Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres, Open bar, Lunch, Snorkeling, Beach Club Included

Thinking about a day on the Caribbean Sea with sun, sand, and a splash of adventure? This catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres offers a lively way to enjoy Cancun’s stunning coast, combining sailing, snorkeling, and beachside relaxation—all in one package. While it’s a popular choice among travelers, some reviews highlight both its strengths and areas for improvement, making it a well-rounded option for those seeking fun and value.

What we love about this tour is how it balances several experiences into a manageable 7-hour window. You get to sail aboard a roomy, festive catamaran with an open bar on board, and enjoy a buffet lunch at a private beach club. Plus, the snorkeling stop at “El Meco” reef lets you peek at vibrant marine life, and the free time on Isla Mujeres offers a chance to walk, shop, and take photos. Yet, a few reviews mention that the snorkeling isn’t as relaxed as some might hope, and the lunch isn’t gourmet. Still, this tour suits anyone looking for a fun-filled day with lively company and a taste of the Caribbean’s beauty.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: sailing, snorkeling, beach club, lunch, and open bar.
• Accessible: suitable for most travelers, though non-swimmers and children under 8 should note restrictions.
• Value for money: at around $68, it combines multiple activities into one affordable package.
• Group size: capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.
• Flexible free time: free exploration in Isla Mujeres, perfect for photos, shopping, or renting a golf cart.
• Mixed reviews on snorkeling: some praise it, others find it rushed or guarded.
• Ideal for: travelers craving a social, energetic day with stunning views and casual fun.

Setting the Scene: What Does the Tour Include?

This 7-hour adventure kicks off at Marina Las Perlas in Cancun, where your crew boards a large, well-equipped catamaran. The atmosphere is lively—think games, contests, and music—making it clear this trip leans toward a party vibe. As you set sail, you’ll cruise through the Caribbean Sea, soaking up the sun and feeling the breeze, en route to Isla Mujeres.

One of the tour’s core attractions is the snorkeling in “El Meco” reef, part of one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful natural reserves. Here, you’re likely to see colorful fish, turtles, and marine plants—if you enjoy underwater sights, this stop offers a quick but memorable peek at local marine life. Keep in mind, some reviews suggest that staff might be quite strict about safety, which can feel a little guarded if you’re hoping for an unrestrained snorkeling experience.

The Journey to Isla Mujeres

As you approach the island, the mood remains upbeat. The crew is described as “engaging,” with folks dancing and joking, creating an inviting atmosphere. Once ashore, you’re given approximately free time to explore Isla Mujeres. You can stroll its streets, admire murals, snap photos of monuments, or browse local crafts and jewelry.

For some, renting a golf cart for a couple of hours is a highlight—just as one reviewer suggests, “Well worth it to see more of the island.” You’ll love the chance to escape the busy tour group and really get to know this charming little island on your own terms.

The Beach Club Experience

After a lively morning, you’re invited to unwind at a private beach club. Here, the lounge chairs and shaded areas are perfect for relaxing, while the buffet lunch offers a decent variety—nothing gourmet but satisfying enough after a morning of fun. The open bar provides drinks throughout the day, including cocktails, beers, and soft drinks, which add to the party atmosphere.

Some guests mention that service can be slow, and the quality of mixed drinks varies—particularly noting that alcoholic drinks sometimes lack flavor or liquor strength. Still, most find the experience enjoyable, especially with the stunning ocean views serving as a backdrop.

Sunset and Return Journey

As the tour winds down, the return cruise offers one of the tour’s highlights: a beautiful Caribbean sunset. Travelers often mention how peaceful and picturesque this moment is, with the crew making sure everyone feels comfortable and entertained until the last moment. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with sunshine, marine adventure, and social fun.

For $68 per person, this tour packs in quite a bit—sailing, snorkeling, free time, a buffet lunch, and an open bar. The all-day itinerary, coupled with the lively group setting, makes it a good value for those seeking an active, social excursion rather than a quiet, contemplative experience.

That said, it’s important to recognize that this isn’t a luxury tour—the focus is on fun and socializing, not gourmet food or high-end snorkeling gear. Some reviews highlight that the snorkeling was “fun” but not overly relaxed, and the lunch was “okay,” so don’t expect a fine dining experience.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This catamaran adventure is perfect for travelers who enjoy group activities, lively atmospheres, and outdoor fun. It’s ideal for singles, groups of friends, or families with older children (over age 8), who want to experience Isla Mujeres in a spirited way. If you’re after a laid-back, quiet day, or detailed cultural insights, this might not be your best match.

What Could Be Better?

While reviewers appreciate the crew’s friendliness and the stunning views, some mention that snorkeling could be more relaxed. The staff’s safety measures, though necessary, can feel a bit strict, especially if you’re looking for a leisurely underwater experience. The lunch, while plentiful, isn’t memorable, and drinks can sometimes lack punch.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth Your While?

This tour offers a fun, lively day filled with sailing, snorkeling, and island exploration, all wrapped up with good value. It’s perfect for those looking to blend adventure with socializing, and who prioritize spectacular views and a beachside party atmosphere. If you enjoy meeting new people, dancing, and exploring a charming island in one big day out, this tour delivers.

However, if you’re a snorkeler seeking serenity or a foodie after gourmet cuisine, you might find the experience somewhat lacking. The mix of activities, group size, and casual vibe make it best suited for travelers who are easygoing, looking for fun, and happy to accept some minor shortcomings.

FAQs

Is there a dock fee I need to pay?
Yes, there is a dock fee of $20 USD per person that’s paid on-site and not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, swimsuits, and change of clothes. Sunscreen is recommended to protect against the Caribbean sun, especially during active hours.

Can non-swimmers snorkel?
Snorkeling isn’t available for non-swimmers, people over 60, or children under 8. The activity requires some comfort in the water.

How long do I get in Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have free time, roughly for exploring the streets, shopping, or taking photos—don’t expect a guided tour on land.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 50 travelers, helping keep the group lively but manageable.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, but children need to be over 8 years old for snorkeling, and families should be comfortable with a party atmosphere.

What’s the quality of the lunch and drinks?
The buffet lunch is decent and plentiful but not gourmet. Drinks are free on board, but some reviews mention they lack strength or flavor.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of sailing, snorkeling, island free time, and a beach club, all with a lively party vibe, offers a unique and fun-filled day.

Whether you’re seeking an energetic day on the water or a casual way to enjoy Isla Mujeres, this catamaran tour offers a satisfying mix of adventure, socializing, and scenic beauty—perfect for making memories in Cancun.