Deluxe Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres, from Costa Mujeres Hotels

Planning a trip to the Riviera Maya and looking for a day that combines relaxation, adventure, and a touch of fun? This Deluxe Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres might just be what you’re after. It promises an 8-hour escape filled with sailing, snorkeling, local culture, and quirky ice-cold fun — all at an affordable price.

What I particularly like about this tour is its blend of activities: cruising over turquoise waters aboard a sleek catamaran with beverages in hand, plus the opportunity to explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace. The second highlight is the Ice Bar experience, where you get to sip cocktails from glasses carved out of ice in a setting that feels like stepping into a frozen world—an unusual and memorable twist for a Caribbean day trip.

One aspect to consider is the price—at just under $39 per person, it’s quite reasonable. However, there’s a dock tax and service fee of 800 MXN (about $44 USD) per traveler that isn’t included in the base price. This extra fee can be a surprise for some, so budget accordingly. Also, since the tour involves multiple stops, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure rather than those seeking an entirely relaxed, beach-only experience.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers, snorkeling lovers, and those curious about local culture with a splash of quirky fun. If you’re looking for a lively, well-rounded day that doesn’t break the bank, this tour offers a lot.

Key Points

• Affordable price with a rich itinerary
• Includes snorkeling gear and free time at Isla Mujeres
• Unique Ice Bar experience at -18°C
• Roundtrip transportation (if selected) adds convenience
• Group size limited to 40 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Flexible options with pickup from Costa Mujeres hotels

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The journey begins at Costa Mujeres, with pickup options that make getting to the marina straightforward — a big plus for those staying in that area. The meeting time is set for either 9:30 or 11:30 a.m., giving some flexibility depending on your plans. The tour includes easy-to-follow directions in your confirmation email, helping you arrive stress-free. For those not including transport, arriving on your own is simple, given the proximity to public transportation.

The Catamaran Cruise — Sailing in Style

Once aboard the luxurious catamaran, you’ll immediately notice the feeling of freedom. The vessel is designed for comfort and style, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the open bar. The cruise itself is about 6 hours, so you’ll spend a good part of the day sailing the Caribbean’s turquoise waters. The experience is enhanced by the open national bar, so sipping a cold drink while feeling the sea breeze is practically guaranteed.

The boat features some fun activities like spinnaker flying if weather permits, adding a splash of adrenaline. The music and lively atmosphere help set the tone for a day of escapism and joy.

Snorkeling Adventure

One of the highlights on the way to Isla Mujeres is the guided snorkeling experience. With provided equipment, you’ll get to swim among colorful fish and coral gardens. We loved the way this adds an element of adventure and allows you to see some of the Caribbean’s marine life close up. The guides are certified, ensuring safety and helpful tips for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Exploring Isla Mujeres

Once on shore, you have ample free time to wander. The island is a charming mix of boutiques, local eateries, and cultural spots. Whether you choose to browse handmade crafts or simply relax on the beach, the island’s relaxed vibe makes it easy to soak in the local culture at your own pace. The tour’s flexibility here is a key benefit, letting you customize your visit.

The Private Beach Club and Buffet

After some exploring, everyone heads to the private beach club, where a buffet awaits along with unlimited drinks. The setup offers a perfect balance of comfort and fun, with enough space to lounge and enjoy the ocean views. The buffet is especially appreciated after snorkeling or exploring, giving you a chance to refuel.

The Ice Bar Experience

No Caribbean trip is complete without a bit of novelty, and the Ice Bar delivers that in spades. It’s a frosty 45-minute journey into a frozen wonderland where the temperature hits -18°C (0°F). Here, you’ll sip cocktails from ice-carved glasses, pose among glittering sculptures, and enjoy a rare experience of the Arctic in the tropics. This quirky stop is highly praised for its originality and fun factor, making it a memorable highlight.

Return Cruise and Sunset Send-off

As the day winds down, you’ll hop back on the catamaran for a relaxing sail back to Costa Mujeres. The final 30-minute stretch is a perfect opportunity to toast your day with the crew or simply soak in the sunset views, which often paint the sky in spectacular shades of gold and amber.

Value and Practical Insights

This tour packs in a lot for its price of $38.90 per person, especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, guided activities, and access to the Ice Bar. The additional dock tax and services fee of 800 MXN is a notable extra—budget for this beforehand to avoid surprises. The overall value hinges on your appreciation for a full day of varied activities rather than a purely relaxing beach day.

The group size maxing out at 40 travelers offers a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. The roundtrip transport is an option that adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in Costa Mujeres, saving you the hassle of navigating to the marina.

What the Reviews Say

Though the tour has no formal reviews yet, the description and features suggest a lively, well-organized experience. The inclusion of certified guides and entertainers indicates that safety and fun are priorities. Travelers who value flexibility and active participation will appreciate the free time and snorkeling options, while those seeking a quick, affordable escape will find this a convenient choice.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous couples, groups of friends, or families eager for a mix of sailing, snorkeling, and cultural wandering. It’s perfect if you enjoy a social atmosphere with lively guides and entertainers. If you’re on a budget but want a full day of Caribbean fun, this tour offers excellent value, especially with the included amenities.

On the downside, if you’re looking for a quiet, solitary beach day, or if you prefer to avoid extra fees, this might not be the best fit. Also, given the active nature of snorkeling and the busy schedule, it’s less suited for travelers seeking total relaxation.

Final Thoughts

A day on this deluxe catamaran combines the best of Caribbean sailing with fun stops on Isla Mujeres and a whimsical ice bar. It offers a cost-effective way to experience multiple highlights in one trip, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The mix of activities — sailing, snorkeling, local culture, and playful ice adventures — creates a well-rounded day that’s both lively and memorable.

If you’re someone who enjoys active days, scenic views, and quirky experiences, this tour ticks many boxes. The price point is reasonable, especially considering the included amenities, and the overall experience promises a lively, lighthearted, and authentic taste of the Caribbean.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
You can choose to begin either at 9:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m., depending on your schedule.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round transport service is available if you select that option. Otherwise, you’ll need to get to the marina on your own.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, a buffet at the beach club, access to Isla Mujeres Ice Bar, an open bar, certified guides, and free time at Isla Mujeres.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a dock tax and services fee of 800 MXN per traveler, which is payable on the day.

How long is the snorkeling experience?
The snorkeling stop lasts around 30 minutes, with an opportunity to swim among colorful fish and coral.

What is the Ice Bar?
It’s an arctic-themed bar at -18°C (0°F) where you can sip cocktails from ice glasses and enjoy glittering sculptures — a cool contrast to the tropical setting.

How long do I have at Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have about 6 hours of free time to explore, relax, or shop on the island.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age limits, most travelers can participate. It’s best to check if your kids are comfortable with snorkeling and cold environments.

What is the overall duration?
The total experience is roughly 8 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and return.

In sum, this tour offers a lively, well-balanced day of Caribbean fun, mixing sailing, exploring, and playful surprises. It’s especially well-suited for active travelers eager for a full, affordable, and memorable experience near Costa Mujeres.