Isla Mujeres Plus by Albatros Catamarans

If you’re planning a day trip from Cancun and considering the Isla Mujeres Plus tour offered by Albatros Catamarans, you’re probably looking for a fun, well-rounded experience. This tour promises a mix of sailing, snorkeling, delicious food, and exploring one of Mexico’s most charming islands. While it’s generally well-liked, especially for its lively atmosphere and beautiful sights, it’s worth taking a good look at what’s really involved before booking.

What we find appealing about this experience is the inclusive nature—you get food, drinks, and activities all rolled into a manageable day. The guides and crew tend to get rave reviews for their attentiveness, and the scenic views from the boat and island are definitely a highlight. However, a potential snag is the snorkeling—some reviewers felt it was rushed, with little time to enjoy the underwater sights fully. This tour suits travelers who want a lively, social outing, especially if you’re excited about boat rides, a bit of island exploring, and good food without breaking the bank.

Key Points

Affordable Price Point: For around $89 per person, this tour offers a lot—sailing, food, drinks, island visits, and a golf cart ride.
Includes Food & Drinks: Enjoy an international buffet and a open bar with soft drinks and alcohol, making it a relaxed, all-in-one experience.
Varied Activities: Snorkeling, exploring Isla Mujeres, and a golf cart tour give a full flavor of the island, though snorkeling might feel rushed.
Group Size & Atmosphere: With a maximum of 40 travelers, it feels lively but not overcrowded.
Some Extras Extra: Golf carts and dock fees are additional costs, so budget accordingly.
Mixed Reviews on Snorkeling: Some say it’s too quick, with guides urging fast followings—be prepared for a quick splash rather than a leisurely underwater experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Docking at Punta Sur and Beach Club Relaxation

The tour kicks off with a boat ride from Cancun, bringing you straight to Punta Sur on Isla Mujeres. This is the prime spot where many travelers find a relaxing start—lounging at the beach club, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the scenery. The beach is described as muddy and not ideal for swimming by some, so if your main goal is pristine water, this might be a disappointment. Still, it’s a good base for a day of exploration.

Lunch Time: Savoring the International Buffet

The included lunch is a highlight for many, with options like nachos, hot dogs, pizza, pasta, tacos al pastor, and suckling pig. The buffet is described as satisfying, making it perfect for filling up after a morning of activities. Natural water and soft drinks keep everyone refreshed, and the all-you-can-eat style helps you make the most of your time on the island.

Island Tour in a Golf Cart

Driving around Isla Mujeres in a golf cart is a fun, flexible way to see the town and surrounding sights. The tour passes through the town’s center, giving you a chance to get a feel for local life, shops, and street food. The highlight for many is the visit to the Mayan ruins of the Goddess Ixchel, which offer spectacular views and a touch of cultural history. It’s a quick stop, but enough to add some depth to your island visit.

Snorkeling Experience

The snorkeling spot is often described as quick and somewhat hurried, with guides encouraging fast followings. One reviewer pointed out it felt more like a race than a leisurely exploration: “Snorkeling was very bad, it was like a race, no time to enjoy.” The gear is provided, but don’t expect a long, peaceful underwater experience here. If snorkeling is your main goal, you might find this tour lacking in that department.

Free Time and Optional Extras

After the guided tour and snorkeling, you have time to relax back at the Beach Club or explore the island on your own. Golf cart rentals are available for about $40 USD, which many travelers find worthwhile for seeing more of the island at their own pace. Keep in mind, there’s a dock fee of $20 USD per person, which is separate from the tour cost.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price:
– Alcoholic beverages: You can enjoy a national open bar onboard, with beers, rum, tequila, and vodka.
– Lunch: An international buffet with a variety of options.
– Snorkeling gear: Use of snorkeling equipment during the daytime.
– Visit to Isla Mujeres: With time to stroll and explore.
– Soft drinks and water to keep hydrated.

Extras to consider:
– Golf cart rental: $40 USD, if you want to explore more freely.
– Dock fee: $20 USD per person, payable on-site.
– Tips and transportation: Not included, so factor those into your budget.

Experience Quality and Traveler Feedback

The crew and guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer said, “The captain and team were amazing, ensuring we were well taken care of.” That kind of attentive service makes a big difference, especially on a 7-hour outing.

However, there are some downsides. As mentioned, snorkeling can feel rushed, which is a common complaint. One traveler described it as “no time to snorkel, just a quick spot”. The muddy beach at Punta Sur also disappointed some visitors expecting clear water to swim in.

In terms of value, most feel that for $89, you’re getting a solid deal. The food is good, the drinks are plentiful, and the boat ride is fun. Still, keep expectations realistic—this isn’t a laid-back, all-day snorkeling or culture tour; it’s a lively, social outing with a focus on sea, sun, and good eats.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is perfect if you’re after a fun-filled day with lots of variety. It’s a good pick for travelers who want to experience sailing, sample Mexican food, and see Isla Mujeres without a hefty price tag. Families with kids who are comfortable with quick tours and group settings will probably enjoy the lively atmosphere, but those seeking a relaxing snorkeling experience might want to look elsewhere.

If you’re looking for a social, upbeat day tour that combines boat fun with island exploring, this is a reasonable choice. Just remember, the snorkeling and beach quality may not satisfy those seeking pristine underwater or shoreline environments.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Isla Mujeres Plus tour by Albatros Catamarans offers a competitively priced, enjoyable day out from Cancun. The crew’s service and the scenic boat ride stand out as the tour’s strongest points. The food and drinks add to the relaxed, festive vibe, and the golf cart tour provides a nice peek into the island life.

That said, the snorkeling might not meet everyone’s expectations for a leisurely underwater adventure—and the beach at Punta Sur isn’t the clearest or most pristine. If your main goal is snorkeling or pristine beaches, you might want to consider other options.

But if you’re after a fun, social day packed with variety, good food, and scenic views, this tour is worth considering, especially if you don’t mind a quick splash and a spirited atmosphere.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, families who enjoy lively group activities and don’t mind quick stops will find it suitable. Keep in mind, the tour involves some physical activity like driving a golf cart and quick transitions.

How much does the golf cart cost?
Golf carts are about $40 USD per cart, and you’ll need to pay this on-site if you choose to rent one.

What’s the dock fee?
The dock fee is $20 USD per person, payable at the island. It’s separate from the tour price.

How long is the snorkeling activity?
Snorkeling is brief and feels rushed, with guides urging fast followings. Don’t expect a long, relaxing underwater experience.

What’s included in the lunch?
You’ll get an international buffet including nachos, hot dogs, pizza, pasta, tacos al pastor, and suckling pig. It’s a filling, casual meal.

Can I explore Isla Mujeres on my own afterward?
Yes, you have free time to stroll around the town after the guided tour and lunch.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there is a national open bar with soft drinks and alcohol available on board.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere lively but not overcrowded.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re looking for a spirited, varied day with good value and friendly crew, the Isla Mujeres Plus tour is worth considering. Just enter with realistic expectations about snorkeling and beaches, and you’ll likely have a memorable day on the water and exploring one of Mexico’s most beloved islands.