Sailing at Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres! Snorkel at Ixlache Reef

Exploring Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres by Sailboat: An Authentic Day Out in Cancun

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and explore, this full-day sailing adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Mexico’s stunning islands. For $151 per person, you’ll get roughly 10 hours of fun—covering sailing, snorkeling, and island wandering in a single trip. The tour departs from Cancun, with pickup and drop-off included, making the logistics largely hassle-free.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the exclusive access to pristine beaches at Isla Contoy and the guided snorkel at Ixlache Reef, where you’ll see vibrant marine life and colorful coral. The included regional buffet lunch adds a relaxed, communal feel, perfect after a morning of swimming and exploring.

A potential consideration is that the free time at Isla Mujeres is just about one hour, which might feel short if you’re eager to explore more of the island’s shops and sights. Also, snorkel activities are not suitable for non-swimmers, children under 8, or seniors over 60, so keep that in mind if traveling with little ones or older family members.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and casual sightseeing. If you’re looking for an easy, guided day with opportunities for snorkeling, sunbathing, and a taste of local island life, this trip may be just right.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines sailing, snorkeling, and island visits in one full-day trip.
• All-inclusive comfort: Includes transportation, guides, snorkeling gear, lunch, and open bar after the meal.
• Limited free time at Isla Mujeres: Only about one hour on the island, so plan your shopping or sightseeing accordingly.
• Expert guides: Renowned for knowledgeable staff and smooth organization, according to reviews.
• Ideal for active travelers: Perfect if you enjoy swimming, exploring, and relaxing on beaches.
• Weather-dependent activities: Snorkeling is only suitable when conditions are good, and cancellations can occur if weather is poor.

In-Depth Review of the Sailing Adventure at Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting early at 7:30 am, this tour kicks off with pickup from Cancun hotels or nearby locations, making your morning easy and stress-free. The boat itself is a double-decker or single-floor catamaran, depending on the marina’s setup, providing ample space for about 50 travelers. The initial hours are spent sailing toward Isla Contoy, a protected natural area known for its white sandy beaches and birdlife, but most importantly, its vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling.

The cost of $151 seems to cover most of the essentials—transport, guides, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and access to the islands—but do note the $20 USD dock tax per person and an extra $18 USD fee for infants’ transportation. These additional costs are typical in tour packages but worth budgeting for in advance.

Isla Contoy: The Natural Jewel

Our favorite part of this trip is the time spent at Isla Contoy, a less-crowded sanctuary that offers a guided tour of its natural beauty. The reef here is protected, so the fish and marine life are abundant and colorful. Snorkelers will find about 35 minutes of snorkeling at Ixlache Reef, where you’ll see sea turtles, vibrant coral formations, and schools of tropical fish.

From the reviews, we gather that the staff is very organized, and travelers like Andrew noted, “the snorkeling was great,” emphasizing how smoothly the activity was handled. Having a guide to explain the surroundings enhances the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with marine life.

On land, the staff prepares a regional buffet lunch—a relaxed, communal meal that fuels you for the rest of the day. The exclusive access to the beaches at Isla Contoy ensures that you’re not battling crowds, making it a tranquil spot to relax after snorkeling.

Isla Mujeres: A Bustling Yet Charming Stop

After about four hours on Isla Contoy, the boat sails over to Isla Mujeres. Here, you’ll get roughly one hour to wander the colorful streets, browse souvenir shops, or just relax on the beach. The reviews suggest that this brief visit is enough for a quick look at the island’s lively character, but don’t expect to see everything in such a short window.

Andrew’s review mentions that the trip to Isla Mujeres was “amazing,” while Carlo highlighted the excellent attention and care from the staff. The island’s lively atmosphere offers a stark contrast to the serenity of Isla Contoy, giving you a taste of local life and a chance to pick up a keepsake or two.

The Sailing Experience and Practicalities

The sailing itself is a pleasant way to see the coast, with the option to relax on deck or chat with fellow travelers. The unlimited open bar (post-lunch) adds a touch of leisure for those who want to toast the day.

While the tour is designed to be family-friendly, snorkel activities are not available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or seniors over 60, which is a crucial consideration for families or older guests.

The group size tends to be around 50 travelers, making it a lively but manageable experience. The timing is well-paced, but keep in mind the short window at Isla Mujeres—if you’re a shopper or beach lover, you might want to extend your visit independently.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided snorkeling, exclusive island access, and smooth logistics. Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who are attentive and organized, as reflected in the glowing reviews. The included transportation from Cancun or Riviera Maya is a big plus, removing the stress of arranging your own transfer.

In terms of value, at $151, you’re paying for a full-day experience that covers most meals, activities, and transport. The additional costs like dock tax and infant fees are reasonable but should be accounted for beforehand.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, beach time, and casual exploration. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate organized tours with knowledgeable guides that handle logistics effortlessly. Families with children over 8 who are comfortable in water will find it a fun outing, but very young kids or seniors with mobility issues might find the snorkeling restrictions limiting.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a day of sailing, snorkeling, and island hopping without the hassle of planning individual transfers, this tour offers solid value and a chance to see two iconic locations. The quality of guides and organized schedule are frequently praised, giving you confidence in your experience.

While the limited free time at Isla Mujeres might be a downside for some, the peaceful beaches and vibrant reef at Isla Contoy compensate for that. The camaraderie on board and the included lunch make it a comfortable and enjoyable outing.

To sum it up, this tour is well-suited for travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with enough structure to keep things smooth but enough freedom to enjoy your time.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cancun or Riviera Maya is included, making it easy to meet up without extra planning.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, and an extra change of clothes. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Is snorkeling suitable for everyone?
Snorkeling is available only when weather conditions are favorable. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, children under 8, or seniors over 60.

How long do we stay at each island?
You’ll spend about four hours at Isla Contoy and roughly one hour at Isla Mujeres, allowing time for snorkeling, relaxing, and brief sightseeing.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch is included, providing a good variety of local dishes along with an open bar after the meal.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively atmosphere but still maintaining manageable group numbers.

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

This sailing adventure at Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres offers a well-rounded day of marine discovery, scenic sailing, and island charm—an excellent choice for those who want a taste of Mexico’s coastal treasures without overcomplicating their day.