A Relaxed and Lively Day on the Cancun to Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour
If you’re considering a day trip from Cancun that combines sailing, snorkeling, good food, and a chance to soak up some sun, this Catamaran Cancun to Isla Mujeres Lunch Open Bar and Snorkeling tour might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve read through plenty of reviews and gathered all the details to help you decide if it’s a good pick for your own trip.
What I really like about this experience is its balance of fun activities and relaxation. The top highlight is the chance to cruise on a spacious, well-equipped catamaran across clear Caribbean waters, followed by snorkeling in some of Cancun’s best reef spots. Plus, the all-you-can-drink open bar and buffet lunch at a private beach club sound like a perfect way to unwind after water activities.
One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention issues like limited snorkeling time or the possibility of last-minute schedule changes, which can impact your overall experience. It’s not the best choice if you’re seeking a very structured or long exploration, but if you enjoy a lively, social atmosphere with a taste of adventure, this trip could suit you well.
In general, this tour is best suited for travelers looking for a fun, semi-structured day on the water — perfect for groups, couples, or even friends celebrating a special occasion. It’s not specifically tailored for families with young children, but older kids who enjoy swimming and snorkeling will probably have a good time.
Key Points

- Lively cruise experience with music, drinks, and a party vibe on a spacious catamaran
- Great snorkeling spots in Cancun’s reefs, with guided equipment use
- Includes a buffet lunch at an exclusive beach club on Playa Norte
- Flexible options for private charters and customizable adventures
- All-day activity lasting around 8 hours, with hotel pickup included
- Limited snorkeling time and potential schedule adjustments as noted in reviews
An Overview of the Catamaran Cancun to Isla Mujeres Experience
This tour is designed to give you a full day of Caribbean fun, starting with a hotel pickup in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Once at the dock, the excitement begins as you board a luxurious catamaran that promises a lively atmosphere, with music, drinks, and plenty of space to stretch out.
Most guests rave about the crew, describing them as friendly and accommodating, which helps set a positive tone for the day. As you sail toward Isla Mujeres, you’ll love the stunning views of the open sea, the chance to relax and socialize, and the feeling of being on a party boat in paradise.
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Snorkeling in Cancun’s Reefs
The snorkeling component is a key highlight, offering a chance to see Cancun’s underwater life with use of snorkeling equipment and the guidance of a certified snorkeling guide. Reviews indicate that the snorkeling experience is generally enjoyable, though some mention limited time to explore underwater. The reefs are described as some of the best spots around Cancun, and the underwater scenery is likely to impress anyone who loves marine life.
The Beach Break at Playa Norte
After snorkeling, you’ll be taken to Playa Norte, one of the most famous beaches, where you’ll have about 90 minutes of free time. This is a good chance to explore the charming downtown, browse souvenirs, or just lounge on the soft sands. The reviews suggest the beach is beautiful, but some guests wish they had more time to explore on their own, as the scheduled stop is only about an hour and a half.
Lunch and Beach Club Relaxation
Next, the tour heads to an exclusive beach club for a buffet lunch. Expect a hearty meal in a scenic setting, with access to the beach and some relaxing downtime. This is a perfect moment to unwind, especially after the water activities. The buffet includes a variety of regional dishes, and the open bar keeps the drinks flowing, creating a fun and casual atmosphere.
Returning to Cancun
The day wraps up with a scenic sunset sail back to Cancun, with drinks in hand and music playing. The return trip is often described as peaceful and beautiful, a nice way to wind down after a busy day.
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What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of around $38 per person, you get quite a bit: round-trip transportation, the open bar, snorkeling gear, a guided snorkeling experience, the catamaran party, and access to the beach club with lunch. These features make it a solid value, especially given the amenities and scenic stops.
However, there are some extras to consider. Upgrading to a premium open bar costs extra, and souvenirs, tips, and photos aren’t included. There’s also a $40 fee for taxes and entrance fees, which is typical but worth noting in your budget.
The Value Proposition
While the base price is quite reasonable, keep in mind that the tour is not all-inclusive of everything. Some guests find the snorkeling time to be somewhat limited, and a few reviews mention logistical issues like last-minute schedule changes or pickup problems — so flexibility is key.
Real Insights from Travelers

One reviewer appreciated the friendly crew and mentioned that, despite some schedule issues, they enjoyed snorkeling and exploring the island. Others found the buffet lacking, and some felt the time at each stop was too short, especially for exploring independently.
A few guests experienced problems with pickup arrangements—notably one who was sent to the wrong point and faced additional charges, as they felt misled. These are important considerations; being clear on meeting points and understanding the fee structure helps avoid surprises.
On the positive side, many guests enjoyed delicious food, great music, and the lively atmosphere. Several reviews also praised the scenic views and snorkeling as highlights of the day, making the trip worthwhile for water lovers.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This catamaran tour is well-suited for travelers looking to blend sailing, snorkeling, and socializing in a single day. If you enjoy a party atmosphere, music on the water, and a laid-back vibe, you’ll likely have a lot of fun. It’s also a good choice if you want a full-day experience with all the essentials—transport, food, drinks, and entertainment—bundled into one package.
While not ideal for those seeking a deep dive into local culture or extended exploration, it excels as a relaxing yet lively Caribbean outing. The inclusion of private beach access and a buffet lunch makes it convenient and straightforward, especially for groups or friends celebrating something special.
The experience offers good value, especially for those who want to enjoy a memorable day on the water without fussing over individual bookings or multiple venues. Just be aware of the schedule limitations and potential logistical hiccups, and you’ll be set for a fun and relaxing Caribbean adventure.
Catamaran Cancun to Isla mujeres Lunch OpenBar and Snorkeling
“The crew is extremely friendly and accommodating. Though there is not much time for snorkeling, there was enough time to do a little exploring at e…”
FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in the Cancun Hotel Zone, making the start of your day more convenient.
How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, snorkeling, beach time, and sailing back.
What’s the price?
It costs about $38 per person, which includes most amenities like transportation, food, drinks, and snorkeling gear. There’s an additional $40 fee for taxes and entrance fees.
Can I upgrade the bar?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a Premium Open Bar, but it costs extra.
What about snorkeling?
Snorkeling is included with use of snorkeling equipment and a certified guide. The reviews suggest it’s enjoyable, but time is somewhat limited.
Is the beach stop free time?
Yes, you get about 90 minutes to explore Playa Norte, shop, or relax on the beach.
What are the reviews like?
Most guests rate it around 4 stars, praising the crew, scenery, and food, but some mention schedule issues or limited snorkeling time.
Is the experience family-friendly?
It’s generally suitable for older children who like swimming and snorkeling, but be mindful of the activity level and schedule.
To sum it up, if you’re after a lively, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities to relax and socialize, this catamaran trip is worth considering. It combines the joys of sailing, snorkeling, and beach lounging into one package that’s pretty hard to beat for the price. Just go in with realistic expectations about timing and schedule, and you’re likely to have a memorable Caribbean adventure.
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