Tour in the Contoy Island Reserve Plus Visit to Isla Mujeres

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun and considering a day out on the water, the Contoy Island Reserve plus Isla Mujeres tour offers a tempting mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation. We’ve looked into what this experience really involves—what you’ll love, what might give you pause, and whether it’s worth the price.

Two things really stand out about this tour: first, it offers the chance to snorkel in protected reefs filled with colorful marine life, and second, you get to walk on the pristine sands of Contoy, a small, environmentally protected island. On top of that, the visit to Isla Mujeres provides a lively change of scenery with shopping and sightseeing.

However, a notable consideration is the dock tax of $20 USD per person, which is an extra cost not included in the base price. Also, snorkeling is weather-dependent and not available for non-swimmers, which could be disappointing if snorkeling is a key part of your plan. This tour tends to suit those who love nature, are comfortable with a full day’s outing, and want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure without breaking the bank.

If you’re someone who enjoys discovering scenic spots, appreciates well-organized guided tours, and values seeing both marine and island environments, this experience could be a good fit. Keep in mind it involves a good amount of travel time, but if you’re okay with that, it offers a comprehensive taste of the local marine beauty combined with island charm.

Key Points

• Snorkeling in protected reefs offers vibrant marine life and clear water, ideal for aquatic enthusiasts.
• Contoy Island’s limited access ensures fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience.
• Visit to Isla Mujeres provides shopping, sightseeing, and a lively island vibe.
• Includes transportation, guided tours, and a regional buffet, adding value to the overall experience.
• Weather can affect snorkeling, so be flexible.
• Extra costs like dock tax and infant transportation fees are additional but clearly outlined.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Most travelers will be picked up from their Cancun or Riviera Maya accommodations around 7:30 am. The tour includes round-trip transportation, which means you don’t have to worry about organizing your own transfer. The transfer is typically by bus or minivan, and given the tour’s popularity—booked an average of 21 days in advance—you can expect it to be organized smoothly.

Once at the marina, you’ll board a catamaran—either a double-deck or one-floor vessel, depending on the day. The boat’s layout and size can vary, but both options provide a scenic, comfortable ride. The journey offers a chance to relax, soak in the views, and get excited for what’s ahead.

Snorkeling at Ixlache Reef: A Colorful Underwater World

The first big stop is snorkeling at Ixlache Reef, which lasts around 35 minutes. This reef is a part of the protected marine environment, so you’ll encounter vibrant coral formations and a variety of fish. The guides are certified and will assist with gear and safety instructions, making it accessible even if you’re not experienced.

A significant plus, as many reviews note, is the opportunity to see stunning views beneath the water—a highlight for many. However, snorkeling isn’t available for everyone: non-swimmers, children under 8, or those over 60 might find it less suitable, so plan accordingly.

Exploring Contoy Island: Nature and Serenity

After the reef, the boat heads to Contoy, a small island renowned for its natural beauty and limited daily visitors. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour with staff explaining the island’s ecological importance and wildlife, which often includes birdwatching and appreciating untouched landscapes.

You’ll have about four hours on Contoy, which is enough to relax on the white sandy beaches, walk around, or make a second snorkel session onshore if weather permits. The island’s protected status means it’s a quiet, unspoiled place—perfect for unwinding away from crowds.

During this time, a regional buffet meal is served, giving you a chance to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors. Many guests rave about the food, describing it as delicious and filling, providing the energy needed for the rest of the day.

Isla Mujeres: Colorful Sights and Souvenirs

The afternoon takes you to Isla Mujeres, a lively and charming island about an hour away. Here, you’ll have around an hour to walk, explore shops, and buy souvenirs. The island’s streets are dotted with small boutiques and local vendors, making it a perfect quick visit.

While the time is brief, it’s enough to get a sense of island life and grab a quick snack or memento before heading back to Cancun. The return trip is usually smooth, and the tour wraps up with your transfer back to the hotel.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour packs a lot into a 10-hour day. The included features cover transportation, snorkeling equipment (weather permitting), the catamaran ride, a certified guide, unlimited national bar (post-lunch), and the buffet meal. Plus, access to both Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres is part of the package.

However, keep in mind the $20 USD dock tax is extra, payable on-site, and applies to every traveler, including children. If you’re bringing an infant, there’s an $18 USD fee for transportation. These costs are straightforward but important to budget for.

Practical Tips

• Bring your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes—especially if you plan to snorkel or want to change after getting wet.
• The tour starts early, so a good breakfast is advisable.
• Snorkeling is weather-dependent; if conditions aren’t ideal, the guides prioritize safety, and there’s no refund for missed snorkeling.
• Remember, the free time at Isla Contoy is unguided, giving you flexibility to explore or relax as you wish.

The Real Traveler Experience

While this tour is generally considered well-organized, some reviews mention that the snorkeling can be canceled due to weather, which is a bit of a gamble. A few travelers also note that the group size can be up to 40 people, so it’s not intimate, but that’s typical for popular tours like this.

Many appreciate the scenic views and the chance to see marine life up close. Some describe the island as peaceful and beautiful, with white sands and clear waters that are truly picture-worthy. Others mention that the lunch was tasty and filling, giving energy for the day’s adventures.

On the flip side, the limited free time at Isla Mujeres means you won’t get to explore deeply. If you’re craving more time on the island or underwater exploration, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want a well-rounded day of snorkeling, island scenery, and local culture. Families with older children should enjoy it, especially if they’re comfortable with snorkeling and outdoor activities.

It’s also great for travelers looking for an organized, hassle-free day without worrying about transportation logistics or meal planning. If you’re keen to see protected marine environments and get a taste of island life without staying overnight, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable option.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour of Contoy Island and Isla Mujeres delivers a good balance of scenic beauty, marine adventure, and cultural flavor. The stunning views, especially underwater, are a real highlight. The inclusion of transportation, guided tours, and a regional buffet makes it a solid value if you’re keen to get a comprehensive taste of Cancun’s island treasures.

While it’s not perfect—weather dependence and limited free time can be downsides—many travelers find it to be a memorable and worthwhile experience. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine active snorkeling with some laid-back beach time and island exploration.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and well-organized day, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for extra costs, weather variability, and a busy schedule, and you’ll likely come away with some wonderful memories of your Cancun adventure.

FAQ

Is snorkeling guaranteed on this tour?
Snorkeling depends on weather conditions, so if the weather isn’t suitable, the activity might be canceled with no refund.

How long is the free time at Isla Contoy?
You’ll have about four hours on Contoy, which includes guided tours, beach time, and optional snorkeling.

What’s the extra cost I should be aware of?
There’s a $20 USD dock tax per person, payable on-site. Infants also have an $18 USD transportation fee.

Can non-swimmers participate in snorkeling?
No, snorkeling isn’t available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or older travelers over 60.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, and maybe some snacks. The tour provides equipment if weather permits, but personal items like sunscreen are recommended.

How long does the entire tour last?
About 10 hours, starting early to make the most of the day’s activities and returning in the late afternoon.

If you’re after a scenic, active day full of marine life and island scenery, this tour could be just the thing for your Cancun visit. Just keep in mind the weather and extra costs, and you’re set for a memorable experience.