In short
- Maximum 3 beers per person or 1 liter of liquor per boat.
- BYOB is permitted at no extra charge.
- Jumping between boats and large speakers are strictly banned.
In this article
Drinking on a trajinera is a popular way to spend an afternoon in Mexico City. However, the official Xochimilco alcohol rules dictate specific limits. You must follow these quantity limits and behavioral guidelines while on the water.
What are the exact Xochimilco alcohol rules?
You are limited to three beers per adult or one 1-liter bottle of hard liquor per boat.
Authorities strictly enforce these limits at the piers before you board. If your group exceeds the allowance, you will not be permitted to bring the extra bottles onto the trajinera.
Can you bring your own alcohol to Xochimilco?
Yes, you can bring your own drinks and coolers onto the boats.
There is no access charge or corkage fee for bringing your own beverages. Most visitors pack a cooler with personal drinks and snacks for the ride.
Can you buy drinks while on the water?
Yes, floating vendors pull up alongside your trajinera to sell drinks.
You can purchase micheladas and sodas directly from smaller vendor boats. Bring small denominations of pesos, as card machines are not used on the water.
Are large speakers allowed on the trajineras?
Loud amplified music and large speakers are strictly prohibited on the boats.
While you cannot bring heavy audio equipment, live acoustic music is permitted. You can hire floating mariachi bands for roughly 300 MXN per song.
What are the safety rules for passengers?
Passengers must remain seated and keep hands and feet inside the boat at all times.
Jumping or stepping between boats is strictly prohibited. The maximum capacity of 18 passengers per trajinera is rigorously enforced to maintain boat stability.
Do you have to wear a life jacket?
Life jackets must be worn on board, or you must sign a waiver to opt out.
Your boat driver will provide the life jackets. They will also provide the waiver forms before departing from the pier if you choose not to wear one.
Questions travellers ask
How much does a trajinera cost in Xochimilco?
The official 2026 government rate is 750 MXN per hour per boat. This flat rate covers the entire boat for up to 18 passengers.
Which is the best pier to depart from in Xochimilco?
Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas is the largest pier and offers a lively party atmosphere. Embarcadero Cuemanco is quieter and better suited for calm nature tours.
How do you get to Xochimilco from Mexico City?
You can take Metro Line 2 south to Tasqueña, then transfer to the Tren Ligero to Xochimilco station. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share app costs 150-350 MXN one way.
