Isla Mujeres Catamaran, Open Bar and Beach Club Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Cancun that combines sailing, snorkeling, and a taste of island life, this Isla Mujeres Catamaran, Open Bar, and Beach Club Tour might just be your perfect pick. This tour promises a lively and scenic experience across the Caribbean waters, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up local charm. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, a thorough review of the details, reviews, and itinerary suggests it offers excellent value for those seeking a fun, social, and hassle-free day.

What we love about this experience is the combination of unlimited drinks and guided snorkeling—both essential for a carefree Caribbean adventure. Plus, the access to a beach club for lounging and exploring Isla Mujeres at your own pace makes it stand out. The only potential caveat is the dock tax of $20 per person, which adds a small extra expense and is payable upon arrival. Still, for the price of $39 per person, it’s a compelling deal for a full day of entertainment and scenic beauty.

This tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or groups who want to enjoy the sea, sunshine, and a taste of island life without the stress of planning every detail. If you’re looking for an active but relaxed day, with a good balance of guided activities and free time, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• All-day Caribbean sailing with a lively catamaran experience
• Unlimited national drinks served from an open bar throughout the trip
• Guided snorkeling at a coral reef, perfect for marine life enthusiasts
• Access to a beach club for lounging, swimming, and enjoying tropical vibes
• Flexible free time on Isla Mujeres to explore the charming streets at your own pace
• Affordable price point with options to customize your experience

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Marina Las Perlas

Your adventure kicks off at Marina Las Perlas, located conveniently in Cancun’s hotel zone. From here, you board a vibrant catamaran that promises a lively start to your day. The boat is well-equipped and capable of holding up to 50 travelers, so you’ll likely meet fellow travelers and share in the fun. We loved the way tropical beats set the mood early, and the unlimited open bar means you can start sipping drinks right away—an excellent choice for those who want to relax from the moment they set sail.

Snorkeling at Arrecife El Meco

After about 45 minutes of sailing, the tour stops at Arrecife El Meco for a guided snorkeling experience. This reef is home to vibrant coral and marine life, offering a glimpse into the underwater world of the Caribbean. The snorkeling segment lasts roughly 20 minutes—a good amount of time considering the lively boat atmosphere. If you’re like most reviewers, you’ll appreciate how the guides help make the experience accessible and safe, especially for those new to snorkeling.

Reviewers have raved about the marine life, and one even mentioned the chance to swim with colorful fish, which makes this stop particularly memorable. Keep in mind, weather conditions can affect the activity — if the sea gets rough, snorkeling might be canceled for safety reasons, so it’s worth being flexible.

Beach Club at Club Playa Mexico

Back on board, you’ll cruise directly to Isla Mujeres, arriving at Club Playa Mexico, a lively beach club where the tropical atmosphere really kicks into gear. You’ll have about two hours here to unwind, swim, and enjoy tropical drinks from the open bar. The beach club is praised for its delicious food, though it’s not included in all options, and the staff creates a lively, friendly vibe.

Many travelers mention the authentic beach atmosphere—hot sun, cold drinks, and the sound of waves. One reviewer described it as a place where “tropical vibes just get greater,” emphasizing the relaxed yet vibrant ambiance that makes this part of the tour so enjoyable.

Free Exploration at Isla Mujeres

After relaxing at the beach club, you’ll have about two and a half hours to explore Isla Mujeres. This free time is your chance to wander the streets, browse charming boutiques, or simply stroll along the shoreline. The island is known for its colorful streets and laid-back charm, making it a good spot for photos and casual exploration.

Some reviews mention how the island’s serene shoreline and hidden gems make it worth exploring at your leisure. It’s an authentic taste of island life, far removed from the tourist-heavy resort zones.

Return Journey and Sunset Cruise

As your day winds down, you’ll hop back on the catamaran for a scenic sunset cruise back to Cancun. This part of the trip offers a perfect photo opportunity, with the setting sun casting warm hues over the sea. Many travelers find this to be a highlight, as the boat gently rocks and the sky turns brilliant shades of orange and pink. It’s a calming way to end a lively day, reflecting on the day’s adventures while enjoying the last drinks from the open bar.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Round-trip catamaran ride to Isla Mujeres
• Unlimited national drinks from the open bar
• Guided snorkeling adventure at Arrecife El Meco
• Access to the beach club (depending on your option)
• Buffet lunch (not included in all options)
• Travel insurance
• English and Spanish-speaking crew

Not Included:

• Dock tax of $20 per person (payable upon arrival)
• Tips for crew
• Optional upgrades like full food options or transportation in some packages

The price of $39 per person makes this an accessible full-day outing, especially considering the included activities and drinks. The additional dock tax is a small extra, and most find it just part of the local experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at Marina Las Perlas to ensure smooth check-in and avoid last-minute rushes.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat — the Caribbean sun can be fierce, and you’ll be exposed for several hours.
• Wear your swimsuit under light clothing, as you’ll be snorkeling and swimming at the beach.
• Consider bringing cash for the dock tax and tips, as card payments might not be accepted everywhere.
• Alcohol on board is enjoyed responsibly, especially since the tour involves water activities and sailing.
• Snorkeling participants must be at least 8 years old and in good physical condition; pregnant women cannot participate in snorkeling due to safety concerns.
• Plan your free time wisely; explore the island’s hidden streets or relax on the beach.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

The one review available is glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating, highlighting that “everything was perfect,” from the catamaran, staff, food, drinks, and timing. The reviewer especially appreciated how each moment was enjoyed — a testament to the well-paced nature of the tour.

Another key highlight from the tour is the guided snorkeling, which allows travelers to appreciate the marine environment without needing prior experience. The vibrant marine life and clear waters are repeatedly praised, making it a highlight for many.

Many appreciate the friendly, bilingual crew that keeps the atmosphere lively and welcoming. The scenic sunset on the return leg also garners positive comments, with travelers describing it as a peaceful, beautiful end to an energetic day.

The Sum Up: Who is This Tour Best For?

This Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour is a fantastic choice for travelers who enjoy sailing, socializing, and exploring without overloading their day. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet lively experience—enjoying unlimited drinks, scenic views, and a taste of island culture. The inclusion of guided snorkeling makes it ideal for marine life lovers, while the free time at Isla Mujeres allows for genuine exploration.

Price-wise, it delivers great value, especially with the comprehensive itinerary and friendly crew. If you’re after a fun, hassle-free day with plenty of photo opportunities and tropical vibes, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience or wish to avoid paying extra for the dock tax, consider the full/full premium options or plan accordingly. Be prepared for some physical activity during snorkeling, and ensure you’re comfortable with group boat settings.

This tour offers an authentic taste of Caribbean life with a lively party atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable day on the sea.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
It depends on the package. Basic options do not include hotel pickup, but the tour starts conveniently at Marina Las Perlas, which is near public transportation.

How much does the dock tax cost?
The dock tax is $20 per person, payable upon arrival at the dock.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, free time, and the return cruise.

Can I snorkel if I am a beginner?
Yes, guided snorkeling is suitable for most, but you should be at least 8 years old and in good physical condition. Weather conditions can affect snorkeling, as activity might be canceled if the sea is rough.

Is food included?
Food options vary. The basic and full experiences do not include lunch, but the beach club stop offers the chance to purchase or enjoy a buffet if included in your package.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and cash for the dock tax and tips. You might also want to bring a towel or change of clothes for after snorkeling.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 8 can participate in snorkeling if they are comfortable in the water. Pregnant women cannot partake in snorkeling for safety reasons.

How many people typically join?
The tour caps at 50 travelers, fostering a lively but manageable group atmosphere.

This trip offers a lively, scenic, and truly enjoyable taste of Isla Mujeres, perfect for those wanting to blend adventure and relaxation in a beautiful setting.