Cancun: Isla Mujeres Catamaran with buffet lunch & open bar

Cancun: Isla Mujeres Catamaran with Buffet Lunch & Open Bar offers a taste of the Caribbean’s best—bright blue waters, vibrant island life, and an intriguing underwater museum. Priced at $63 per person and lasting roughly eight hours, this trip promises a fun-filled escape from Cancun’s busy hotel zone. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a balanced mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, relaxing, and socializing.

What we like most about this tour are the spacious catamaran that provides plenty of deck space for sunbathing or socializing, and the buffet lunch at Discovery Island beach club, which is a great way to refuel after a morning of exploring. The chance to snorkel at the MUSA Underwater Museum—an unusual blend of art and nature—is also a definite highlight, offering something different from the usual reef experience.

However, a potential drawback—based on reviews—is the inconsistency in group size and organization. Some travelers found the boat much more crowded than expected and were disappointed by logistical issues, including unclear communication about the snorkeling stops. The experience can vary significantly depending on the day and crew, so managing expectations is wise.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy social, relaxed outings with a mix of sightseeing and beach time. If you’re after a more intimate or highly organized adventure, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re open to some surprises and like the idea of a lively, all-in-one day trip, this tour could fit well into your Cancun itinerary.

Key Points

• Spacious catamaran with ample deck space for lounging or mingling
• Includes a buffet lunch at a popular beach club, perfect for refueling
• Snorkeling at MUSA, the underwater sculpture museum—an art-meets-nature experience
• Two hours of free time on Isla Mujeres to explore shops and cafes
• Open bar with national drinks, adding to the relaxed island vibe
• No hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange transport to the departure point

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cancun to Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour

Starting Point and Logistics
The trip begins at Playa Langosta Pier in Cancun. If you’re staying in the hotel zone, catching the bus to Playa Langosta is probably your easiest option. The tour lasts about eight hours, a good chunk of your day, especially if you’re looking to maximize your time on the water and on the island.

The Catamaran Experience
The vessel itself is described as spacious, providing plenty of room to relax under the sun or enjoy the breeze. However, some reviews have raised concerns about crowding—one traveler mentioned, “The catamaran was not max 16 but around 60 people,” which significantly impacts the comfort level. On a crowded boat, even a fun day can feel a bit hectic, especially if you’re hoping for a relaxing cruise.

Snorkeling at MUSA
The highlight for many is snorkeling through the MUSA Underwater Museum. This site features sculptures that blend art and environment, creating a surreal underwater gallery. When the experience goes as planned, it offers a memorable contrast to typical reef snorkeling. But some reviews indicate that not everyone gets to see much of the sculptures—in one case, “you’ll see less than ten sculptures,” which can be disappointing if your goal is to view the full underwater art collection.

Importantly, snorkeling is only suitable for children over 8, and pregnant women or those with mobility issues are advised against participating for safety reasons. Snorkel gear is provided, but as always, packing your own biodegradable sunscreen will help protect this delicate environment.

Lunch and Beach Club Relaxation
The buffet lunch at Discovery Island is praised for its good flavors and variety, offering a taste of local cuisine. After snorkeling, you’ll likely want to settle into a lounge chair, sip a drink from the open bar, and unwind. The beach club’s setting—with pools, umbrellas, and a relaxed vibe—makes for a pleasant break. You can also keep your belongings safe with lockers, which is a thoughtful touch.

Time on Isla Mujeres
Devoting about two hours to exploring Isla Mujeres provides just enough time to wander the colorful streets, browse small shops, and snap photos of the vibrant facades. Many travelers enjoy the chance to stretch their legs, enjoy coffee, or find a souvenir. One review mentions, “capture some pictures of the vividly-colored buildings for social media,” which highlights the photogenic nature of the island.

Overall Value and Expectations
While the price of $63 covers the cruise, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and island access, the experience’s quality hinges heavily on the crew’s organization and the day’s weather. The inclusion of an open bar adds a festive element, but some reviews point out that communication could be better, especially regarding the itinerary or extra costs like port fees.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a fun, social day out in Cancun’s waters. If you enjoy larger group excursions with a lively atmosphere, you’ll likely find it engaging. It suits those interested in unique underwater art, enjoying a good buffet, and relaxing on the beach with a drink in hand. Those seeking a more intimate, smoothly organized experience or clear focus on snorkeling might want to consider alternatives.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour offers a solid balance of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing—especially if you enjoy lively group outings. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the chance to snorkel among sculptures that cleverly combine art and marine life, creating a visual feast beneath the waves. The buffet lunch and open bar enhance the experience, making it feel like a true Caribbean escape.

However, be aware that crowd size and organizational issues can vary. If you’re lucky, you’ll spend a smooth, enjoyable day with plenty of sun, good food, and beautiful sights. If the weather cooperates, the snorkeling at MUSA can be truly special, but don’t be surprised if some parts of the trip fall short of expectations—reviews indicate that reliability can fluctuate.

This tour offers value for the price if you’re comfortable with a lively, somewhat unpredictable group adventure. It’s perfect for those who prioritize relaxed social fun, good food, and a splash of underwater art amid a stunning island backdrop.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll need to travel to the Playa Langosta Pier where the boat departs. The easiest way if you’re in the hotel zone is to take the bus to Playa Langosta.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable, to protect the environment), cash for extras, and possibly a towel and a hat for sun protection.

Are there age restrictions for snorkeling?
Yes, children over 8 years old are allowed to snorkel. Pregnant women and those with mobility issues are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

How long do I get on Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have approximately two hours to explore the island’s shops, cafes, and colorful streets before returning to Cancun.

Is the open bar included?
Yes, the tour offers free drinks from the open bar, which includes national beverages. It’s a fun way to relax and soak up the island atmosphere.

What’s the quality of the lunch buffet?
The buffet is generally considered good, with local flavors and enough variety to satisfy most travelers after a morning of activity.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, due to safety and physical requirements, this tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Taking it all together, the Cancun: Isla Mujeres Catamaran with buffet lunch & open bar offers a lively, affordable way to experience the Caribbean’s best sights and flavors. It’s perfect for those eager to combine a bit of adventure with plenty of relaxation, provided you’re comfortable with possible crowds and some organizational quirks. So, if your idea of a good day involves good food, sunny decks, and snorkeling among sculptures, this trip might just be what you’re looking for.