Getting out on the water is the best way to see Montego Bay’s coast, and a catamaran trip is the classic way to do it. This cruise, run by Island Routes and sold on Viator with a 4.2 rating from 462 reviews, picks you up from your hotel and boards at Tropical Bliss Beach for a three-hour sail along the bay. The highlight is a snorkel stop of around 40 minutes off Doctor’s Cave Beach, part of the protected Montego Bay Marine Park, where reef fish swirl over coral in clear, shallow water; snorkel gear is supplied. After the swim, the party starts: reggae and dancehall on the sound system, an open bar, snacks, pastries and fruit on board, and a stop for lunch and drinks at Margaritaville on the Hip Strip. It is a cheerful, social trip and, at 18 and over, firmly adults-only. Recent reviews from September 2026 confirm it is sailing.
How it works: you give your hotel name at checkout and the operator confirms a pickup time, which varies by resort; the cruise itself starts at around 10am. Snorkel gear, transfers, snacks, the open bar, lunch at Margaritaville and gratuities are listed as included. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before. The minimum age is 18, so families with children should look at a family sailing instead.
What to expect: the boat sails along the coast with views back to the hills and the Hip Strip, then anchors for the snorkel stop. Unlimited drinks start after snorkelling, which is sensible, and the mood builds as the music goes up. The crew helps nervous snorkellers with vests and tips.
Making the most of it: use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a rash vest if you burn easily, and pace yourself at the bar in the heat. Bring a towel and a little cash for extra drinks or souvenirs. If you are seasick-prone, choose a calm morning and sit near the middle of the boat.
What to expect
The experience
A three-hour catamaran sail from Tropical Bliss Beach with a snorkel stop off Doctor’s Cave Beach, an open bar, snacks, music and lunch at Margaritaville.
Best time
Calm, sunny mornings give the clearest water for snorkelling; the winter dry season is the most reliable.
How long
About three hours on the water, plus hotel pickup and drop-off.
Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a towel, snorkel before you drink, and note that the minimum age is 18.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and groups of friends who want snorkelling and a party in one easy morning.
- Families
- Not suitable, because the cruise is for guests aged 18 and over; families should look for a family catamaran sailing.
- Couples
- Snorkel side by side over the reef, then dance on deck with a rum punch.
- Pair with
- An afternoon on the Hip Strip, since the cruise ends with lunch at Margaritaville.
- Time needed
- A morning.
Good questions
Is the catamaran cruise adults only?+
Yes, the minimum age is 18. Families with children should look for a family-friendly sailing.
Where do you snorkel?+
The snorkel stop is off Doctor’s Cave Beach, part of the Montego Bay Marine Park. You spend about 40 minutes in the water, and gear is supplied.
What is included?+
Hotel transfers, snorkel gear, snacks, an open bar after the snorkel stop, lunch and drinks at Margaritaville and gratuities are listed as included. Check the listing for any changes before you book.
Do I need to be a good swimmer?+
You should be comfortable in the water, but the crew supplies flotation vests and helps beginners. The snorkel area is clear and fairly shallow.
Is the cruise running in 2026?+
Yes, reviews from September 2026 confirm it is sailing. Book a few days ahead in the busy winter season.
