Isla Mujeres Catamaran tour with Open Bar, Lunch and Snorkeling

A full-day adventure to Isla Mujeres by catamaran offers a lively mix of sailing, snorkeling, and island strolling. Starting from Cancun, this tour kicks off with hotel pickup, whisking you away to the marina where you’ll board a luxury catamaran. For just $20 per person, you’ll enjoy around eight hours of fun, including stops at a coral reef, the chance to fly over the sea with a spinnaker, and plenty of time on the island itself.

What we love about this experience are two things: the stunning views of the Caribbean from the deck and the well-organized snorkeling stop where marine life can often be admired in clear waters. Also, the all-you-can-drink open bar adds a real festive touch to the day. The buffet lunch at a beachside club is another highlight, offering tasty local flavors in a relaxed setting.

However, one thing to consider is the dock fee of $20, payable at the marina—something travelers often overlook when booking. And while the tour is designed to be inclusive, a couple of reviews mention that the snorkeling might be short—around 20 minutes—and some felt the lunch and beach time were less than stellar.

This tour suits travelers who want a full-day, lively Caribbean experience with plenty of sailing and socializing. It’s ideal for those who enjoy water activities, scenic views, and a casual island vibe. If you’re looking for a more intimate or in-depth cultural experience, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling, open bar, and buffet lunch in a single day.
• Sailing on a luxury catamaran with beautiful Caribbean views.
• Stops at coral reef for snorkeling and opportunity to fly with spinnaker.
• Visit to Isla Mujeres with free time to walk and explore.
• Additional costs include dock fee and conservation fee.
• The tour is quite popular, booked on average 28 days in advance, indicating steady interest.

Detailed Review

The Experience: A Day of Sailing and Island Charm

When we think of a day at Isla Mujeres, the image of turquoise waters and gentle breezes often comes to mind. This tour delivers that by starting with a hotel pickup—a convenient way to skip the hassling with taxis or public transport—and heading straight to the marina. From there, you board a luxury catamaran, which feels spacious and well-equipped, promising a comfortable ride. The crew seems geared toward making the experience lively and fun, with a national open bar to keep the mood upbeat throughout the journey.

The first notable part of the trip is the sailing across the Caribbean Sea. We loved the panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean, perfect for snapping photos. The snorkeling stop at the coral reef is a highlight; the water is often crystal-clear, and you get a chance to see marine life, although the actual snorkeling lasts only about 20 minutes, according to some reviews. This short but sweet stop caters to those eager to see underwater sights without requiring extensive gear or time commitment.

Next, there’s the spinnaker activity, which is essentially flying over the sea—an exhilarating experience, especially if you’re the adventurous type. The guides are usually knowledgeable, providing safety tips and making sure everyone gets a turn. For many, this part of the tour is the most memorable, offering a rush of adrenaline paired with incredible views.

Isla Mujeres: Relaxation and Exploration

Arriving at Isla Mujeres, you’ll be welcomed at an exclusive beach club. This spot offers facilities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the sun. The buffet lunch is served here, generally described as tasty, with a variety of Mexican dishes. Some reviewers appreciated the quality of the food, calling it “delicious,” while others noted it was somewhat rushed or basic. It’s important to note that the lunch is included in the price, which adds value, but it might not satisfy those expecting a gourmet meal.

After lunch, there’s free time to walk around the island—a pleasant chance to explore at your own pace, take photos, or pick up souvenirs. The local scenery is charming, with colorful buildings and small shops. The walk only takes a few minutes, but it offers a glimpse into local island life away from the tourist-heavy areas.

Practical Details and Considerations

The total tour duration is approximately 8 hours, which is quite reasonable for a full-day outing. The meeting point at Marina Las Perlas is easy to find, and the tour starts promptly at 10:00 am. The group size is capped at 60, ensuring manageable crowds, though some reviews mention feeling crowded—particularly on the boat.

The cost of $20 for the dock fee is payable at the marina, a detail often overlooked but crucial for budget planning. The conservation fee of 650 pesos (~$35 USD) is also required, which supports local environmental efforts. Tips are not included and some guests found the gratuities to be somewhat obligatory or poorly received, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While many travelers rave about the beautiful scenery and friendly guides, some concerns do surface. One reviewer mentioned feeling the snorkeling was too brief—around 20 minutes—leaving some wishing for more underwater exploration. Another expressed disappointment about the lunch quality and the crowded beaches afterward.

Despite these mixed perceptions, many enjoy the overall vibe—fun, relaxed, and filled with opportunities for memorable photos and a bit of adventure. The open bar is consistently highlighted as a fun element, making the trip feel more festive and social.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for water lovers, families, or groups wanting a well-rounded day of sailing, snorkeling, and island exploring. It’s ideal if you’re looking for value-packed fun with plenty of opportunities to relax and socialize. However, if your priority is culinary excellence or quiet, uncrowded beaches, you might find this tour a bit hectic or superficial.

Final Thoughts

This Isla Mujeres catamaran tour offers an energetic and scenic day on the Caribbean, blending sailing, snorkeling, and island wandering into one package. The luxury boat, the open bar, and the buffet lunch all contribute to a lively, enjoyable experience that’s hard to beat for its price point.

For travelers eager to see marine life, enjoy stunning sea views, and spend a full day on the water, this trip ticks many boxes. Its smooth organization and balanced itinerary make it a good choice for families or groups of friends. Just keep in mind the short snorkeling window and additional fees, which can affect your overall impression.

If you’re seeking a fun, social adventure with plenty of sun, sea, and smiles, this tour offers a solid option. For those wanting a more relaxed or gourmet experience, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a lively day on the Caribbean, it’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you select the transportation option during booking. The tour starts at Marina Las Perlas.

How long does the snorkeling last?
The snorkeling activity is approximately 20 minutes, giving you a quick glimpse of marine life in a beautiful coral reef.

What is the cost for additional fees?
There is a $20 dock fee payable at the marina and a conservation fee of 650 pesos (~$35 USD) that is not included in the price.

Can I bring my own equipment?
Snorkeling equipment is provided as part of the tour, so there’s no need to bring your own unless you prefer your own gear.

Is there a limit on group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 60 travelers, which helps keep the experience lively but not overly crowded.

What is the meal like?
The buffet lunch is generally considered tasty, offering Mexican dishes, but some reviews describe it as basic or rushed.

How much time is available for exploring Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have a few hours after lunch for walking around and taking photos, which is enough to get a feel for the island’s local flavor.

This tour provides a lively, scenic taste of Isla Mujeres and the Caribbean Sea, perfect for those who want to combine sailing, snorkeling, and island strolling into a single day of fun.