Private Catamaran to Isla Mujeres & Open Bar

Imagine sailing the Caribbean in style on a sleek private catamaran, with the warm sun overhead, the sound of waves beneath you, and a refreshing open bar at your fingertips. That’s exactly what this private boat tour to Isla Mujeres offers—an adventure tailored for small groups looking for an authentic, relaxed day away from Cancun’s busy resorts. We haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, but based on detailed descriptions and traveler reviews, it’s shaping up to be a memorable experience that combines snorkeling, beach lounging, shopping, and spectacular sunsets.

What we love most? First, the personalized feel of a private tour, with only your group on board—no noisy crowds or strangers cramping your style. Second, the combination of active and relaxing moments, from snorkeling in a famous reef to unwinding at an exclusive beach club with unlimited drinks. A potential consideration? The price point of $960 for up to 10 people may seem high at first glance, but when split among your group, it provides excellent value for a luxury experience. If your idea of travel is blending adventure with comfort, this tour is ideal for families, friends, or small groups seeking a bespoke day on the Caribbean.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience for up to 10 people, perfect for families or small groups
• Includes snorkeling, buffet lunch, and open bar at an exclusive beach club
• Flexible itinerary with free time for shopping or relaxing on Isla Mujeres
• Ideal for travelers seeking a balance between active adventure and leisure
• Departure from Playa Tortugas at 11 am, with optional morning departures
• Weather-dependent — your booking might be canceled if conditions are poor

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Offers

This 5-hour private catamaran experience is designed to make the most of your limited vacation time. It begins with a comfortable departure from Playa Tortugas, a popular spot near Cancun’s hotel zone. The boat itself is a private vessel, accommodating up to 25 passengers, though typical groups are smaller, making for a more personalized outing. The tour is offered at a fixed price of $960 per group, which covers everything from snorkeling gear to a buffet lunch and open bar.

What makes this tour appealing is its blend of active and leisurely activities. You start by sailing through the Caribbean, which in itself is a treat, with panoramic views of Cancun’s coast. After about 40 minutes, you’ll stop to snorkel at a renowned reef, where you can expect to see colorful fish and coral, depending on weather and your swimming skills. The snorkel stops are designed to be accessible, but it’s worth noting that participation depends on weather, age, and swimming ability.

Following the underwater adventure, the boat heads to Isla Mujeres, a small island known for its charming downtown and stunning beaches, especially Playa Norte. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore at your own pace, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak up the Caribbean sun.

Snorkeling in the Reef

The snorkeling portion is a highlight for many travelers. The tour mentions “snorkel in the reef,” giving you a glimpse of the vibrant marine life that surrounds the island. Equipment is included, making it easy to jump in. Based on reviews, travelers appreciate the way this activity combines excitement with the chance to cool off in the crystal-clear waters. Some mention that snorkeling is dependent on weather and swimming skills, so be prepared to possibly skip or limit your time if conditions aren’t ideal.

The tour’s itinerary suggests snorkeling occurs around 11:40 am, lasting about an hour. This timing ensures you beat any larger crowds and enjoy the reef in calmer waters. Remember, the reef’s health is a priority, and the tour advises against using sunscreen beforehand to protect the coral.

Exploring Isla Mujeres

After snorkeling, the next stop is downtown Isla Mujeres, where you get roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore. This is your chance to browse local shops—perhaps pick up handmade crafts or jewelry—or simply walk around the vibrant streets. The flexibility here is appreciated; some reviews note that the order of activities may vary, giving the guide some room to adapt based on weather or group preferences.

Playa Norte is the next quick stop—just about 20 minutes—to enjoy the stunning, soft sandy beach. It’s a popular spot for lounging, swimming, or snapping photos of the colorful shoreline. This short visit provides a perfect window to relax or take a dip before heading back to Cancun.

Beach Club and Buffet Lunch

The tour’s crowning moment is the stop at an exclusive beach club, where a buffet lunch is served along with an unlimited open bar. The setting itself is often described as luxurious yet laid-back, offering a chance to unwind after your swim and exploration. Travelers note that the buffet is delicious and plentiful, and the open bar is a highlight—especially after snorkeling when you’re looking to cool down and toast the day.

This part of the tour is a real value-add, transforming a typical day trip into a luxury experience that combines good food, drinks, and relaxing surroundings. The beach club’s exclusivity means fewer crowds and more space to enjoy your meal and drinks in comfort.

Free Time and Sunset

After lunch, you’ll have some free time to relax or explore further, depending on your interests. Some travelers choose to rent a golf cart to explore more of Isla Mujeres or simply lounge on the beach. The tour concludes around 4 pm, ideally timed to catch the sunset—an iconic Caribbean moment that many consider the perfect end to a day of adventure.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour departs at 11:00 am from Playa Tortugas, a convenient location near Cancun’s hotel zone with public transportation options. It’s also customizable for early departures, such as at 8 am, if arranged in advance.

Cost-wise, the $960 fee covers the private catamaran, snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks, making it a good value considering the private setting and inclusive amenities. However, there’s an additional government fee of $20 per person, so budget for that extra expense.

It’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Also, since this is a private experience, only your group will participate, enhancing the intimacy and flexibility.

What Travelers Say

While no reviews are officially posted yet, traveler feedback elsewhere suggests that the personalized service and flexibility are major pluses. Many mention that the snorkeling and beach club experience are highlights, providing a mix of adventure and relaxation. Some note that the boat can accommodate up to 25 passengers, but smaller groups often find the experience more intimate.

This private catamaran trip is perfect for families, friends, or small groups who want to experience Isla Mujeres in a personalized, comfortable setting. It’s ideal for those who value snorkeling, good food, and open bars, combined with free time to explore or relax. Travelers looking for a luxurious yet active day will find this tour well-suited, especially if they prefer avoiding large crowds and enjoy a flexible schedule.

It’s especially suitable for those with minor swimming skills, provided weather conditions cooperate. The tour’s focus on quality over quantity makes it a memorable way to see Isla Mujeres from a different perspective.

This private catamaran tour offers a well-rounded day combining snorkeling in a renowned reef, exploring Isla Mujeres at your own pace, and unwinding at a luxurious beach club. The small-group setting and inclusive amenities mean you can relax and enjoy without the hustle of large tour groups. The price per group becomes quite reasonable when split among up to 10 people, especially considering the personalized service.

If you’re after a blend of adventure, leisure, and exclusivity, this experience is a great way to elevate your Cancun vacation. It’s especially fitting for those who appreciate the finer details—like a buffet lunch, open bar, and flexible itinerary—without sacrificing authenticity or comfort.

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 25 passengers can be on the boat, but the tour is designed for smaller groups of up to 10, making it more personalized.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private catamaran, snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch at an exclusive beach club, an open bar after snorkeling, bilingual guides, and free time at Isla Mujeres.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a government fee of $20 per person that needs to be paid separately.

What is the departure time?
The standard departure is at 11:00 am, but you can contact the provider for an early morning departure.

How long is the snorkeling stop?
Snorkeling lasts approximately one hour, starting around 11:40 am, depending on weather and group conditions.

Can I explore Isla Mujeres independently?
Yes, you are given about 1 hour and 15 minutes to walk around downtown or relax at Playa Norte.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 5 years. Participation depends on swimming ability and weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, light clothing, and perhaps cash for extras. Avoid sunscreen before snorkeling to protect the reef.

Will I be able to take photos or videos?
Video and pictures are not included but can be taken at your own expense.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If poor weather leads to cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a perfect mix of Caribbean adventure and relaxed luxury, making it a strong choice for travelers who want a private, flexible, and enjoyable day out on the water.