If you’re thinking about spending a day exploring some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour from Riviera Maya might catch your eye. It promises a combination of snorkeling, scenic boat rides, delicious food, and free time to soak up the sun on Isla Mujeres.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and leisure. The snorkeling at Isla Contoy National Park is a big plus for anyone eager to see vibrant marine life, and the buffet lunch with an open bar means you won’t go hungry or thirsty. However, a potential consideration is the long day’s length—it’s about 10 hours in total, so it’s not for everyone, especially those who prefer a slower pace or are traveling with small children.

This tour feels best suited for travelers who want a full-day, all-in-one excursion that takes care of most logistics—perfect for those who love a mix of activity and chill time. If you’re comfortable with being on the water for several hours and enjoy guided sightseeing, it could be a great fit.

Key Points

Combines two popular islands — Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres — in one day.
Includes snorkeling in the second-largest reef system, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
Offers a delicious buffet lunch with an open bar, perfect for refueling.
Provides free time to explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace.
Includes scenic boat rides and guided sightseeing.
Ideal for those who want a full-day adventure with a mix of activities and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and Not Included

The tour covers a lot—round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen or Cancun, a bilingual guide, boat cruises, snorkeling gear, a buffet meal, and an open bar. The only extra fee you’ll need to prepare for is a port tax of $20 USD.

The value is quite reasonable given the length of the tour and the activities included, especially considering the well-organized itinerary and the quality of food and drinks offered onboard.

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The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Transportation

The day begins with pickups from two main locations—Rivera Maya or Playa del Carmen. After a roughly one-hour van ride, you’ll be on your way to Cancun, where the adventure really kicks off. The transfer is straightforward, but you should be prepared for a little early morning sitting in a van, especially if you’re coming from Playa del Carmen.

Cancun Sightseeing and Boat Ride

Once in Cancun, you’ll experience about 1.5 hours of sightseeing around the city. It’s a brief peek—enough to get a feel for the area but not a deep dive into its history or culture. Following that, a 45-minute catamaran cruise takes you across the Caribbean Sea, setting the stage for your island adventures.

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Isla Mujeres: Free Time and Sightseeing

The first island stop is Isla Mujeres, where you’ll get about 80 minutes to explore. This is your chance to stroll along colorful streets, browse shops, or snap some photos—don’t expect a comprehensive tour here, but just enough time to soak in the island’s lively atmosphere.

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Relax on Isla Mujeres

After the sightseeing, you’ll have free time to relax, take in the views, or enjoy some local snacks and drinks. The total boat time around Isla Mujeres adds up to roughly 2 hours, giving you a good balance of travel and relaxation.

Isla Contoy National Park: The Highlight

The main draw of the trip is Isla Contoy, where you’ll spend about 2.5 hours. This protected area is renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Expect to snorkel in the coral-rich waters, surrounded by colorful fish and possibly turtles. Many reviewers rave about the food here, describing the buffet as “mouthwatering” and noting the barbecue and fresh beverages as highlights.

More Boat Time & Cancun Return

Post Isla Contoy, you’ll cruise back for about 2.5 hours on the boat, enjoying the views and the open bar. The return to Cancun is relatively quick, about 30 minutes, followed by a 1.5-hour van ride back to your starting point—completing a full, action-packed day.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

The snorkeling in Isla Contoy National Park is a key feature. Being part of the second-largest reef system offers vibrant underwater scenery and marine diversity. Travelers often mention the water clarity and the variety of fish and coral. It’s a decent experience for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike, but keep in mind that the actual snorkeling time is limited—so if marine life is your top priority, this will be a highlight.

Real Feedback

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the snorkeling — the water was clear, and we saw lots of colorful fish.” Others noted that gear was provided, making it convenient, but some wished for a longer snorkeling session.

Food and Drinks

The buffet lunch is consistently praised. Expect barbecue options and a selection of drinks from the open bar, which is a generous touch. The food quality can vary based on reviews, but most agree it’s above average for a tour setting, satisfying hungry travelers after a morning in the sun.

Many travelers highlight the “delicious food and tapas,” making the meal a memorable part of the trip. The open bar is also appreciated, especially after a morning of water activities.

Free Time and Exploration

The balance of guided sightseeing and free time is a strong point. Isla Mujeres’ free time allows visitors to wander at their own pace, shop for souvenirs, or relax on the beaches. While some reviews mention that the island’s streets are charming and colorful, others feel the time could be expanded for a more relaxed experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a well-organized, full-day tour that covers the essentials without a bunch of complicated planning. It’s ideal for those interested in snorkeling, sightseeing, and experiencing two different islands in one go. If you prefer a very relaxed pace or traveling with very young children who might find the long day tiring, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The value proposition is solid. For $170, you’re getting a full day of activities—snorkeling, sightseeing, good food, and plenty of sunshine. The tour is especially appealing if you want a stress-free way to see Isla Contoy’s natural beauty and enjoy Isla Mujeres’ lively vibe without worrying about logistics.

The experience is well-suited for active travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule and long hours on the water. The inclusion of snorkeling and quality buffet makes it stand out from more basic tours. However, if you prefer a slower pace or more in-depth exploration, you might find the brief stops a bit rushed.

This tour is a smart pick for curious travelers eager to tick off two iconic islands with minimal fuss. It offers a good mix of adventure, relaxation, and good eats, making it a memorable day out in the Caribbean.

Ready to Book?

Riviera Maya: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Full-Day Tour

FAQ

Is there a port tax I need to pay?
Yes, there is a port tax of $20 USD that you’ll need to cover separately from the tour price.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, from pickup to drop-off, so be prepared for a full day on your feet.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear is included in the tour, so you won’t need to bring your own unless you prefer your own equipment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically tailored for children, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially if your family enjoys water and outdoor activities. Just note the long hours and ensure everyone is comfortable with the boat rides.

How much free time do I get on Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have about 80 minutes for sightseeing and exploring, giving enough time to walk around, shop, or relax on the beach.

What languages are available on the tour?
The tour is guided in English and Spanish, so make sure to choose a suitable language when booking.

Overall, if you’re seeking a lively, well-rounded day exploring some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful spots, this tour offers good value and plenty of memorable moments. Just be prepared for a full day and a bit of movement—your reward is stunning scenery, vibrant marine life, and delicious food.