Amazing Catamaran to Isla Mujeres & Ice Bar from Playa del Carmen

Traveling in the Riviera Maya offers countless ways to enjoy Mexico’s stunning coastline, but few experiences combine relaxation, adventure, and a touch of quirky fun quite like this catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres. We’ve reviewed various options and this one, at about $39 per person, promises a full day of cruising, snorkeling, island exploration, and icy thrills — all with a great balance of value and memorable moments.

What we love most about this experience are the smooth, comfortable boat ride with unlimited drinks and the unique visit to the Ice Bar, which makes even a chilly environment feel like a fun adventure. The guided snorkeling is often praised for its vibrant marine life, and the free time on Isla Mujeres offers a genuine taste of local charm. A minor consideration? The docking fee of 800 MXN isn’t included in the base price, so budget for that extra expense.

This tour really suits travelers who enjoy a mix of laid-back leisure and lively activity, especially those who want to explore Isla Mujeres without the hassle of planning transport or activities on their own. If you’re after an all-in-one day that combines scenic cruising, snorkeling, and fun photo ops, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfortable Catamaran: The vessel promises a luxurious cruise with ample space, with open bar options enhancing the relaxation.
• Vibrant Snorkeling: The guided snorkeling experience offers a chance to see tropical marine life up close.
• Island Exploration: You gain free time to wander the charming streets, browse boutiques, or just soak in local vibes.
• Unique Ice Bar: The highlight for many—an ice lounge kept at -18°C with bottomless drinks and truly cool photos.
• Inclusive Amenities: Open bar, snorkeling gear, and buffet lunch at the beach club add great value.
• Group Size & Timing: The tour caps at 30 travelers, providing a relatively intimate experience, and lasts about 8 hours.

The Full Experience: A Practical Breakdown

Starting Point and Timing

The tour departs from Playa del Carmen, with options including pickup services or self-arrival at the marina. If you opt for the “without transportation” choice, you’ll need to arrive by 9:30 or 11:30 a.m., with detailed directions provided. This flexibility is helpful for those staying nearby or planning their day independently.

The day runs approximately 8 hours, which includes all stops, activities, and transportation. You’ll board the catamaran in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy every part of the itinerary.

The Catamaran Cruise

Once aboard, the journey begins across the shimmering waters. The vessel’s style and comfort mean you can lean back, sip unlimited drinks from the open bar, and take in the views of the Caribbean. This smooth sailing often gets high praise for its relaxed vibe, with guides and entertainers keeping the energy lively. For those who enjoy a good cruise, the panoramic vistas and ocean breeze make this part of the tour especially enjoyable.

Snorkeling at Isla Mujeres

After about an hour of sailing, the tour usually includes guided snorkeling. Expect to don snorkel gear and dive into a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful tropical fish and coral. Many travelers, like Natasha, mentioned how their guides made a difference in the experience, making the snorkeling both informative and fun. The marine environment here is often described as lively and full of tropical life, perfect for beginners or those wanting to get their feet wet in the ocean.

Island Exploration

Following snorkeling, you’ll have around six hours on Isla Mujeres. This free time is arguably the most flexible and authentic part of the tour. You can explore the island’s charming streets, browse local boutiques, or relax at a beachside café. The island’s laid-back charm is a refreshing change from busier tourist spots, and many visitors appreciate the chance to wander at their own pace.

Some have rented golf carts—like Natasha, who mentioned she managed to tour the island this way—and found it a great way to see different parts of Isla Mujeres without rushing. The guides typically offer tips on where to go and what to see, making the experience more personalized.

Beach Club and Buffet

The tour includes access to a private beach club, where a buffet lunch and bottomless drinks are served. The setting just steps from the sea makes for a relaxing break, and the buffet offers a good variety of food, allowing travelers to recharge without leaving the island vibe. It’s a convenient way to enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle of finding a restaurant during your limited free time.

The Ice Bar Experience

One of the most talked-about highlights is the Isla Mujeres Ice Bar—a true novelty. Everything inside, from the walls to the glasses, is made of ice, and the temperature dips to a chilly -18°C (0°F). Visitors wear supplied thermal robes and gloves, making the experience surprisingly comfortable and fun. Many guests, like those who left reviews, enjoy the novelty of sipping cocktails in a frozen lounge, with plenty of opportunity for fun photos.

The Ice Bar lasts about 45 minutes, which is enough time to savor a drink and marvel at the icy surroundings. It’s an experience that’s both amusing and memorable, especially for those who like quirky attractions.

Return to Cancun and Sunset

As the day winds down, you’ll cruise back to Cancun. The final 30-minute stretch offers a chance for a last toast, with the sky often glowing with sunset colors, creating a perfect end to the day. The soothing sound of the ocean combined with music and drinks makes for a relaxed return journey, leaving you with plenty of good memories.

Price and Value Analysis

At $39 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. The open bar, snorkeling, buffet, and Ice Bar experience are included, making it a comprehensive day out. However, the docking fee of 800 MXN per traveler is an extra expense to keep in mind—it’s not included in the initial price, so budgeting for this fee is essential to avoid surprises.

Compared to other similar experiences, the value here is solid, particularly because it combines multiple activities into one organized tour. For travelers seeking an all-in-one adventure without the hassle of planning each element separately, the cost is quite reasonable.

How the Tour Compares

Travelers have left reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. According to Natasha, the guide “made our trip even more enjoyable,” highlighting the importance of good leadership in a group tour. The cruise itself is often described as smooth and scenic, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing.

This experience is particularly suited for those who enjoy a blend of relaxation, adventure, and fun. It’s not ideal for travelers looking for a completely untouched, quiet experience—this tour is lively and social, with a fair amount of group activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a low-stress, all-in-one day of Caribbean scenery, marine life, and island charm. It suits travelers looking for value for money—especially with the inclusive drinks and buffet—and those who don’t mind a moderate group size (maximum 30 travelers). If you’re a fan of quirky attractions and want to capture some unique photos in the Ice Bar, this experience will delight.

It’s also ideal for first-time visitors to Playa del Carmen or Isla Mujeres who prefer guided ease but still want some free time to explore. Active travelers will appreciate the snorkeling component and the option to rent a golf cart to see more of the island.

However, it’s worth noting that the additional docking fee, while a small detail for many, might be a turn-off for budget-conscious travelers. Also, those with mobility issues might want to check if walking and brief ice environment are suitable for them.

The Sum Up

This catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen offers a lively, well-rounded experience that combines scenic cruising, marine exploration, island wandering, and a quirky Ice Bar adventure. For $39, you get a lot—unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and a chance to step into a frozen paradise—making it a solid choice for those wanting a fun, memorable day.

It’s best suited for social travelers who enjoy group activities, casual explorers eager to see Isla Mujeres without the hassle of planning, and adventure seekers curious about the Ice Bar. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful views consistently earn praise, adding value to an already affordable experience.

While the docking fee adds a small extra cost, most will find this tour’s mix of comfort, fun, and authentic charm makes it a worthwhile splurge. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a lively day on the water, this tour delivers in both leisure and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
You can choose a package that includes round-trip transport from Playa del Carmen, or opt to meet at the marina yourself. If you select the “without transportation” option, you’ll need to arrive at the specified meeting time.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and some cash for the optional docking fee and souvenirs. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and thermal robes for the Ice Bar experience.

How long is the free time on Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have around six hours to explore the island, enjoy the beaches, browse boutiques, or rent a golf cart to see more.

Is the Ice Bar included in the price?
Yes, access to the Ice Bar is included, along with unlimited drinks inside the icy lounge.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

Travelers considering this tour should weigh the cost of the additional docking fee and their interest in the activities involved. But overall, it provides a lively, engaging way to enjoy Isla Mujeres and the Caribbean in a single day—perfect for those who love a mix of relaxation, fun, and a few surprises.