Isla Mujeres: Albatross Plus All Inclusive Tour

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines sailing, snorkeling, cultural exploration, and plenty of relaxation, the Isla Mujeres: Albatross Plus All Inclusive Tour might just be your ticket. For $62 per person, this approximately 8-hour experience offers a taste of the Mexican Caribbean’s best, from cruising on a luxury catamaran to exploring one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Led by friendly bilingual guides, this trip is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the island’s treasures without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is the combination of stunning scenery and authentic local flavor. The day kicks off with a scenic sail on a beautiful catamaran, complete with an all-you-can-drink open bar and lively music that sets the tone for a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Then, you’ll visit the Underwater Museum—a fascinating art installation that is also a thriving marine habitat—a unique blend of culture and nature. The stop at Playa Norte, renowned as one of the Caribbean’s finest beaches, offers plenty of time to relax, swim, or rent a golf cart to explore the island’s colorful streets.

One possible consideration is the additional cost of the dock and reef taxes—$20 USD per person—along with transportation to the marina, which isn’t included in the ticket price. So, while the experience is quite reasonable given the inclusions, these extra expenses are good to keep in mind. The tour tends to be popular, often booked about a week in advance, making it a great option for those who like planning ahead.

This tour suits travelers who love active, engaging days with a mix of adventure and leisure. If you’re excited about snorkeling, discovering underwater art, and exploring a charming Caribbean island with friendly guides, this tour delivers on those fronts. It’s especially well-rated by past travelers, who highlight the attentive staff and the beautiful views as some of the highlights.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Enjoy unlimited drinks on the boat and at the beach club, plus a buffet lunch.
• Unique Stops: Visit the Underwater Museum, relax at Playa Norte, and explore Isla Mujeres’ local shops.
• Snorkeling: Get equipped with snorkel tubes and life jackets for reef exploration at Carolina Barrier, El Farolito, or MUSA.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides make the day informative and friendly, enhancing the experience.
• Extra Costs: Be prepared for additional $20 USD in taxes, and transportation to the marina.
• Popular & Well-Reviewed: Booked on average 8 days in advance, with glowing reviews praising the atmosphere and scenery.

Starting Point and Getting There

The tour begins at the Marina Sailaway on Kukulcan Boulevard in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. The marina’s location is convenient for most travelers staying in Cancun, especially those close to the hotel zone or with access to public transportation. Since transportation to the marina isn’t included, you might want to arrange a taxi or shuttle, which adds a small extra step but ensures you arrive on time for the 8-hour adventure.

Once aboard, the journey starts with a luxury catamaran crossing the clear waters of the Caribbean. The boat’s spacious layout, lively music, and open bar create a festive atmosphere—even before you’ve reached Isla Mujeres. The marine environment offers spectacular views, with the chance to spot marine life or simply enjoy the sun and sea breeze.

The Underwater Museum: Art and Ecology Collide

The first stop is the Museo Subacuatico de Arte, an open-air sculpture park submerged in about 10 to 15 feet of water. With over 500 sculptures, it’s a surreal blend of art and nature. The sculptures, created by both Mexican and international artists, are designed to encourage coral growth and become a habitat for marine life. We loved how this stop offers a visual spectacle—an underwater gallery that’s both beautiful and meaningful.

The admission here is included, and most of us found that 45 minutes gave enough time to snorkel around and appreciate the installations. The guides are helpful, offering insights into the sculptures’ stories and ecological purpose, making this more than just a snorkel session.

Relaxing at Playa Norte

Next, the boat drops anchor at Playa Norte, often ranked among the world’s best beaches. The soft white sand and calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply people-watching. When we visited, the vibrant atmosphere was contagious, with swimmers, families, and sun-seekers enjoying the day.

If you’re feeling active, you can rent a golf cart to explore the island’s colorful streets and small shops. The tour includes three hours here, which we found ample for a quick explore and a dip in the sea. The guide’s recommendation to check out local shops adds a nice touch of authenticity, encouraging a bit of local shopping rather than just sightseeing.

Free Time and Island Exploration

The final stop gives you about an hour to browse the island’s shops or relax on the beach. Past travelers say this free time is ideal for picking up souvenirs or grabbing a snack. The guides usually point out notable spots, but you’ll want to plan your shopping or beach time efficiently.

Food, Drinks, and Extras

Throughout the day, the tour offers a national open bar on the boat, featuring tequila, rum, vodka, beer, soft drinks, juice, and water. The lively atmosphere with music and drinks makes the sailing memorable, especially for groups or couples looking to unwind.

The buffet lunch includes nachos, hot dogs, pizza, chicken, fish, cochinita (pork), salads, rice, fruits, desserts, and more. The variety caters to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it convenient and filling after snorkeling or beach time.

Snorkeling gear—including a new snorkel tube per person and a life jacket—is provided, ensuring safe and easy exploration of the reefs at Carolina Barrier, El Farolito, or the Underwater Museum.

Guides and Service

Past guests praise the friendly, attentive guides, who are bilingual, making the experience accessible for international visitors. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge enhance the trip, adding context and making sure everyone is comfortable.

The spinner flight, a fun activity depending on weather conditions, adds an extra thrill—though it’s weather-dependent, it’s a bonus if available.

Cost, Value, and Additional Expenses

The $62 ticket price offers solid value considering all inclusions—snorkeling, meals, drinks, and guided tours. However, it’s worth noting the $20 USD in dock and reef taxes is paid on-site, so budget accordingly.

Transportation to the marina isn’t included, which might be an extra cost if your hotel isn’t nearby. Still, the overall experience, with its well-organized itinerary and lively atmosphere, justifies the price, especially for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers seeking a fun, social day on the water, with a mix of scenic sailing, snorkeling, and island exploring. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate friendly guides and lively atmospheres. Past reviews highlight how the attentiveness of the staff and the stunning views make it a memorable choice.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, all-in-one day that balances activity with leisure, this tour fits the bill. It’s also ideal if you want to experience Isla Mujeres without the hassle of arranging separate activities—everything is coordinated for you.

The Albatross Plus All Inclusive Tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and comfort. For a reasonable price, you get snorkeling at an underwater art museum, a relaxing beach stop at Playa Norte, and a lively sailing experience with drinks and good food. The guides’ friendliness and the well-paced itinerary ensure a smooth, enjoyable day.

While there are some extra costs to keep in mind, the overall value is strong considering what’s included. It’s an excellent option for anyone wanting a comprehensive day in Isla Mujeres—from scenic boat rides to exploring local shops.

The tour’s popularity and high ratings suggest it’s a dependable choice, especially for those who cherish authentic, friendly guidance and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Cancun, it’s a lively way to experience the Caribbean’s charm.

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, transportation to Marina Sailaway in Cancun is not included, so you should arrange your own transport, such as a taxi or shuttle.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, with a significant part spent sailing on the catamaran and enjoying the scenery.

What’s the best part of the tour?
Many guests rave about the underwater museum for its visual impact and the beach time at Playa Norte for relaxing in one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful spots.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour offers an all-you-can-drink open bar on the boat and at the beach club, with soft drinks, alcohol, and water.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and your sense of adventure. The snorkel gear is provided, but you might prefer your own mask if you have one.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and past reviews indicate it’s a family-friendly option. Just check with the provider if your children have specific needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if plans shift.

This tour offers a lively, well-organized day that balances scenic sailing, snorkeling, cultural exploration, and beach relaxation. Perfect for those who want a fun, hassle-free Caribbean experience with friendly guides, stunning sights, and lively atmosphere.