On the water
Mariachi, vendors and etiquette
What to expect from mariachi boats and vendors on the Xochimilco canals, what the party boat ticket does not cover, and the rules afloat.
Book the Xochimilco party boat ↗Quick answer
Mariachi songs, souvenirs and drinks bought from vendors are not part of the party boat ticket and are paid for separately. Music on the boat plays from a speaker at no extra cost, and live music comes only through independent vendors. Bring cash, keep the boat seated, keep your rubbish aboard and ask your hosts how things work on the day.
Boats that sell things
The canals are a working tourist area. Wikipedia pictures mariachis playing for tourists on the canals, and the party boat's booking page says guests will see mariachi boats among the floating gardens. Vendors pole their own boats alongside trajineras with food, drinks, souvenirs and music. The organiser's list of what is not included names mariachi songs, souvenirs and drinks purchased independently, so each of these is an optional extra between you and the vendor.
What the ticket covers and what it does not
The ticket covers the ride, unlimited tequila, beer, soft drinks and water, a traditional Mexican dish, games, music on board, souvenirs from the hosts and restrooms at the dock and the island. It does not cover personal expenses or optional purchases, mariachi songs, souvenirs or drinks bought independently, or transport to the meeting point. The island stop is an independent restaurant, so extra food or drinks cost more there. Cash is on the organiser's list of things to bring.
Music, live and recorded
The booking page says music is played on board through a speaker for the whole ride, and that live music may be available through independent vendors. Mexico City's tourism site, which describes public boats, says loud music is banned there apart from the operators' speakers. In practice that means the speaker on your boat is the default, and a mariachi band is something you choose to add. If you want a song, agree what it covers with the band before they start.
Rules afloat
Mexico City's tourism site lists the rules for public boats: stay seated, do not jump or walk to other boats, keep hands and feet inside, do not tie boats together or block others, keep rubbish on board and use only the designated restrooms. Life vests are provided, and anyone who declines one signs a release. The party boat's own booking page bans fishing, snorkelling, fireworks, diving and audio recording. Treat both lists as a reminder that the canals are shared.
Alcohol and behaviour
The tourism site says visibly intoxicated passengers are reported to the tourism desk on each public boat, and that alcohol brought aboard is limited. A booked party boat supplies its own drinks, so the limits mostly matter if you buy extra from vendors. Pace yourself on a ride that lasts two to two and a half hours, drink the water that is included and look after the people in your group, especially near the edge of the boat.
Photos and people
Audio recording is not allowed on the party boat, according to its booking page, and photos are encouraged at the chinampa island stop. Vendors and boatmen are people at work, so ask before you photograph one. Keep your phone secure near the water.
Who this isn't for
This guide is not a price list. Rates for songs, flowers and food change, and they depend on the vendor, so settle each one before it starts.
Frequently asked questions
Does the ticket include a mariachi band?
No. Mariachi songs are excluded from the party boat ticket and paid for separately. Music on the boat plays from a speaker at no extra cost.
Should I bring cash?
Yes. The organiser lists cash among the things to bring, for mariachi songs, souvenirs and extra food or drinks.
Can I use my own speaker?
Mexico City's tourism site says loud music is banned on public boats apart from the operators' speakers. On the party boat, music comes from the hosts' speaker, so ask your hosts.
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