Catamaran Manufacturer in Mexico: Inside the Contoy Boats Factory

In Progreso, Yucatan, Mexico, the Contoy Catamarans factory builds commercial vessels designed for tour operators, excursion companies and marine tourism businesses.

With more than 20 years of experience in the marine industry, **Servicios Nauticos de Mexico** specializes in the design and manufacturing of fiberglass boats and catamarans, from mid-size vessels to high-capacity commercial passenger catamarans.

This is where every Contoy begins — from the first stages of construction to the moment she enters the water and starts her journey toward her final destination.

A Catamaran Factory in Yucatan, Mexico

Our catamaran factory is located in Progreso, Yucatan, on Mexico's Gulf Coast with direct sea access toward the Caribbean.

This is where the Contoy range of sailing and power catamarans is manufactured, with vessels developed primarily for day charter, excursions and commercial passenger operations.

The manufacturing process includes mold preparation, fiberglass lamination, hull and deck construction, structural work, electrical and mechanical installations, finishing, equipment installation and sea trials.

Each vessel is the result of the coordinated work of engineers, technicians and skilled boatbuilding professionals.

Commercial Catamarans Built to Work

Contoy was not created simply to build recreational boats.

Our catamarans are designed primarily for **companies that work on the water every day**.

Tour operators, excursion companies, hotels, resorts and day-charter businesses need vessels capable of carrying passengers efficiently while supporting the demands of frequent commercial operation.

For this reason, our designs consider passenger capacity, circulation areas, maintenance requirements, structural strength, ease of operation and efficient use of onboard space.

Today, we manufacture different Contoy commercial catamaran models, with configurations capable of carrying up to 200 passengers, depending on the model and applicable certification.

From a Boat Factory in Mexico to the Caribbean

One of the most distinctive parts of the Contoy story begins after construction is complete.

Our catamarans don't simply leave the factory — they sail to their final destinations.

After completing the corresponding construction, testing and sea-trial processes, Contoy Catamarans have departed Yucatan by sea to begin their commercial lives in destinations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean.

Today, Contoy vessels operate in destinations including **Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Aruba, Jamaica, St. Lucia and St. Vincent, among others.

That means some Contoy Catamarans have already traveled thousands of nautical miles after leaving our factory — sometimes before beginning their first day of commercial operation.

Built in Mexico. Proven at sea. Operating across the Caribbean.

Fiberglass Boat and Catamaran Manufacturing

Building a commercial passenger vessel requires much more than a good-looking design.

Materials, lamination processes, engineering, weight distribution, propulsion and onboard systems must work together as one complete platform.

Our experience is particularly focused on **fiberglass boat and catamaran manufacturing**, using composite construction processes adapted to the structural and operational requirements of each vessel.

From the first work on the molds to the moment the finished boat touches the water, every stage transforms raw materials and components into a vessel ready to navigate.

High-Capacity Passenger Catamaran Manufacturer

One of Contoy's specialties is the development of large commercial catamarans for passenger operations.

Our range includes sailing and power configurations developed around the needs of professional tour operators, with different models designed for operations carrying approximately 60 to 200 passengers, depending on configuration and certification.

These are vessels designed around a business operation: moving passengers, simplifying onboard service, providing usable deck space and supporting frequent operation.

For a tour operator, a commercial catamaran is more than a boat.

It is part of the business.

 Where Are Contoy Catamarans Manufactured?

Contoy Catamarans are manufactured by Servicios Nauticos de Mexico in Progreso, Yucatan, Mexico.

From our Mexican boat factory, we build vessels for both domestic and international clients.

Our location near the Gulf of Mexico allows our catamarans to be built and prepared close to the sea, undergo testing and then begin their journey toward their destination.

For Caribbean operators in particular, that geography has become part of the Contoy story.

A Mexican Boat Manufacturer Behind Every Contoy

Behind every photograph of a Contoy Catamaran operating in the Caribbean is another story.

The story of how she was built.

Fiberglass hulls coming out of molds. Structures taking shape. Teams working across the deck. Engines being installed. Electrical and mechanical systems coming online. Sea trials. And finally, a completed vessel leaving Yucatan under her own power.

That is Servicios Nauticos de Mexico and Contoy Catamarans.

A boat and catamaran manufacturer in Mexico building commercial vessels for companies that depend on their boats every day.

From our factory in Progreso to tour operations across Mexico and the Caribbean:

Built in Mexico. Proven at sea. Built for business.

Choosing a 60-passenger commercial catamaran is very different from choosing a recreational boat. For a tour operator, the vessel is a working asset expected to carry passengers safely, operate consistently and support a profitable tourism operation.

Passenger capacity is important, but it is only the beginning.

A commercial operator should also evaluate the vessel's layout, propulsion, passenger flow, maintenance requirements, operating environment and suitability for the type of excursions the company intends to offer.

For companies operating snorkeling tours, coastal excursions, private group charters and day trips, a commercial catamaran in the 60-passenger category can provide an attractive balance between capacity and operational flexibility.

What Is a 60-Passenger Commercial Catamaran?A 60-passenger commercial catamaran is a multihull vessel designed or configured to transport groups of passengers as part of a commercial operation.

Unlike a private recreational catamaran, a vessel intended for tour operations must be considered from the perspective of repeated daily use.
Depending on the operator and destination, these vessels may be used for:

• Day charter excursions
• Snorkeling tours
• Coastal sightseeing
• Island tours
• Beach excursions
• Sunset cruises
• Private group charters
• Resort and hotel excursions
• Marine tourism activities

The ideal configuration depends on the business model.
A snorkeling operator, for example, may prioritize easy access to the water and open passenger areas. An operator focused on private groups may place greater emphasis on comfort, social spaces and the overall passenger experience.

Is a 60-Passenger Catamaran a Good Size for a Tour Operator?
For many tourism businesses, approximately 60 passengers represents an interesting commercial category.

It provides considerably more capacity than a small charter boat while remaining more compact than the large 100-, 150- or 200-passenger platforms used by high-volume excursion companies.
This can make the category particularly relevant for operators serving:

• Hotels and resorts
• Cruise destinations
• Snorkeling excursions
• Island destinations
• Private events
• Coastal tourism
• Medium-sized tour operations

The correct vessel size, however, should always be based on expected passenger demand rather than maximum capacity alone.

A larger boat is not automatically a better investment.

Operators should consider expected occupancy, ticket price, number of departures, fuel consumption, crew requirements, maintenance and the characteristics of the destination before determining the appropriate vessel capacity.

What Should a Tour Operator Look for in a Commercial Catamaran?
1. Passenger FlowCommercial boats need to move people efficiently.
Operators should evaluate how passengers embark, move through the vessel, access seating areas and enter or exit the water.
Poor passenger circulation can become a significant operational problem when the boat performs several excursions per day.

2. Usable Deck SpaceA boat may technically accommodate a certain number of passengers without providing the experience an operator wants to sell.
Usable deck space matters.
Tour operators should evaluate seating, circulation areas, shade, access points and spaces where passengers naturally gather during an excursion.

3. Propulsion
Propulsion should be evaluated according to the actual operation.
Important considerations include:

• Typical route distance
• Desired cruising speed
• Fuel availability
• Maintenance infrastructure
• Number of daily departures
• Local service availability
• Operating environment

There is no propulsion configuration that is universally correct for every commercial operation.

4. Maintenance
Commercial vessels accumulate operating hours much faster than most recreational boats.
Accessibility to systems and equipment should therefore be considered before purchasing a vessel.
Downtime can directly affect revenue.
A commercial boat should be evaluated not only according to how it performs during a sea trial, but also according to how practical it will be to operate and maintain over years of service.

5. Passenger Experience
The boat itself is part of the tourism product.
Passengers remember whether they had enough space, shade and comfort, whether entering the water was easy and whether the vessel felt appropriate for the experience they purchased.
For this reason, the design of a commercial catamaran can directly influence customer satisfaction.

Why Are Catamarans Popular for Day Charter Operations?
Catamarans have become widely used in marine tourism because their wide beam can provide substantial usable deck area and passenger space.

For commercial operators, this architecture can be particularly useful for activities centered around groups and social interaction.

Depending on the vessel's configuration, commercial catamarans can work well for snorkeling, sightseeing, private events, coastal excursions and day charter operations.
The two-hull configuration also creates design possibilities that differ considerably from traditional monohull passenger vessels.

Introducing the Contoy 48 NovaOne example in this category is the Contoy 48 Nova, a 48-foot commercial catamaran developed by Contoy Boats for tourism and day charter operations.
The platform has been designed for operations carrying up to approximately 60 passengers, depending on the final configuration, certification and applicable local regulations.
The Contoy 48 Nova uses outboard propulsion and is intended for operators looking for a commercial platform for group excursions and marine tourism.

Contoy Boats is the commercial catamaran line manufactured by Servicios Náuticos de México in Yucatán, Mexico, where the company has built commercial catamarans for tour operators operating in Mexico and destinations throughout the Caribbean. The company specializes in commercial tourism platforms rather than adapting recreational catamarans for high-capacity excursion use.

60 vs. 150 vs. 200 Passengers: When Should an Operator Go Larger? A 60-passenger vessel is not appropriate for every business. High-volume destinations may require significantly greater passenger capacity.

Within the Contoy commercial range, larger platforms have been developed for these types of operations:
Contoy 48 Nova — up to approximately 60 passengers
Designed for medium-capacity tourism and day charter operations.
Contoy 70 Sail — up to approximately 150 passengers
A larger sailing catamaran platform developed for high-volume excursion operations.
Contoy 70 Party — up to approximately 200 passengers
A high-capacity commercial platform with a double-deck configuration designed for large tourism and entertainment operations.

The right choice depends primarily on the operator's passenger volume, excursion format and business model.

What Questions Should You Ask Before Buying a 60-Passenger Catamaran?Before requesting a quotation, an operator should be able to answer several questions:

• How many passengers do we realistically expect per departure?
• How many departures will the vessel make each day?
• What distances will it normally travel?
• Will the operation focus on snorkeling, sightseeing, parties or private groups?
• What propulsion system makes sense for the destination?
• What maintenance infrastructure is available locally?
• What passenger amenities are important for our market?
• What commercial regulations apply in the country where the vessel will operate?

These answers are often more important than simply comparing boat length or engine horsepower.
Where Are Contoy Catamarans Manufactured?Contoy commercial catamarans are manufactured by Servicios Náuticos de México in Yucatán, Mexico.

The company has more than a decade of experience building commercial catamarans for tourism operations, with vessels operating in Mexico and different destinations throughout the Caribbean.
Its commercial range includes platforms developed for approximately 60, 150 and 200 passengers.

Can Contoy Catamarans Be Delivered to Caribbean Destinations?
Contoy catamarans have been built for operators in different Caribbean destinations.

Because each project, route and destination is different, delivery logistics should be evaluated as part of the purchasing process.

Factors including distance, vessel configuration, documentation, destination and local regulations can affect how a new commercial vessel is transferred into operation.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good catamaran size for 60 passengers?
A vessel around the 48-foot commercial catamaran category can be suitable for approximately 60 passengers when specifically designed and certified for that type of operation. Passenger capacity ultimately depends on the vessel, configuration, certification and regulations applicable at its destination.

Are catamarans good for commercial tour operations?
They can be. Their beam and available deck area make catamarans particularly useful for many group tourism activities, including snorkeling, sightseeing, day charter and private excursions.

What is the best commercial catamaran for a tour operator?
There is no single best vessel for every operator. The appropriate commercial catamaran depends on passenger demand, route, excursion type, local regulations, propulsion requirements, operating costs and the desired passenger experience.

Who manufactures commercial passenger catamarans in Mexico?
Servicios Náuticos de México manufactures Contoy commercial catamarans in Yucatán, Mexico. The Contoy range includes vessels developed for tour operators and commercial marine tourism.

Does Contoy build catamarans larger than 60 passengers?
Yes. In addition to its approximately 60-passenger platform, the Contoy commercial range includes larger platforms such as the Contoy 70 Sail and Contoy 70 Party for high-capacity tourism operations.

Looking for a Commercial Catamaran for Your Tour Operation? Choosing the right vessel starts with understanding the operation it needs to support.

Passenger volume, destination, excursion format, propulsion and expected daily use should all be considered before selecting a commercial catamaran.

Contoy Boats develops commercial catamarans specifically for tour operators and marine tourism businesses.

If you are planning a new operation, replacing an existing vessel or expanding your fleet, contact our team to discuss your passenger capacity, destination and operational requirements.

Built in Mexico. Proven at sea. Operating across the Caribbean.

One of the first questions companies ask when looking for a commercial catamaran for tourism is: How many passengers can it carry?
The answer does not depend solely on the length of the vessel.
The passenger capacity of a commercial catamaran is determined by several factors, including hull design, stability, weight distribution, passenger areas, safety equipment, the type of operation, and the requirements applicable to the area where the vessel will operate.
That is why two catamarans with similar dimensions can have very different passenger capacities.
In this article, we explain how passenger capacity is determined for a commercial catamaran and how different Contoy configurations are designed for different types of commercial operations.

Passenger Capacity Does Not Depend on Length AloneIt is easy to assume that the longer a catamaran is, the more passengers it can carry.
Although length is an important factor, it is not the only one.
Other elements that must be considered include:

• Beam of the vessel
• Hull design and volume
• Weight distribution
• Stability
• Available passenger space
• Number and arrangement of seats
• Bathrooms
• Passenger circulation
• Safety equipment
• Fuel capacity
• Engine configuration
• Type of operation
• Navigation conditions

A catamaran specifically designed to carry passengers can make much more efficient use of its available space than a private catamaran of a similar size.
When discussing passenger capacity, it is not enough to ask how long the boat is. You also need to ask what it was designed for.

What Does Passenger Capacity Really Mean on a Commercial Catamaran?On a commercial vessel, passenger capacity must be considered as part of a complete operating system.
It is not simply a matter of adding more seats to a deck.
The vessel must allow passengers to board and disembark efficiently, move safely around the boat, use the bathrooms, enjoy shaded areas, access activity areas, remain comfortably seated, and have access to the appropriate safety equipment.
For this reason, maximum passenger capacity and practical operating capacity are not always the same from a business perspective.
An operator may prefer a configuration with fewer passengers and more space per person if the product is aimed at the premium market.
Another operator may want to maximize passenger capacity in order to operate excursions for larger groups.
The right vessel should be designed around the business model.

How Many Passengers Can a Contoy Catamaran Carry?The Contoy Catamarans range includes different models developed for different commercial operating requirements.
Passenger capacity can vary depending on the specific configuration of each project, but the Contoy range includes vessels designed for both smaller groups and high-capacity commercial operations.
Contoy 48 — Up to 60 PassengersThe Contoy 48 is designed for commercial operations that require a combination of space, performance, and passenger capacity.
With a capacity of up to 60 passengers, it can be configured for different types of marine tourism operations depending on the operator's needs.
The Contoy 48 is an option for companies looking for a more compact commercial catamaran while maintaining generous exterior areas and a layout designed around the passenger experience.
Its size can make it particularly attractive for operators who want to balance passenger capacity with maneuverability, operating costs, and versatility.

Contoy 70 — Up to 150 PassengersThe Contoy 70 represents a different category within the Contoy range.
At approximately 70 feet in length, it has been developed for high-capacity Day Charter operations.
The commercial configuration of the Contoy 70 can accommodate up to 150 passengers, depending on the final configuration and the requirements applicable to the operation.
This capacity makes the Contoy 70 suitable for business models focused on large-group excursions, marine tourism, and high-capacity Day Charter operations.
For an operator, carrying more passengers per departure can create additional revenue potential, provided that the vessel, crew, itinerary, and overall business model are designed around that capacity.

Contoy Party — Up to 200 PassengersThe Contoy Party is a two-level catamaran developed specifically for high-capacity operations and entertainment-focused experiences.
Its configuration can accommodate up to 200 passengers, depending on the final specifications and applicable operating requirements.
However, the most important feature of this type of vessel is not simply the number of passengers it can carry.
It is how the available space is organized to create an experience.
A catamaran designed for this type of operation can incorporate dedicated areas for:

• Passengers
• Entertainment
• Bar service
• Music
• Shaded areas
• Passenger circulation
• Activities
• Services
• Crew operations

This allows operators to develop a Day Charter concept that is very different from a conventional catamaran excursion.

Does Carrying More Passengers Always Mean a Better Catamaran?No.
This is one of the most important decisions an operator needs to make.
A higher-capacity catamaran can be ideal for a company that works with large groups and wants to maximize the number of passengers per departure.
However, a company targeting the premium market may prefer fewer passengers and offer:

• More space per passenger
• Greater comfort
• More private areas
• Personalized service
• Higher-end equipment
• A more exclusive experience

The important question is not:
"Which catamaran carries the most passengers?"
The better question is:
"What passenger capacity is right for my business model?"

What Factors Determine How Many Passengers a Catamaran Can Carry?Before defining the passenger capacity of a commercial catamaran project, several factors need to be analyzed.
1. Structural DesignThe structure of the vessel must be designed to handle the loads associated with its intended operation.
2. StabilityA commercial catamaran must maintain appropriate stability conditions throughout its operation.
3. Weight DistributionPassengers, fuel, engines, equipment, and onboard systems must all be considered within the overall design.
4. Available SpaceThe areas allocated to passengers must allow for an appropriate layout and efficient circulation.
5. Bathrooms and Passenger ServicesPassenger capacity must be supported by the appropriate number and configuration of bathrooms and other passenger services.
6. Safety EquipmentHigher passenger capacity also means greater requirements for safety and lifesaving equipment.
7. Type of OperationA sunset cruise has different requirements from a full-day excursion that includes snorkeling or other water activities.
8. Operating AreaNavigation conditions and applicable regulations can influence the final configuration and passenger capacity of the vessel.

Passenger Capacity and Business ProfitabilityFor a marine tourism operator, passenger capacity is not just a technical specification.
It is also a business variable.
The number of passengers a vessel can carry per departure directly affects its potential revenue-generating capacity.
However, operating costs can also increase as passenger capacity increases.
More passengers may mean:

• Higher fuel consumption
• More crew
• More food and beverage requirements
• Greater wear and tear
• More safety equipment
• More cleaning
• Greater demand for bathrooms and passenger services

For this reason, increasing passenger capacity does not necessarily mean increasing profitability proportionally.
The objective is to find the right balance between passenger capacity, guest experience, and operating costs.

What Passenger Capacity Does Your Business Need?Before choosing a commercial catamaran, it is important to answer several questions.
How many passengers do you want to carry?Consider the average size of your groups and the number of passengers you expect to serve.
How many departures will you operate?A vessel operating one departure per day will have different requirements from one operating several trips per day.
What type of experience will you offer?Snorkeling, excursions, parties, sunset cruises, private events, and premium tourism all require different configurations.
How much space do you want to offer per passenger?Not every business model is focused on maximizing the number of people onboard.
For some operators, the value of the experience comes from having more space, greater comfort, and a more exclusive atmosphere.
Where will the vessel operate?The final destination and navigation conditions are essential when defining the project.

Contoy: Different Capacities for Different BusinessesOne of the advantages of having different catamaran platforms is the ability to offer solutions for different business models.
The Contoy range includes:
Contoy 48 — Up to 60 passengers, designed for commercial operations requiring versatility and a more compact platform.
Contoy 70 — Up to 150 passengers, developed for high-capacity Day Charter operations.
Contoy Party — Up to 200 passengers, a two-level configuration developed for entertainment-focused experiences and high-capacity operations.
The right choice depends on the business model, destination, operating requirements, and the experience the operator wants to create.

How Is the Passenger Capacity of a New Catamaran Project Determined?When a company approaches a manufacturer to develop a new commercial catamaran, one of the first steps should be understanding the business.
Before defining the vessel's final layout, it is important to understand:

• Target passenger capacity
• Type of operation
• Excursion duration
• Number of departures per day
• Operating area
• Required speed
• Equipment
• Comfort level
• Safety requirements
• Crew requirements

With this information, the manufacturer can develop a configuration that makes sense both from a naval engineering perspective and from a commercial business perspective.

The Best Passenger Capacity Is the One That Works for Your BusinessChoosing a commercial catamaran is not simply about finding the vessel that carries the most passengers.
A 50-passenger catamaran can be perfect for one company and completely unsuitable for another.
The same applies to a 100-, 150-, or 200-passenger catamaran.
The right capacity depends on the balance between:
Passengers + space + safety + operation + costs + experience.
That is why, before choosing a vessel, it is essential to first define the business model you want to develop.

Are You Looking for a Commercial Catamaran for Your Business?At Servicios Náuticos de México, we design and manufacture commercial catamarans in Yucatán, Mexico, for marine tourism operators, Day Charter companies, and a wide range of commercial marine projects.
From vessels for smaller groups to high-capacity platforms such as the Contoy 70 and Contoy Party, we develop different configurations to meet the needs of each operation.
Tell us how many passengers you want to carry, where your vessel will operate, and what type of experience you want to offer. The first step is designing the boat around your business.