Catamaran to Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour with Open Bar and Lunch

If you’re looking to combine a bit of adventure with relaxation during your stay in Cancun, a catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres might just be what you need. Priced at around $37 per person, this 8.5-hour experience offers a vivid snapshot of the Caribbean’s beauty—think snorkeling over lively reefs, a scenic sail, and free time on a charming island. You’ll find that this tour is popular for its balance of fun activities and laid-back beach time, making it suitable for many travelers.

What we love about this tour are the lively guides who keep the energy high, and the inclusion of a delicious Mexican buffet and open bar that keeps spirits bright. It’s also a good value, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. However, a key consideration is the extra fees—most notably, the $45 dock fee and reef conservation fee—which can come as a surprise if you’re not prepared.

This tour suits those who enjoy organized group outings with a mix of outdoor activities, scenic views, and leisure. But it’s essential to read the fine print and consider the extra costs before booking. If you’re after a straightforward, lively day on the water with plenty of opportunities for photos, fun, and relaxation, this trip might be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines snorkeling, sailing, beach relaxation, and island exploration in one day.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Includes alcohol, lunch, and snorkel equipment, offering great value.
• Extra Fees: Dock fee and reef conservation tax are mandatory; budget around $45 USD per person.
• Group Size & Guides: Usually up to 50 travelers with knowledgeable guides, many of whom speak English.
• Mixed Reviews: Some praise the crew and scenery; others mention hidden fees and facilities concerns.
• Ideal For: Travelers seeking a lively, organized day with plenty of photo opportunities, but who are comfortable with extra charges.

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at Marina Las Perlas in Cancun’s hotel zone, conveniently located at kilometer 6.5. There are daily departures at 10 am and 1 pm, giving flexibility depending on your schedule. The entire tour lasts around 8.5 hours, including pickup, activities, and free time on Isla Mujeres.

The pickup service is a major perk, making logistics simpler for visitors who don’t want to worry about transportation. Once on board, the air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride to the marina, which is crucial given Cancun’s sunny climate.

The Snorkeling Experience

One of the tour’s highlights is the snorkeling stop in a vibrant reef. Certified guides accompany guests, which adds a layer of safety and local knowledge. According to reviews, the snorkeling lasts roughly 10 minutes, which some travelers find a bit brief, but others appreciate the quick, manageable experience without a long swim.

A notable detail: the tour staff emphasizes environmental responsibility, and you’ll be asked not to use regular sunscreen to protect marine life. Instead, they sell overpriced natural or reef-safe sunscreens—an extra purchase you might want to budget for.

Reviewers mention that the guides do a good job of making everyone feel comfortable and safe, and many appreciated the English-speaking staff, which helps with instructions and safety briefings. The snorkel gear is included, but you’ll need to decide whether to buy the reef-safe sunscreen offered on-site or bring your own.

The Scenic Sail and Parachute Ride

After snorkeling, the scenic sail continues toward Isla Mujeres. The Spinnaker ride—a parachute-like experience flying over the Caribbean—is a crowd favorite, offering stunning views and an adrenaline rush with an open bar flowing. Several reviews highlight how much fun this part of the trip is, with comments like, “Fernando kept the vibe lively throughout the entire trip” and “the staff was very entertaining.”

This segment combines thrilling adventure with incredible vistas, making it a perfect moment for photos. Keep in mind that the parachute ride and sail are weather-dependent, which can lead to cancellations, as some guests experienced.

The Beach Club and Lunch

Arriving at the beach club on Isla Mujeres, you’ll find a setting designed for relaxation. The facilities include day beds, a DJ, and a calm sea, making it a popular spot for lounging after the morning’s activities.

The included Mexican buffet offers traditional fare, though some reviews suggest it might be mediocre, describing the food as “disappointing” and the water at the beach club as “dirty-looking.” The $45 dock fee and reef conservation tax are mandatory at this stop, and some travelers felt these costs were not clearly communicated upfront.

Guests have about two hours at the beach club, which some feel is a bit tight, especially considering the time taken to eat and relax. If exploring the island independently appeals to you, renting a golf cart is a popular suggestion, but that’s an extra expense not included.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

The return sail offers a lively atmosphere, with many guests praising the friendly, entertaining crew. The open bar is a hit, with reviews mentioning the crew’s attentive service—”they’re always walking around to ensure everyone has a drink,” as one guest said.

However, some reviews point out disappointments—notably, hidden fees (like the dock fee), long waits for lunch, or facilities that are not as pristine as they appear in promotional photos. For instance, one guest described the dock as “broken with big holes,” and the beach club as “trashy,” which is a reminder to manage expectations.

Extra Costs and Hidden Fees

One of the more consistently mentioned issues is extra charges. The $45 USD per person for port fees and reef conservation is clearly outlined on the booking page, but some guests were surprised by this additional expense, especially if not read carefully.

Similarly, transportation costs—such as pickup and drop-off from resorts—are sometimes charged additionally, and guests should verify what’s included when booking.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, with reviews like, “The guides are well trained and speak English,” and “The scenery during the sail and snorkeling was incredible.” These aspects make the experience memorable and worth the price for those seeking vibrant marine life and scenic views.

On the flip side, some reviews highlight overcrowding—with reports of “too many people on the boat” and a boat that looks “outdated”—which can detract from the comfort. Others mention long waits for meals or facilities that are not as well-maintained as expected.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Prepare for extra costs: budget for the dock fee and reef conservation tax ($45 USD each), and consider bringing your own reef-safe sunscreen.
• Read the fine print: understand what’s included—like transportation, meals, and activities—and what incurs extra charges.
• Consider your snorkeling expectations: if you want more extensive snorkeling, this tour might feel short; if you’re happy with a quick glimpse of reef life, it’s ideal.
• Be ready for a lively atmosphere: the crew keeps the energy high, which is great if you enjoy socializing and music.
• Think about flexibility: weather can cancel activities like the parachute ride, so have backup plans if that’s important to you.
• Timing at Isla Mujeres: two hours may feel rushed if you want to explore the town thoroughly; renting a golf cart is popular for those wanting more independence.

This catamaran to Isla Mujeres offers a solid, fun-packed day with a mix of snorkeling, scenic sailing, and beach relaxation. The guides and crew generally receive praise for their friendliness and entertainment value, adding to the overall experience. The inclusion of alcohol, a buffet lunch, and snorkel gear makes it a good deal—though the additional $45 dock fee is a necessary expense to keep in mind.

If you enjoy group tours with lively guides, stunning ocean views, and a chance to see Isla Mujeres, this trip can be a highlight of your Cancun holiday. It’s most suited for travelers who are comfortable with crowds, willing to pay a little extra for fees, and looking for a full-day adventure that balances fun with relaxation.

For those who prioritize secluded beaches or more extensive snorkeling without extra charges, you might explore other options. But for a lively, well-organized day on the water with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this tour delivers on many fronts.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup and drop-off from Cancun hotels, making logistics more straightforward.

How long does snorkeling last?
The snorkeling stop lasts about 10 minutes, which some guests find short, but it’s enough for a quick look at the reef.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there is an open bar on board, and staff walk around offering drinks throughout the trip.

What is the $45 fee?
It covers the dock fee and reef conservation tax, which is mandatory and payable at the beach club on Isla Mujeres.

Can I buy reef-safe sunscreen?
Yes, reef-safe sunscreens are available for purchase on-site, though many guests recommend bringing your own to save money.

How much time do we spend on Isla Mujeres?
You generally get around two hours at the beach club, which includes time for eating, relaxing, and optional island strolls or golf cart rentals.

Is the boat comfortable?
Some reviews mention the boat as outdated and crowded; if comfort is a priority, be prepared for a lively, bustling environment.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Activities like the parachute ride may be canceled if weather conditions are poor. The tour operator will offer a different date or full refund.

Are there extra costs besides the tour price?
Yes, aside from the $37 ticket, you’ll need to budget for the dock fee and reef fee, totaling around $45 USD per person.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed promptly if canceled due to weather or other reasons.

Whether you’re after a lively day on the water, some snorkeling, or simply relaxing on a sunny Caribbean island, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable taste of Isla Mujeres. Just keep an eye on extra fees, and you’ll be set for a memorable day.