Catamaran to Isla Mujeres, Open bar, buffet, Beach Club Included

If you’re thinking about spending a day on the water near Cancun, the catamaran to Isla Mujeres offers a mix of relaxation, fun, and scenic exploration. While I haven’t personally booked this tour, I’ve looked closely at what it promises and what travelers say about it. It’s a well-loved option for those who want to enjoy the Caribbean vibe with minimal fuss—thanks to organized logistics, a lively atmosphere, and some great inclusions.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the all-inclusive setup: an open bar and buffet lunch make it easy to unwind without constantly reaching for your wallet. Plus, access to a private beach club offers a more exclusive way to enjoy Isla Mujeres. That said, a notable consideration is the limited shade onboard and at the beach club, which is something you’ll want to prepare for if you tend to get sunburned or prefer shaded areas.

This tour tends to suit those looking for a relaxed, party-spirited day rather than a quiet, contemplative excursion. It’s a good fit for travelers who want a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and socializing in a group setting. If your main goal is to explore the island at your own pace, or if you’re traveling with very young kids, you might want to consider other options. But for a lively, well-organized day with plenty of comforts, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Includes snorkeling, open bar, buffet, and beach club access.
• Relaxed pace: Plenty of time to enjoy each stop without rushing.
• Party atmosphere: Music, drinks, and fun activities onboard.
• Limited shade: Be prepared with sun protection; sunscreen is a must.
• Good reviews for crew and views: Many travelers praise the guides and scenery.
• Some criticism: Crowded boat and variable lunch quality noted by a few.

What to Expect from This Catamaran Trip

This isn’t just a simple boat ride; it’s designed to be a full-day, laid-back escape with plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun, splash around, and indulge. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, which, considering the travel time and stops, offers a satisfying balance of activity and downtime.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Playa Mujeres – Snorkeling and Departure

Your adventure kicks off at Playa Mujeres, where the boat departs and heads out into open water. About 30 minutes into sailing, you’ll stop at a reef for snorkeling. Expect to see marine life and shoals of fish, as the tour provides all necessary equipment, making this accessible even if you’re new to snorkeling. However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions need to be good for this activity, so it might be canceled if the sea gets rough or the skies turn cloudy. As one reviewer pointed out, the activity is weather-dependent, which is a common consideration for any ocean-based outing.

Stop 2: Ultramar – A Free Stroll on Isla Mujeres

Next, you’ll arrive at Isla Mujeres with roughly two hours of free time. This is the perfect window for a walk around the island’s charming streets or a quick shop. The tour guide offers advice on where to shop, which helps if you want to find unique souvenirs or local crafts without wasting time wandering aimlessly. You can also walk to Punta Norte, about 20 minutes from the marina, to enjoy some of the best beach views and perhaps grab a snack.

According to reviews, this part of the trip is appreciated for its relaxed pace and scenic surroundings. One traveler enjoyed the “beautiful spots for lunch and touring Isla Mujeres,” and highlights the value of having some guided tips. The downside? During peak times, the island can feel crowded, which might diminish the peaceful vibe some seek.

Stop 3: Beach Club and Island Exploration

Back on the boat, you’ll cruise around the northern and western sides of the island, culminating at a private beach club. Here, you’ll find a buffet lunch and open bar, with plenty of free time to relax, swim, or explore the area. This part of the trip is ideal for those who want to lounge on the sand, sip drinks, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The tour highlights the included buffet and beverage service, which is a big plus for travelers tired of constantly carrying their drinks or looking for local eateries. Some reviews mention the food quality varies, with one describing the lunch as “very poor,” so keep your expectations realistic—this isn’t gourmet fare, but it’s convenient and plentiful enough.

Stop 4: Sailing Back to Cancun

After the beach fun, you’ll sail back to Cancun with music and party vibes onboard. This final leg lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to unwind, dance, and enjoy the ocean views. If the weather cooperates, you might even have the opportunity to try the spinnaker activity, which adds a bit of thrill to the journey. It’s a fun way to cap off the day, especially if you’re into watersports or just want a memorable photo op.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers quite a few perks that add to its overall value. The open bar on the boat means you don’t need to worry about bringing your own drinks—just hop on and enjoy. The buffet lunch at the beach club is included, along with snorkel gear and a shopping tour guided by bilingual staff, which helps make the whole day seamless.

But, there are some extras to keep in mind. For instance, video and photographs are not included, so if you want professional shots, you’ll need to organize that on your own. Also, round-trip transportation is not included**, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point in Playa Las Perlas. And there’s a dock fee of $20 per person, paid directly at the marina, which is a common practice but one to budget for.

The Real Deal: Pricing and Value

At $62 per person, this tour offers a competitive price point for the extensive experience it promises. When you consider the inclusions—snorkeling, drinks, buffet, beach club access, and guided tips—it adds up to a fairly cost-effective way to enjoy a full day on the water. Some reviews mention the boat can be crowded, which might impact comfort during snorkeling or relaxing on deck, but overall, many find it offers good value.

The experience is geared toward travelers who want a lively, social day rather than a quiet retreat, making the party atmosphere and inclusions well worth the price for most. Plus, the opportunity for snorkeling and the chance to explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace make it a well-rounded package.

The Honest Bottom Line

This catamaran tour is a lively, straightforward way to enjoy Isla Mujeres without the hassle of planning small details yourself. The organized itinerary, inclusive drinks and meals, and access to a private beach club appeal especially to those wanting comfort, socializing, and a splash of adventure.

If you’re someone who enjoys poolside drinks, good music, and scenic sailing, you’ll likely have a great time. However, be prepared for a crowded boat and limited shade, which could be uncomfortable under intense sun. The variable quality of lunch and some reviews about the boat being more crowded than ideal are worth noting, but most travelers find these minor compared to the overall fun and convenience.

For those wanting a relaxed, fun-filled day with minimal planning, this tour hits the right notes. It’s best suited for social travelers, or anyone who wants a lively, all-included experience on the Caribbean. If your goal is a quieter, more personalized exploration, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re after a social, scenic, and hassle-free adventure, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, round-trip transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your way to Playa Las Perlas in Cancun to board the boat.

What should I bring for sun protection?
Bring a wide-brimmed hat, biodegradable sunglasses, high SPF, water-resistant, reef-safe sunscreen, and a cover-up or UV-protective clothing. Punctuality is crucial as late arrivals might miss the boat.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour provides all necessary equipment, and the reef is accessible for most skill levels. Weather conditions must be good for snorkeling to proceed.

How long do I get at Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have about two hours of free time at the island, which is enough to walk around, shop, or go to Punta Norte.

What’s the food like during the tour?
The buffet lunch is included but reviews suggest the quality can vary from very good to poor. It’s more about convenience than gourmet dining.

Can I participate in the spinnaker activity?
Yes, if weather conditions are favorable, you might get a chance to try the spinnaker on the way back from the island.

How crowded is the boat?
Reviews indicate it can feel crowded, especially during snorkeling and the free time at Isla Mujeres. It’s best to be comfortable in group settings.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is most suitable for most travelers, but specific age restrictions aren’t stated. Given the lively atmosphere, very young children might find it less relaxing.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if plans change.

This catamaran to Isla Mujeres offers a fun, well-organized way to enjoy part of the Caribbean in Cancun, combining scenic views, social vibes, and practical inclusions. For those wanting a laid-back, lively day out with friends or family, it’s a solid choice—just be sure you’re prepared for the sun and the crowds.