Discover Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres with Transfer from Cancun & Riviera Maya

If you’re looking to squeeze a couple of Mexico’s most beautiful islands into one day, this tour promises a well-rounded taste of nature, culture, and Caribbean charm. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it offers an engaging mix of snorkeling, scenic views, and local flavor.

What we really like about this experience? First, the chance to snorkel at Ixlaché reef, renowned for its crystal-clear, shallow waters teeming with marine life, promises a rewarding underwater adventure. Second, the opportunity to explore Isla Contoy, a protected natural reserve, offers authentic encounters with unspoiled nature and tranquility.

A possible consideration? The tour’s timing might be tight for those wanting more leisure time or to explore at a more relaxed pace. Also, the trip involves a significant amount of activity packed into a single day, which might feel rushed for some travelers.

This tour is ideal for those who love nature, enjoy snorkeling, and want to experience two iconic islands with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided excursions with clear logistics and a focus on authentic sights, rather than prolonged sightseeing.

Key Points

• Two Islands in One Day: Visit Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres—a great way to maximize island experiences in a single trip.
• Snorkeling at Ixlaché Reef: Enjoy about 45 minutes exploring marine life in shallow, crystalline waters ideal for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
• Authentic Lunch Included: Savor local flavors with fish tikin xic and charbroiled chicken, adding a genuine taste of Yucatan cuisine.
• Comfortable Transport & Guides: The tour uses a 2-level boat for comfort and includes bilingual guides to enrich your understanding of the sights.
• Flexible Free Time: You’ll get about 45 minutes in Isla Mujeres for strolling, shopping, or just soaking in the Caribbean vibe.
• All-Inclusive Feel: The price covers transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and an open bar—making it a good value for a full day on the water.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Departure

At 8 a.m., you’ll be picked up from your hotel if it’s within the designated area—mainly from hotels in Cancun, Playacar, or Puerto Aventuras. If you’re staying farther south, like in Tulum or Riviera Maya, there might be an extra cost ($15-20 USD). Keep in mind that if you’re in Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya, the main dock for boarding is in Cancun, not your hotel.

On the bus, expect a friendly, bilingual guide who’ll provide a concise overview of the day’s itinerary. The journey itself is part of the experience—comfortable transportation gets you comfortably to the boat dock while you relax and get excited for the day ahead.

The Boat: Comfort and Views

The boat is described as a two-level vessel—a stable platform for the approximately 8-hour trip. It’s designed for fun, with music and a national open bar onboard, which adds a party vibe to the journey. The vessel’s design allows for good views and plenty of space to move around, whether you want to sunbathe, chat, or just enjoy the scenery.

Snorkeling at Ixlaché Reef

The first stop is the Ixlaché reef, where you’ll spend about 45 minutes snorkeling. This shallow reef is noted for its clarity and shallow waters, making it suitable for snorkelers of all skill levels. Expect to see a variety of colorful fish and marine life—children and adults alike often find this experience delightful.

The guides are certified, meaning they can help you spot marine creatures and ensure your equipment usage is smooth. Many reviews highlight the quality of the snorkeling gear and the patience of guides, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Isla Contoy: Nature and Relaxation

After snorkeling, you’ll head to Isla Contoy, a protected nature reserve and National Wildlife Refuge. This island is a true sanctuary, with unspoiled beaches and a peaceful atmosphere. The guides typically offer insights into the island’s ecological importance, which adds an educational touch to your visit.

Here, you’ll have time to relax on the beach, walk along the shoreline, or make a second snorkel near the shore. The highlight of this stop is the extraordinary views and the chance to see untouched nature up close.

The Lunch Break

Around 1:30 p.m., the tour provides a Mexican lunch featuring fish tikin xic, a Yucatecan specialty, along with charbroiled chicken. Many reviews praise the quality of the meal—fresh, flavorful, and satisfying after a morning of activity. The inclusion of a continental breakfast and open bar also enhances the value, and the relaxed atmosphere makes the meal more enjoyable.

Isla Mujeres: Short but Sweet

After lunch, there’s a bit of free time to explore Isla Contoy further or simply unwind. Then, the boat heads to Isla Mujeres for about 45 minutes of shopping and strolling in the center of the island. This short visit is perfect for picking up souvenirs or just soaking in the colorful Caribbean ambiance.

The return journey begins in the late afternoon, arriving back in Cancun around 5-6 p.m. This timing lets you unwind before heading back to your hotel, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Travelers Say & Real-World Tips

Based on reviews, most travelers find this tour well-organized, with knowledgeable guides and stunning views that meet expectations. Some mention the fun onboard atmosphere and appreciate the smooth logistics. Others note that the snorkeling is particularly enjoyable—highlighted as a major plus in reviews.

A few reviews mention the extra cost of government fees ($20 per person), which is typical for park and dock fees, so be prepared for that additional expense. The tour’s maximum group size of 65 means it isn’t overly crowded but still offers a lively atmosphere.

Travelers should wear comfortable clothing, bring swimsuits, extra clothes, and towels, and use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment. The tour is suitable for most people, but those over 60 or with recent surgeries might want to skip snorkeling for safety reasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, snorkelers, and those looking to get a taste of authentic island life without the hassle of planning individual trips. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see two islands in one day and enjoy a combination of relaxation, snorkeling, and cultural sights.

If you’re a family, the shallow waters and guided nature explanations make it accessible and educational. For those on a budget, the all-inclusive approach offers good value, considering the transportation, meals, and activities included.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a compelling choice for anyone wanting to experience the best of Cancun’s surrounding islands. The snorkeling at Ixlaché, the untouched beauty of Isla Contoy, and the vibrant charm of Isla Mujeres each bring something special to the table.

While it’s a full day—packed with activity—it’s well-suited for travelers who prefer guided, all-in-one experiences that minimize stress and maximize enjoyment. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views consistently receive praise, and the inclusion of good food and drinks makes it a comfortable, fun outing.

If you’re looking for a day that combines nature, culture, and Caribbean fun, this tour is a solid pick. Just be prepared for a lively day and a fair amount of time on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour departs at 8:00 a.m., with pickup from your hotel if it’s within the designated pickup zone.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cancun, Playacar, or Puerto Aventuras is included. Extra charges apply if your hotel is outside these areas, such as Tulum or Riviera Maya.

How long is the snorkeling at Ixlaché reef?
You’ll snorkel for approximately 45 minutes at the reef, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the marine life and shallow waters.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
The tour provides snorkeling equipment, so you don’t need to bring your own, but feel free to do so if you prefer.

How much free time do I get at Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have about 45 minutes to explore the island, shop, or relax in the town center.

Are drinks included on the boat?
Yes, a national open bar is available onboard, offering drinks throughout the trip.

What is the cost of government fees?
There is an additional dock fee of $20 USD per person, payable on the day of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those over 60 or with recent surgeries should consider health and safety before snorkeling.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimsuits, extra clothes, towels, biodegradable sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended to make the most of your day.

This tour really offers a well-rounded taste of the Yucatan’s natural beauty and island life—an experience that’s both fun and fulfilling for a variety of travelers.