Catamaran Sail to Isla Mujeres with all inclusive from Cancun or Riviera Maya

If you’re considering a day trip from Cancun or the Riviera Maya that mixes adventure, relaxation, and a bit of party vibe, the Catamaran Sail to Isla Mujeres might be just what you’re looking for. This tour promises a mix of snorkeling, sailing, exploring, and all the while keeping the drinks flowing—especially suited for those who want to make the most of their time in the Mexican Caribbean with a lively crew and a good dose of fun.

What really caught our attention about this experience is its all-inclusive nature, offering drinks, food, and entertainment without hidden costs, and the beautiful setting—sailing across the turquoise waters to reach a charming island paradise. On the flip side, a potential concern is the short snorkeling stop and the possibility of variability in the overall experience, depending on weather and group size.

This tour suits travelers who are high-energy, social, and looking to enjoy a full day of activities, whether you’re with friends, a couple, or even a solo traveler eager to meet others. If you appreciate a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to chill in the sun, this adventure could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Lively atmosphere: Music, open bar, and fun guides create a party vibe on the water.
• Multiple activities: Snorkeling, spinnaker flying, island exploration, and sunset views.
• All-inclusive value: Food and drinks are included, making it easy to relax without extra costs.
• Hassle-free pickup: Convenient hotel pickup options for travelers staying outside Cancun.
• Short snorkeling window: The underwater stop is brief, which might disappoint serious snorkelers.
• Group size and variability: Tours can host up to 75 people, so experience can vary from intimate to crowded.

The Experience in Detail

This tour kicks off at Marina Albatros, where you’ll meet your crew and prepare for a day full of activity. If you’re staying in Cancun, check-in begins around 9 to 9:30 am, with the boat departing shortly after. For those in Riviera Maya—Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, or nearby—transportation is included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

The First Stop: Snorkeling at Isla Mujeres

Your day begins with a snorkeling session over the reef near Isla Mujeres, where you’ll see colorful fish and possibly the underwater sculptures of the MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte), depending on weather conditions. The reviews highlight the beauty of the reef and the chance to see marine life, although some mention that the snorkeling time can feel a bit rushed—so keep expectations in check if snorkeling is your priority.

The admission ticket for the reef is included, which is great considering the cost of equipment rental or entry elsewhere. The guides are usually attentive and knowledgeable; many reviews praise the crew for their professionalism and friendliness, with one saying, “Carlos, Moschito, and the captain were on top of their game.”

Exploring Isla Mujeres

After snorkeling, you’ll head to Isla Mujeres, a small island packed with vibrant streets, shops, and colorful buildings. The tour includes a visit to the underwater museum, depending on weather, which is a unique sight—statues made by Mexican artists submerged in the sea, offering both a snorkeling highlight and a photo opportunity.

Once on dry land, you get free time to explore or shop in the town. This part of the trip is appreciated for giving travelers a taste of local life and a chance to pick up souvenirs or just wander through the picturesque streets.

Lunch at the Beach Club

The beach club at Isla Mujeres is reserved exclusively for tour groups, offering a buffet lunch featuring regional Mexican cuisine. Many reviews mention the delicious food, describing it as a highlight of the trip, and it’s a nice chance to recharge after swimming and exploring. The club provides a comfortable spot to relax, soak up the sun, or take in the ocean views.

Sailing, Spinnaker, and Sunset

The sailing experience itself is a major draw. You’ll get to ‘fly’ on the spinnaker sail—a fun and exhilarating activity (weather permitting)—and enjoy the music and open bar onboard. The crew is often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, with some guests mentioning they even offered karaoke, which added a fun, personal touch.

As the day winds down, the tour concludes with a sunset over the Caribbean, a peaceful moment after a full day of adventure. The return trip offers a relaxing cruise back, often accompanied by more drinks and good vibes.

What We Love About This Tour

Value for Money: At $55 per person, this trip offers a lot—snorkeling, sailing, food, drinks, and island exploration. Many reviewers feel it’s a good deal, especially considering the all-inclusive setup.

The Crew and Atmosphere: Many guests rave about the guides and crew, describing them as friendly, attentive, and fun. The party atmosphere, with music and open bars, makes the experience memorable and lively.

Beautiful Scenery and Activities: The views on the sail, the coral reefs, and the colorful streets of Isla Mujeres combine to create a truly enjoyable day.

Potential Downsides to Consider

Short Snorkeling Time: A common critique is that the snorkeling stop is brief—some wish there was more time to enjoy the underwater scenery. If snorkeling is your main goal, this might not be enough.

Weather Dependency: Activities like spinnaker flying are weather-dependent, so if wind conditions aren’t ideal, some parts of the tour might be less exciting.

Group Size & Experience Variability: With up to 75 people on some tours, the experience can feel crowded, especially during busy seasons. Also, some reviews mention inconsistent experiences, especially regarding the boat’s condition and food quality.

Additional Dock Fee: The $20 marina fee isn’t included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a fun-filled, social day with plenty of opportunities to relax, party, and see some sights, this tour fits well. It’s especially good for those who enjoy music, drinks, and a lively crew. Families or travelers seeking a serene, quiet day might find this a bit too energetic or crowded, but for most party-minded travelers, it hits the spot.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance, as the tour is popular and booked approximately 46 days ahead.
• Arrive early for check-in, especially if you’re in Cancun.
• Bring cash for the marina fee and any souvenirs or extras.
• Wear swimwear and sunscreen; the sun in Mexico is intense.
• If snorkeling is important, consider bringing your own equipment or arriving early to maximize your time in the water.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 to 9 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and return.

Is transportation included?
Pickup is offered from Cancun hotels, and for those in Riviera Maya, transportation is part of the package, making logistics straightforward.

What is the cost?
The basic price is $55 per person, with an optional upgrade to a larger, more intimate boat for additional comfort.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there is an open bar with alcoholic beverages available throughout the trip.

What about food?
A Mexican buffet lunch is included at the beach club, with regional dishes that many guests find tasty and satisfying.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Catamaran Sail to Isla Mujeres offers a lively, all-in-one package for those wanting a day of fun, sun, and socializing. It combines the thrill of sailing with snorkeling, exploring a charming island, and enjoying a festive atmosphere onboard. While the snorkeling might be brief for some, the overall experience is often praised for its value, energy, and friendly crew.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, entertaining day trip that blends relaxation with adventure, and don’t mind a lively crowd, this tour could be just what you need. Just keep in mind the potential for variability and ensure it matches your expectations for a day on the water.

Happy sailing and exploring!