Sailing Adventure! Contoy & Isla Mujeres from Playa Del Carmen

A Practical and Authentic Look at the Sailing Adventure to Contoy & Isla Mujeres

If you’re planning a day-trip from Cancun and want to experience the area’s natural beauty with a touch of adventure, this sailing tour to Contoy and Isla Mujeres offers a well-rounded option. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it provides a memorable mix of snorkeling, relaxing on pristine beaches, and exploring lively local markets.

What we love about this tour is how it combines nature and small-group intimacy, thanks to the limited number of visitors allowed on Contoy each day, with the relaxed vibe of Isla Mujeres. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling at Ixlache Reef and a regional buffet makes it feel like a full, satisfying experience. On the flip side, a potential drawback could be the additional dock tax ($20 USD) or the fact that some activities, like snorkeling, aren’t suitable for everyone—particularly non-swimmers or the very young.

This adventure suits travelers who appreciate outdoor activities, want a taste of local culture, and value the tranquility of protected natural sites. If you’re after a mix of gentle adventure and authentic scenery, this trip will likely hit the mark.

Key Points

• Limited access to Contoy keeps the island uncrowded, offering a peaceful experience.
• Snorkeling at Ixlache Reef introduces vibrant marine life in a protected environment.
• The regional buffet provides a generous, local flavor in the middle of your day.
• Visit to Isla Mujeres offers a lively, colorful contrast with shops and souvenirs.
• Transportation and guides are included, simplifying logistics and enhancing safety.
• Extra costs, such as dock taxes and infant transportation fees, should be factored into your budget.

An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Adventure

The Overall Experience

This tour typically lasts around 10 hours, making it a full day dedicated to exploring the Caribbean’s treasures. Starting early at 7:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or designated meeting point—an advantage for travelers who dislike the hassle of arranging transport themselves. Your journey begins at the marina in Cancun, where you’ll board a catamaran, either one or two floors, depending on the day, which adds a fun, breezy element to your trip.

The price of $147 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—transportation, guides, snorkeling gear, a full buffet, and visits to two impressive islands. It’s a package that balances cost and value, especially when you consider the exclusivity of Contoy, which limits visitors to just 200 people daily.

Snorkeling at Ixlache Reef

The journey kicks off with snorkeling at Ixlache Reef, a protected site teeming with colorful fish and marine life. The 35-minute session is a highlight for many, offering a chance to see the underwater world in calm, clear waters. The organization provides snorkeling equipment if weather permits, and guides are present to ensure safety and enhance your understanding of the marine environment.

From reviews, travelers appreciated the chance to snorkel twice if they wished—once at the reef and again on the shore of Contoy—although snorkel access isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, children under 8, or older travelers over 60. If you fall into these categories, you might find the snorkeling less accessible, but the scenery above water still offers plenty of visual treats.

Exploring Isla Contoy

After snorkeling, the focus shifts to Contoy, a protected island famous for its unspoiled white sand beaches and birdlife. The guided tour is a thoughtful addition, helping you understand the island’s ecological significance and history. Most visitors agree that the island’s natural beauty is breathtaking, with many noting the “gorgeous views of the Caribbean” that you’ll enjoy during your walk.

You’ll have around four hours on the island, plenty of time to relax, stroll along the shore, or take a second snorkeling session. Lunch is included—a regional buffet that offers local flavors, fueling your afternoon exploration. The relaxed atmosphere and limited visitor numbers help preserve Contoy’s tranquility, making it ideal for those seeking authentic, less crowded natural experiences.

The Stop at Isla Mujeres

The final stop is Isla Mujeres, a lively island known for its colorful streets, markets, and laid-back vibe. You’ll have about one hour to walk around, shop souvenirs, or simply soak in the Caribbean sun. The short visit allows a taste of local life without feeling rushed, and many reviews mention how charming and vibrant the island is.

On your way back, you’ll appreciate how the tour balances structured activities with leisure. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on your day and enjoy the ocean views from the deck.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget For

The tour’s included features — transportation, certified guides, snorkeling gear, a regional buffet, and visits to the islands—make it a good value. The unlimited open bar after lunch is a perk for those wanting to unwind with a drink, though it’s limited to after the meal, so plan accordingly.

However, be aware of the extra costs: a dock tax of $20 USD per person (paid at the site), and an additional $18 USD transportation fee for infants. These expenses can add up but are typical for boat-based tours in the region.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimsuits, towels, and extra clothes—the weather is generally warm, and water activities are the main draw.
• Arrive early— the start time of 7:30 am means an early morning, but it maximizes your time on the islands.
• Be aware that snorkeling isn’t suitable for everyone, especially non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.
• The group size caps at 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Considerations for Families and Non-Swimmers

While children over 8 who can swim will likely enjoy snorkeling, the tour isn’t ideal for very young children or those uncomfortable in the water. Non-swimmers and older travelers might prefer to relax on the boat or beach instead of snorkeling.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing adventure provides a well-rounded day combining nature, culture, and light adventure at a reasonable price. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities, like snorkeling, and are interested in visiting protected natural sites with fewer crowds. The inclusion of local food and shops makes it appealing for those wanting a taste of authentic Caribbean life.

If you’re looking for a leisurely day with manageable group sizes, beautiful scenery, and a bit of exploration, this tour offers good value. However, if you’re seeking a more immersive cultural experience or prefer not to snorkel, you might want to consider other options.

Overall, it’s a balanced, engaging way to see the Caribbean’s natural side, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a worthwhile addition to your Cancun itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from Cancun?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cancun and Riviera Maya is included, making it easy to enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.

What’s the starting time?
The tour departs at 7:30 am, so you’ll need to be ready early, but it’s a small price to pay for a full day of activities.

Are there any age restrictions for snorkeling?
Yes, snorkel activities are not available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or those over 60; check with guides if unsure.

How long is the time spent on each island?
You’ll have about 4 hours on Contoy and 1 hour on Isla Mujeres, allowing enough time to explore and relax.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited open national bar is available after the meal, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.

What should I bring?
Swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, and sun protection are recommended. The weather is typically warm, so pack accordingly.

What is the cost besides the tour price?
You should budget an additional $20 USD for the dock tax and $18 USD for infant transportation if applicable.

In summary, this tour offers a solid mix of natural beauty, cultural flavor, and light adventure—ideal for travelers who want a taste of the Caribbean without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s a smart choice for those seeking a balanced day trip that combines snorkeling, beach relaxation, and local charm.