Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour with Snorkeling from Cancun

If you’re considering a full-day adventure to some of the most beautiful Caribbean spots near Cancun, this Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres tour might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice, rated 4.0 out of 5 by many travelers, offering a mix of protected natural beauty, wildlife, snorkeling, and time to explore colorful local markets.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with the chance to see wildlife in a natural reserve — no crowded beaches here. Plus, the included meals and drinks add a nice touch, making it feel like a well-rounded day trip.

That said, there’s a downside worth mentioning: the trip can be pretty long, with early starts and extended boat rides, which might not suit everyone. And some reviews point out that the experience can vary depending on weather conditions or the day’s logistics.

This tour is ideal for those wanting to combine nature, snorkeling, and local culture into one day — especially if you enjoy guided trips, good food, and a laid-back vibe. If you’re after a quick visit or prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s worth weighing these factors beforehand.

Key Points

• Stunning natural reserves: Isla Contoy is a protected bird sanctuary and national park, perfect for wildlife lovers.
• Snorkeling highlight: Explore a thriving coral reef with bright fish, sea stars, and turtles, assuming weather conditions are favorable.
• Includes meals and drinks: Enjoy a Caribbean BBQ and buffet lunch, plus water, soft drinks, and beers.
• Long day but well-organized: Expect an early start, about 8.5 hours total, with transportation included from Cancun.
• Guided and free time: Balances educational guided visits with some leisure time on the islands.
• Variable experiences: Weather, boat comfort, and timing can influence how smooth your day will be.

Getting right into the nitty-gritty, this tour starts with a hotel pickup in Cancun or Playa del Carmen, making it convenient if you’re staying in either location. You’ll arrive at the marina in the morning, where a continental breakfast awaits you — a simple start with juices, coffee, fruit, and sweet rolls. It’s nothing fancy, but enough to stave off hunger before the day’s adventures.

Once aboard the high-speed catamaran, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride up the coast of Cancun. This part is a real highlight — a chance to snap photos of the shimmering shoreline and get a feel for the Caribbean waters. The boat’s speed and open deck provide good views, especially from the upstairs area.

Stop 1: Isla Contoy National Park and the Coral Reef

The first stop is at the Ixlache Reef, part of the famous Mesoamerican Reef system. The reef, with its vibrant coral formations, makes for a solid snorkeling spot if the conditions are calm. You’ll be equipped with snorkeling gear, including a new snorkel tube, and guided to explore the underwater scene. Expect to see colorful tropical fish, sea stars, and maybe even turtles — if the weather cooperates.

Several reviews mention mixed experiences with snorkeling, noting that windy days can affect visibility. One reviewer, Olga, said, “The snorkeling unfortunately wasn’t productive at all,” due to water conditions. But others, like Kyle, raved about the guides and the overall vibe, calling the experience “fantastic” and praising the helpful staff.

After snorkeling, you’ll get some free time on Isla Contoy itself. This tiny island is often called the most important bird sanctuary on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, with a population of migratory birds. It’s a peaceful spot with powdery beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxed walk or just soaking up the scenery.

Lunch on Contoy

Next, it’s time for lunch — a highlight for many. The buffet features Caribbean BBQ with fresh fish prepared in traditional Mayan style, marinated with secret spices and cooked over charcoal. Reviewers have mentioned the food as “great,” with some calling it the best fish lunch during their stay. The outdoor setting, combined with drinks from the open bar, makes for a laid-back, enjoyable meal.

Final Stop: Isla Mujeres

After lunch, the tour heads to Isla Mujeres, a lively island famous for its colorful markets, shops, and relaxed atmosphere. You’ll get about an hour here to explore, shop, and enjoy the sights. Many travelers appreciate this segment, especially the shopping and the chance to pick up local crafts.

On returning to the boat, you’ll be served a fun cocktail, and the crew puts on a lively show with music and dancing — a nice way to unwind after a day on the water.

Return and Reflection

The trip back to Cancun or Playa del Carmen takes around an hour, giving you some time to relax on the boat and reflect on the day. The overall duration, approximately 8.5 hours, makes it a full but rewarding experience.

Transportation & Timing: Pickup from your hotel is included, starting early around 8:30 AM. The long boat rides, both to and from the islands, are a key part of the experience — you’ll spend roughly one to two hours each way. This is good for those who enjoy scenic water travel but might feel tiring for others.

Group Size & Atmosphere: The tour accommodates up to 160 travelers, so expect a lively, bustling environment. The crew is generally praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, with some reviews highlighting guides like Moiseus, Alex, or Diego for their professionalism.

Cost & Value: At $163 per person, this tour offers a lot — transportation, meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided visits. Some reviews suggest that, considering everything, it’s good value, especially because of the included meals and the chance to see protected wildlife. But others point out that the experience can be inconsistent, especially regarding snorkeling and the facilities on the islands.

What’s Included & What’s Extra: The tour provides breakfast, drinks, snorkel equipment, and guided visits. However, there are additional fees: a $20 USD park fee at Isla Contoy, a $20 fee for the island’s maintenance, and optional transportation from Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya at extra cost. These fees are standard but worth noting, as they add to the total expense.

Weather & Conditions: As with any outdoor water activity, weather plays a big role. Rain, wind, or rough seas can impact snorkeling and the overall experience, as some reviews mention. It’s wise to check the forecast and be prepared for a day in the sun.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery. Kyle, for example, said, “The guides were super helpful, knowledgeable and kept the drinks flowing,” emphasizing the friendly staff that made the day fun. Olga appreciated the “beautiful trip” but was disappointed that snorkeling wasn’t productive due to weather.

Some travelers highlight the long day and the logistics. Kelsey noted, “It is a very long day. We left at 7:50 AM and returned at 7:45 PM,” which is something to consider if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Others, like Laura, shared frustrations about discrepancies, like late notifications and limited time at Isla Mujeres — “we didn’t get a chance to stay there very long.”

A couple of reviews mention the boats themselves. While the boat is described as “decent,” some felt it wasn’t quite as nice as the promotional images suggest, describing it as “big, ugly, and uncomfortable.” Still, the upstairs deck was a favorite spot for a good view and a lively vibe.

If you’re someone who loves wildlife, snorkeling, and scenic boat rides, this trip hits many marks. It’s perfect if you want to explore protected areas — Isla Contoy is a true sanctuary — and enjoy good food and drinks in a lively setting. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate guided tours with informative commentary.

However, if you’re sensitive to long travel times, rough water, or crowds, this might not be your ideal choice. The itinerary can be busy, and weather can impact your snorkeling experience. Also, if you’re highly particular about facilities or seeking a more secluded experience, you might find some aspects underwhelming.

This Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres tour offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, wildlife, snorkeling, and cultural exploration, all wrapped up in a full-day package. The guides and staff generally receive praise for their helpful and friendly attitude, making the experience enjoyable despite some logistical hiccups.

The included meals and drinks add value, especially if you enjoy a Caribbean BBQ and a lively atmosphere on the boat. The protected status of Isla Contoy means you’ll encounter pristine beaches and abundant birdlife, making it a hit with nature lovers. The visit to Isla Mujeres provides a lively shopping and sightseeing opportunity, rounding out a well-balanced day.

But keep in mind the long travel hours, variable weather conditions, and some inconsistencies in snorkeling quality and facilities. This tour appeals most to travelers who want a full, guided day with plenty of scenic and wildlife encounters, and who don’t mind the hustle of a bustling boat ride.

If you’re after a scenic, fun-filled day that combines the best of nature, culture, and cuisine, this trip is worth considering — just prepare for a full day and possible weather surprises.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cancun, Costa Mujeres, and Puerto Morelos is included. If you’re in Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya, there are additional fees payable at the dock.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The boat rides each way are approximately one to two hours. The journey is scenic, but it’s a considerable part of the day.

What do I need to bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunblock, and sunglasses. The tour provides snorkel gear and life vests. It’s also wise to carry some cash for additional fees or souvenirs.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult to participate in snorkeling activities, and a disclaimer must be signed. The tour is mostly suitable for those comfortable in water and on boats.

Is snorkeling good here?
Snorkeling can be quite enjoyable, with bright coral reefs and tropical fish—weather permitting. Some reviews suggest the water can be rough or murky, so check the forecast and be a confident swimmer.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
Yes, there’s a $20 USD fee at the dock for the park and island maintenance, payable in cash. Additional transportation fees apply if not booked through the included options.

What is the best time of year to do this?
Most travelers seem to go in the dry season, when weather conditions are more predictable. Weather can affect snorkeling and boat comfort, so planning for good weather is sensible.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Caribbean’s natural beauty, with enough variety to keep most travelers happy. Whether you’re keen on birdwatching, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun on quiet beaches, it’s a trip worth considering — just go in with realistic expectations and an adventurous spirit.