Deluxe Catamaran to Isla Mujeres with Open Bar from Cancun

Exploring the Deluxe Catamaran to Isla Mujeres with Open Bar from Cancun: An Honest Review

Travelers seeking a relaxing day on the water with a mix of beautiful scenery, good food, and drinks will find this Deluxe Catamaran to Isla Mujeres a solid choice. This tour offers a chance to escape Cancun’s buzz and enjoy a laid-back Caribbean vibe, all from the comfort of an elegant boat.

From the moments we read the reviews, three things stand out about this experience: the breathtaking views, value for money, and the delicious buffet served at the beach club. However, a couple of potential hiccups—like the extra fees and logistical surprises—are worth noting before booking. This tour seems best suited for those who love a mix of sightseeing, lounging, and socializing in a friendly, vibrant environment.

Good To Know

• Comfortable catamaran cruise with open bar and snorkel gear included
• Seamless transportation option makes the trip stress-free
• Varied itinerary including free time on Isla Mujeres and a sunset return to Cancun
• Extra fees like dock tax and reef conservation fee, which add to the cost
• Authentic experience with friendly crew and lively onboard entertainment
• Great for groups or solo travelers looking for a fun, all-in-one day trip

A Journey on the Water: What’s Included and How You’ll Experience It

This tour begins with the option of pickup and transportation, making it easier for travelers who prefer not to worry about logistics. If you choose the with transportation package, you’ll be chauffeured in an air-conditioned vehicle from Cancun directly to the marina—no fuss, no stress. Without transport, you’ll need to arrive at the marina by 9:30 or 11:30 a.m., depending on your booked time, so punctuality is important.

Once onboard, the 7-hour 30-minute cruise kicks off with a smooth departure from Cancun’s shores. The catamaran itself is described as elegant and comfortable, with plenty of space to relax, chat, and take in the stunning sea views. The crew, known for their attentiveness and friendliness, keep the mood lively with entertainment and friendly banter, according to reviewers who praise the “incredible crew” and “music drifting through the air”.

Snorkeling and Marine Exploration

A highlight for many is the snorkel gear provided at no extra charge. The tour claims to offer a chance to explore vibrant underwater life, which is likely a memorable part of the day. Reviewers note the availability of snorkel equipment and the possibility of spinnaker flying when weather permits—an exciting opportunity for those seeking a little adrenaline while sailing.

The Buffet and Open Bar

One of the tour’s big selling points is the buffet at the beach club paired with an open national bar. Guests have reported enjoying plentiful drinks and tasty snacks, perfect for sipping while soaking up the sun. The buffet is often described as satisfying, making it a good value given the cost of the tour.

Isla Mujeres and Free Time

The main stop is Isla Mujeres, where travelers get some free time to explore the island. This is a chance for shopping, relaxing on the beach, or just taking in the local vibe. Several reviews mention the beautiful views and the chance to see a different side of Cancun’s surroundings. The duration at Isla Mujeres is sufficient for a quick stroll and some photos before returning to the boat for the sunset cruise back to Cancun.

Sunset Return and Final Toast

As the day winds down, the cruise returns to Cancun with a 30-minute farewell, often accompanied by music, drinks, and a warm glow from the setting sun. Guests have noted the golden hues and the relaxed atmosphere as a wonderful way to end the trip.

The Realities: Pros and Cons

Pros

• The stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere make this a highlight for visitors wanting a taste of the Caribbean.
• The open bar and buffet add great value, especially considering the 7.5-hour duration.
• The seamless transportation option makes logistics easier, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Cancun.
• The friendly crew and lively onboard entertainment help create a fun, social environment.

Cons

• There’s an additional dock fee of 850 MXN (~$45 USD), which isn’t included in the initial price. Reviewers recommend being prepared for this extra cost.
• Some guests experienced lateness or miscommunication about fees, so it’s worth confirming details ahead of time.
• The group size is limited to 35 travelers, but the experience can still feel crowded during peak times.
• For those who prefer a more private, exclusive experience, this lively group cruise might feel a bit busy.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point & Departure

Depending on your booking, you’ll either be picked up in Cancun or need to meet at the marina early in the morning. The departure time is generally around 9:30 or 11:30 a.m., giving enough time to settle in and meet fellow travelers. The boat is described as elegant, with plenty of space for lounging or socializing.

First Stop: Isla Mujeres

Once on board, you’ll cruise across the turquoise waters with unlimited drinks from the open bar. The journey itself offers beautiful views of Cancun’s coast and the open sea, perfect for photos or just gazing at the horizon.

On Isla Mujeres, the crew provides free time to explore, shop, or relax on the beach. Reviewers highlight the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to see a different side of Cancun, away from the busy hotel zones.

Snorkeling & Marine Fun

During the trip, snorkel gear is available for underwater exploration—most find it easy to float around and spot colorful fish and coral. When the weather cooperates, the spinnaker flying (a type of sail for aerial fun) adds an extra thrill for adventurous guests.

Lunch & Drinks

Back on the boat, the buffet lunch at the beach club is typically described as satisfying, with enough variety to please most palates. Drinks from the open bar keep spirits high, and guests often mention the quality and abundance of beverages.

Sunset & Return

As the cruise heads back to Cancun, the sky often turns warm and golden, perfect for relaxing and reflecting on the day. The atmosphere is lively, with music wafting through the boat, and many guests enjoying a farewell toast.

Authentic Experiences from Guest Reviews

Reviewers consistently mentioned how friendly and attentive the crew was, with some describing them as “incredibly attentive” and “hilarious.” The delicious buffet and the endless drinks are praised as excellent value, especially given the lengthy duration.

However, a few noted issues with logistics and fees, such as the additional dock tax. One reviewer pointed out that the $20 initial fee was later increased to $45 just hours before the trip, so travelers should be prepared for extra costs.

Another review mentioned a late driver but appreciated the humor and friendliness that made up for the delay. These insights hint at the importance of punctuality and being aware of extra fees, but they do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking for a lively, social experience. If you enjoy sailing, snorkeling, good food, and drinks in a relaxed setting, you’ll appreciate what’s on offer. It’s particularly suitable for those wanting to combine sightseeing with some fun and downtime.

However, if you’re seeking a quiet or private day or prefer to avoid additional fees and potential logistical surprises, you might want to explore other options or clarify details beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Deluxe Catamaran to Isla Mujeres offers a great balance of scenic beauty, lively atmosphere, and good value for the money. The 7.5-hour duration means you get plenty of time to relax, enjoy the marine environment, and indulge in delicious food and drinks.

The cruise’s highlight is its combination of stunning views, friendly crew, and the chance to explore Isla Mujeres at your own pace. It’s a fun-filled choice for travelers who want a social, all-inclusive experience with memorable moments on the water.

While extra fees and logistical quirks require some upfront planning, these are minor compared to the overall enjoyment of the trip. For a lively, scenic, and well-rounded day out, this cruise is hard to beat.

FAQs

How early should I arrive if I don’t have transportation?
You should arrive at the marina no later than 9:30 or 11:30 a.m., depending on your booked time, to ensure you don’t miss the departure.

Is the open bar included in the price?
Yes, the national open bar is included, offering a variety of drinks throughout the cruise.

What is the extra fee I should be aware of?
There is a dock tax and reef conservation fee of 850 MXN (~$45 USD) per person, payable at the marina. Be prepared for this additional cost.

Can I snorkel at Isla Mujeres?
Snorkel gear is provided as part of the tour, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the boat.

What food is served during the trip?
A buffet at the beach club is included, with satisfying options that guests frequently praise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, especially those comfortable with boat trips and water activities.

What if I want a more private experience?
This tour is designed for groups up to 35, so if you prefer a more exclusive outing, you might consider other options.

This tour combines beautiful scenery, fun social vibes, and good value, making it a memorable way to experience Isla Mujeres from Cancun.