Cancún: Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres with Open Bar & Lunch

Planning a day on the water in Cancun? A catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery that many travelers find irresistible. This particular tour from Cancun combines snorkeling, beachside lounging, and exploring a charming island—all wrapped up in a full-day experience.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to enjoy a lively boat ride with music and drinks, the chance to snorkel at El Meco Reef with colorful marine life, and the comfort of an exclusive beach club for lunch and relaxation. Plus, the scenic sail back with drinks and music makes for a perfect end to the day.

A quick heads-up, however, is that the tour can feel crowded, especially at the beach club and snorkeling spots, which might detract if you’re after a more intimate experience. But overall, it’s a well-rounded day that suits families, groups of friends, or couples eager to see Isla Mujeres without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you’re looking for a lively, all-in-one day trip that offers both adventure and downtime, this tour is a good pick. Just keep in mind that the overall experience might be less relaxed if you prefer smaller, quieter groups or exclusive spots.

Good To Know

• Balanced mix of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and sightseeing
• Inclusive amenities like open bar, buffet lunch, and snorkeling gear
• Crowded spots at times, especially the beach club and reef
• Good value considering the full-day, all-inclusive setup
• Ideal for those wanting a lively, social day out
• Older travelers might find snorkeling unsuitable, but still enjoy the ride

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This 7-hour adventure begins at Marina Sailaway, a convenient starting point in Cancún’s hotel zone. From there, you’ll hop aboard a spacious catamaran, which is designed to ferry you comfortably across the Caribbean waves. Expect lively music, a friendly crew, and plenty of space to relax or mingle as you cruise toward Isla Mujeres.

The Catamaran Ride

The journey itself, lasting about an hour, is part of the fun. The boat is equipped for comfort, and many reviews mention how smooth the ride is, with some pointing out that the crew refills drinks often, creating a fun, party-like atmosphere. This is a chance to enjoy the ocean breeze, soak in the sun, and get excited for what’s ahead.

Snorkeling at El Meco Reef

The highlight for many is the snorkeling at El Meco Reef, a stunning underwater site featuring vibrant coral, tropical fish, and even underwater statues that are part of the renowned Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Expect to spend around an hour exploring these waters, with provided snorkeling gear making it straightforward for most people.

One reviewer noted, “The reef was beautiful, and the crew was helpful in guiding us through the underwater statues,” which hints at a well-organized snorkeling experience. However, it’s important to remember that snorkeling isn’t available for guests over 60, so older travelers or those with mobility concerns should consider this.

Free Time in Isla Mujeres

After snorkeling, you’ll have about an hour and a half to explore the island’s streets, shops, or beaches. Many find this enough time to visit iconic spots like Playa Norte or the charming town square. It’s a chance to browse local crafts, grab a quick souvenir, or just relax on the sand before heading to the beach club.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch at Amazona Beach Club

The tour’s exclusive beach club provides a lovely setting for a buffet lunch. Guests typically enjoy a variety of dishes, and the setting offers lounge chairs, shaded areas, and direct access to the beach—perfect for unwinding after a busy morning. One reviewer called the buffet “delicious,” adding that it was a highlight of the day.

Free Time at the Beach Club

Following lunch, you’ll have about an hour to further relax, swim, or soak up the sun. The club’s facilities are designed to give you a taste of tropical paradise with comfortable amenities, although some guests have found the area to be crowded, especially during peak times.

Scenic Return to Cancún

The day concludes with a scenic sail back to Marina Sailaway, lasting about 1.5 hours. This part of the trip is often described as the most enjoyable, with drinks in hand, music playing, and views of the Caribbean sunset—ideal for photos and unwinding.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Marina Sailaway
Located in the Cancun Hotel Zone, it’s a straightforward meeting point. Arrive at least 45 minutes early to check in and get ready for the day.

Catamaran Ride (1 hour)
The boat is spacious and comfortable, with lively music setting the tone. Many reviews praise the crew’s service, especially with drinks flowing frequently, creating a festive, fun atmosphere.

Snorkeling at El Meco Reef (1 hour)
This spot is celebrated for its vibrant coral and marine life. The underwater statues from MUSA add a unique touch. The reef is accessible with provided snorkeling gear, though physical effort is required.

Free Time in Isla Mujeres (1.5 hours)
Ideal for exploring the colorful streets, shopping, or simply relaxing on the beach. The time might feel a bit short if you want to see everything, but it’s enough for a quick browse or a coffee.

Lunch at Amazona Beach Club (1 hour)
The buffet is described as tasty, with some reviewers mentioning the quality exceeded their expectations. The club’s amenities make it a comfortable spot to unwind.

Additional Free Time at Beach Club (1 hour)
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply chilling in this tropical setting. Again, it can get crowded, so early arrivals may secure better loungers.

Return Sail (1.5 hours)
The ride back offers relaxation, drinks, and views of the sunset, making it a fitting end to a lively day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Catamaran transportation with lively atmosphere
• Snorkeling equipment and access to El Meco Reef
• Free time in Isla Mujeres
• Beach club access with buffet lunch
• Drinks on board, creating a party vibe

Not Included:

• Reef and Conservation Fee ($45 USD per person, mandatory at check-in)—a standard fee most tours include, but it’s good to budget ahead
• Golf cart rentals, if you wish to explore the island more extensively
• Photos, so consider bringing your own or capturing moments with your phone

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early: The meeting point is in the Hotel Zone, and check-in starts at least 45 minutes before departure.
• Bring essentials: Swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for optional extras or tips.
• Snorkeling restrictions: If you’re over 60 or not comfortable in the water, you’ll still enjoy the boat ride, drinks, and exploring Isla Mujeres, just skipping the snorkeling.
• Group size: The boat can feel crowded, especially at the beach club and reef, so manage expectations if you prefer quiet, intimate tours.
• Cost considerations: The $45 USD reef fee is mandatory; budget this in advance.

Authentic Traveler Insights

The reviews give a balanced view: some found the experience enjoyable, especially the crew’s friendliness and the scenic boat ride. One reviewer appreciated how often drinks were refilled, describing the boat as “nice and smooth.”

However, others expressed disappointment with overcrowding and quality issues at the beach club and buffet, describing the lounge chairs as “dirty” and the food as “not good quality.” They also pointed out the reef snorkeling was average and felt rushed. These insights highlight the importance of setting realistic expectations, especially regarding crowd levels and service.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who thrive in a lively, social environment, enjoy meeting new people, and want a full-day experience without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal if you love snorkeling and don’t mind moderate crowds. Families with older children or teens, who can snorkel and handle a somewhat active day, will find it suitable.

If you’re seeking a quiet, secluded escape or a personalized experience, this might not be the best fit. The busy beach club and crowded spots could diminish the sense of exclusivity. However, for those simply wanting a fun, scenic day out with good food and drinks, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling included in the price?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and you’ll visit El Meco Reef where you can snorkel among colorful marine life and underwater statues.

How long is the free time in Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore the island, shop, or relax on the beaches before heading to the beach club.

What is the mandatory reef fee?
You’ll need to pay a $45 USD reef and conservation fee per person at check-in, which is common for reef trips in this area.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. Even if you skip snorkeling, you can enjoy the boat ride, the island’s sights, and the beach club facilities.

Is the tour suitable for older travelers?
Snorkeling isn’t permitted for guests over 60, but they can still enjoy the boat ride, drinks, and island exploring, making it suitable for many older travelers.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash. Arrive early at Marina Sailaway for check-in.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran tour from Cancun to Isla Mujeres offers a lively, full-day experience packed with fun, scenic views, and good food. It’s particularly appealing for travelers wanting a social atmosphere, snorkeling adventure, and a chance to relax at a tropical beach club. The combination of a party vibe on the boat, the underwater sights, and the charm of Isla Mujeres makes it a memorable option.

While it may be crowded at times and the quality of some amenities can vary, the overall value lies in the inclusive nature of the tour—offering transportation, snorkeling, lunch, drinks, and sightseeing—all in one package. It’s best suited for those who enjoy energetic group experiences and are okay with a bustling environment.

If you prefer peace and quiet, or a more tailored, exclusive trip, consider other options. But if you want to enjoy a lively day with friends, family, or partners—this tour has plenty to offer.

You can check if your dates are available here: