Catamaran Snorkeling with Openbar & Lunch Cancun to Isla Mujeres

Planning a day on the water in Cancun? This catamaran snorkeling tour promises a lively Caribbean adventure, blending vibrant party vibes, top-notch snorkeling, and a relaxing beach break. With hundreds of travelers signing up months in advance, this tour has clearly carved out a sweet spot in Cancun’s bustling activity scene.

What makes this experience stand out? First, its unlimited local drinks paired with a buffet lunch at a private beach club, making it a true Caribbean-style party. Second, the combination of sailing, swimming, and free time exploring Isla Mujeres gives a well-rounded day — perfect for those who love a mix of activity and relaxation.

That said, there’s a potential downside: the overcrowding issues noted in some reviews suggest that not everyone will find this the most comfortable experience. If you’re sensitive to large groups or prefer quieter moments, it’s worth considering. But if you’re after a fun, dynamic day with plenty of social energy, this tour generally delivers the goods.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a lively group atmosphere, enjoy snorkeling, and appreciate good regional food and drinks. Families, singles, and groups of friends looking for a party on the water will find plenty to love — just be aware of the crowd and extra fees.

Key Points

• Vibrant Party Atmosphere: Onboard with unlimited domestic drinks, lively music, and a fun-loving crowd.
• All-Inclusive Lunch & Drinks: Delicious buffet and open bar make for a relaxed, enjoyable meal.
• Top Snorkeling Spot: Explore the best underwater scenery Cancun has to offer.
• Relax at Playa Norte: An exclusive beach club provides loungers, umbrellas, and scenic views for free time.
• Flexible Island Exploration: About an hour to wander Isla Mujeres’ charming streets and shops.
• Safety & Experience: Catamarans with 16 years of safe operation and a focus on quality, though some reviews indicate overcrowding.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup & Transportation
Most travelers will be collected from their Cancun, Puerto Morelos, or Playa del Carmen hotels via air-conditioned vehicles. This convenience means you won’t have to worry about logistics — just relax and anticipate a full day of fun. The meeting point is at the Marina Sailaway, conveniently located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone.

Sailing & Onboard Party
Once aboard the catamaran, you’re greeted with a lively atmosphere, complete with upbeat music and a full open bar. This is where the tour’s party vibe really kicks in. We’ve seen reviews mentioning the onboard celebration as a highlight, with lots of chances to mingle and enjoy free-flowing national drinks.

Snorkeling at the Top Spot
Next, you’ll head to what’s considered the best snorkeling site in Cancun. The clear, turquoise waters make for excellent underwater visibility, ideal for spotting colorful fish and reef formations. The experience is generally described as enjoyable, with some reviewers mentioning the quality of the water and underwater scenery.

Tequila Tasting & Regional Flavors
In between swimming, you might find the tour offering tastings of different tequila flavors — a true regional treat. It’s an opportunity to learn a bit about Mexico’s iconic spirit and enjoy it in a relaxed group setting.

Island Time at Isla Mujeres
After snorkeling, the boat docks at Isla Mujeres for free time. You’ll have about an hour to explore the island’s charming streets, shops, or simply relax on the beach. The exclusive beach club at Playa Norte provides loungers, umbrellas, and a serene environment, making it easy to unwind after the water adventures. Many reviews praise the quality of the food here—some call it “delicious,” and the buffet is a highlight for many.

Lunch at the Beach Club
The included buffet lunch is served at the beach club, providing a satisfying break with regional dishes and alcoholic beverages. Guests appreciate the relaxed setting, with ample tables, chairs, and loungers for soaking up the sun. The food quality is often praised, making this part of the day a real treat.

Return & Party on the Way Back
The return trip is just as lively as the start. Expect more unlimited drinks, upbeat music, and a party atmosphere as the catamaran heads back to Cancun. It’s a fitting end to what is really a Caribbean beach bash.

The Realities: Pros and Cons Based on Experience & Reviews

What Travelers Love
Many reviews highlight the delicious food and regional tapas as a standout part of the experience. The buffet lunch at Playa Norte gets consistently good marks, with some guests saying it’s among the best parts of the day. The open bar creates a carefree vibe that’s perfect for socializing and making new friends.

Safety & Experience
With 16 years of operational safety and no accidents, the company prioritizes security, which is reassuring for families and first-time visitors. The boats are described as high-quality, offering a stable platform for all the water activities.

Crowding & Overbooking Concerns
A significant negative point raised by one reviewer was the overcrowding on the boat—people sitting on the edges, feeling cramped. This suggests that the tour can get quite packed, especially during peak booking times. If comfort is a priority, this is something to keep in mind.

Pricing & Extra Fees
The base price of $61 per person offers good value considering the all-day itinerary, drinks, lunch, and island exploration. However, be aware that dock fees and reef taxes are not included and will add about $30 USD per person. Photos and souvenirs are also extra.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy social parties, swimming in clear waters, and tasting regional drinks, this tour hits all those marks. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or anyone looking for a lively day out. Families with children over age 6 who are comfortable in large groups might also find the experience fun, especially if they enjoy a festive atmosphere.

However, travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate snorkeling experience or someone sensitive to large crowds might find this tour less appealing. The focus here is on fun and socializing, not serenity.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Cancun catamaran tour offers a lively, well-organized way to enjoy the Caribbean waters, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and socializing. The top snorkeling spot combined with authentic regional food and limitless drinks makes it a strong choice for those wanting a full, fun-filled day.

While the crowding can be a drawback, the overall vibe is celebratory, and many guests walk away with happy memories and new friends. The quality of the food and the safety record are definite pluses, ensuring a comfortable, enjoyable experience.

In short, this tour is best suited for travelers looking for a party on the water, eager to explore Isla Mujeres, and ready to indulge in good food and drinks. For those seeking a more tranquil or intimate adventure, it might be worth exploring quieter options.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, most bookings include pickup from your Cancun, Puerto Morelos, or Playa del Carmen hotel, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return.

How much does the dock fee cost?
Dock fees and reef taxes are not included in the price and cost about $30 USD per person.

What’s included in the meal?
A buffet lunch with alcoholic beverages is provided at the beach club. The quality of the food is generally praised.

Can I explore Isla Mujeres on my own?
Yes, you get about an hour of free time to wander the island’s streets and shops at your own pace.

Is there an age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with a lively, crowded environment.

How safe is the tour?
With over 16 years of safe operation and no reported accidents, the company emphasizes safety, though overcrowding has been noted as a concern.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and cash for extras such as photos or souvenirs. A camera is also recommended.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, according to the policy.

This lively experience offers plenty of fun, great food, and the chance to soak up the Caribbean spirit. Perfect for those wanting to turn a day in Cancun into a memorable beach party adventure.