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

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

If you’re considering a day trip from Cancún that combines sailing, snorkeling, and a taste of local charm, this catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres might be worth your time. Designed for those who want to soak up the sun, enjoy some underwater sights, and unwind with good food and drinks, it hits many of the right notes. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner, there’s plenty to like here—like the lively boat ride, the chance to snorkel at El Meco Reef, and the relaxing time at a stylish beach club.

Two features stand out: the scenic cruise across the Caribbean and the delicious buffet lunch at the beach club. The open bar enhances the laid-back vibe, making it easy to toast the day with tropical drinks. However, a potential drawback is the crowd size—the boat can sometimes feel busy, and the beach club overcrowded, especially during peak times.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a blend of adventure and relaxation, appreciate good food, and are comfortable on boats. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen to see Isla Mujeres without the hassle of planning transport or activities separately. Keep in mind, snorkeling is not available for guests over 60, and the mandatory reef fee adds to the cost, so it’s best for those prepared for a full, lively day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling at El Meco Reef—a colorful underwater experience with marine life and art installations.
• All-day cruise with open bar and buffet lunch—a great way to enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere.
• Scheduled free time in Isla Mujeres—explore charming streets and relax on beaches.
• Crowd levels can be high, especially at the beach club, which may affect comfort.
• Reef fee of $45 USD per person is mandatory, so budget accordingly.
• Suitable for active, social travelers who enjoy boat rides, scenic views, and beachside relaxation.

Setting Sail from Cancún

The adventure begins at Marina Sailaway, conveniently located in the Cancún Hotel Zone. The departure is around 7 hours total, with the boat leaving in the morning or early afternoon, depending on your choice. As you board the well-equipped catamaran, you’ll notice the capacity can reach up to 50-70 people, which might sound crowded but often provides a festive atmosphere.

The crew aims to keep the mood lively with music, drinks, and friendly service. We loved the way the boat itself was designed for comfort and fun; it’s spacious enough to stretch out and enjoy the ocean breeze. Expect lively chatter, sunbathing, and the occasional splash of water from fellow travelers.

The Snorkeling at El Meco Reef

One of the highlights is the snorkeling stop at El Meco Reef, a protected spot where clear waters reveal vibrant marine life and underwater sculptures. The reef is part of the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), which adds a cultural twist to the underwater scenery. You’ll get snorkel gear included, and the crew will assist if needed.

Authentic reviews reflect mixed experiences here. One traveler noted, “The snorkeling was average,” but others appreciated the chance to see the underwater statues and colorful fish. Keep in mind, snorkeling is not permitted for guests over 60 years old due to safety considerations, but non-participants can still enjoy the boat ride and scenery.

Free Time in Isla Mujeres

After about an hour at the reef, you’ll arrive at Isla Mujeres for 1.5 hours of free time. This is your chance to stroll the charming streets, browse local shops, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches like Playa Norte. The town’s relaxed vibe and picturesque setting make it a favorite for leisurely exploration.

A reviewer mentioned that upon arrival at the beach club, the lounge chairs were dirty and the buffet food was not high quality. Another noted that the shower facilities lacked running water, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a luxurious experience. Still, the opportunity to wander through the town and soak in the laid-back atmosphere is worthwhile.

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Lunch and Relaxation at the Beach Club

The Amazona Beach Club provides a buffet lunch and access to lounge chairs and shaded areas. The food is generally described as tasty, with some reviews praising the delicious buffet, which is included in the tour price. It’s a chance to unwind and enjoy tropical surroundings.

You’ll also have about an hour to relax, sunbathe, or take more photos. The club’s prime beach access allows for a refreshing swim or just lounging with a drink in hand. This segment of the tour is perfect for those who want a break from sightseeing and prefer to enjoy the beach at their own pace.

The Return Journey

As the day winds down, you’ll hop back on the catamaran for the scenic sail back to Cancún. Expect more drinks, music, and stunning sunset views—a fitting end to a busy day. The boat ride is usually smooth, and the vibe mellow as everyone reflects on the day.

Analyzing the Experience and Its Value

This tour offers a well-rounded day combining adventure, scenery, and leisure. The price of about $103 per person includes transportation, snorkeling gear, the buffet lunch, and access to the beach club. Considering the cost of similar excursions, this provides a good value for those wanting a comprehensive day out.

However, the crowded boat and overpopulated beach club might lessen the experience for travelers craving tranquility. The mandatory reef fee of $45 USD adds to the overall expense, so budget for this in advance. It’s also worth noting that snorkeling is not available for guests over 60, which could be a disappointment for older travelers.

From the reviews, we learn that some guests find the drinks on board to be lacking in quality, and the staff’s friendliness varies. But many appreciate the beautiful views, the smooth boat ride, and the opportunity to explore Isla Mujeres without the hassle of planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active, social travelers who love being on the water, enjoy a lively atmosphere, and want to see Isla Mujeres with minimal fuss. It suits those who appreciate good food and drinks and are happy with a group setting. If you’re looking for serenity and exclusivity, this might be a bit too bustling.

It’s especially good for families and couples who want a full-day excursion with a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach time. Keep in mind the physical effort required for snorkeling and the importance of being comfortable on a boat.

FAQ

Is snorkeling included in the tour?
Yes, snorkeling at El Meco Reef is part of the experience, and snorkeling gear is provided. However, it’s not suitable for guests over 60 years old.

How long do I get at Isla Mujeres?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours of free time to explore the town, relax on beaches, or browse shops.

What’s the cost of the mandatory reef fee?
The reef and conservation fee is $45 USD per person and must be paid at check-in.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat ride, the beach club, and exploring Isla Mujeres, but they won’t participate in snorkeling.

How crowded is the beach club?
Reviews mention the beach club can get overcrowded, and the loungers may sometimes be dirty, so it’s a lively, bustling environment rather than a quiet retreat.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash for extra expenses or tips.

Final Thoughts

This Cancún to Isla Mujeres catamaran tour offers a lively, well-organized way to experience the Caribbean’s beauty in a single day. It combines the thrill of sailing with underwater sights, charming town exploration, and beachside relaxation. For travelers craving a balance of fun and comfort, it provides excellent value, especially if you enjoy social atmospheres and scenic views.

Of course, it’s not perfect—crowds and some quality issues at the beach club are points to consider. But if your idea of a perfect day involves good food, tropical drinks, and swift access to one of Mexico’s most picturesque islands, this tour hits the mark. Be prepared for a lively, sometimes crowded experience, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of photos and fond memories.

Ideal for: Active couples, families, or friends seeking a full-day adventure that mixes snorkeling, sightseeing, and beachside lounging with a fun, social vibe.

Not ideal for: Those seeking tranquility, luxury, or older travelers who prefer not to snorkel or deal with crowded environments.

Embark on this trip if you’re ready to enjoy the best of Cancún’s coast with a taste of Isla Mujeres, all while enjoying the warm sun and a cold drink in hand.

You can check availability for your dates here: