Cancún: Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres with Open Bar & Lunch

If you’re thinking about a day trip from Cancun that combines sailing, snorkeling, and some relaxed island exploration, the Cancún Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres might catch your interest. This 7-hour excursion promises a lively experience with plenty of time to soak up the sun, enjoy marine life, and explore a charming Caribbean island—all with the convenience of an open bar and included lunch.

We love that this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation and that it’s suitable for families, couples, or friends looking for a fun getaway. The highlight for many is the snorkeling at El Meco Reef, where vibrant underwater sculptures and colorful marine life await. Plus, the exclusive beach club offers a slice of tropical paradise.

However, a point to consider is the crowd factor—some reviews mention that the boat can feel packed and the beach club crowded, which might diminish the feeling of exclusivity. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy social, lively atmospheres and don’t mind sharing space with others, as well as those eager for a full day of fun on the water and on land.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: A mix of snorkeling, relaxation, and island exploring.
• Value-packed: Includes snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and transport.
• Crowded boat: Expect a lively, possibly crowded atmosphere on the vessel.
• Snorkeling highlights: Underwater sculptures and marine life at El Meco Reef.
• Time at Isla Mujeres: About 1.5 hours to explore or relax.
• Cost considerations: Price is approximately $103 per person, with a mandatory additional fee.
• Group size: Likely large, as some reviews suggest overcrowding.
• Ideal for: Those seeking a full, lively day on the water with social vibes.
• Not suitable: Pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those sensitive to seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Dawn to Sunset

The tour begins at Marina Sailaway in Cancun, a convenient starting point within the Hotel Zone. After check-in, you’ll board a spacious catamaran—a vessel that’s generally designed to handle larger groups comfortably, though some reviews indicate it can feel quite busy with up to 50-70 people onboard.

The first leg of the journey, lasting about an hour, is a chance to feel the ocean breeze and enjoy the lively atmosphere with music and drinks. The crew aims to keep everyone entertained, offering a fun and relaxed vibe that’s perfect for socializing or simply unwinding.

Next, you’ll anchor at El Meco Reef for approximately an hour of snorkeling. This site is notable for its clear waters, abundant marine life, and the underwater sculptures that are part of the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). If you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, this is a highlight—though it’s worth noting that snorkeling is not permitted for guests over 60, primarily for safety reasons.

For those not snorkeling, or after the activity, you’ll have about 1.5 hours of free time on Isla Mujeres. During this period, you can explore the streets, browse local shops, visit iconic spots like Playa Norte, or just relax on the beach. Several reviews mention that the island’s laid-back vibe truly shines through at this part of the tour, offering a taste of authentic Caribbean life.

The afternoon features a meal at Amazona Beach Club, where a buffet lunch awaits. The menu’s quality may vary—some reviews praise the food as delicious, while others found it average. The setting at the beach club is idyllic, with lounge chairs, shaded areas, and direct access to the soft sands. After lunch, you’ll enjoy an additional hour of free time to relax or stroll before heading back to Cancun.

The return journey, lasting approximately 1.5 hours, is a scenic sail with drinks, music, and stunning views of the Caribbean as the sun begins to set. Most travelers agree that the boat ride back is a pleasant way to close out a full day, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the day’s adventures.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Included in the price are the catamaran transportation, snorkeling equipment, access to El Meco Reef, beach club access, buffet lunch, and drinks on board. One crucial point is the mandatory $45 USD reef conservation fee paid at check-in, which adds to your total cost. Also, while the tour offers a lively atmosphere with music and drinks, it’s not a quiet, intimate experience—expect a party-like vibe.

Timing is flexible, with options available in the morning or afternoon. The tour duration is a full 7 hours, making it a substantial day trip. Arriving at Marina Sailaway at least 45 minutes early ensures you have time for check-in and to settle in before departure.

What to bring includes swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash (for tips, souvenirs, or additional expenses). Note that pets, smoking, and glass objects are not allowed onboard, and snorkeling isn’t available for guests over 60, for safety reasons.

Group size can be quite large, and some reviews indicate overcrowding both on the boat and at the beach club. If you prefer intimate, quiet excursions, this might not be the best fit. On the plus side, the lively atmosphere means plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers.

The Real-World Experiences: What Travelers Say

One reviewer from Canada gave a 3 out of 5 and mentioned that while the day was “good,” the drinks were not of good quality. Another from the United States rated the experience 2 out of 5, criticizing the crowded boat, dirty lounge chairs, and average snorkeling. They noted that the crew was not particularly friendly and that the buffet food wasn’t great. Yet, they appreciated the smooth boat ride and the refills of drinks.

On the flip side, a traveler from the US praised the experience with a 5 out of 5, calling it “so much fun.” This highlights how perceptions can vary widely based on expectations and personal preferences.

The guides and crew seem to do their best to keep the energy high, and many appreciate the scenic views and refreshing drinks during the cruise. The snorkeling at El Meco Reef is often highlighted as a memorable part, especially for marine life and the unique underwater sculptures.

Who Will This Tour Suit Best?

This tour is most appealing to adventurous travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and don’t mind sharing space with a larger group. It’s perfect if your priorities include snorkeling, scenic sailing, and sampling local food in a relaxed tropical setting.

However, if you’re seeking a more exclusive or quiet experience, or if you’re less comfortable in crowds, you might find this tour a little overwhelming. The crowded boat and beach club are often mentioned as drawbacks, so consider your preferences before booking.

It’s also worth noting the cost of $103 per person plus the $45 reef fee, which adds up. While the tour covers most essentials, some travelers might want to budget for extras like souvenirs or additional drinks.

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Final Thoughts

This catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres offers a lively, full-day taste of the Caribbean. It combines the thrill of snorkeling, the fun of sailing, and the charm of exploring a colorful island. The included amenities—lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear—add value, especially for travelers looking for a hassle-free day.

The tour’s popularity is understandable, but potential downsides like crowding and variable food quality are worth considering. For those craving a social, energetic adventure with plenty of scenic views and marine encounters, it’s a solid choice. If you’re seeking serenity or exclusivity, you might want to explore quieter options.

Overall, it’s a great way to spend a day on the water, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained. Just be prepared for a bustling, lively atmosphere, and you’ll likely have a memorable experience.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for snorkeling?
Snorkeling is not permitted for guests over 60, mainly for safety reasons. For younger guests, snorkeling is typically allowed if physically able, but check with the operator for specific age restrictions.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full tour lasts about 7 hours, giving ample time for sailing, snorkeling, exploring Isla Mujeres, and relaxing at the beach club.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour, so you can enjoy the activity without extra hassle.

How much does the reef fee cost?
A mandatory $45 USD per person fee is payable at check-in, contributing to reef conservation efforts.

Can I participate if I don’t want to snorkel?
Absolutely. Non-snorkelers can still enjoy the boat ride, explore Isla Mujeres, and relax at the beach club.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash for tips or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
Pregnant women are generally advised against participating due to the physical demands of snorkeling and boat travel.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
While not explicitly mentioned, most boats typically have basic facilities. Prepare for limited amenities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for changing schedules.

To sum it up, this Cancún catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres offers a lively, well-rounded day ideal for those eager to combine adventure, relaxation, and social fun. With beautiful scenery, engaging marine life, and a taste of local island life, it delivers good value—especially if you’re ready for a bustling, energetic atmosphere. Just keep in mind the crowd levels and variable food quality, and you’ll be set to enjoy a memorable Caribbean outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby