Before you go
Getting to Xochimilco
How visitors reach Xochimilco from central Mexico City: Metro to Tasqueña, the light rail to the Xochimilco terminus, and the landings beyond it.
Book the Xochimilco party boat ↗Quick answer
Mexico City's tourism site says most international visitors reach Xochimilco by the light rail station, reached from Metro Tasqueña. The light rail runs between Tasqueña and the town of Xochimilco. The party boat ticket does not include transport, so you get yourself to the meeting point, which depends on the option you choose, and arrive ten minutes before the start.
Metro to Tasqueña, then the light rail
Mexico City's tourism site says most international visitors reach Xochimilco by the light rail station, which is reached from Metro Tasqueña. Wikipedia describes the light rail, locally called El Tren Ligero, as running between Metro Tasqueña and the town of Xochimilco, with Tasqueña connecting to the Metro. Its outer terminus is the station called Xochimilco. Wikipedia notes that the terminus was originally called Embarcadero and was renamed Xochimilco.
From the station to the landings
The station is not at the water. The tourism site says people near the station may approach you, that each is paid by a particular landing, and that they can answer questions but you should check which landing they represent. It names several landings as launch points, including Cuemanco. Wikipedia also mentions the Cuemanco docks and the Salitre landing. Look at a map before you leave, because the landings are spread across the borough.
If you have a booked boat
The party boat does not include transport to the meeting point, and guests make their own way. Where you gather may differ by option, and the details appear once you check a date. Check-in takes place ten minutes before the start, under the grey arches where the guide waits, and the hosts wait up to 15 minutes after the start time before the ride goes ahead without you. Allow for the distance from central Mexico City.
Allow for the distance
Xochimilco lies in the south of the city, at the end of a light rail line that starts at Tasqueña. The sensible plan is to leave early and treat the booked check-in time as a deadline rather than a target. Choose a start time from the calendar that gives you room to arrive, find the arches and settle in before the first drinks come out.
What to carry
The organiser suggests a camera, comfortable clothes, cash and hand sanitiser or tissues. Cash matters because mariachi songs, souvenirs and anything bought from passing vendors are paid for separately, and the island stop is an independent restaurant. The ride runs rain or shine, on covered boats, so the clothes are about comfort rather than the forecast.
Getting home
Nothing is arranged for the return. The booking page says you finish at one of two drop-off locations, depending on the option you choose, and that transport is not part of the ticket. Plan your way back before the ride starts, and keep in mind that you will have been drinking, which is a reason to prefer public transport or a booked taxi over driving.
Who this isn't for
This guide covers public transport and the booked party boat only. It does not give timetables, fares or walking routes, which change, so check them on the day.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Xochimilco by public transport?
Mexico City's tourism site says most international visitors use the light rail station, reached from Metro Tasqueña. Wikipedia says the light rail runs between Tasqueña and the town of Xochimilco.
Is transport included in the party boat ticket?
No. Guests get themselves to the start. The booking calendar gives the starting point for the option and date you pick.
Which landing does the party boat use?
It can differ by option. Check a date to see the details, then wait under the grey arches where the guide meets the group.
Sources