Isla Mujeres Plus Tour with Snorkeling Buffet and Open Bar

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Cancun that combines vibrant marine life, a beautiful beach club, and a lively sailing experience, the Isla Mujeres Plus Tour might catch your interest. This tour promises about seven hours of sun, sea, and good eats — and it’s designed for those who want a mix of relaxed beach time, snorkeling adventure, and social sailing. We’ve taken a close look at what this experience offers, and here’s what you need to know before booking.

Two things we really like about this tour: First, the fact that it includes a delicious buffet at Playa Norte, widely regarded as one of Mexico’s best beaches. Second, the opportunity to snorkel at the Meco underwater museum, giving a peek into colorful marine life and artistic sculptures underwater.

A potential consideration? The limited space on the catamaran — as some reviews point out — can make for a snug ride, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more spacious vessel. The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy an active yet laid-back day with a group, and who appreciate good value for a full day of fun.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling, buffet, open bar, and beach club access for a well-rounded day.
• Short but scenic sailing along the coast of Isla Mujeres offers stunning views and good photo opportunities.
• Flexible options: You can explore the town of Isla Mujeres after the main activities.
• Group size capped at 45 offers a lively atmosphere without feeling overcrowded.
• Perfect for those seeking a combination of marine adventure, relaxing beaches, and good food.
• Watch out for the dock tax at Tortugas Beach, which isn’t included in the ticket price.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point at Playa Tortugas

Your day begins at the Marina Albatros on Kukulcan Boulevard, a convenient spot accessible by public transportation. The check-in process is straightforward, with staff on hand starting at 9 am, and the boat departing promptly at 10 am. The vibe here is casual, with fellow travelers ready for a day on the water. This initial stage is mostly about getting everyone aboard and settled.

Snorkeling at Arrecife El Meco

The first real activity is snorkeling at the Meco reef, a highlight of this tour. You’ll get about an hour and a half exploring the underwater sculptures and colorful fish that inhabit the reef. The included snorkeling equipment means you don’t need to bring your own, making it a hassle-free experience. The underwater sculptures add a quirky artistic touch, and the reef’s rich marine life is often described as vibrant and lively.

One reviewer raved, “Incredible buffet, the beach club has the best beaches on the island, highly recommended, we enjoyed a wonderful afternoon,” highlighting how much travelers enjoy the beach and the food afterward. The snorkeling here is accessible for many, though the underwater sculptures and coral formations provide more visual interest than a challenging dive.

Playa Norte and the Buffet Lunch

Next, the tour brings you to Marina Punta Norte, arguably the jewel of Isla Mujeres for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved two-hour break at the beach club. The included buffet is a major perk, offering what many reviewers describe as excellent food and friendly service. One reviewer gave it a perfect score, saying, “The food is very good. 10 out of 10. And more with access to the beach. Super cool.”

During this time, you can lounge in the sun, swim in the inviting waters, or explore the charming town center of Isla Mujeres. The freedom to explore on your own makes this part of the tour flexible and personalized, whether you want to relax or wander through local shops and streets.

Sailing Along the Coast and Sunset Views

Reboard the boat for the final leg, which takes you from Punta Norte to Punta Sur — the southern tip of Isla Mujeres. This sailing segment is often described as scenic, especially as you watch the sunset if timing allows. The trip is lively, with onboard music and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy day, and many appreciate the casual social vibe.

The boat then heads back to Cancun, with the entire journey lasting about three hours. The return sail offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the coastal views.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers are generally positive. One mentioned, “The restaurant excellent service presentation good service. The food is very good. 10 out of 10.” This highlights the quality of the buffet at Playa Norte. Another wrote, “Incredible buffet, the beach club has the best beaches on the island, highly recommended, we enjoyed a wonderful afternoon,” emphasizing how much guests appreciate the combination of good food and beautiful surroundings.

However, not all feedback is perfect. A reviewer pointed out, “The catamaran was very small and uncomfortable, the service was very good, but the space on the boat is very limited,” which is worth considering if comfort during sailing is a priority. The tour’s group size is capped at 45, so it’s not overly crowded, but the vessel’s size may feel tight for some.

Pricing and Value

At $89 per person, this tour offers a fairly comprehensive package — snorkeling, buffet, open bar, beach club access, and scenic sailing — all in a manageable timeframe. The price also includes snorkeling gear and the beach club, which are often extras on other tours. The only additional cost is the $20 dock tax at Tortugas Beach, which travelers should be prepared for.

Given the included amenities, the quality of the food, and the opportunity to see Isla Mujeres from the water, many find this to be good value. It caters well to those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation without the hassle of organizing transport or meals separately.

Logistics and Practical Tips

• Meeting point: Marina Albatros on Kukulcan Boulevard, easy to reach via public transit.
• Start time: 9:30 am, with the boat leaving at 10 am.
• Duration: Approximately 7 hours, making it a full but comfortable day trip.
• Group size: Up to 45 travelers, ensuring a lively yet intimate atmosphere.
• Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent; bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• What to bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a small amount of cash for the dock tax.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day combining marine activity, scenic sailing, and beach relaxation. It’s suited for families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy casual social settings. If you’re looking for a laid-back day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy good food and stunning views, this tour fits the bill.

Those interested in snorkeling will appreciate the artful underwater sculptures and vibrant fish, while beach lovers will thrill at Playa Norte’s inviting sands and clear waters. But keep in mind, if you’re seeking a luxurious or spacious sailing vessel, the limited boat space might not meet your comfort expectations.

Final Thoughts

The Isla Mujeres Plus Tour offers a noticeable blend of adventure, leisure, and cultural scenery. For $89, you’ll enjoy snorkeling amidst artistic sculptures, a top-rated beach buffet, an open bar, and lively sailing, all wrapped into one accessible package. The inclusion of the beach club in Playa Norte — considered one of Mexico’s best beaches — makes this especially appealing for those who want quality surroundings without extra charges.

While the boat’s size can be a drawback for some, the overall experience provides a genuine taste of Isla Mujeres’ charm and laid-back vibe. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a full day of fun, good food, and picturesque views without overcomplicating logistics.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, and most participants can take part, but specific age restrictions aren’t listed. It’s best to check with the provider if travelling with very young children.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll spend about 30 minutes at Playa Tortugas for boarding, 1 hour 30 minutes snorkeling at Arrecife El Meco, 2 hours at Playa Norte for the buffet and beach enjoyment, and 3 hours sailing back including the sunset coast cruise.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at Playa Norte is included, along with drinks. The tour also offers bottled water and soda.

What is the open bar?
Adults can enjoy a selection of national alcoholic beverages available at the open bar on board during the sailing portions of the tour.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, the use of snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

What should I wear?
Swimwear under comfortable clothing, along with sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Bring a towel for after snorkeling or swimming.

Are there any hidden costs?
Yes, there is a $20 dock tax at Tortugas Beach, which isn’t included in the ticket price.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

In essence, this tour offers a lively, reasonably priced way to experience the best of Isla Mujeres’ natural beauty, lively beaches, and friendly atmosphere — a great choice for travelers who want to relax and explore without fuss.