Isla Mujeres luxury catamaran with premium open bar and lunch

If you’re considering a day trip from Cancun that mixes relaxation, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury, this Isla Mujeres catamaran tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t been on this exact trip myself, I’ve gone through lots of reviews and details to give you a straightforward picture of what to expect.

What immediately stands out are the nice touches like the premium open bar and a tasty buffet lunch—these add a layer of comfort that a lot of budget tours can’t match. Plus, the access to a private beach club offers a peaceful break from the crowded main beaches, which many travelers appreciate. That said, there are some downsides worth keeping in mind, such as the sometimes short snorkeling stops and the potential for larger group sizes to affect intimacy.

This tour seems well-suited for travelers who value a mix of relaxing scenery, good drinks, and a well-organized day. If you’re after a smooth, enjoyable experience that prioritizes comfort and convenience, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable, small-group size enhances personalization and a relaxed vibe
• Luxury touches like premium open bar and buffet lunch elevate the day
• Access to a private beach club offers a quieter spot for rest or swimming
• Well-organized logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off save hassle
• Snorkeling opportunities are included, but some reviews mention short or crowded underwater visits
• Price point around $118 per person balances affordability with quality amenities

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What the Tour Includes

Starting with the basics, this 7-hour experience in Cancun offers a mix of sailing, snorkeling, island exploration, and relaxing. The key features include round-trip transportation from your hotel or a meeting point (if you choose the pickup option), a premium open bar, lunch at a VIP beach club, and snorkeling gear.

The cost is approximately $118.15 per person, which for a nearly full day of activities, drinks, and food, seems fair—especially considering the small-group size of up to 30 travelers. This format means fewer crowds and more personal attention from guides and crew.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Isla Mujeres Stop (Downtown Exploration)

The trip kicks off with some free time in Isla Mujeres’s downtown area—roughly an hour. This part is perfect if you want to stroll the streets, browse souvenirs, or dip into the ocean for a quick swim. The reviews suggest that this downtime is appreciated, giving travelers a chance to stretch their legs and soak in the local vibe.

Some travelers, like Andrea, have enjoyed this part, saying, “Everything outlined in the description was as expected,” and praising the professionalism of the crew.

2. Sailing and Snorkeling

The sailing itself is a highlight, with sweeping views as you glide over the water. Many reviews rave about the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness, with comments like, “The crew keeps the boat really clean and well maintained,” and “They have a huge selection of drinks and ensure you’re never without one!”

Snorkeling is included, but it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the snorkeling being short and crowded. For example, Jennifer was disappointed, describing the experience as not worth the money, primarily because the snorkeling was brief and not very scenic. The fact that children 8+ can snorkel is a plus if you’re traveling with family.

3. Private Beach Club Experience

The tour includes access to either Zama or IXI Beach Club, which is a definite plus for those seeking a quieter spot to relax. The beach club is described as “very nice” with “great food,” according to reviewers like Marykay. This part of the trip is ideal for lounging, swimming, or enjoying the buffet lunch in a more exclusive setting.

The Food and Drinks

The buffet lunch at the beach club receives mixed reviews. Many find it tasty and filling, with Andrea mentioning that it met expectations. However, others, like Griselda, felt the “beach club buffet was not premium,” which is a bit misleading given the tour description.

The open bar is a highlight, with most noting the large selection and attentive service. Karen even calls it “first class,” with staff making sure no one is ever without a drink. Keep in mind that the reef tax ($20 USD per person) isn’t included in the price and must be paid at check-in.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the tour is advertised as small-group, some reviews mention larger groups (up to 25 people), which can feel a bit crowded, especially during snorkeling or lunch. One reviewer, Chris, felt the boat was too crowded and the experience less personal.

However, others, like Toby, found the size of the catamaran comfortable, adding to the relaxed vibe. It seems that your experience may depend a bit on the day and the exact boat you end up on.

Logistics and Convenience

The hotel pickup and drop-off are optional but highly recommended, saving you the hassle of finding the marina. The check-in process is straightforward, with most travelers advised to arrive 30 minutes early. Some reviewers mention slight issues, like late pickups or confusion at the pier, which can happen, so it’s good to be prepared.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is most suited for travelers who want a balanced day of sailing, relaxation, and island fun. It’s a good pick if you appreciate good drinks, decent food, and a well-organized schedule, but don’t expect a fully immersive snorkeling adventure.

Families with children over 8 might enjoy it, especially with the snorkeling gear provided, but be conscious of the group size and some reviews mentioning crowds. If you’re looking for a luxurious, quiet escape with premium everything, this might not be the perfect fit—but if you want convenience, a friendly crew, and a beautiful setting, it hits the mark.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: About 7 hours total, including some free time on Isla Mujeres.
• Price: $118.15 per person, with optional hotel transfers.
• Snorkeling: Permitted for kids 8+, but some reviews say the underwater experience can be quick or crowded.
• Food & Drinks: Buffet lunch and premium open bar; reef tax ($20 USD) paid separately.
• Group Size: Max 30 travelers, but some reviews say larger than ideal.
• Weather: Tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• Child-friendly: Yes, for children 8 and above who can snorkel.
• Extras: Souvenir photos available for purchase.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
You can choose to add hotel pickup and drop-off from most Cancun hotels, which simplifies logistics. Without it, you’ll need to meet at the designated location.

How long is the snorkeling?
The snorkeling stops are generally short, around 15 minutes, and some reviews say they’re crowded. It’s best to set expectations that it’s more about the experience than a full underwater adventure.

What’s the food like?
Lunch is served at a private VIP beach club and is generally described as good, but some travelers felt it wasn’t “premium” as advertised. It’s a buffet, so expect casual, filling fare.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, the premium open bar means unlimited drinks during the trip, with a wide selection of alcohol and non-alcoholic options.

Can kids enjoy this trip?
Yes, snorkeling is allowed for children 8 and above, and the relaxed boat vibe can be enjoyable for families with older kids.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-sensitive. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How crowded does it get?
While the tour caps at 30 travelers, some reviews mention feeling that larger groups affected the intimacy. The size of the boat and the number of people may influence your experience.

Is the tour worth the cost?
Considering the amenities—luxury boat, open bar, lunch, and a private beach—many find it good value, especially if you enjoy relaxed, guided experiences on the water.

Final Thoughts

This Isla Mujeres luxury catamaran tour offers a well-rounded day of sailing, snorkeling, and island relaxation. The inclusion of premium drinks, lunch, and access to a private beach makes it stand out for those wanting comfort along with adventure. The small-group setup fosters a more personal vibe, though some travelers note that the crowd size can vary.

The experience is especially suitable for travelers who prioritize ease and convenience—hotel pickup, organized itinerary, and quality amenities—over long or intense snorkeling. Be prepared for some variability in snorkeling quality and keep your expectations realistic regarding the amount of time spent underwater.

If you’re after a comfortable, fun, and scenic escape from Cancun, this tour might be just the ticket. It’s a good choice for couples, friends, or even families with older kids who want a lively yet relaxing day on the water.

Remember: Always check the weather forecast, confirm your pickup details in advance, and be ready for a day that emphasizes comfort and good company. Happy sailing!