Full-Day Sailing Trip to Isla Mujeres from Cancun with Lunch

Planning a day trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres? This full-day sailing experience offers a blend of scenic sailing, snorkeling, beach relaxation, and island exploration. While it might not be perfect for everyone, it does bring a genuine taste of the Caribbean with some memorable highlights.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea from the boat and the inclusive open bar that keeps the atmosphere lively. The lunch buffet at an exclusive beach club also adds a nice touch of comfort after a morning of sailing and snorkeling.

A possible drawback is the crowded nature of the boat, which might not suit travelers looking for more space or tranquility. Plus, the tour relies heavily on good weather, especially for activities like flying from the spinnaker sail, so flexibility is key.

This tour is best suited for those who want an active, social day with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy drinks, and see the island from the water. If you enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and a lively group setting, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing on a catamaran with an open bar for a relaxed, festive vibe
• Snorkeling amid vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish
• Beach relaxation at an exclusive club with hammocks and a buffet lunch
• Time to explore the island’s shops and beaches
• Weather-dependent activities like flying from the spinnaker sail
• Approximate duration of 8 to 9 hours providing a full day of fun

The Itinerary in Detail

The trip kicks off with a sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres aboard a lively catamaran. As you glide across the Caribbean, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the blue waters, a highlight for many travelers. The open bar on board helps keep spirits high, and while it can get a bit crowded, it’s part of the fun and convivial atmosphere.

Once you arrive, the first major stop is the exclusive beach club. Here, you’ll have access to hammocks, a regional buffet lunch, and the chance to cool off in the water. The beach club offers a relaxed setting, quite different from the busy beaches of Cancun, and some reviewers mention how much they appreciated not seeing seaweed like in Cancun’s main beaches.

After lunch, you’ll head into the center of Isla Mujeres. This is your opportunity to explore the colorful shops and enjoy some free time. The island’s small size makes it easy to stroll around, taking photos in hammocks or browsing local crafts.

Back on the boat, you’ll set sail for the return trip to Cancun. This part of the journey offers more stunning water views, perfect for snapping photos, dancing, or just soaking in the tropical atmosphere. The last hours are often lively, with drinks and music, making for a memorable finale.

Snorkeling and Spinnaker Activities

One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to snorkel coral reefs teeming with fish, which many guests find a fun and refreshing activity. The snorkel equipment is included, so no need to worry about bringing your own.

For the more adventurous, weather permitting, there’s the opportunity to fly from the spinnaker sail — a thrilling experience that adds an extra splash of excitement to the day. However, since this depends on weather conditions, it’s not guaranteed every trip.

The Crowded Boat and Group Size

A common theme from reviews is that the boat can be crowded, with some guests needing to sit on the hard floor. While this doesn’t ruin the experience, it might be less comfortable for those seeking a more relaxed, spacious environment. The tour does cap at 75 travelers, which helps with the lively social vibe but can feel a bit tight.

The Value of the Tour

At $65 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the full-day itinerary, lunch, open bar, and activities included. The price also includes government fees of $20, which is standard practice. You get a lot of entertainment and scenery for the cost, although some might find it pricier if they prefer quieter, less crowded settings.

Practical Considerations for Travelers

Timing-wise, the tour lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours, making it suitable for a full-day adventure. It starts at a central meeting point in Cancun and ends back there, eliminating the need for extra transportation arrangements.

Keep in mind, most travelers can participate, but it does require moderate activity — snorkeling and walking around the island. Since it doesn’t include hotel pickup, you’ll need to get to the meeting point on your own or arrange your own transportation.

Weather plays a significant role; if skies are cloudy or storms threaten, activities like flying from the spinnaker or snorkeling might be canceled, but the tour offers a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

From the single review available, we learn that the boat itself is “nice” but somewhat crowded, with passengers often sitting on the hard floor. The reviewer appreciated the beautiful water and friendly staff, mentioning that the beaches on the other side of the island are not full of seaweed, which is a plus.

Another traveler noted the lovely beaches, and that the tour provided a chance to snorkel in clear waters, aligning with the tour’s promises. The crowded boat was a slight downside, but overall, the experience seemed enjoyable for many.

Final Thoughts

This sailing trip to Isla Mujeres offers a lively, scenic day out that balances sailing, snorkeling, beach relaxation, and island exploring. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy social environments, don’t mind a bit of crowding, and want a full spectrum of Caribbean experiences in one day.

The open bar and lively atmosphere make it a good choice for those wanting a bit of fun and drinks, while the snorkeling and beach time cater to nature lovers. The included lunch at the beach club adds comfort to what’s otherwise a fast-paced day.

While not aimed at travelers seeking peace and quiet or exclusive solitude, this tour stands as a solid, value-packed way to enjoy some of Cancun’s best waters and islands — especially if you’re after a day full of activity, scenery, and socializing.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Cancun hotels?
No, this tour does not offer hotel pickup. You’ll meet at the designated point in Cancun, so plan to arrange your own transportation to the meeting location.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the early evening.

What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy sailing on a catamaran with an open bar, snorkeling at coral reefs, and, weather permitting, flying from the spinnaker sail. There’s also free time on Isla Mujeres for exploring and shopping.

What is the quality of the boat?
Guests report the boat is “nice” but often crowded, with some sitting on the hard floor. It can be lively and fun, but might lack space for those who prefer a calmer environment.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch is served at an exclusive beach club, along with access to hammocks and beach facilities.

Are drinks unlimited?
The tour features a national open bar aboard the boat, so you’ll have plenty of drinks during sailing — a highlight for many travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather, especially for activities like flying and snorkeling. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternate date will be offered.

In essence, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and activity-packed day ideal for those who enjoy socializing, water fun, and island charm. Just remember, if solitude and tranquility are what you seek, this might not be the best fit. For a spirited Caribbean adventure, it hits many of the right notes.