Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel, Open Bar & Transport
About Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel, Open Bar & Transport
A full-day sail from Cancun to Isla Mujeres with the logistics handled for you. After pickup from your Hotel Zone hotel, you board a catamaran at Playa Tortugas, snorkel the El Meco reef with a guide, spend time on Playa Norte, then get free time to explore the island’s downtown before sailing back. A national open bar and a buffet meal are included, so the only thing you need to bring cash for is the dock fee and tips.
It’s one of the most popular day trips from Cancun because it packs the three things most visitors want into one day: time on the water, a reef snorkel and a few hours on the island, without having to deal with ferries or taxis yourself.
Itinerary
- Hotel pickup in the Cancun Hotel Zone (pickup option)
- Check-in at Playa Tortugas dock from 9:00 a.m.; boat departs 10:00 a.m.
- El Meco reef snorkel (about 45 min)
- Playa Norte beach time (about 1 hour)
- Free time in Isla Mujeres downtown (about 1 hour)
- Sail back to Cancun and transport to your hotel
What’s included
- Round-trip catamaran to Isla Mujeres
- National open bar
- Guided reef snorkel at El Meco
- Snorkel equipment
- Buffet-style meal
- About 1 hour of free time downtown
- Hotel Zone transport (pickup option)
Meeting point
Playa Tortugas dock, Cancun Hotel Zone. Check-in from 9:00 a.m.; the boat departs at 10:00 a.m.
What to expect on the day
If you booked the pickup option, a shuttle collects you at your Hotel Zone hotel in the morning and takes you to the Playa Tortugas dock. Check-in at the dock starts at 9:00 a.m. and the boat leaves at 10:00 a.m.; this is when you pay the dock fee. The first stop is the El Meco reef, where you’ll have about 45 minutes in the water with a guide and all the gear you need.
From the reef you sail to Isla Mujeres for about an hour on Playa Norte, the island’s best-known beach, and then roughly an hour of free time in town to walk the colourful streets, shop for crafts or grab a snack. The return sail to Cancun comes with music and drinks, and the shuttle drops you back at your hotel. Plan on 6 to 8 hours in total.
Prices and extra costs
- Tour price: from about $85 USD per person on Viator; check the booking page for today’s price and options.
- Dock fee: $20 USD per person, paid in cash at the dock on the day. It isn’t included in the online price.
- Pickup outside the Hotel Zone: available for an extra charge per person.
- Tips: optional, but customary for the crew.
What to bring
- Cash in USD or pesos for the dock fee, tips and anything you buy on the island
- Swimsuit (wear it under your clothes), a towel and a change of clothes
- Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- Sandals or flip-flops that are easy to take on and off, since shoes usually stay off on the boat
- A waterproof bag or phone pouch
- Your booking confirmation on your phone and a photo ID
Tips for a better day
- Seasickness: the crossing is short, but the sea can be choppy on windy days. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something before boarding and stay near the middle of the boat.
- Weather: the snorkel stop depends on sea conditions, and windy days or recent storms can reduce visibility. The calmest, clearest months are usually spring and early summer.
- Pace yourself: the open bar runs most of the day and the Caribbean sun is strong, so alternate with water.
- Protect the reef: don’t touch or stand on the coral, and use only reef-safe sunscreen.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: first-time visitors, couples and groups of friends who want an easy, social day out that combines sailing, snorkeling and the island.
- Consider another option if: you want a quiet or private trip (this is a shared, lively boat), you’d rather spend most of the day exploring Isla Mujeres by golf cart, or you’re mainly after serious snorkeling or diving.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded. Times are based on local Cancun time.
FAQ about Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel, Open Bar & Transport
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, from hotels in the Cancun Hotel Zone when you book the pickup option. Pickup outside the Hotel Zone costs extra.
What time does the tour start?
Check-in at the Playa Tortugas dock begins at 9:00 a.m. and the boat departs at 10:00 a.m. Pickup times from hotels are earlier.
How long is the Isla Mujeres catamaran tour?
Plan on 6 to 8 hours including hotel pickup and drop-off.
Is there a dock fee?
Yes. A $20 USD per person dock fee is paid in cash at the dock on the day; it isn't included in the online price.
Where do you snorkel?
At the El Meco reef, with about 45 minutes in the water and a guide.
Is snorkel equipment provided?
Yes. Complete snorkel gear is provided on board.
How much time do you get on Isla Mujeres?
Around an hour on Playa Norte plus about an hour of free time in downtown Isla Mujeres.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes. A national open bar and a buffet-style meal are included.
What should I bring?
Cash for the dock fee and tips, swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sandals, a waterproof bag and your booking on your phone.
What language is the tour in?
The tour is guided in English.
Can I cancel?
Yes. Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund; later cancellations aren't refunded.
Do I need a printed ticket?
No. A mobile ticket on your phone is accepted.
