Cancun: Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Open Bar of Drinks

Planning a day trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres on a catamaran might just become one of your highlights in Quintana Roo. This tour promises a relaxing cruise with plenty of chances to soak up the sun, sip on drinks, and explore a charming island. Whether you’re a lover of the sea, interested in snorkeling, or just want a fun day on the water, this tour has a lot to offer—and it does so without breaking the bank.

We particularly appreciate the value for money and the scenic beauty of the experience. The open bar keeps the atmosphere lively, and the laid-back vibe is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. A potential downside? Some travelers note that the entertainment and drinks could be more premium, and the snorkeling might be skipped due to weather or time constraints. Still, this tour hits the right notes for many seeking an accessible, enjoyable day on the Caribbean.

It’s best suited for those who want a fun, social day out, family groups, or travelers looking for a straightforward way to see Isla Mujeres and enjoy some quality time on the water. If you’re after a luxurious or very exclusive experience, you might find this tour more casual than you prefer. But for many, it hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• All-day adventure with snorkeling, beach time, and sightseeing
• Affordable price point offers good value for the experience
• Open bar provides a lively, social atmosphere
• Flexible exploration on Isla Mujeres at your own pace
• Comfortable catamaran ride with scenic Caribbean views
• Potential weather-dependent snorkeling and entertainment

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres

This tour packs a lot into an 8-hour window, starting from the bustling Marina Las Perlas in Cancun. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a full day of sun, sea, and fun without too much hassle. The price of $59 per person makes it accessible, especially considering the included activities and amenities, though you’ll want to budget an extra $20 for the dock fee and carry some cash for optional extras or tips.

The Journey Begins: Setting Sail on a Catamaran

You’ll start your day at Marina Las Perlas, arriving at least 15 minutes early to check in. The group size is generally manageable, and the vessel in the reviews is noted to be in good condition, which is always reassuring. A 30-minute sail kicks off your day, giving everyone time to settle in, take photos of the glittering coastline, and perhaps grab a drink from the open bar.

The catamaran ride is designed to be comfortable and scenic. The views of the Caribbean are truly breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters and the vibrant tapestry of islands and boats. As you cruise, you’ll enjoy music that sets a lively, fun tone for the day, although some reviews mention that the entertainment is quite standard.

Snorkeling in the Caribbean Reef

One of the main highlights is the chance to snorkel in the Caribbean Sea’s vibrant reef. Expect about 30 minutes to swim among colorful fish and coral formations. This part of the tour is highly valued because it offers a peek into the underwater world of Mexico’s marine biodiversity.

However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can affect this activity. If the sea is rough or the weather turns, snorkeling might be canceled, which some travelers found disappointing. Also, you must be at least 8 years old and in good health to participate, and pregnant women or those prone to seasickness might want to reconsider this part.

Time at Playa Norte and Isla Mujeres Exploration

After snorkeling, the boat returns to the vessel for the 30-minute cruise to Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres. Here, you have over an hour and a half to relax, grab a drink from the open bar, and enjoy the stunning beach. Playa Norte is renowned for its soft white sand and calm, shallow waters—ideal for lounging or wading in.

Once on the island, you can explore at your own pace. Many travelers enjoy strolling along the shoreline, browsing the shops for souvenirs, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. You’ll have roughly two hours here, which feels enough to enjoy the area without feeling rushed.

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Lunch and Beach Club

The tour provides access to what’s described as the “most perfect beach club,” perfect for unwinding. While lunch isn’t included in the base price—participants can opt to buy food—some reviews warn about extra costs for the buffet, so it’s wise to plan ahead. The beach club setting is perfect for relaxing, with plenty of shade and comfortable loungers to enjoy your drinks and the scenery.

Returning to Cancun

The final stretch is a 1-hour cruise back, offering another chance to take in the views and chat with fellow travelers. The return journey is usually lively, with music and the open bar still in play, rounding out a day packed with activity and relaxation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $59, this tour includes the catamaran ride, snorkel equipment, bilingual hosts, insurance, and an open bar of drinks. It’s quite a comprehensive package considering the price, especially since the open bar adds a social, fun element to the cruise.

Extras like the dock fee ($20), transportation to the dock, and food are not included. Travelers should bring cash for these expenses and other personal needs—sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), hats, swimwear, and cameras are essentials.

A note for families or those with specific needs: the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness, primarily due to the nature of the boat ride and snorkeling.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

One review from April 2025 highlights some practical insights. They appreciated the fast check-in process and the vessel’s condition. However, they found the entertainment and drinks to be quite basic, with some drinks mainly juice or soda mixed with beer—”not really the best.” They also pointed out an incident where a staff member told a guest “you have to always bring money” in a rude tone, which underscores the importance of understanding gratuities aren’t mandatory and that some service aspects might vary.

Despite minor hiccups, many travelers agree that the scenery, snorkeling, and beach time make this a worthwhile, affordable day trip. The views of the Caribbean, the gentle cruise, and the chance to explore Isla Mujeres independently are what keep most coming back with positive memories.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of fun without the fuss of planning every detail. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see Isla Mujeres, enjoy some snorkeling, and relax at the beach with an open bar in hand. It’s also well-suited to groups, families (excluding very young children or pregnant women), and solo travelers seeking a lively social atmosphere.

If you’re after a luxurious experience or need accommodations for special needs, you might want to look for a more premium or customized tour. But if you’re happy with an energetic, fun-filled day with scenic views and excellent value, this tour delivers.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age to participate in snorkeling?
Yes, participants must be at least 8 years old and in good physical condition to snorkel. Pregnant women are not allowed to join this activity.

How long do we spend at Playa Norte?
You’ll have about 105 minutes to relax, explore, or enjoy a drink at Playa Norte after arriving on Isla Mujeres.

Is the open bar included in the price?
Yes, the tour offers a national open bar of drinks throughout the day, adding to the fun and lively atmosphere.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included. Travelers are encouraged to tip if they receive good service, but staff have mentioned that tipping is not obligatory.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, a camera, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and cash for extras or tips.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans aren’t set in stone.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a lively, budget-friendly day with plenty of sunshine, great scenery, and the chance to snorkel in the Caribbean, this catamaran tour is a strong contender. Its focus on relaxing, socializing, and exploring makes it an enjoyable way to experience Isla Mujeres without the stress of organizing details. Just be prepared for a casual vibe and some weather-dependent activities. It’s a fine choice for those wanting to see the highlights of the island while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of a Caribbean cruise.

In the end, this trip offers a solid balance of value, fun, and scenic beauty—perfect for laid-back travelers looking to add a splash of adventure to their Cancun holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: