Cancun: Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Open Bar of Drinks

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventurous way to spend a day outside Cancun, a catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres offers the perfect blend of sailing, snorkeling, and free time on a gorgeous Caribbean island. For $59 per person, this 8-hour trip takes you through sparkling waters aboard a well-maintained vessel, with plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the scenic views. Alongside the fun, you’ll also benefit from an open bar featuring a selection of drinks, adding a casual, festive vibe to your day.

We love how this tour combines sailing and snorkeling in one seamless trip, allowing you to appreciate both the underwater and above-water beauty of the Caribbean. The self-paced exploration on Isla Mujeres, with its inviting beaches and charming shops, makes this a fantastic option for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and downtime. On the flip side, a common consideration is the extra dock fee of $20 and the possibility that weather might occasionally cancel snorkeling, so it’s worth planning with some flexibility.

This tour appeals most to those who enjoy casual, scenic outings with a social element — perfect for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a taste of local island life. If you’re after a straightforward, fun-filled day with a good balance of activity and relaxation, this trip checks quite a few boxes.

Key Points

• Stunning views of the Caribbean from the deck of the catamaran.
• Snorkeling in vibrant reefs to see colorful marine life.
• Open bar of drinks included, mainly beers, with some juice and soda.
• Flexible exploration time at Isla Mujeres for shopping or beach lounging.
• The tour’s duration is around 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure.
• Extra costs such as a $20 dock fee and optional buffet meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at Marina Las Perlas, a convenient and well-organized location in Cancun. Arriving at least 15 minutes early helps ensure a smooth check-in, which, according to reviews, is generally quick. The catamaran itself is described as being in good condition, which adds to the comfort and safety of your journey.

The Sailing and Snorkeling

Once aboard, you’ll set sail across the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean. The boat ride itself is quite enjoyable, with music playing and drinks flowing from the open bar, creating a lively but relaxed atmosphere. The snorkeling stop is a highlight: the reef offers a chance to see colorful fish and underwater scenery.

One traveler mentioned that bad weather can sometimes cancel snorkeling, which is worth considering if you’re eager to explore underwater life. The snorkeling segment lasts about 30 minutes, so it’s a quick window into the marine world but enough for most to get a good feel of the vibrant reef.

The Beach Break at Playa Norte

After snorkeling, the catamaran heads to Playa Norte, known for its soft sand and calm waters. Here, you get around 1 hour and 45 minutes — plenty of time to lounge on the beach, grab a drink from the open bar, or explore local shops. Some reviews highlight the delicious local food available at the beach club, which adds to the value, though food isn’t included in the base price.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Isla Mujeres

Following the beach stop, you’ll enjoy a short 15-minute cruise to the island. Once there, you have roughly 2 hours of free time to stroll along the beach, browse shops for souvenirs, or simply relax in this laid-back island setting. Travelers often mention enjoying the easygoing pace and the chance to soak in the island’s authentic vibe.

Return Journey and Final Views

As the tour winds down, you’ll board the catamaran for the scenic one-hour trip back to Cancun, providing excellent opportunities for photos and sharing stories of the day. The return ride is just as delightful, with music and drinks making it a fitting end to your Caribbean adventure.

Included and Not Included

The tour includes a bilingual guide, snorkel equipment, and the catamaran ride itself. Your national open bar features a selection of drinks, mainly beers, with some juice and soda, making it easy to stay refreshed. You also get travelers’ insurance for peace of mind.

However, be prepared for a $20 dock fee payable at the start, which is not included in the price. Food is also not included, so if you’re hungry, consider bringing snacks or grabbing a bite at the beach club, where a buffet is available at an extra cost.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Arrive early to avoid missing the boat — check-in is straightforward but punctuality helps.
• Bring cash for the dock fee and tips, but note that tipping is not mandatory.
• Pack sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), a hat, swimsuit, towel, and camera to capture the moments.
• If you want to snorkel, be aware that participants must be at least 8 years old and in good physical condition.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One reviewer noted that the entertainment and drinks are decent but not extraordinary — mainly beers and some juice. They also pointed out that service can sometimes feel rushed or less friendly when it comes to tipping, so manage your expectations there. Another traveler appreciated the good value for the overall experience, emphasizing the stunning views and relaxed pace.

Several travelers also mention that weather conditions can influence the snorkeling, so keep an eye on the forecast if underwater exploration is a priority. The overall consensus is that this is a fun, easygoing tour suitable for those looking to enjoy the sea without complicated logistics or high costs.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day on the water with a good dose of sunshine and drinks, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors looking to see Isla Mujeres without the hassle of planning transport or activities separately. The mix of sailing, snorkeling, and free time on the island makes it ideal for groups, couples, or solo travelers wanting a straightforward Caribbean escape.

Keep in mind, if you’re seeking a luxury experience or extensive underwater exploration, you might find this tour a bit basic. But for value, scenic beauty, and authentic island vibes, it hits the mark.

This 8-hour catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres offers a compelling blend of leisure and adventure. The chance to sail across clear waters, snorkel amidst vibrant reefs, and relax on a beautiful beach makes for a memorable day. The open bar adds a fun, social element, and the flexible free time on Isla Mujeres lets you tailor your experience.

While some reviews point out minor inconveniences like extra fees and variable snorkeling conditions, overall, this tour provides good value for money. It’s perfect for travelers who want a casual, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and photos.

If you’re visiting Cancun and want to see the Caribbean from a different perspective, this trip is a straightforward way to enjoy the sea, sand, and sunshine — with a lively, friendly atmosphere to match.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age to snorkel?
Yes, participants must be at least 8 years old and in good physical condition to snorkel on this tour.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the catamaran ride, snorkel equipment, travelers insurance, bilingual hosts, and the national open bar.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included. You can buy food or enjoy the buffet at the beach club for an extra charge.

How much is the dock fee?
The dock fee is $20 USD, payable at check-in, and is not included in the ticket price.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate, especially in snorkeling activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), hat, swimsuit, towel, camera, cash, and change of clothes.

How long is the free time on Isla Mujeres?
You get about 2 hours to explore, relax, or shop at your leisure.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?
No, the tour is not suitable for baby strollers or wheelchair users.

If you’re ready for a scenic, fun-filled day on the Caribbean with good company and plenty of sun, this catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres offers a memorable escape from the hustle of Cancun.

You can check availability for your dates here: