want cash for good guides and staff

Photos deserve special attention. Phones and cameras may need to be stored before the activities, and personal photography during the rides is not permitted for safety reasons. The on-site photo packages can be expensive, with individual prices and larger packages reported at levels that surprised many people.

Bring a GoPro only if the operator confirms that it is allowed and safe for your selected activity. Do not count on using your phone while riding. If the photos matter to you, ask for the exact package price before you go, not after the photographer has already taken the pictures.

What to wear and what to pack

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - What to wear and what to pack

Wear swimwear or beach clothes, plus comfortable shoes for the ATV route. A light jacket helps during the boat ride, especially if rain or wind moves in.

Pack a towel, sunglasses, a change of clothes, and extra cash. You will need cash for the marina fee, and you may want money for photos, souvenirs, locker arrangements, or tips. Keep anything you do not need for the activity in the locker, but remember that the locker charge is separate.

Rain can affect the day. The experience requires good weather, and poor conditions may lead to a new date or a full refund. If rain begins after the activity starts, conditions may simply make the ride wetter and less comfortable. Bring dry clothes even when the forecast looks friendly.

The maximum group size is 15 people. That is small enough for a guided structure, but you should still expect to follow the pace and route set by the team rather than choose your own schedule.

Safety, ages, and who should choose this

Most people can participate, but the driving rules matter. The minimum age is 6, while independent ATV or WaveRunner operation begins at 16 and requires a handling test. A 17-year-old may be allowed to drive, but parents should not treat the age rule as a guarantee that every teenager is ready for a bumpy sand route or powerful watercraft.

A serious accident on an ATV has also occurred, including a leg injury after a vehicle flipped on a sandy curve. That does not mean the route is unsafe by definition, but it does show why speed, terrain, and age should be taken seriously. Follow the guide, slow down on soft sand, and do not let a teenager drive alone simply because the minimum age allows it.

The best match is an active couple, a family with older children, or a group of friends who want two different kinds of excitement in one booking. It is less suitable for anyone who wants a slow beach day, dislikes guided group activities, or needs a low-impact outing.

Should you book this Maroma combo?

I would book it if you want a convenient half-day-style activity with real variety. The strongest combination is ATV plus WaveRunner for people who want both off-road driving and hands-on water time. ATV plus speedboat works well for a mixed group, while parasailing gives you a less physical alternative.

I would pause before booking if you are sensitive to hidden costs or need exact transportation timing. Add the marina fee, locker, possible damage waiver, and photo budget before deciding if $150 feels right.

Book with pickup from your hotel, confirm the return ride, ask about the meal schedule, and bring cash. With those details settled, this is a lively way to pair Maroma Beach with two guided activities without spending a full day moving between separate tour operators.

FAQ

How much does the ATV and water activity experience cost?

The listed price is $150 per person. A $15 marina fee is also charged in cash on arrival, while lockers, photos, souvenirs, and any optional ATV damage insurance cost extra.

How long does the experience last?

The experience lasts approximately two hours. Each of the two selected activities lasts 45 minutes, with about 15 minutes of safety instruction for each activity.

Which activities can I choose?

You can select two activities from ATV, WaveRunner, speedboat, or parasailing. Confirm the exact combination available when booking.

Is hotel pickup included?

Roundtrip transportation is included from most centrally located hotels in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya. Pickup time depends on your hotel, so confirm the details before the activity.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum participation age is 6. The minimum age to drive an ATV or WaveRunner alone is 16, and a handling test is required.

Is food included?

Yes. Food and nonalcoholic drinks are included, along with access to Maroma Beach. Meal timing may depend on your activity schedule and kitchen hours.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, beachwear, comfortable shoes, a light jacket for the boat ride, a change of clothes, sunglasses, a towel, and extra cash for fees and souvenirs.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made within 24 hours are not refundable, though poor weather may result in a new date or a full refund.

More like this

Playa del Carmen ATV and Buggy Tours, compared.

The full Playa del Carmen ATV and Buggy Tours list →
From Playa del Carmen ATV Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 2,041 reviews· from $49

From Playa del Carmen ATV Adventure with Ziplines, Cenote

Read our review →
Playa del Carmen Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim and Mayan Village Visit
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 1,747 reviews· from $99

Playa del Carmen Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim and Mayan Village Visit

Read our review →
Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen Including Cenote Swim
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 1,253 reviews· from $110

Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen Including Cenote Swim

Read our review →
Playa del Carmen: Riviera Maya Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim
★★★★★★★★★★4.8· 496 reviews· from $105

Playa del Carmen: Riviera Maya Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim

Read our review →
Riviera Maya Jungle Half-Day Tour: ATV, Ziplines, Cenote Swim, Rappel
★★★★★★★★★★4.5· 339 reviews· from $127

Riviera Maya Jungle Half-Day Tour: ATV, Ziplines, Cenote Swim, Rappel

Read our review →
Maya Adrenaline Tulum: Cenote + 5 Ziplining + ATV Adventure
★★★★★★★★★★4.5· 328 reviews· from $99

Maya Adrenaline Tulum: Cenote + 5 Ziplining + ATV Adventure

Read our review →
ATV or Speed Boat or Wave Runner with Beach Club In Riviera Maya
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 315 reviews· from $85

ATV or Speed Boat or Wave Runner with Beach Club In Riviera Maya

Read our review →
Playa Del Carmen: Cenote & Mayan Village Tour by Buggy
★★★★★★★★★★4.8· 310 reviews· from $116

Playa Del Carmen: Cenote & Mayan Village Tour by Buggy

Read our review →
Scroll to Top

The Riviera Maya, end to end

Pick a cenote, a ruin or a stretch of reef.