Sailing Catamaran in Cancun with Open Bar

If you’re dreaming of a day spent gliding across Cancun’s crystal-clear Caribbean waters, this sailing catamaran tour with open bar might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve seen enough reviews and tour details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a mix of relaxation, fun, and stunning scenery—all wrapped into a 7-hour experience.

What catches many people’s attention first is the unlimited drinks and the chance to snorkel in calm, inviting waters. Plus, the visit to Isla Mujeres offers a nice blend of natural beauty and local charm. But, as with any tour, it’s not all perfect. One minor consideration is that there’s a dock tax of $20 USD per person, which is a bit of an extra you need to budget for. That said, if you’re after a lively, scenic day out with easy access to the sea, this tour hits a lot of the right notes.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy casual, social outings—especially those who appreciate good views, a laid-back atmosphere, and a little adventure in the water. It’s ideal for first-timers to Cancun looking for an overview of the Caribbean, or anyone wanting a fun day with friends or a partner. If you’re traveling with kids or seeking a quiet, contemplative experience, this might not be the best fit, but for most, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Refreshments: An open bar served on the catamaran makes for a relaxed, social vibe.
• Beautiful Snorkeling: The calm Caribbean waters are perfect for exploring marine life, fish, and turtles.
• Visiting Isla Mujeres: You’ll get about an hour to explore this charming island’s center and beaches.
• Buffet Meal in a Beach Club: Savor a buffet as you enjoy the seaside scenery.
• Bilingual Guide: No language barrier here; guides make the experience accessible for many.
• Extra Fees: There’s a government dock tax of $20 USD per person, so factor this into your budget.

Setting Sail in Cancun: What to Expect from This Catamaran Tour

This 7-hour adventure offers a neat slice of the Cancun experience—combining sailing, snorkeling, island exploration, and good food. The tour departs from Marina Las Perlas, a location close to public transportation, making it easy to reach without much fuss. The boat itself is a spacious catamaran, designed to comfortably hold up to 50 travelers, which means it’s not overly crowded but still lively.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Marina Las Perlas: Here, you’ll check in and get ready for a day on the water. The crew and guides are bilingual, which helps if you’re not fluent in Spanish—they’re there to keep things running smoothly and answer your questions.

Sailing to Isla Mujeres: The main event begins with a cruise through the Caribbean Sea, with endless ocean views. The water here is often described as “crystal clear” and “calm,” making it ideal for snorkeling. We loved the way the boat glides effortlessly across the water, offering uninterrupted views of the horizon and the coastline.

Snorkeling at El Meco Nature Reserve: Once you arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in one of the most beautiful natural reserves in the Caribbean, home to fish, turtles, and marine life. Many reviews mention how ‘stunning’ the waters are and how easy it is to see marine creatures in the clear depths.

Visit at the Center of Isla Mujeres: You’ll get about an hour to explore this small, lively town. It’s a good chance to soak in local vibes, browse shops, or just enjoy some downtime by the beach. The tour includes entrance to the beach club, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Artisanal Tequila Tasting: Just a little bonus—sampling local tequila adds a fun, authentic touch to the day. The guides usually share some interesting tidbits about the spirits, making this more than just a drink stop.

Buffet at the Beach Club: No worries about hunger— a buffet meal is included, giving you a chance to refuel with local and international options while taking in the seaside views.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers highlight the “stunning views” and the “relaxed atmosphere,” often mentioning how the open bar keeps spirits high. One said, “The crew was fantastic, making sure everyone was having a good time,” while another appreciated the flexibility of snorkeling and exploring at their own pace. The only common drawback mentioned was the dock tax of $20 USD per person—a fee not included in the original price, but worth knowing beforehand.

The Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour costs $65 per person, which many find reasonable considering the inclusions—snorkeling gear, a buffet, open bar, and a visit to Isla Mujeres. Keep in mind, you’ll need to budget an extra $20 USD for the government dock tax. The tour lasts about 7 hours, so you’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and a change of clothes.

The meeting point is at the Marina Las Perlas, conveniently located near public transportation, which is great if you’re staying somewhere in Cancun’s hotel zone. The tour ends right back at the pickup point, so there’s no need to worry about additional transportation.

Group Size & Weather Considerations

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group isn’t too big, maintaining a good balance of social energy without feeling overcrowded. The tour is weather-dependent—if conditions aren’t favorable, they’ll either reschedule or give a full refund, so it’s a low-stress gamble.

What We Like and What Could Be Better

The stunning ocean views are definitely one of the highlights here. Many reviewers rave about how beautiful the waters are, and that the experience of sailing itself is quite special. The open bar adds a laid-back and social element; many mention how it’s nice not to have to worry about drinks, just relax and enjoy.

That said, the dock tax can feel like an unwelcome surprise if you’re not prepared for the extra expense. Also, since this is a day trip, it’s not ideal if you’re seeking a quiet, contemplative escape—this is more lively and social, which some travelers absolutely love, but others might find a bit too bustling.

Overall, it’s a value-packed experience for those wanting to combine sightseeing, snorkeling, and a bit of local flavor in one relaxed outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If your idea of a perfect day is sailing across beautiful waters with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and explore, then this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy casual social activities, good scenery, and a lively atmosphere—no strict schedules, just fun and sun.

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Cancun who want a comprehensive, scenic, and social day out. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for an easy way to see Isla Mujeres and enjoy some marine life without much hassle.

Families with older kids who can snorkel and handle a full day on the water might also find this appealing, though it’s not specifically designed for small children or infants.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the guide is bilingual, so language won’t be a barrier for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and explore.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the supplier if you have very young children, as snorkeling and boat activities require some safety considerations.

What should I bring?
Pack your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal items. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but you might prefer your own.

Are drinks included?
Yes, an open bar is available on the boat for the duration of the tour.

How much does the dock tax cost?
It’s $20 USD per person, payable on the day of the tour.

What happens 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.

This sailing adventure in Cancun offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy the Caribbean. It’s a good pick if you want to combine a little adventure with plenty of opportunities to unwind, share drinks, and soak up those incredible ocean views. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable day on the water, this tour has the potential to deliver a truly enjoyable experience.