what's the best boat to rent?
Planning a getaway on the water in the Riviera Maya or anywhere along the Mexican Caribbean? One of the first choices you’ll need to make is whether to charter a yacht or a catamaran. Both offer unforgettable experiences, but they cater to different styles of travel, group sizes, and budgets. Find out which one is the best boat to rent.
Do you dream of a sleek, luxurious cruise with champagne in hand and high-speed cruising? A yacht might be your perfect match. Prefer a smooth, stable ride with plenty of space to lounge, dance, and soak in the sun? Then a catamaran could be the better fit.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between yachts and catamarans—covering comfort, cost, performance, and ideal occasions—to help you decide which vessel best suits your needs. Whether you’re planning a romantic sunset sail, a family outing, or a celebration with friends, knowing the pros and cons of each option will make your day at sea one to remember.
Yachts are designed for speed and agility, and are typically more maneuverable than catamarans. Catamarans, on the other hand, are known for their stability and comfort, making them ideal for laying out, dancing and spending time outside.
Yachts typically have a single, narrow hull, while catamarans have two parallel hulls, giving them a wider and more stable platform. The difference is that you are less likely to get seasick on a catamaran than a yacht.
A yacht has a more luxurious interior. While a catamaran’s interior is larger inside with a more open concept. It may be the best boat to rent for some.
What makes a catamaran the best boat to rent? Well, to start, most catamarans sail. They have the front and top sail, which allows them to travel with the wind.
The two hulls on each side of the boat allow it to cut through the water, keeping an overall flatter service that makes seasickness less likely. They have a larger rear space for seating, and more often now, we are even seeing beds on top of the vessels for more layout space.
In a catamaran you will usually have a coupld of interior bedrooms you can use for changing and bathrooms, sounds systems, and in the Riviera Maya, you will always have crew.
A motor catamaran it is a vessel that has not only the stability of a catamaran but also the strength of a yacht.
We present to you our Leopard 51ft Motor Catamaran.
This vessel can fit comfortably up to 30 people. Without a doubt, the Leopard 51ft combines the very best of a catamaran with the luxury and ease of a motor yacht.
This luxury vessel is ideal for gatherings of friends and family. Many motor yachts have two levels to layout, large interiors and exterior spaces.
This is one of the nicest and most expensive rental boats here in the Riviera Maya, Mexico.
This is one of the best boat to rent and a great compromise between a motor yacht and a catamaran.
The Leopard 51ft catamaran is equipped with a powerful sound system, crew, host, private chef and incredible service
For an even more amazing experience, upgrade to champagne, our floating pool that can be connected to the boat or a number of other goodies.
This comparison table highlights the key differences between catamarans, yachts, and motor catamarans to help you choose the best boat to rent for your next sea adventure. Whether you prioritize comfort, speed, or luxury, each vessel offers unique advantages.
Traditional catamarans are ideal for a smooth and fuel-efficient sailing experience, while yachts provide unmatched elegance and power. Motor catamarans combine the best of both worlds—stability with speed—making them a top choice for day charters or group excursions. Understanding these features can guide you to the perfect fit for your trip along the Riviera Maya or beyond.
Feature | Catamaran | Yacht | Motor Catamaran |
---|---|---|---|
Stability | Very stable, less rocking | Less stable, more sway | Very stable, excellent for comfort |
Speed | Slower, sail-powered | Fast, motor-powered | Fast, motor-powered |
Space & Layout | Wide deck, separate living areas | Compact but luxurious | Spacious and modern design |
Fuel Efficiency | Very high, wind-powered | Moderate to high usage | More efficient than yachts |
Ideal For | Families, relaxed cruising | Luxury trips, events | Day charters, groups, water sports |
Crew & Amenities | Comfortable, mid-size crew | Full-service luxury crew | Modern crew setups & equipment |