The state of Yucatán has a broad coastline, from Celestún to El Cuyo. It passes through Sisal, Chelem, Progreso, Chicxulub, Telchac Puerto, and more; not to mention all the cenotes and water springs that are all over the state. You can enjoy the tranquil beaches, ideal for soaking up some sun, walking in the soft sand, and resting; or explore your adventurous side and take a tour in a kayak, practice kitesurfing, and even diving. Would you like to know what you can do in the waters of Yucatán?
Boat tours. For those who enjoy nature, on the boardwalks and piers of the main towns (Progreso, Sisal, Celestún, Río Lagartos, among others), you can arrange a boat tour to float through the mangroves, enjoying the beauty of the birds, the vegetation, and the fauna. It’s a unique experience, with your guide explaining the amazing variety of birds and animals that you can see.
Kayak sailing. Progreso, only 36 km from Mérida, has saltwater canals (the Ría) where you can experience an unforgettable adventure: kayaking with family or friends. You can get get up close to the exuberant vegetation, or watch a glorious sunset. You can hire an all inclusive tour from Mérida with transportation service (Mayan Ecotours), or just arrive at the kayak area and rent one with life jacket included: they will provide you with a short explanation of what to do. Normally the rentals are one hour long, a single kayak is $100 pesos and a double $200 pesos; the tour price is approximately $490 pesos per person. Open every day from 9 am to 6 pm.
Kitesurfing. Chuburná and the “playón” in Yucalpetén, because of their characteristics of shallow water and strong winds, are ideal for learning this extreme sport where your more adventurous side is required. Dare yourself and take your first private class, navigate on your board and feel the wind. We can assure you that it will be unforgettable! Hire a certified guide who can lend you their equipment and provide you with the necessary information, because using this kind of board correctly can take you many hours of training. Price per class: approx. $800 pesos. (Yuckite kitesurf, kiteboardyucatan.com, Alphakite)
Rowing and canoeing. Don’t miss the Pista Internacional de Remo y Canotaje (rowing and canoeing track) in Progreso. Best of all, there are free classes for the general public (check with [email protected]). Open from Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm.
Snorkeling and diving in cenotes and reefs. You can arrange packages with a specialized agency, rappel, snorkeling and diving in the cenotes of Homún and Cuzamá, among others. Verify that they are part of the “Asociación Mexicana de Buceo y Espeleobuceo” (Mexican dive and cave diving association), so you can receive the proper information about the equipment, breathing, and safety measures. (Yucatán Dive Altabrisa, www.yucatandivealtabrisa.com; Adventure Tours Dive Center,www.centrodebuceoyucatan.com)
Water park. Acuática Valladolid, close to downtown Valladolid, is a water park with slides, pools, and fun for the whole family. Entrance fee $30 pesos; complete package $120 pesos, includes entrance, beverages, and Yucatecan buffet. Open from 10 am to 6 pm.
Sport fishing. It’s also possible to do sport fishing on the Yucatecan coast. Ask about available packages and the equipment required. (Tarpon Town, Río Lagartos Adventures)
Sailing. You can practice your sailing at some of the marinas along the coast, fun for the whole family. (Marina Silcer, Félix Mier y Terán at Marina Dutton)
As you see, there are many options for aquatic activities, for every taste and option (family, couples, friends). Choose one or more from our recommendations during your visit to Yucatán, and let us know about your experience!
By Violeta H. Cantarell
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