Cancun to isla mujeres catamaran sailing

Discovering the Cancun to Isla Mujeres Catamaran Sailing Tour

Imagine swapping the busy streets of Cancun for the calm, warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. This 8-hour tour takes you on a sail in a colorful catamaran from Cancun’s Hotel Zone to the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres. For $64 per person, you’ll enjoy a day filled with snorkeling, beach relaxation, and a delicious buffet lunch with unlimited drinks.

Two aspects stand out: the scenic sailing experience and the access to an exclusive beach club. The crew’s friendliness and the quality of the snorkeling are often praised, making it a solid choice for those wanting a mix of adventure and leisure. However, travelers should be aware that the snorkeling stop might not always deliver what is expected, as one review pointed out the reef wasn’t as vibrant as hoped.

This tour suits travelers looking for a full-day activity with a lively social atmosphere, especially those interested in snorkeling, beach relaxation, and sailing. If you prefer more intimate or less crowded experiences, the group size (up to 60) might be something to consider.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing in a colorful catamaran from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
• Snorkeling at a reputed reef, with some variability noted by past travelers
• Access to an exclusive beach club with buffet lunch and open bar
• Relaxation and fun in a lively social environment
• Optional dock fee of $20 per person, not included in ticket price
• tour duration of roughly 8 hours, ideal for a full-day outing

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The journey begins at Marina Imperial Las Perlas at Km 2.2 of Cancun’s hotel zone. It’s a straightforward meeting spot, close to many hotels, which makes for an easy start. The tour begins at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to soak up the day’s activities.

The catamaran itself is a lively vessel, designed for groups up to 60 travelers, which fosters a vibrant, communal atmosphere. The crew, according to one review, is “amables, divertidos, excelente servicio”—friendly, fun, and professional.

The Sail and Snorkeling Stop

Once underway, you’ll enjoy the sailing experience across the Caribbean, with views that are often described as beautiful and relaxing. The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop at one of Cancun’s top reefs. The guide helps beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike, making the activity accessible and enjoyable.

However, not all reviews are glowing about the reef. One traveler, Tanya from her review, noted that “there was no reef and no fish.” She also mentioned the lack of order in the water, which affected her daughter’s experience. This points to the fact that marine life can vary, and the reef might not always meet expectations.

Isla Mujeres and Beach Club Bliss

After snorkeling, you’ll have several hours to explore Isla Mujeres and unwind at the beach club. This is often called the tour’s highlight. The beach club offers a buffet lunch and an open bar, providing a great chance to relax, sip cocktails, and enjoy the sun. One reviewer, Gabriel G, raved about the “excelente comida y bebidas” (excellent food and drinks) and praised the timeliness of the crew.

The setting is perfect for lounging, with plenty of space to soak up the sun or take a stroll along the shoreline. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment means you can explore more if you wish, though some might find the reef’s marine life underwhelming.

The Practicalities

An important note is the $20 dock fee per person, which is paid on arrival and not included in the ticket. This is typical for marine activities and worth factoring into your budget.

The tour’s timing allows for roughly 3 hours at Isla Mujeres, giving you enough time to relax at the beach, enjoy the buffet, and make the most of the water activities. The return trip begins in the late afternoon, bringing you back to Cancun by early evening.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the sailing in a catamaran offers a genuinely scenic and enjoyable start to the day. The vessel’s design and crew’s enthusiasm contribute to a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for groups and couples alike. Second, the access to a beach club with buffet lunch and open bar is a major plus, especially for those wanting to indulge and unwind without fuss.

The tour balances adventure and relaxation well, allowing you to snorkel at a famous reef and then spend hours lounging in a beautiful setting. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the guided experience makes it accessible, even for first-timers.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While the overall experience is positive, it’s worth noting that the snorkeling might not always meet expectations. As one reviewer pointed out, no reef or fish was observed during their trip, which can be disappointing if your main goal is marine wildlife viewing. Also, the group size can be on the larger side, which might not appeal to travelers seeking a more intimate experience.

On top of that, the dock fee of $20 per person is an added cost that isn’t included in the ticket price. Travelers should also keep in mind that weather conditions can affect snorkeling quality and overall enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day sailing and island experience is ideal for those wanting a lively social atmosphere, with lots of opportunities for water fun, sunbathing, and good food. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy group activities and are open to a bit of variability in marine life sightings.

If your priority is serene, wildlife-rich snorkeling, or a more private experience, you might prefer other options. However, if you’re after a fun, well-organized trip with plenty of amenities, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

For travelers looking to combine the thrill of sailing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation in one package, this Cancun to Isla Mujeres catamaran tour offers excellent value. The friendly crew, scenic views, and well-organized itinerary make it a popular choice. Just remember that marine life sightings can vary, and the group size might be larger than some prefer.

Overall, it’s a great way to spend a day in the Caribbean, especially if you love social atmospheres, good food, and sunny beaches. It’s perfect for those wanting a lively, full-day adventure, and it provides enough flexibility for different activity levels.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get access to an exclusive beach club, a catamaran experience, snorkeling gear, an open bar, and a buffet lunch.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, with about 3 hours allocated for Isla Mujeres and the beach club.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Marina Imperial Las Perlas at Km 2.2 in Cancun’s hotel zone.

Is there an additional fee?
Yes, there is a $20 dock fee per person that must be paid at the dock, not included in the ticket price.

What about the snorkeling?
Snorkeling is included and at one of Cancun’s best reefs, though some travelers have found the marine life less than expected.

What’s the group size?
The tour can host up to 60 travelers, fostering a lively, communal environment.

When does the tour start?
The departure time is 9:30 am, giving you a full day of activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children might enjoy the water activities. However, supervision is recommended for snorkeling and boating.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, well-rounded day of Caribbean fun, perfect for those wanting social experiences coupled with sun, sea, and good food. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and a bustling beach atmosphere.