Discover Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres with Transfer from Cancun & Riviera Maya

Planning a day trip from Cancun that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and some good old-fashioned fun? This tour to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres offers an appealing mix of snorkeling, island exploration, and relaxed beach time. With a price tag of around $142 per person, it promises a memorable day, especially for those eager to see two of the Yucatán’s most iconic islands in one go.

What makes this experience stand out? First, sailing on a comfortable two-level boat equipped for fun and relaxation. Second, the chance to snorkel at Ixlaché reef, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. And third, the opportunity to explore Isla Contoy, a protected National Marine Reserve, followed by a quick stop at Isla Mujeres for souvenir shopping and sightseeing.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the extra government fee of $20 per person, which is standard for many tours but still adds to the overall cost. This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic boat rides, and exploring small islands, especially if you’re visiting Cancun or Riviera Maya and want a full day of adventure.

Good To Know

• Snorkeling at Ixlaché Reef offers crystalline waters and diverse marine life.
• Isla Contoy, a protected wildlife refuge, boasts pristine beaches and great photo opportunities.
• The Mexican lunch with fish tikin xic and charbroiled chicken adds local flavor.
• Visit Isla Mujeres for a quick taste of island life with shopping and sightseeing.
• The round-trip transportation makes planning easy and stress-free.
• Bilingual guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety tips.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Boat and Transportation

From the moment you’re picked up, the journey sets a comfortable tone. The tour provides round transportation from Cancun or Riviera Maya, which simplifies logistics and means you won’t need to worry about taxis or arranging your own ride. The boat itself is a two-level vessel—designed for stability, comfort, and fun. It’s a sizable craft that accommodates up to 65 travelers, so you’ll likely be in a lively but manageable group.

The onboard amenities include a national open bar, which is a nice touch for relaxing during the sail, and snorkeling equipment is provided, making it easy to jump into the water without hassle. Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who are fluent in both Spanish and English, providing safety tips, local facts, and making sure everyone feels included.

The Snorkeling Experience at Ixlaché Reef

Our first stop is the Ixlaché reef, which gets high marks for its clear, shallow waters and abundant marine life. Visitors typically get about 45 minutes here, enough time for a quick snorkel and some underwater photos. Reviewers mention seeing a variety of fish, and the calm waters make snorkeling accessible even for beginners.

Some travelers note that the snorkeling gear is in good condition and easy to use. The reef’s shallow nature means you can stand or snorkel easily, and the vibrant coral formations add to the visual appeal. The reviews also mention that guides are attentive and helpful, making sure everyone stays safe and comfortable in the water.

Exploring Isla Contoy

After snorkeling, you’ll head to Isla Contoy, a small, uninhabited island famed for its natural beauty and birdlife. The tour includes a guided exploration with a certified guide, which adds a layer of context and insight about the island’s flora, fauna, and ecological importance. You’ll have time to relax on the beach, take photos of the turquoise waters, or enjoy a second snorkel if you want.

The island’s status as a National Wildlife Refuge means it’s preserved in its natural state—no commercial developments or crowded beaches. Visitors frequently comment on the stunning views, the peaceful vibe, and the opportunity to step back from hectic tourist spots. The beach area is perfect for unwinding, and some reviews mention that the guides are genuinely passionate about conservation, adding an educational element.

The Lunch Break

Around 1:30 p.m., it’s time for a Mexican-style lunch. The menu includes fish tikin xic, a Yucatán specialty, and charbroiled chicken, both served with fresh sides. The food is typically well-rated for its flavor and authenticity, giving you a real taste of local cuisine. Many travelers appreciate the generous portions, which fuel you for the rest of the day.

Visiting Isla Mujeres

After lunch, there’s a bit of free time to explore Isla Mujeres—a lively, colorful island known for its laid-back charm. You’ll have about 45 minutes to wander around, browse local shops for souvenirs and handicrafts, or simply soak in the lively island atmosphere. Some review contributors highlight how perfect this quick stop is for grabbing a few mementos or snapping photos before heading back.

The Return Journey

On the way back, the boat will stop briefly at Isla Mujeres for more sightseeing or shopping, with extra free time. The vessel’s relaxed schedule ensures you arrive back in Cancun around 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to unwind after a full day.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Timing is key—this tour lasts about 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day. The start time is 8:00 a.m., and the schedule is flexible enough to allow you to enjoy each segment without feeling rushed.

Comfortable clothing, swimsuits, extra clothes, and towels are recommended. Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the reef, and sunglasses for sun protection. Since snorkeling is involved, those over 60 years old or with recent surgeries might want to check safety considerations, as snorkeling is not suitable for everyone.

The tour is most suitable for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but also want some downtime relaxing on beaches. The group size, capped at 65 travelers, offers a balance between lively social interaction and personalized attention from guides.

The $20 government dock fee is payable on-site, so factor that into your budget. If your hotel is in Playacar or Puerto Aventuras, there might be an extra charge of $15-20 USD for pickup, so double-check with your provider if you’re staying further south.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $142, you’re getting a full-day adventure that includes snorkeling, guided island tours, a delicious lunch, and transportation—all curated by Caribbean Mayan Tours. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, a national bar, and bilingual guides enhances the experience without hidden costs. Plus, visiting two islands in one day is convenient and offers diverse scenery and activities.

The emphasis on natural beauty and conservation adds a meaningful dimension that many travelers appreciate. The relaxed pace, combined with the opportunity to explore local culture briefly in Isla Mujeres, makes this an appealing choice for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who love outdoor activities, especially snorkeling and beach lounging. It’s suitable for those who want to visit iconic islands without the hassle of planning their own transportation or logistics. If you enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

It’s also ideal if you’re staying in Cancun or Riviera Maya and want to see two islands in one day while enjoying local cuisine and scenic boat rides. However, if mobility is an issue or you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Cancun or Riviera Maya, making it easy to plan your day.

How long do we stay at each stop? You’ll spend approximately 45 minutes snorkeling at Ixlaché Reef, about 3 hours on Isla Contoy, and 45 minutes in Isla Mujeres for shopping or sightseeing.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable clothes, swimsuits, extra clothes, towels, biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal items you might need for a full day outside.

Are meals included? Yes, the tour provides a Mexican lunch with fish tikin xic and charbroiled chicken, as well as a continental breakfast and open bar onboard.

Are there any health restrictions? Yes, people over 60 years old or who have recently had surgeries should avoid snorkeling for safety reasons.

Does the tour include snorkeling equipment? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and guides will assist if needed.

What is the extra cost? There is a $20 government dock fee payable on-site, and additional charges may apply if your hotel is outside the main pickup zones.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres offers a balanced experience of natural beauty, aquatic adventure, and cultural charm. It’s a well-rounded option for travelers wanting to explore the Yucatán’s renowned islands without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

The combination of snorkeling, beach relaxation, scenic boat rides, and local cuisine makes it a practical and enjoyable day out. The guides’ knowledge and the pristine settings ensure that you’ll leave with memorable photos and new stories to tell.

If you’re after a fun, active, and scenic day from Cancun, this tour provides excellent value and a chance to see two of the region’s most celebrated islands in one trip.

In summary, this tour is best suited for active travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive experience with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing. It offers a great way to make the most of a day in the Yucatán, especially if you’re eager to explore beyond the usual beaches and resorts.