Round Trip Ferry to Isla Mujeres from Cancun

A Practical Look at the Cancun to Isla Mujeres Ferry Experience

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun and considering a day trip to Isla Mujeres, the round-trip ferry service offered by Ultramar is a popular choice for many travelers. It promises a straightforward, comfortable ride across the Caribbean that can seamlessly fit into your schedule. While it’s not a tour packed with guided stops or cultural insights, it does offer some lovely views and reliable service—ideal for those looking for simple, quick transport.

We’ve seen that travelers love the breezy, panoramic views from the upper deck and the modern comfort of the vessels, but some have also raised concerns about booking reliability and pricing. This service is best for those who want a hassle-free way to get across the water and spend their day exploring the island at their own pace. If you’re after an easy, no-nonsense boat ride with dependable departures, this might be your best bet.

That said, it’s worth noting that a few reviews highlight issues such as voucher acceptance and pricing discrepancies. So, if you decide to go with this option, it’s wise to double-check your tickets and be prepared for some variability in experience. This ferry is suited for travelers who prioritize convenience over guided experiences and are comfortable managing their own logistics.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip service between Cancun and Isla Mujeres, with departures every 30 minutes.
• Enjoy panoramic Caribbean views from the top deck, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Modern, comfortable vessels with air conditioning, onboard amenities, and stabilization technology for a smooth ride.
• Easy to book and flexible, with open return tickets valid for up to 48 hours.
• Additional amenities include food and beverages for purchase, restrooms, and onboard TV screens.
• Potential booking issues have been reported, so verify your tickets before heading to the port.

The Ferry Experience: What Travelers Can Expect

The Ultramar ferry service is designed to make your transition from Cancun’s mainland to Isla Mujeres straightforward. The ferries depart from Puerto Juarez, located about 15-20 minutes from Cancun’s hotel zone, and the journey takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This duration strikes a good balance—long enough to relax and enjoy the views, yet short enough to keep your day flexible.

The modern catamarans are built for comfort. Onboard, you’ll find ergonomic, spacious seats and air-conditioned interiors—crucial for hot days. The state-of-the-art stabilization tech ensures a smooth, stable ride, even if the waters are a little choppy. You’ll appreciate the panoramic upper deck, where you can soak up the sun, snap photos of the turquoise waters and surrounding islands, or just enjoy the gentle sea breeze.

Ferries run every half hour from early morning till evening, giving you plenty of options to match your schedule. Whether you’re looking to catch the first boat or the last, the frequent departures mean you won’t have to wait long. It’s worth noting that the port of departure is at Playa Tortugas, on Kukulcan Boulevard, which is rather a bit removed from some hotel areas, so plan transportation accordingly.

The onboard amenities are fairly standard for a ferry of this type: food and drinks are available for purchase, which is handy for a quick snack or refreshment, especially if you plan to spend a few hours on the island. Restrooms and TV screens are also included, making the trip comfortable.

The Value of the Price

At around $44 per person, the ferry offers a reasonably priced way to hop over to Isla Mujeres. When you compare the cost to the convenience—departures every 30 minutes, the onboard comfort, and beautiful views—the price feels justifiable for many travelers. It’s a practical way to avoid the hassle of complicated arrangements or private transfers, especially if you’re just looking for a quick passage.

However, some reviews point out that booking through third-party vendors like Viator has led to issues, including invalid tickets and double charges. That’s a reminder to buy your tickets directly or, at least, verify your booking. Also, some travelers have noted they paid more than the local fare—about $15 USD extra—by booking in advance online instead of at the port, so if budget is key, buying on-site might save you money.

Booking and Logistics: What You Should Know

The meeting point at Playa Tortugas is easy to find, near public transportation options, but some reviews mention the lack of a shuttle service from hotels, which might add an extra step to your planning. Once there, you’ll check in at the Ultramar ticket office, where staff are generally helpful, though some have experienced difficulty with vouchers or reservations made through third-party platforms.

Your ticket is valid for the specific route and date, but the return ticket remains valid for 48 hours, giving you ample flexibility to explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace. Pets and bikes are allowed, and you can carry baggage up to 25 kg, which is handy if you plan to bring extra gear or a small pet.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many travelers appreciate the reliability of the departures and the stunning water views. One review notes that the ferry ride was “great” on a sunny day, emphasizing the beautiful scenery from the upper deck. Others, however, caution about booking issues—“tickets were not valid” or “voucher not accepted”—highlighting the importance of purchasing directly or verifying your trip beforehand.

A few travelers found the ferry ride to be a simple, pleasant journey—“a nice, warm, sunny day that made for a pleasant ride”—but some were frustrated by booking mishaps and pricing discrepancies, with one stating they overpaid by around 15 USD per person when booking online versus buying at the port.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

• To avoid surprises, consider buying your tickets at the port if you’re concerned about voucher acceptance or unexpected charges.
• Arrive early, especially if you’re traveling during peak times or with luggage or pets.
• Use the upper deck for the best scenic photos and a refreshing breeze.
• Remember that the port at Playa Tortugas is away from many hotel zones, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• If you book online, double-check whether your voucher is valid or if you need to exchange it at the terminal.

Who Should Consider This Ferry?

This service is ideal for independent travelers who want a hassle-free, reliable way to cross between Cancun and Isla Mujeres without guided tours or extra stops. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views and comfort, especially on sunny days when the top deck offers the best experience. If you’re traveling with pets or bikes, or need to carry a modest amount of baggage, this ferry welcomes both.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a guided tour with curated stops or want to avoid potential booking issues, you might consider other options. Also, travelers who are particularly budget-conscious should weigh the slightly higher online booking prices against the convenience and comfort offered.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Ultramar ferry service between Cancun and Isla Mujeres provides a reliable, comfortable, and scenic way to make the short crossing. Its frequent departures and modern vessels make it convenient for spontaneous trips or carefully planned days. The views from the upper deck are a highlight, offering a relaxed atmosphere and photo opportunities that capture the essence of Caribbean travel.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who value independent exploration and wish to avoid the complexities of guided tours or private transfers. While booking issues have been reported, these can often be avoided by buying tickets directly at the port or verifying details beforehand.

For a simple, scenic, and efficient way to reach Isla Mujeres, this ferry service delivers solid value. Just remember to plan ahead, especially if booking online, and enjoy the gentle sea breezes and stunning views en route to a memorable island adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to book my ferry tickets in advance?
While you can buy tickets at the port, many travelers opt to book online for convenience. Just be aware that some have experienced issues with vouchers, so confirm your booking details beforehand.

What is the duration of the ferry ride?
The trip takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the exact departure time.

Can I bring pets or bikes onboard?
Yes, pets and bikes are welcome on the Ultramar ferry, making it easy to bring your furry friend or bike for exploring Isla Mujeres.

How much baggage can I carry?
You’re allowed a piece of baggage up to 25 kg (45 cm x 70 cm x 27 cm), which is generally enough for a day trip.

Are there restrooms and amenities onboard?
Yes, the ferry includes restrooms and food and beverage options for purchase. There are also TV screens and air conditioning for comfort.

What should I do if my voucher isn’t accepted?
Some reviews mention issues with vouchers from third-party sellers like Viator. To avoid this, consider purchasing tickets directly at the port or verifying your booking before departure.

What time do the ferries depart?
Ferries leave every 30 minutes from early morning until evening, providing flexibility to fit your itinerary.

Is the port at Playa Tortugas accessible from my hotel?
It’s near public transportation, but some travelers find it inconvenient, as it’s a bit removed from the hotel zone. Planning transportation in advance can save you time.

In the end, this ferry service offers a practical route for those seeking ease and comfort for their short journey across the Caribbean. Just be prepared for the quirks—like booking issues—and enjoy the stunning views as you glide toward Isla Mujeres.