Catamaran to Isla Mujeres with Buffet and Open Bar from Cancun

If you’re heading to Cancun and looking for a day that combines relaxation, fun, and a bit of adventure, a catamaran to Isla Mujeres might just be your best bet. From what I’ve gathered, this tour, offered by Joy Travel Rewards, is packed with lively vibes—think open bar, games, snorkeling, and a lovely island stop. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy the Caribbean waters with friends or family, soak up the sun, and indulge in good food and drinks along the way.

What really catches our eye are the all-inclusive aspects: unlimited drinks on board and a buffet lunch at a beach club—definitely a plus if you’re tired of constantly reaching for your wallet. Plus, the boat crew seems friendly and energetic, which can really make or break a day on the water. One thing to keep in mind, though, is the extra dock tax of $20 per person, which is standard for most tours but good to budget for in advance.

This tour suits travelers who love a party atmosphere combined with scenic views and some snorkeling. It’s particularly great for groups wanting a lively day out, but if you’re expecting a more relaxed, quiet experience, you might want to look elsewhere. Overall, it seems like a solid choice for anyone wanting to make the most of their time in Cancun with a mix of fun, food, and island exploration.

Key Points

• Vibrant, social atmosphere with games, contests, and lively music onboard
• All-inclusive with unlimited drinks and a buffet lunch at a beach club
• Includes snorkeling equipment, though not suitable for non-swimmers or very young children
• Duration of about 7 hours, offering a full day of fun and sightseeing
• Additional dock tax of $20 per person isn’t included in the base price
• Highly rated reviews highlight friendly staff and a well-managed experience

A Closer Look at the Catamaran to Isla Mujeres Experience

When considering this tour, it’s helpful to understand what makes it tick. The journey starts at Marina Las Perlas in Cancun, where a lively catamaran awaits. It’s a short trip across calm Caribbean waters, but what sets it apart is the party vibe—music, games, and a crew that’s dedicated to making sure everyone has a good time.

The overview of the experience is quite full: you get to snorkel at a coral reef, enjoy free time on the island, and relax at a beach club with a tasty buffet. It’s an all-in-one package that balances activity with downtime, giving you flexibility to explore or just soak up the sun.

Snorkeling and Marine Fun

The snorkeling component is a highlight for many. The equipment is included, which means you can gaze at the underwater scenes without extra hassle. It’s worth noting, though, that snorkeling might not be available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or seniors over 60. This is a practical point—if you’re traveling with little ones or less confident swimmers, plan accordingly.

Some travelers, like one reviewer, just wish they could snorkel longer or that the lunch could be more satisfying. But overall, the underwater vistas and the friendly guides tend to leave a positive impression. The focus here is on fun and socializing, so don’t expect a silent, serene snorkeling experience.

The Island Stop

Once on Isla Mujeres, you’re free to explore at your own pace. The tour includes free time without a guide, so it’s your chance to stroll the colorful streets, visit local shops, or relax on the beach. Many reviews mention that the guides are friendly and energetic, making sure everyone feels included and comfortable onboard.

The beach club offers a buffet, which seems to hit the right note for most. One traveler mentioned the food was okay but was happy to indulge in the drinks and the atmosphere. It’s a relaxed setting where you can refuel and chat with fellow travelers.

The Party on the Water

What makes this tour stand out is the party atmosphere. Expect music, fun contests, and games that keep the energy high. The open bar is unlimited, so whether you’re into beer, cocktails, or soft drinks, you’ll find your fill. The reviews consistently highlight how friendly and attentive the staff are, making everyone feel welcome and ready to have a good time.

Practicalities and Considerations

The price of $67 per person offers decent value for an all-day excursion that combines sightseeing, eating, drinking, and entertainment. Keep in mind, the dock tax of $20 isn’t included in the ticket, so budget that extra amount. The tour lasts about 7 hours, which is plenty of time to enjoy the island, the boat fun, and the food.

The meeting point is at Marina Las Perlas, easily accessible if you’re staying nearby. If you’re looking for transport to and from your hotel, you’ll need to arrange that separately, as hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included.

The Itinerary in Detail

1. Departure from Cancun

You start at the marina, where the crew and guides are ready to kick off the day. Most travelers appreciate the lively vibe from the start, with music and friendly staff setting the tone.

2. Catamaran Ride

The boat cruise itself is a highlight, especially if you enjoy a party atmosphere. The calm waters make for a smooth ride, and the open bar keeps the energy high. The boat can hold up to 40 travelers, which keeps the group intimate enough to feel lively but not crowded.

3. Snorkeling at the Coral Reef

Once you arrive at the snorkel spot, you’ll have equipment included, and guides usually brief you on the best ways to enjoy the underwater scenery. Expect vibrant coral and fish, though the actual extent of snorkeling time might vary depending on weather and group size.

4. Island Free Time

Landing on Isla Mujeres, you’ll have several hours to explore. This is your chance to relax on the beach, shop, or take photos of the colorful streets. The free time is unaccompanied, so plan accordingly if you want to visit specific spots or restaurants.

5. Beach Club and Buffet Lunch

Back at the beach club, the buffet is included—think local favorites and tropical flavors. It’s a casual meal, and many find it satisfying after a morning of activity. The drinks flow freely, which adds to the festive mood.

6. Return Trip

The return cruise is a chance to unwind, enjoy the music, and reflect on the day. The crew ensures everyone is safe and comfortable, wrapping up a fun-filled adventure.

The Experience Through Travelers’ Eyes

The reviews highlight how much travelers enjoyed the friendly staff and good management of the tour. One reviewer mentioned that the experience was “so fun and well managed,” emphasizing the lively atmosphere and the crew’s efforts to keep everyone engaged. Others appreciated the good vibes on the boat, with music and contests making it more than just a standard tour.

While some found the lunch to be average, most agreed that the overall value for the price was solid, especially considering the inclusions like unlimited drinks and snorkeling gear. The snorkeling was a favorite for many, with one noting the underwater vistas were delightful.

The free time on Isla Mujeres was another highlight. Travelers enjoyed the chance to explore at their own pace, and many appreciated the opportunity to relax and soak in the island’s charm.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour For You?

This catamaran adventure is best suited for travellers looking for a lively, social experience that combines scenic boat rides with island exploration. If you want a day packed with music, games, and unlimited drinks, this tour delivers. It’s a solid choice if you’re traveling with friends or want a fun, party vibe during your Cancun trip.

However, if you’re craving a more tranquil, laid-back experience or are traveling with non-swimmers, you might find this tour a bit too energetic or not perfectly tailored to your preferences. It’s also worth noting that the tour is quite popular, so booking in advance—usually about 11 days ahead—is advisable to secure a spot.

The value, friendly crew, and lively setting make this a memorable way to enjoy the Caribbean waters and the beauty of Isla Mujeres, especially if you’re ready to indulge and have fun.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour begins at Marina Las Perlas, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts around 7 hours, including the boat ride, snorkeling, free time on the island, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
You get access to the beach club, snorkeling equipment, an open bar on board, a buffet lunch, a bilingual guide, and fun games and contests.

Is snorkeling suitable for everyone?
Snorkeling is included, but not available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or seniors over 60.

What’s the extra cost I should be aware of?
There’s a dock fee of $20 per person, which isn’t included in the base price.

Is this experience good for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but younger children or those who prefer quieter trips might not enjoy the party atmosphere as much. The free time and snorkeling can be great for families with older kids.

In short, this tour offers a lively, all-in-one day out that mixes fun, food, and stunning scenery. If you’re after a relaxed day with a high-energy twist, it’s worth considering. Just remember to budget for the dock tax and plan your day around the lively vibe onboard.