Explore Contoy Island

Planning a trip to Cancun and looking for an adventure that combines stunning scenery, snorkeling, and a taste of natural Mexico? The Explore Contoy Island tour offers just that, letting you hop between two beautiful islands in a single day. Based on many traveler reviews and detailed tour info, this experience seems to strike a good balance between fun and value—though it’s not without a few caveats.

What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to visit Contoy Island, a lesser-known but stunning National Park that’s perfect for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts. Plus, the snorkeling stop at Ixlache Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, sounds like a highlight for anyone interested in marine life. The included buffet lunch on the beach is another plus, saving you from the hassle of packing food or searching for a spot to eat.

One potential drawback is the timing and short stops, especially for those wanting to explore Isla Mujeres at a more leisurely pace. The tour promises several hours on each island, but some reviews suggest the visit to Isla Mujeres can be quite brief. Still, if you’re after a quick, scenic escape with plenty of activities, this trip might be just right.

This tour is suited best for travelers who want a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and good value—all wrapped into one. If you enjoy guided trips with a focus on natural beauty and marine life, this could make a memorable addition to your Cancun itinerary.

Key Points

• Two Islands in One Day: Visit both Contoy Island and Isla Mujeres, making the most of your time in Cancun.
• Snorkeling in Ixlache Reef: A major highlight, with opportunities to see diverse marine species in one of the world’s largest barrier reefs.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Buffet lunch and beverages included, so no worries about extra costs on the day.
• Guided Tour with Pickup: Convenient hotel pickup (from Cancun-area hotels), with a certified guide ensuring a smooth experience.
• Limited Time for Island Exploration: Some travelers mention the visits can feel rushed, especially at Isla Mujeres.
• Price and Value: At $169 per person, it’s a solid option for a full-day adventure that offers a mix of nature, sea, and cultural sights.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting with Pickup and the Boat Ride

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from Cancun, simplifying your day. You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes a big difference when traveling early or after a hot day exploring. Once at the departure point, you board a 55-foot boat—a good size for a manageable group, capped at 14 travelers, which keeps things intimate and less crowded.

The boat ride itself is a relaxing start, with unparalleled views of the Caribbean. Travelers often comment on the clear waters and scenic coastline. The ride to Contoy Island takes around two hours, so it’s a decent amount of time to enjoy the breeze and the scenery. Some reviews note that the boat isn’t a high-speed vessel, so don’t expect speed records, but it’s a comfortable journey.

Contoy Island: The Natural Gem

Arriving at Contoy Island, you step into a true natural reserve. The island is known for its endemic bird species, with over 100 types, and the chance to walk at your own pace. The open-air museum and viewpoints give you great spots to savor the scenery and get some memorable photos. The reviews mention that the island’s natural beauty is a major draw, making it a highlight of the trip.

Snorkeling here is optional but highly recommended. The crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, and the snorkel gear is provided. The reef at Ixlache, part of the second-largest barrier reef in the world, is often described as vibrant and teeming with life—perfect for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

The Stop at Isla Mujeres

After exploring Contoy, the tour heads to Isla Mujeres for a few hours. Here, the focus is on leisurely exploration, with opportunities to visit the open-air museum, enjoy the views from the lookout, or just relax on the beach. However, some reviews suggest that the time spent here can be quite brief, sometimes just around 40 minutes, which might leave travelers wishing for more time to explore.

The beach at Playa Norte gets a lot of praise for its soft sand and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming or just unwinding. Keep in mind that this island is large, so a short stop might feel rushed unless you’re prepared to stay close to the meeting point.

Lunch and Beverages: No Extra Hassles

A standout feature is the buffet lunch served on the beach, included in the price. Travelers rave about the quality and variety of the food, which adds significant value. Beverages—water, soft drinks, and beer—are also included, after snorkeling activities, ensuring you can relax and hydrate without extra costs.

The included drinks and lunch make this a stress-free experience, especially for those who dislike carrying cash or dealing with multiple transactions during a busy day.

Returning and End of the Day

After a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing, the boat departs back to Cancun. The journey usually wraps up in the late afternoon, giving you ample time to unwind after a busy day. The hotel drop-off is convenient, making the entire experience smooth from start to finish.

What Real Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. For instance, one reviewer loved how the support from start to finish made the trip enjoyable, praising the guides’ professionalism. Others appreciated the helpful assistance from staff in booking and managing the tour, making the process straightforward.

Some travelers, however, mention that timing can be tight. One reviewer pointed out that the visit to Isla Mujeres was only about 40 minutes, which isn’t enough to explore the entire island but enough for a quick look or some photos. Others have expressed frustration over additional costs, such as dock taxes and park fees, which are payable in cash and not included in the initial price.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The snorkeling component receives high praise. Multiple reviews describe the reef as vibrant and home to a variety of marine species, making it a must-do part of the trip. The gear provided is typically adequate, and guides are attentive to safety, which is especially important for less experienced swimmers.

The Food and Drink

The buffet lunch, served right on the beach, is noted for being delicious and plentiful. It’s seen as a big plus, especially since other tours might require you to find your own food. Beverages complement the meal, with water, soda, and beer offered, which helps keep everyone refreshed throughout the day.

The Practicalities

Price and Value

At $169 per person, this tour offers a fair deal for a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and food. Compared to other excursions, the inclusion of lunch and drinks adds to the value. Keep in mind that you’ll need cash for dock taxes and park fees—an extra cost to budget for.

Duration and Group Size

The total duration ranges from 5 to 10 hours, depending on the group and weather conditions. The small group size (max 14 travelers) means a more personalized experience, which many travelers appreciate.

Physical Considerations

You should have moderate physical fitness to enjoy this tour fully, especially since snorkeling is only recommended for swimmers over 12 years old. Comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat are advisable. Don’t forget your camera and cash for extras.

Booking in Advance

Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, indicating that spots can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience suits nature lovers and snorkelers who want to explore some of the best natural spots near Cancun without spending too long on travel. It’s also ideal for families or groups looking for an organized, all-in-one day trip. Keep in mind that if you’re seeking a more in-depth exploration of Isla Mujeres or prefer quieter, longer visits, this might feel rushed.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with a mix of wildlife, reef, and beach, this tour hits those notes well. But for travelers who want extensive island exploration or more free time, considering other options might be worthwhile.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Cancun hotels are included, making the day more convenient. Additional charges apply for areas outside the central Cancun zone.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to Contoy Island takes approximately two hours each way, offering scenic views and a relaxing trip.

What is included in the lunch?
A buffet lunch served on the beach is included, with beverages such as water, soft drinks, and beer after snorkeling.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkel gear—including mask, tube, fins, and lifejacket—is provided for the reef stop.

Are there extra costs I should know about?
Yes, a dock tax and park access fee are payable in cash on the day. The exact amount can vary, so budget accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Snorkeling is only recommended for swimmers over 12 years old, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults comfortable in the water.

Final Thoughts

The Explore Contoy Island tour offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, marine adventure, and cultural sights, all bundled into a well-organized day from Cancun. The combination of birdwatching, snorkeling in a major reef, and visiting a protected island makes for a memorable experience, especially for those eager to see Mexico’s coastal ecosystems up close.

While the trip is a bit rushed at times, the value for money, delicious lunch, and knowledgeable guides make it a solid choice for travelers who prioritize active, scenic days in the Caribbean. It’s best for those who want a guided tour with everything included and don’t mind a tight schedule or extra cash for park fees.

If you’re looking for a balanced day trip that covers nature, sea, and some cultural touches, this tour could be just what you need. For a more relaxed or in-depth exploration of each island, consider other options, but for a quick, fun, and educational outing, it’s worth the booking.