My friends and I went on the 3.5 hrs one. I think the difference is more sailing on the second one and less time with the rays. We really loved this excursion. We fondly call them our portabello puppies (they feel a little like portabello mushrooms and behave a bit like puppies). The are so used to people it is really shocking. The day we went the water was pretty rough, trying to stand was nearly impossible because in would come a wave and knock you off balence. We were so worried we were going to step on a ray and get stung. That didn't happen, they pretty much swam around us. Once we relaxed and got off our feet, we had a great time. Which brings me to a tip, don't fight the water, get on your belly and float around with the rays and you'll have a great time. Be respectful but not fearful, the rays are really good at swimging around us clumsy land creatures. The day we went all these boats pulled up and ancored at the sandbar (like eight at once) and all the people got off to see the rays. As near as I could tell one boat is pretty much like another. I like Disney's excursions because of the quality control, I know I'm not going to get junky snorkle equipment (I haven't yet) and the crew is going to be helpful and polite (my experience so far). The only time I haven't gone with Disney excursions was on Cozumel. We are avid snorklers and we chose to go to Dzul Ha, because of the quality of the snorkling and the less crowded conditions (I can't wait to go back, best fish I've ever seen). Well hope that helps.
