Isla Mujeres Catamaran Plus! Drinks, Snorkel & Beach Club

Exploring the Isla Mujeres Catamaran Plus Tour: An Honest Take

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Cancun that combines sailing, snorkeling, and some well-deserved R&R, the Isla Mujeres Catamaran Plus might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally sampled this exact experience, looking at reviews and details, it’s clear this tour offers a lively, well-rounded way to explore one of the Caribbean’s most charming islands.

What we like most about this trip? First, it’s a stylish catamaran journey that promises a fun, party-like atmosphere with an open bar—perfect if you enjoy a little liveliness on the water. Second, the included snorkeling at a vibrant reef and access to an exclusive beach club with a buffet make it a good value. That said, a small consideration is the dock fee of $20 per person, which can catch some off guard if they’re not prepared.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a combination of adventure and relaxation in a group setting—whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a larger group. If you’re after a laid-back, fun-filled day on the Caribbean with plenty of social vibe, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Stylish Catamaran Experience: Enjoy a scenic sail with a lively onboard atmosphere and open bar.
• Snorkeling at a Beautiful Reef: Observe tropical fish in shallow, crystal-clear waters with gear provided.
• Exclusive Beach Club Access: Savor a buffet lunch at a well-rated, attentive beach club.
• Flexible Departure Times: Multiple options to suit your schedule.
• Additional Costs: Expect to pay a $20 dock fee per person, not included in the ticket.
• Short Free Time on Isla: You get some freedom to explore the island at your own pace, but without a guide.

Setting Sail Toward Isla Mujeres: What to Expect

The adventure kicks off from the Marina Albatros in Cancun, where you’ll board a deluxe catamaran designed to make the journey comfortable yet festive. As the boat departs, you’ll immediately notice the lively vibe—music playing, drinks in hand, and a group of travelers ready to soak up the sun. It’s a great way to transition from the busy Cancun hotel zone to the more relaxed pace of Isla Mujeres.

The Catamaran Ride: A Mix of Fun and Scenic Views

The sail itself is part of the charm. We loved the way the boat glided smoothly over the turquoise waters, offering great views of the coastline and open sea. For those who enjoy being on the water, this part of the trip is a highlight. The open bar keeps the mood upbeat, and with a maximum of 50 travelers, it doesn’t feel crowded or chaotic—more like a floating party with room to breathe.

Snorkeling in the Caribbean

Next comes the snorkeling stop at a beautiful reef, known for its shallow and crystalline waters. The reef is teeming with tropical fish—an experience that both novice and seasoned snorkelers can enjoy, thanks to the gear and guide included. The shallow waters make it accessible for non-swimmers or less confident swimmers, although non-swimmers over 60 or children under 8 are not recommended for snorkeling. Reviewers like Shahida_A praised the guides, Jeff and Raf, for their helpfulness, which makes a difference when exploring marine environments.

Exploring Isla Mujeres

After snorkeling, you have some free time to stroll through Isla Mujeres’ downtown. You’ll find colorful shops, local cafes, and a laid-back vibe that’s far removed from Cancun’s hustle. This is your chance to wander at your own pace, snap photos, or grab a quick snack.

Lunch at the Exclusive Beach Club

Your next highlight is the visit to one of the island’s top beach clubs, where you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch. The food gets good reviews for its quality and service—so if you’re a foodie, you’ll appreciate the chance to indulge. The beach club’s setting is prime, with loungers and views that make a relaxing break worthwhile. It’s a good spot for those who want a more curated experience after the lively boat ride and snorkeling.

Sunset and Return: A Party on the Water

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to Cancun. This part of the journey offers stunning sunset views over the water, a perfect backdrop for a few more drinks from the open bar. The relaxed vibe continues until the boat docks, making it a memorable close to an active day.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $89 per person, this tour offers a lot for the money. The combination of sailing, snorkeling gear, lunch, beach access, and an open bar covers a lot of bases—especially for travelers looking for a lively, social experience rather than a quiet, secluded one. The dock fee of $20 is extra, which can be a little surprising if you’re not prepared, so keep that in mind.

From the reviews, it’s clear many travelers feel they received good value. One said, “Jeff and Raf were great! We really enjoyed this experience,” highlighting the quality guides and the overall vibe. Plus, the 4.5-star rating from two reviews suggests most guests leave satisfied.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for those who enjoy social, upbeat outings. If you’re after a lively boat ride, drinks, and snorkeling in beautiful waters, you’ll likely have a great time. It also works well for groups looking for a fun shared experience, especially since the tour accommodates up to 50 travelers.

However, if you’re seeking a quiet, secluded day or a more in-depth cultural exploration, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re traveling with non-swimmers or very young children, consider the snorkeling restrictions.

The Bottom Line

The Isla Mujeres Catamaran Plus offers a mix of adventure, socializing, and relaxation—wrapped into a manageable 7-hour package. It’s a well-rounded option for anyone wanting to enjoy the Caribbean’s beauty without sacrificing comfort or fun. The lively atmosphere onboard, alongside the beautiful reef snorkeling and a hearty buffet, makes it a memorable day for many.

While the extra dock fee and the need to book in advance are worth noting, most guests agree it’s a good value. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who love a bit of a party vibe, don’t mind a group setting, and want to see the island’s highlights without too much fuss.

FAQs

Is there a pick-up service included?
No, this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the Marina Albatros in Cancun.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 7 hours, from departure to return.

What should I bring?
Pack your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes. Remember that only biodegradable sunscreen is allowed to protect the reef.

Can non-swimmers snorkel?
Snorkeling isn’t recommended for non-swimmers, people over 60, or children under 8, but the shallow reef waters might be suitable for some non-swimmers under supervision.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Most will say it’s the combination of sailing on a stylish catamaran, snorkeling amid colorful marine life, and relaxing at a beach club with a buffet.

How do I pay the dock fee?
The $20 USD dock fee is payable on the day of the tour, per person.

In all, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to enjoy Isla Mujeres for a day—perfect for travelers looking for fun with some beautiful views and good company.