Catamaran Snorkeling with Openbar & Lunch Cancun to Isla Mujeres

A Practical Look at the Cancun Catamaran Snorkeling Adventure with Open Bar & Lunch

If you’re eyeing a day out on the water in Cancun, this Catamaran Snorkeling tour to Isla Mujeres might catch your attention. It’s popular, with a good number of travelers booking it well in advance, and it promises a lively Caribbean party vibe combined with snorkeling and a tasty regional lunch. We haven’t personally joined, but we’ve sifted through reviews, details, and feedback to give you a real, honest look at what this experience offers—and what to watch out for.

What we love about this tour? First, the unlimited national drinks onboard make it feel like a true beach party, perfect for relaxing and having fun. Second, the delicious buffet lunch at Playa Norte’s exclusive beach club is a definite highlight, especially if good food and a laid-back atmosphere are high on your list.

However, one potential downside to consider is the overcrowding issue some travelers have mentioned, which can affect comfort levels. That said, if you’re someone who thrives in lively, social environments and loves a bit of party energy, this adventure could be just right. It’s best suited for those wanting a full, fun-filled day in Cancun with plenty of sun, drinks, and island exploration.

Key Points

• Vibrant party atmosphere onboard with unlimited drinks and onboard music.
• Includes snorkeling at the top spot in Cancun—an opportunity to see some marine life.
• Delicious regional buffet lunch at Playa Norte’s private beach club.
• Flexible free time on Isla Mujeres to explore the charming town at your own pace.
• Safety and experience are emphasized, with 16 years of accident-free operation.
• Dock fees and reef taxes are extra, so budget accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour sets out from Cancun with pick-up options from various locations like Cancun, Puerto Morelos, or Playa del Carmen, making it convenient for most travelers. Once on board the catamaran, the vibe is immediately festive—think lively music, unlimited domestic drinks, and the chance to toast your trip as you cruise over the turquoise waters. The boat itself is described as being among the safest options, with 16 years of experience and no accidents—a reassuring point if safety is a concern.

Snorkeling at the Best Spot

The highlight for many is snorkeling at the top site in Cancun. While the tour details don’t specify the exact reef, the experience is generally designed to give you a relaxing swim amidst vibrant marine life. Keep in mind that, according to reviews, some guests found the water less appealing at times, with one comment about the water being “blah” and the area having a smell of rot, which might be worth considering if you’re sensitive to water quality or odors.

Onboard Revelry and Tequila Tasting

The onboard party extends beyond just drinks. You can enjoy a lively atmosphere, with waiters serving your favorite beverages and music adding to the Caribbean party feel. A tequila tasting is included, offering a chance to sample different flavors of this iconic Mexican spirit—an experience many travelers enjoy for adding a regional flavor to their day.

Isla Mujeres Exploration and Lunch

Once you’ve had your fill of the water and drinks, you’ll land at Isla Mujeres for some free time to explore the charming town. The scheduled hour isn’t extensive, but enough to wander, take photos, or grab a quick souvenir. Afterward, the tour takes you to an exclusive beach club at Playa Norte, known for its gentle sands and relaxed vibe. Here, a buffet lunch with alcoholic drinks is served, with tables, chairs, umbrellas, and loungers provided at no extra cost. It’s a great way to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy regional cuisine in comfort.

The Return and Final Party

As the day winds down, the party returns onboard the catamaran for the trip back to Cancun, with unlimited national drinks flowing, ensuring the momentum keeps going. The overall energy is lively, making this tour an ideal choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with a party atmosphere.

What the Price Gets You and What’s Extra

At $61 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the length of the experience—around 7 hours—and the inclusion of transport, lunch, and drinks. Still, remember that dock fees and reef taxes are not included and add up to approximately $30 USD per person. If you’re planning your budget, factor that in.

While the tour includes round-trip transportation if selected—which adds convenience—some travelers might prefer to arrange their own transfers or use public transit, as the meeting point is well-located near public transportation options.

The Realities Based on Customer Feedback

The reviews add some nuance to the experience. While most are positive, highlighting the fun atmosphere, good food, and beautiful views, there’s a notable critical review that can’t be ignored. One traveler described the company as “HORRIBLE,” citing overcrowding—people sitting on the boat’s edge—and unsatisfactory food. They also mentioned that the water was “blah” and had a rotten smell, which could impact your snorkeling or water enjoyment. This highlights that the experience can vary, and overcrowding might be an issue during peak times.

It’s also worth mentioning that, despite the lively party scene, safety is emphasized, with the company boasting a record of no accidents over 16 years. Still, if you’re seeking a more relaxed or private experience, this tour might feel a bit crowded or chaotic.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a fun, party-focused day in Cancun. If you’re eager to enjoy unlimited drinks, dance a little onboard, and explore Isla Mujeres at your leisure, you’ll likely enjoy it. It’s especially good for those who appreciate lively social atmospheres and don’t mind some crowding.

However, if you’re after a calm, quiet snorkeling trip or a more subdued day, this tour might not be your best fit. Also, if you’re sensitive to crowded spaces or water odors, it’s worth keeping those points in mind.

The Sum Up

In summary, this Catamaran Snorkeling with Open Bar & Lunch tour offers a lively, well-rounded day on the water that combines the best of Cancun’s party scene with some relaxing island time. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and regional cuisine adds to the value, especially if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances fun, food, and exploration.

The tour’s biggest strength lies in its energetic atmosphere and tasty buffet, making it a popular choice for travelers eager to mingle and enjoy the Caribbean vibe. That said, the potential for overcrowding could impact your comfort, so if you prefer more space and tranquility, you might want to consider less crowded options or private tours.

Overall, if you’re seeking a lively, social day out with plenty of chances to unwind, sip, and explore, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for the extra costs and the lively crowd, and you’ll likely have a memorable day in paradise.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is available if you select that option, making pickup from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, or Playa del Carmen convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 7 hours, including snorkeling, island exploration, lunch, and the return journey.

What’s included in the price?
You get unlimited domestic drinks onboard, a buffet lunch with alcoholic drinks at Playa Norte, free time to explore Isla Mujeres, and the onboard party during the return trip.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, dock fees and reef taxes are not included and amount to roughly $30 USD per person. Photos and souvenirs are also extra.

Is snorkeling good?
The tour covers the top snorkeling spot in Cancun, but some reviews mention water quality issues or unpleasant odors, so experiences might vary.

Is it family-friendly?
This tour is more geared toward adults and party-goers. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it could be suitable for older kids if they enjoy lively environments—just be mindful of the crowding and alcohol service.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are issued if you cancel within this window.

This tour packs a punch for those who love the lively side of Cancun. Just remember to weigh the crowd and extra fees before booking, and you’ll be set for a fun-filled Caribbean day.