Cancun: Isla Mujeres Catamaran with buffet lunch & open bar

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres by catamaran, this tour offers a blend of snorkeling, shopping, and relaxation. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a taste of the Caribbean without the fuss of planning every detail themselves. We’ve examined the itineraries, reviews, and features to give you a clear picture of what this experience can deliver—and what to watch out for.

We love how the tour combines multiple activities: snorkeling among sculptures at the MUSA Underwater Museum and lounging with a drink at a beach club. The spacious catamaran, with its ample deck space, promises comfort while cruising. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and open bar adds a laid-back, social element. The biggest upside? This trip has a lot to offer for a reasonable price—around $63 per person—making it accessible for many travelers.

However, there are some drawbacks, particularly regarding group size and actual snorkeling content. Several reviews mention that what’s advertised doesn’t always match the reality, with some guests feeling rushed or disappointed. If you’re someone who values a well-organized, intimate experience, this might not be your top pick. Still, if you’re looking for a fun, social day out with plenty of sun and scenery, this tour might suit your travel style.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers who want a straightforward, all-in-one day trip with good food, drinks, and scenic views. It’s especially suitable if you’re okay with larger groups and variable quality when it comes to snorkeling and guided details.

Key Points

• Comfortable catamaran ride: Spacious and decked out for relaxation.
• Multiple activities: Snorkeling, shopping, beach lounging.
• Affordable price point: Around $63, including food and drinks.
• Mixed reviews on execution: Some guests find it crowded or less organized.
• Good for social travelers: Open bar and buffet encourage mingling.
• Limited snorkeling scope: See the sculptures, but expectations vary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour starts with a pickup from Cancun, with the departure point at Playa Langosta Pier, easily accessible via bus if you’re staying in the hotel zone. The cruise itself lasts about 8 hours, typically starting in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The Cruise and the Catamaran Experience

The journey begins on a spacious catamaran, which is an inviting way to start your day. The vessel’s ample deck space offers lots of room to spread out, soak up the sun, or chat with fellow travelers. The cruise provides beautiful views of the Caribbean, and most guests seem to enjoy the chance to relax on the water.

However, several reviews highlight that the actual number of passengers on some trips can be quite large—one reviewer noted around 60 people instead of a promised 16—which can impact the intimacy and comfort of the experience. If you prefer smaller groups, this is an important factor to consider.

Snorkeling at the MUSA Underwater Museum

A major highlight often touted is the chance to snorkel among the MUSA Underwater Museum sculptures. This modern art installation, blending creativity with marine life, offers a unique underwater gallery.

Yet, reviews reveal that the reality can differ from expectations. For example, one traveler mentioned that they paid extra for a snorkeling experience at the reef but ended up snorkeling on Cancun beach instead, feeling disappointed and unhelped by staff. Others report that the number of sculptures seen during snorkeling is limited, sometimes fewer than ten, which might leave art enthusiasts wanting more.

For safety reasons, children over 8 can snorkel, and pregnant women are advised not to participate. Be sure to bring your own biodegradable sunscreen and waterproof gear if you want to make the most of this part of the trip.

Shopping and Free Time in Isla Mujeres

After snorkeling, the boat docks for about two hours in downtown Isla Mujeres. This is your chance to explore colorful shops, cafes, and take pictures of the vibrant streets. Several reviews praise the lively atmosphere and photo opportunities, especially for social media.

One reviewer noted, “Capture some pictures of the vividly-colored buildings for social media,” which indicates this stop can be quite scenic. However, the free time may feel rushed if you want to explore thoroughly, so plan your shopping and sightseeing accordingly.

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The Beach Club Experience at Discovery Island

Next, the tour takes you to the Discovery Island beach club, where you can relax by the pool or on a lounge chair under an umbrella. The buffet lunch is typically described as delicious, offering a variety of local flavors, and the open bar includes national drinks, making it easy to unwind. Access to lockers helps keep your belongings safe while you enjoy the amenities.

Guests often say that lounging here, with a refreshing drink and good food, is the most relaxing part of the day. But be aware that some travelers feel the experience is somewhat scripted, and the club can get crowded during peak times.

Return and Reflection

The boat departs back to Cancun around 4:30 pm, arriving by late afternoon. The return journey often features more scenic views and a chance to chat with fellow travelers about the day’s adventures.

Analyzing the Value

At $63 per person, this tour offers a package of transportation, snorkeling, lunch, drinks, and shopping. While the price seems reasonable, the actual experience’s quality can vary based on factors like group size, staff helpfulness, and weather conditions.

Some reviews reflect a sense of being rushed or not receiving what was advertised. For instance, one guest complained about a crowded boat and feeling ignored when asking about the snorkeling at MUSA. Others appreciated the good communication, especially in English, and the overall relaxing vibe at the beach club.

The inclusion of lockers, buffet, and open bar adds value, especially for travelers seeking a hassle-free day. But if your priority is a personalized, small-group experience or high-quality snorkeling among sculptures, you might find this tour lacking.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for travelers who want a social, all-in-one day with plenty of sun, snacks, and scenery. It’s ideal if you’re okay with larger groups and don’t mind some variability in the snorkeling or guide attentiveness. It offers a good balance of activity and relaxation, perfect for those on a budget or looking for a straightforward experience.

If you’re hoping for a highly curated or intimate tour, or if snorkeling among sculptures is the main goal, consider other options or expect to manage some expectations.

In the end, this catamaran trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres delivers a fun, lively day with opportunities to relax, eat, drink, and see some underwater art. The spacious boat, buffet lunch, and open bar are good value, especially for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of the Caribbean island vibe.

However, the experience’s quality can hinge on the crew’s organization and the group size. Some guests have left disappointed by overcrowding or less-than-expected snorkeling. Still, if you’re seeking an easy-going, social adventure with plenty of scenic views and a tasty meal, this tour could serve you well.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere, value convenience, and are flexible about some of the finer details. For those seeking a quieter, more personalized experience, researching smaller or more specialized tours might be worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You will need to meet at Playa Langosta Pier, which is easily reachable by bus from most hotel zones.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning by late afternoon.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), cash for extras, and perhaps a towel if you plan to swim or lounge.

Can children participate in snorkeling?
Yes, children over 8 years old can snorkel. Infants from 0-5 years are free but cannot snorkel.

Is the open bar available throughout the trip?
The open bar is at the beach club, typically available during the time spent relaxing there. It features national drinks.

Are lockers provided for valuables?
Yes, lockers are available at the beach club to keep your belongings safe while you enjoy the facilities.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Weather conditions can affect snorkeling and outdoor activities. If canceled, you might not be refunded if the weather is outside the provider’s control.

How crowded is the boat?
Some reviews mention large groups, with one guest noting around 60 people on the boat, which may impact comfort and intimacy.

Is the snorkeling experience worth it?
Many reviews suggest that the snorkeling, especially at MUSA, can be underwhelming in scope, with some guests feeling it was not as advertised.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This detailed look should help you decide whether this tour fits your expectations. With the right mindset, it offers a lively taste of Isla Mujeres, but keep in mind the mixed reviews and plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here: