Snorkel and catamaran to Isla Mujeres

A Practical Look at the Snorkel and Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres

For travelers heading to Cancun looking to combine sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea, this Snorkel and Catamaran to Isla Mujeres promises a lively day on the Caribbean. While it’s marketed as an intimate experience with a boat that holds just 15 guests, some reviews suggest the reality might be quite different. Still, if you’re seeking a fun, social outing with good food and drinks, this tour could fit the bill.

What we really appreciate about this trip are the inclusive features: a buffet lunch at a beach club, unlimited open bar, and the chance to snorkel in colorful reefs. Plus, the potential to try flying from the spinnaker sail — weather permitting — adds an extra splash of adventure. The main drawback? The dock fee of $20 per person isn’t included in the listed price, and the boat size may be larger than some expect, with at least one reviewer noting it was more of a party boat than the intimate vessel advertised.

This tour suits travelers who are looking for a lively, all-in-one day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for socializing and enjoying the scenery. If your goal is a peaceful, quiet day, or you’re seeking a more exclusive experience, you might want to consider other options. But for those happy to mingle with fellow travelers and enjoy a full Caribbean experience, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Small group vibe: Designed for just 15 travelers, but some reports suggest it often exceeds that.
• Includes plenty of food and drink: Buffet lunch at a beach club plus an open bar during the trip.
• Snorkeling with guidance: Certified guides help you spot marine life and assist if needed.
• Optional thrill: Weather permitting, you can try flying from the spinnaker sail.
• Dock fee extra: An additional $20 per person for docking.
• Good for lively groups: Perfect for travelers seeking fun, social Caribbean day trips.

The Journey to Isla Mujeres: What to Expect

The tour begins early, with check-in at the Marina Imperial las Perlas in Cancun’s hotel zone. From there, your small boat departs around 9:30 am, heading across the Caribbean Sea towards Isla Mujeres. The ride itself is part of the fun — a chance to enjoy the breeze and stunning sea views. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially if the boat is more crowded than some expect, as one traveler noted their boat felt more like a “party boat” than a quiet vessel.

The boat’s capacity is small, meant for just 15, but some reviews reveal it often carries more, which can affect comfort and the overall vibe. The main focus here is a social, upbeat experience with plenty of space for drinks and conversation. The crew is generally friendly, and the journey offers ample opportunities for photos of the sparkling sea and distant shoreline.

Isla Mujeres Stop: Beachside Relaxation and Exploration

Once at Isla Mujeres, you’ll have about three hours to enjoy the beach club. This is the highlight for many — a chance to unwind on soft sands, swim in clear waters, or explore the small island town. The lunch buffet is served at the beach club, offering a variety of food with enough time to eat and then wander around the local shops or relax by the sea.

The actual time ashore is enough for a quick exploration, but don’t expect a full island tour — this is primarily a relaxing break. One traveler mentioned, “Enjoy the amazing beach club and have free time to explore,” highlighting the laid-back nature of this part of the trip. Keep in mind, the dock fee is paid separately, so budget for that in advance.

Snorkeling: Underwater Adventure with Expert Guidance

Back on the boat or from the shore, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel amid tropical fish and vibrant coral. The presence of a certified guide is appreciated, as they help spot marine life and assist beginners or nervous swimmers. The snorkel equipment is provided, making it easy to jump in and enjoy the underwater world.

Depending on the weather, the reef can be quite lively, giving you a chance to see colorful fish, and possibly other marine creatures. The guide’s expertise can turn a simple snorkel into a more enriching experience, especially if you’re new to snorkeling.

The Optional Spinnaker Sail and Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat returns to Cancun, with about an hour for the journey back. If weather conditions are favorable, you might get a chance to fly from the spinnaker sail, adding a dash of thrill to your day. This feature, however, is weather dependent, so it’s not guaranteed.

The return trip also offers more scenic views and a chance to reflect on the day over drinks from the open bar. The lively atmosphere continues on the way back, making it a fun, social finale.

The Practicalities: Cost, Timing, and Group Size

At $57 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the buffet lunch and open bar included. But remember, the dock fee adds $20, which is separate from the ticket price. When budgeting, consider this extra cost to avoid surprises.

The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning in the late afternoon. It’s a full day of activity, which many travelers enjoy for the variety it packs into one trip. Group sizes can be up to 65, but the boat’s description suggests a small, intimate experience — though some reviews indicate it can feel larger and more party-like.

What the Reviews Reveal

The mixed reviews give a balanced view of what to expect. One review from a traveler named George_D mentioned, “Most memorable was at check-in when I found out the tour I booked that advertised as a 15-passenger boat was really a 40-passenger party boat.” This highlights the importance of managing expectations around boat size and atmosphere.

While the experience generally includes knowledgeable guides and stunning views, the crowded boat scenario might detract from the intimate feel some travelers seek. The lively, party vibe is a plus for those wanting a social experience, but it might be a downside if you prefer peace and quiet.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a fun-filled day with plenty of social interaction, good food, and drinks, this tour offers good value. The snorkeling, beach time, and optional sail make it suitable for travelers who love a lively atmosphere and straightforward Caribbean fun.

However, if your priority is a quiet, more exclusive experience, or you’re concerned about the extra dock fee, you might want to explore other options. The boat size and crowd levels vary, so be prepared for a potentially energetic environment.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for adventurers who enjoy a spirited, social day on the water with spectacular views and some underwater adventure thrown in. It’s a flexible option for those who value the combination of sailing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation, as long as you keep in mind the potential for larger crowds and extra costs.

FAQ

How many people are on this tour?
The boat is designed for a maximum of 15 travelers, but some reviews suggest it often carries more, up to around 40 or more.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat trip, snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch at a beach club, and an open bar during the tour.

Is there an additional fee?
Yes, a dock fee of $20 per person is not included in the listed price and must be paid separately.

When does the tour start and end?
It begins at 9:30 am from Marina Imperial las Perlas and lasts about 8 hours, returning in the late afternoon.

Can I try flying from the spinnaker sail?
Yes, weather permitting, you can attempt the spinnaker sail on the return trip for an adrenaline boost.

What’s the snorkeling like?
Guided snorkeling allows you to see tropical fish and coral reefs. The guides are there to help make the experience enjoyable and safe.

Who is this tour ideal for?
This is best for travelers seeking a lively, social Caribbean day with snorkeling, good food, and drinks, rather than a quiet or private excursion.

Is there a chance the boat will be crowded?
Yes, some travelers have noted that the boat often exceeds the advertised capacity, resulting in a more party-like atmosphere than an intimate experience.