Cancún Catamaran to Isla Mujeres + Snorkel, Open Bar & Lunch

Exploring the Cancun Catamaran to Isla Mujeres + Snorkel, Open Bar & Lunch

If you’re eyeing a day of sunshine, sea breezes, and vibrant island life, this Cancun catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve come across plenty of reviews about it, and while we haven’t done it ourselves, the details suggest it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a laid-back day on the water with good company and plenty of drinks.

What we really like about this experience is its all-inclusive vibe — that means snorkel gear, lunch, and drinks are all part of the package, so you can just relax and enjoy. Plus, the chance to explore Isla Mujeres’ charming streets after the beach time makes it a well-rounded outing.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention issues like pricing pressure and logistical hiccups, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers or those expecting a totally seamless experience. Still, for most, it looks like a fun, scenic way to spend a day in Cancun that suits groups, singles, or anyone craving a bit of adventure combined with chill beach vibes.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who love water activities, socializing over drinks, and want a taste of island life without breaking the bank. If you’re after a memorable, lively day out with a friendly crew, this could be a good pick.

• All-inclusive experience with snorkeling, lunch, and open bar
• Flexible options including hotel pickup (contact needed if not listed)
• Beautiful stops: snorkeling at El Meco Reef and relaxing at Playa Norte
• Approximately 8 hours of fun, perfect for a day trip
• Cost-effective at around $55 per person, but watch out for dock fees
• Mixed reviews: great views and service but some concerns about pricing and logistics

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at Marina Adventure Bay at Playa Tortugas, located at Km 6.5 on Blvd. Kukulcán. If you booked the hotel transportation, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—just keep an eye on your email for the exact timing. If not, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point, which is straightforward given its proximity to popular Cancun hotels and public transportation options.

One of the nice touches is the pickup service, which makes starting the day more hassle-free. However, a couple of reviews mention hiccups with transportation—one traveler noted their pickup was delayed, but they managed to join the next boat without much trouble. As always, confirming your pickup time ahead of the tour helps ensure a smooth start.

The Catamaran Ride

Once aboard the Catamaran, you’re greeted with a friendly crew and a relaxed vibe. The boat is equipped with a bathroom and snorkel gear, making it easy to jump in and out of the water. The cruise to Isla Mujeres is about an hour, during which you’ll enjoy the sun, sea breeze, and some good tunes—if the crew is in the mood to play music.

The views are one of the highlights. We imagine that cruising through turquoise waters with the island growing closer is a pretty scenic way to start the day. Many reviews praise the crew’s service and punctuality, which helps set a positive tone for the trip.

Snorkeling at El Meco Reef

The first activity is snorkeling at El Meco Reef. The reef provides a vibrant underwater scene, perfect for spotting colorful fish and coral. Snorkel equipment is included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own unless you prefer. The experience is generally described as good, with many noting the clarity of the water and the chance to see marine life.

A traveler mentioned, “Once you get on the boat, it was a great trip with a great crew,” highlighting how the crew’s attitude can make a difference. Just keep in mind that snorkeling conditions depend on the weather—if the waters are choppy or cloudy, visibility might be less impressive.

Playa Norte and Beach Time

After snorkeling, you’ll sail to Playa Norte, renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Here, you’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, or just relax. This is where the tour’s value really shines—spending a few hours on such a stunning stretch of sand is a highlight.

Some reviews mention the beach’s beauty and the relaxation it offers, making it ideal for travelers wanting a mix of water activities and downtime. Just be prepared for the crowds that can gather at Playa Norte, especially during high season.

Lunch and Drinks at the Beach Club

Midday, it’s time for a buffet lunch at a beach club. The international buffet is described as tasty and plentiful, providing a good variety of options. The open bar offers rum, tequila, whisky, and soft drinks, and most travelers seem to appreciate the unlimited drinks—perfect for unwinding and socializing.

We note that some reviews mention pushy sales tactics for souvenirs or extras, like a golf cart tour costing $80, which can feel a bit overdone. The key is to enjoy the included drinks and meals, but be aware that some vendors on the island might try to upsell you.

Free Time & Exploring Isla Mujeres

Post-lunch, there’s time to explore the island’s streets, shop for souvenirs, or just soak in the local atmosphere. The charm of Isla Mujeres lies in its colorful streets, laid-back vibe, and friendly locals. It’s a good chance to take photos or grab a quick snack if you’re hungry again.

The Return Journey and Sunset Views

Sailing back to Cancun, you’ll likely be in a festive mood, especially if you’ve been enjoying the drinks and sun. The sunset views during the return trip are often praised, providing a beautiful end to the day. Some reviews mention a ‘festive mood’ on board during the return, making it a relaxing yet lively atmosphere.

Extra Costs and Considerations

Don’t forget there’s a $20 dock fee, payable on the day of the tour. While the experience is generally considered good value at $55, this fee adds to the total cost and is an important detail to keep in mind.

A couple of reviews, including one that said, “For what you spend, this excursion is not worth it,” suggest that if you’re highly budget-conscious or expecting a very exclusive experience, you might want to compare other options. But overall, most find the experience to be fairly priced given the amenities and activities included.

Overall Impressions and Authentic Feedback

Many guests enjoy the stunning scenery, the friendly crew, and the diverse activities. One reviewer described it as “beautiful,” mentioning the service as “impeccable” and the punctuality as “perfect.” That said, a couple of criticisms focus on feeling pressured to buy extras and logistical issues like hotel pickup errors.

The tour’s size limit of 40 travelers means it’s not overly crowded, maintaining a relatively intimate atmosphere. This allows everyone to relax and enjoy without feeling lost in a sea of people.

If you’re someone who loves water-based activities and enjoys socializing over drinks, you’ll find plenty to like here. It’s especially suitable for groups, friends, or couples looking for a lively, fun-filled day. If you prefer a more exclusive, less commercialized experience, you might find some aspects a bit too busy or sales-driven.

Travelers who value good scenery, lively atmosphere, and a mix of snorkeling and beach relaxation will likely be satisfied. Just keep in mind the potential for extra costs and some logistical quirks.

This Cancun catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres offers a vibrant, all-inclusive way to enjoy some of the best sights and beaches in the area without a hefty price tag. The combination of snorkeling, beach time, delicious food, and drinks makes it an appealing choice for those who want an enjoyable day on the water with minimal fuss.

The experience seems to strike a good balance between fun and relaxation, with the added bonus of beautiful views and friendly service. However, it’s wise to go in with realistic expectations—there might be some upselling or logistical hiccups, but overall, it looks like a fulfilling day for most travelers.

If you’re looking for a lively, scenic outing that includes a bit of everything—snorkeling, beach lounging, good food, and drinks—this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for the occasional sales pitch and remember to confirm your pickup details in advance.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you booked with the transportation option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel. Check your booking details for the pickup time. If your hotel isn’t listed, contact the tour provider directly.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, starting around 10:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the package?
Snorkeling gear, snacks after snorkeling, bottled water, soda, alcoholic drinks from the open bar, and a buffet lunch at the beach club are all included.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s a $20 dock fee payable on the day of the tour. Also, some optional activities on Isla Mujeres, like golf cart rentals, are not included.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While the details don’t specify restrictions, generally, it’s suitable for most travelers able to participate in water activities. Keep in mind, alcohol is served, and the tour involves a boat ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

If this sounds like your ideal day—fun, scenic, and social—then this Cancun catamaran trip might just be the perfect way to spend a day in paradise.