Catamaran Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Round Transportation From Riviera Maya

A Day on the Caribbean Waters: Exploring Isla Mujeres by Catamaran

If you’re looking to spend a full day discovering the beauty of the Caribbean from Cancun, the Catamaran Isla Mujeres Unlimited tour offers a lively and well-rounded experience. For $91 per person, you’ll enjoy about 9 hours of sun, surf, and sand, with the convenience of hotel pickup and round-trip transportation from Riviera Maya. Led by friendly guides, this tour combines the thrill of sailing, the wonder of snorkeling, and the charm of exploring an authentic Mexican island.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the all-inclusive drinks onboard—which make the sailing part feel festive—and the free time at Isla Mujeres, giving you a chance to wander, take photos, or browse souvenirs at your own pace. That said, a possible drawback is the dock tax of $20 USD per person, which is an extra cost you’ll want to budget for, along with the transportation fee for infants over 8 months.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of activities—such as snorkeling, beach lounging, and casual exploration—and who appreciate the ease of having everything organized for them. It’s especially good for those wanting a lively, fun day without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• Comfortable Catamaran Cruise: Relax on a multi-deck vessel with open bar and party music.
• Snorkeling Opportunities: Explore Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte for vibrant marine life.
• All-Inclusive Meals and Drinks: Enjoy a buffet lunch and unlimited drinks onboard.
• Flexible Island Time: Free time on Isla Mujeres allows personal exploration without a guide.
• Round-Trip Transportation: Convenient pickup from your hotel in Riviera Maya.
• Additional Costs: Expect a $20 dock tax per person and an $18 fee for infants for transportation.

An In-Depth Review of the Catamaran Isla Mujeres Unlimited Tour

Setting Sail from Cancun: What to Expect

Our adventure begins with a hotel pickup, making the logistics seamless. The tour departs from the Punta Sam ferry terminal in Cancun, where the marina is located—this is the hub from which the lively catamaran sets sail. The journey across the Caribbean Sea is smooth and scenic, offering glimpses of Cancun’s coastline and open waters, perfect for photography or just soaking up the sun.

You’ll notice that the boat is either a double-decker or a one-floor sailing vessel, depending on the marina’s assignment. Either way, the vessel is designed for comfort and fun, with plenty of space to mingle or relax. We loved the party atmosphere onboard, with music that kept the energy high and the drinks flowing from the open bar.

Snorkeling at Punta Sam Reef

The first stop is the Punta Sam Reef, a natural marine reserve teeming with life. Here, snorkeling is the highlight for many. You’ll get snorkeling equipment included, which makes it easy to dive into the clear waters. Expect to see colorful fish, turtles, and other marine species—a real treat for underwater enthusiasts. The reef’s calm waters and vibrant coral formations make it an accessible spot, even for those new to snorkeling.

A common theme in reviews is the quality of the marine life. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the reef was full of schools of fish, and seeing a turtle was a highlight.” However, the tour’s policy is that snorkeling is not available for non-swimmers, people over 60, or children under 8, so keep that in mind if traveling with family or friends with mobility issues.

Exploring Isla Mujeres at Your Own Pace

After the snorkeling, the boat heads toward Isla Mujeres, a small island packed with charm and color. The free time here is unguided, giving you the freedom to stroll through the streets—admiring murals, taking photos with monuments, or browsing local shops for souvenirs. The island’s vibe is laid-back, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to soak in the stunning views of the Caribbean.

In the tour description, it’s noted that the beach club at the island offers beautiful vistas and a buffet lunch, which you can enjoy while overlooking the sea. The lunch is a buffet, giving you a taste of local flavors, though reviews suggest it’s more about convenience than gourmet dining.

Relaxation and Beach Time

The beach at Playa Norte is often highlighted as the best spot for sunbathing and swimming. It’s known for its soft white sand and calm waters—perfect for leisurely lounging after snorkeling or exploring. If you prefer, you can simply relax with a cocktail, comfortably watching the world go by.

Returning to Cancun

After several hours of exploring, it’s back aboard for the return trip. The boat’s party atmosphere continues, and many travelers find the cruise back to be just as enjoyable as the outbound journey. The round-trip transportation ensures you aren’t left to navigate taxis or buses, which is a big plus for travelers unfamiliar with the local area.

Value and Practical Tips

While the price of $91 is reasonable considering the included snorkeling, buffet, drinks, and transportation, it’s important to account for the extra costs. The $20 dock tax per person is unavoidable, and there’s an additional $18 fee for infants’ transportation. These small charges can add up, so plan accordingly.

The duration of about 9 hours makes this a full-day outing, so wear comfortable clothing, bring sunscreen, towels, and extra clothes for changing. While most travelers can participate, remember that non-swimmers, children under 8, and seniors over 60 may find snorkeling unavailable, which could limit some aspects of the trip.

The tour’s group size maxes out at around 50 travelers, creating a lively but manageable experience. The confirmation process is quick, and most travelers find the organization smooth.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous couples, groups of friends, or families looking for a fun, active day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and socializing. If you enjoy partying onboard, scenic views, and a relaxed pace, this tour hits the sweet spot. However, if you prefer a more structured, guided experience or want to explore the island with a guide, you might find the free time a bit too unstructured.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a full day of Caribbean fun with ease and entertainment, the Catamaran Isla Mujeres Unlimited tour offers excellent value. The combination of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach makes it a well-rounded outing. The lively atmosphere onboard and the beautiful vistas are big selling points, ensuring you’ll come home with plenty of photos and memories.

This tour is best suited for those who love water activities and enjoy a social, festive environment. If you’re after a more tranquil or guided experience, consider other options, but for a lively day on the water, this tour checks many boxes.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from your hotel in Riviera Maya, making the day hassle-free.

How long is the whole tour?
Expect about 9 hours, including transportation, sailing, snorkeling, and free time on Isla Mujeres.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes for changing, sunscreen, and any personal snorkeling gear if preferred.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s a $20 USD dock tax per person and an $18 fee for infants for transportation if applicable.

Can non-swimmers snorkel?
No, snorkeling is not available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or people over 60.

What type of boat is used?
It could be a double decker or a single-floor vessel, depending on the marina’s assignment.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is part of the package, served at the beach club with Caribbean views.

How many travelers typically join?
The group size is limited to 50 travelers, maintaining an energetic but manageable atmosphere.

Whether you’re after a lively party vibe, stunning scenery, or a leisurely day exploring a charming island, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience Isla Mujeres from Cancun.