Catamaran to Mujeres Island with Open Bar on Board from Cancun

A Balanced Look at the Catamaran to Mujeres Island from Cancun

If you’re considering a day trip from Cancun to explore the charming Isla Mujeres, this catamaran tour with open bar offers a lively, all-in-one experience. It’s designed for those who want to sail the Caribbean in style, enjoy some snorkeling, and have free time to wander the island’s quaint streets. While the tour brings together many elements for a fun-filled day, it’s worth knowing both the highs and the caveats before booking.

What we particularly like about this tour is its comprehensive nature—round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and snorkeling are all included, making it a convenient package. Plus, it’s great for travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere and a splash of adventure. On the flip side, some reviews highlight issues with the staff’s attitude and the quality of the food, so it’s not perfect for everyone.

This tour is best suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who are looking for a relaxed, social day on the water with easy access to Isla Mujeres. If you’re after a low-effort excursion with plenty of amenities, this could be a good fit. But if you’re craving a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and round-trip transport make it a convenient package.
• Fun social atmosphere: The open bar and crew create a lively, party vibe on the boat.
• Sightseeing & snorkeling: You get a guided reef-snorkeling experience with stunning underwater views.
• Time on the island: Free time in downtown Isla Mujeres offers opportunities for shopping and exploring.
• Variable reviews: Some travelers loved the crew and food, others found the staff rude and the food questionable.
• Suitable for most: Family-friendly, with a maximum of 50 travelers, and mostly accessible for most.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Departure from Cancun takes place early in the morning, with a pickup option from your hotel or direct boarding at Marina Albatros. The tour begins around 7:00 am, which means an early start but also a longer day of fun. Once on board, you’ll set sail across the sparkling waters toward Isla Mujeres, a tiny tropical paradise known for its relaxed vibe.

The Sailing Experience itself is quite enjoyable. The boat is a catamaran, so you’ll likely appreciate the stability and space to mingle. The views of Cancun’s coast and the Caribbean are beautiful, especially as the boat glides past shimmering waves. The open bar kicks in early, and you’ll find the crew very generous with drinks—something that travelers have noted positively in reviews.

Snorkeling at the reef is a key feature. You’ll be guided through the underwater world, giving you a chance to see vibrant coral and fish, which adds a splash of adventure. This part of the tour is typically well-managed, with many guests expressing satisfaction with the experience, although a few have mentioned that the reef tax of $20 per person is an extra expense to keep in mind.

Lunch on board is a buffet featuring local treats. Reviewers have praised the food as “excellent,” with one saying it creates a “good party atmosphere on the boat.” However, be aware that some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of the food, describing it as “questionable,” so expectations should be moderate.

Time in Isla Mujeres allows for some independent sightseeing. You can shop for handicrafts, stroll around the laid-back downtown area, or relax on the white sandy beaches. The island’s vibe is slow-paced and friendly, perfect if you want a break from Cancun’s bustling hotel zone.

Returning to Cancun is a leisurely sail back, with the sun setting behind the horizon. The entire day, from 7 am to around 6 pm, is packed with activities and relaxing moments, making it a full 11-hour experience.

The Pros and Cons: The Real Story

Pros include the ease of logistics—pickup, transportation, and all-day entertainment—plus the social party atmosphere on the boat, which many travelers enjoy. The snorkeling adds a memorable element, especially for those eager to see underwater life without diving gear. The buffet lunch and unlimited drinks provide good value, especially for those looking to unwind and enjoy a carefree day.

Cons, based on reviews, revolve around staff attitude and the food quality. One reviewer described staff as “rude,” which could dampen the mood for some. Plus, the island activities are limited—no organized excursions ashore, just free time—and some travelers felt the beaches or town lacked the vibrancy they expected. The reef tax of $20 per person also adds an extra cost that isn’t included in the base price.

In terms of value, at $63.75 per person, the tour offers a lot for those who enjoy social sailing, snorkeling, and island wandering. But for travelers seeking a more quiet or authentic cultural experience, this may feel a bit commercialized or superficial.

Transportation & Timing

Most travelers will find the air-conditioned minivan transfer from their hotel convenient if they opt for the upgrade. Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour makes the most of daylight hours, ending around 6 pm. The group size maxes out at 50 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but also means you’ll be sharing the boat with quite a few others.

What Travelers Should Pack

Bring sandals or flip-flops, your swimsuit and towel, sunglasses, hat, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. A camera is essential for capturing the stunning views and underwater moments. Also, carry some cash in Mexican pesos for tips and optional expenses like the reef tax.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits those who want a no-fuss day of sailing, snorkeling, and island exploration, especially if you enjoy social environments and open bars. Families with kids tend to find it manageable, and it’s ideal for travelers who prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience. If you’re looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience, or prefer island excursions with fewer crowds, you might want to explore other options.

Closing Thoughts

This catamaran to Isla Mujeres offers a lively, convenient way to enjoy a slice of the Caribbean while visiting Cancun. The combination of sailing, snorkeling, and free time makes it a good choice for those wanting an all-in-one adventure. The amenities and relaxed pace create a laid-back atmosphere suited to travelers looking to unwind and socialize.

However, the mixed reviews highlight that staff attitude and food quality can vary, and the island’s activities are somewhat limited. Still, if you’re after a fun, social day on the water with good views and a lively crew, this tour delivers a decent experience at a reasonable price.

For those who value easy logistics, generous drinks, and a scenic sailing route, this might just be your perfect day trip. Just keep your expectations in check, pack accordingly, and enjoy the ride.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off as part of the package, making the journey to the marina smooth and hassle-free.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, so expect an early start to maximize your day exploring Isla Mujeres.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 11 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening, including sailing, snorkeling, lunch, and free time on the island.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers round-trip transportation (if upgraded), a buffet lunch, unlimited drinks including alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and access to the reef snorkeling.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
No, drinks purchased at the restaurant are not included. The tour provides an open bar, but additional drinks at eateries or shops are extra.

How much is the reef tax?
The reef tax is $20 per person and is payable on the island, not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring sandals or flip-flops, your swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, camera, and cash in pesos for tips and extras.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly and has a maximum group size of 50 travelers, making it manageable for kids and adults alike.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, social, and scenic day on the Caribbean, this tour offers a solid value with plenty of opportunities to relax, eat, drink, and explore. Just keep in mind the mixed reviews and plan accordingly for a day that’s as enjoyable as it is lively.