Reviewed · PLAYA DEL CARMEN QUAD BIKE TOURS

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing

★ 5.0 · 498 reviews 2 hours (approx.) From $150 Operated by Maroma Adventures · Bookable on Viator
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The best part of this Maroma Adventures outing is the quick change of scenery: you can bump along jungle ATV trails, then skim the Caribbean on a WaveRunner or speedboat. It is an active beach day, not a quiet shore visit, and the sand dunes add a more interesting finish to the ATV route.

I like the choice of two activities and the included beach-club meal. I also like that guides give safety instructions before each ride, with names such as Jorge, Pedro, Steve, and David singled out for making first-timers feel at ease. The main drawback is extra spending: expect a $15 marina fee, a $10 locker charge or deposit, and potentially steep photo prices.

Key points to know before you go

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

  • Two activities, 45 minutes each: Choose from ATV, WaveRunner, speedboat, and, depending on the booking option, parasailing.
  • ATVs go beyond a simple parking-lot circuit: The guided route enters the jungle, then reaches small sand dunes where you can pick up speed.
  • The water rides are guided: You follow the staff along Maroma Bay, with safety instruction and protective equipment first.
  • The beach club adds real value: Food, nonalcoholic drinks, and access to Maroma Beach are included.
  • Transportation needs attention: Pickup is offered from many Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya hotels, but pickup and return times have caused confusion.
  • Photos can cost more than expected: Phones and cameras may not be allowed during the activities, leaving you dependent on the paid photo service.

Two hours of action at Maroma Beach

This experience is built around a simple idea: choose two motorized activities and fit them into a short beach-club visit. The advertised price is $150 per person, and the active portion lasts about two hours, with roughly 45 minutes for each selected activity.

That makes the outing easy to fit into a Cancun or Playa del Carmen holiday. You are not committing an entire day to a long inland trip, yet you still get forest trails, sand, open water, and time to eat by the beach.

The schedule includes about 15 minutes of safety instruction before each activity. That matters if you have never handled an ATV or WaveRunner. You will receive protective equipment, hear the operating rules, and follow a guide rather than setting off alone into unfamiliar water or jungle routes.

The exact mix deserves attention when booking. The detailed activity plan describes ATV, WaveRunner, and speedboat choices, while the wider description also lists parasailing. If parasailing is your priority, confirm that it is available for your selected date and combination rather than assuming every option includes it.

A few more rides around Mexico worth a look

The ATV route, from jungle trail to sand dunes

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - The ATV route, from jungle trail to sand dunes

The ATV portion is the more physical half of the outing. You begin with a guided ride through trails inside the jungle, then continue toward small sand dunes. The route is not simply a straight run along the beach. It gives you a practice section before the rougher and faster parts.

That gradual start is useful for beginners. One account described the first section as a road-like practice route, followed by a bumpier part where riders could go faster. There was also an opportunity to switch drivers between sections, which helps couples or family members share the experience.

The dunes are the highlight for many people. They add loose sand, turns, and a little more challenge than a flat trail. If you enjoy handling a vehicle rather than sitting back and watching scenery, this is likely the stronger of the two activities.

Still, take the safety briefing seriously. A serious accident was reported when a teenage rider lost control on a steep curve in soft sand. The account also raised concerns about coconuts on the ground and the response immediately after the crash. That does not mean an accident is likely, but it does mean this is not a gentle amusement-park ride.

You need to be at least 16 to drive an ATV alone, and a handling test is required. Children as young as six can participate in the overall activity, but that does not mean they can operate a vehicle. If your teenager is inexperienced, ask about riding together and follow the guide’s instructions closely.

The ATV route can also be affected by weather. One rider began in heavy rain, with conditions improving after about 20 minutes. Wet sand and limited visibility can change the character of the ride, so bring a change of clothes and do not expect a polished, dry outing in poor weather.

WaveRunners and speedboats on Maroma Bay

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - WaveRunners and speedboats on Maroma Bay

The water options offer a different kind of fun. A WaveRunner puts you at the controls, while the speedboat gives you a shared ride on the bay. Both are guided outings, not free-roaming rentals.

The WaveRunner route follows a guide along the bay near Maroma Adventures. You can expect turns and zigzags rather than a long, independent journey. In choppy conditions, the ride can become lively, with waves giving you short bursts of lift and speed.

First-timers have found the instruction useful. Guides named Pedro and Eduardo were praised for watching less experienced riders closely, particularly in deeper water. That kind of attention is important because the sea can feel much bigger once you leave the dock.

The speedboat is a good choice if you want the water experience without operating a personal watercraft. It can also work well for a mixed-age group, though the exact seating and driving arrangement should be confirmed at the beach club.

One mechanical problem was reported with a speedboat that repeatedly lost power later in the ride. The guide suggested seaweed may have been involved, but the boat returned safely. This appears to be an isolated issue rather than a normal part of the outing, yet it is sensible to report any problem immediately rather than wait and hope it resolves itself.

Parasailing is listed among the available activity choices. The supplied itinerary gives far more detail about ATVs, WaveRunners, and speedboats than about parasailing, so treat it as an option that needs confirmation. If you want the aerial view most of all, check that your booking specifically names parasailing and ask how the two-activity choice works.

The beach club is more than a waiting area

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - The beach club is more than a waiting area

You get free access to Maroma Beach, plus food and nonalcoholic drinks. That changes the value of the package, especially if you plan to spend time at the property before or after the rides.

The food has received some of the strongest praise. The buffet has included barbecue, ice cream, and a broad selection with no stated limit. Several accounts describe the meal as a real benefit, not just a token snack. One person also described the food as authentic and enjoyable after the activities.

The beach club itself offers a chance to slow down between the rides. Staff at the bar have been described as friendly and attentive, and the grounds are reported to be well kept. You can make this feel like a half-day at the beach, though the formal activity period is only about two hours.

Pay attention to the kitchen hours. One schedule required an earlier pickup so the group could eat before the kitchen closed. Another person had to rush for food because the snack service ended around 5:30 p.m. Ask at check-in when the kitchen closes, especially if you book a late activity time.

Nonalcoholic drinks are included. Do not assume that a full alcoholic open bar is part of the package, even though one account used that phrase. The official inclusions specify food and no alcoholic beverages.

Transportation can make or break the day

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - Transportation can make or break the day

Roundtrip transportation is offered from many centrally located hotels in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya. Your pickup time depends on your hotel, so you should receive the exact details before the day of the activity.

This is where you need to be firm. Some pickup arrangements have gone smoothly, including private car service. Other people have waited in town because the pickup point or time was unclear, found phone numbers that did not work, or received no useful reply through the booking message system.

Book pickup from your actual hotel whenever possible. Do not casually choose a town meeting point unless you have clear written directions and a confirmed time. One person lost about an hour walking around Playa del Carmen while trying to locate the correct meeting place.

The return trip can also be shared rather than private. A long wait of about 90 minutes was reported, followed by a van ride that stopped at another resort and added roughly 45 minutes to the return. Uber was not available from the activity area in that account.

This does not cancel out the convenience of hotel transport, but it changes how you should plan the day. Avoid scheduling a flight, dinner reservation, or another tour too soon afterward. Before you leave the beach club, ask when and where the return vehicle will depart.

Extra charges and the real price

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - Extra charges and the real price

At $150 per person, the package is not cheap. It includes two motorized activities, transportation, beach access, equipment, guides, insurance, food, and drinks. If you would otherwise pay separately for an ATV trip, a water ride, a beach club, and lunch, the bundle can make sense.

The extra charges are the catch. The marina fee is listed as $15, paid in cash on arrival. Lockers and keys are listed at $10, though one account describes a refundable security deposit. Confirm the current locker arrangement at check-in and bring cash.

Optional insurance for damage to an ATV may cost another $20 per ATV. Read the terms before deciding. The included insurance does not necessarily mean every type of equipment damage is covered.

Photos are the most common source of price shock. Phones and cameras may need to stay in a locker for safety, and the staff photographer follows the activities. Photo packages have been reported at prices ranging from about $50 for one image to $65 for a set, with one group quoted $200 for photos and video.

If having pictures matters to you, ask about the price before riding. The rules may prevent you from using your own phone or GoPro during the activity, and rain can stop photographers from sending out images. A GoPro may be useful only if staff allow it, so confirm the policy rather than bringing it into a prohibited area.

Tips may also be expected for several teams, including ATV guides, water-ride staff, and beach-club workers. Tipping is discretionary, but keeping small bills available makes the day easier.

Who will enjoy this combination

ATV with Speedboat, Waverunner, or Parasailing - Who will enjoy this combination

This outing suits you if you want variety and a little adrenaline without spending a full day away from the coast. Couples can split the driving, families with older children can choose activities together, and first-time riders get instruction before setting off.

It is especially good for people who like active sightseeing. You get jungle trails, loose sand, sea air, a meal, and beach time in one compact package. Guides such as Jorge, Steve, Pedro, Eduardo, and David have been praised for clear instruction and upbeat handling of nervous beginners, though staff assignments can change.

The experience is less suitable if you want a quiet beach day, guaranteed punctual transport, or a low-cost activity with no add-ons. It is also a poor fit if you have limited mobility, back problems, a recent surgery, or are pregnant. The operator advises choosing a lower-impact activity in those cases.

The maximum group size is 15 people, which is small enough to avoid a huge excursion crowd on paper. The water rides remain guided, so you should not expect complete freedom to set your own route or speed.

What to wear and pack

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

Wear swimwear or beachwear, plus comfortable shoes for the ATV route. A light jacket helps on the boat ride, and a towel is useful after the water activity.

Bring a change of clothes, sunglasses, and extra cash for the marina fee, locker, tips, and possible photos. If the day is wet, you will be glad to have dry clothes for the ride back to your hotel.

You will likely store valuables before the activities. Ask about locker pricing and access before handing over your phone, wallet, or camera. If you are traveling as a family, one locker may be too small for everyone’s belongings.

The weather policy is straightforward: if poor weather forces cancellation, you should be offered another date or a full refund. If you cancel yourself, do so at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes within 24 hours are not refunded.

Should you book this Maroma combo?

I would book it if you want two different kinds of action and can accept a few extra costs. The ATV route has more character than a basic flat circuit, the WaveRunner outing can be genuinely exciting, and the included meal and beach access make the $150 easier to justify.

I would book directly with a clear hotel pickup, confirm the return plan, and ask about the exact second activity, especially if you want parasailing. I would also confirm marina, locker, damage insurance, and photo charges before arrival.

Skip it if you need a relaxed, tightly timed day or if anyone in your group has health or mobility concerns that make bumpy ATV riding and water activity unwise. For active couples, families with responsible older teenagers, and first-timers who want friendly instruction, this is a strong but not bargain-priced choice.

FAQ

How long does the activity last?

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

Which activities can I choose?

The options include ATVs, WaveRunners, speedboats, and, depending on the booking option, parasailing. Confirm the exact combination available for your date.

Is hotel transportation included?

Roundtrip transportation is included from many centrally located hotels in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya. Pickup time depends on your hotel.

Is food included?

Yes. Food and nonalcoholic drinks are included, along with access to Maroma Beach. Alcoholic beverages are not listed as included.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age to participate is six. You must be at least 16 to ride an ATV or other vehicle alone, and a handling test is required.

Do I need to bring cash?

Yes. Bring cash for the $15 marina fee, listed as payable on arrival, plus lockers, tips, and optional photos. An ATV damage insurance option may also cost extra.

Can I take my own photos during the activities?

Phones and cameras may not be allowed during the rides for safety reasons. Staff photographers may take pictures, but those images are sold separately and can be expensive.

What happens if bad weather cancels the tour?

If the operator cancels because of poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. If you cancel, you must do so at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

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