Isla Mujeres Sailing catamaran tour

Thinking about taking a day trip from Cancun to the charming island of Isla Mujeres via catamaran? We’ve put together a comprehensive look at this popular tour so you can decide if it’s the right fit. With a rating of around 3 out of 5 and plenty of mixed reviews, this excursion has its highlights — and some notable drawbacks.

You’ll love the convenience of hotel transfers, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the all-you-can-drink open bar. But be aware, some guests found the organization chaotic and the experience a bit rushed. This tour tends to appeal most to travelers seeking a quick, lively day on the water with plenty of socializing, rather than those craving a tranquil or highly personalized outing.

If you’re looking for a fun and lively way to explore Isla Mujeres, especially if you’re OK with busy boats and a packed schedule, this might be worth considering. But if you value a quieter, more intimate experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from Cancun or Riviera Maya makes the day stress-free.
• Snorkeling gear is included, so no need to rent equipment separately.
• The all-you-can-drink open bar keeps the party lively on the water.
• Beach club access offers a buffet lunch and relaxing sea views.
• Some reviews highlight organizational issues and overcrowding.
• The experience can be fast-paced and crowded, not ideal for those seeking tranquility.
• The tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy social, lively atmospheres.
• The cost is relatively low, but extras like dock fees and transportation add up.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Arrival and Departure

This tour kicks off with hotel pickups—most guests are picked up from Cancun or Riviera Maya. The meeting point is at Marina Las Perlas, located on Kukulcan Boulevard in Cancun’s hotel zone. Participants generally book about a month in advance, and the tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full day’s adventure.

The Sailing Experience

Once aboard the catamaran, you’ll immediately notice the bustling atmosphere. The boat can hold up to 80 people, so don’t expect quiet serenity. The crew is generally friendly, and many guests comment positively on the knowledgeable guides and helpful staff.

Snorkeling Stop

The first highlight is a snorkeling session in one of Isla Mujeres’ beautiful waters. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, which is a plus, saving you the hassle of renting gear. Expect to hold onto a rope line while waiting to enter the water, which some find a bit chaotic—especially with larger crowds.

Guests who have snorkeled here note the crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life, but others have mentioned that the experience can be rushed and crowded, making exploration less relaxed.

The Spinnaker (Parasailing) Activity

Next up is the spinnaker activity—a parachute-style ride over the Caribbean. You’ll enjoy unlimited drinks during this time, which many find fun and exciting. However, some reviews note that weather or capacity issues sometimes prevent the activity from happening, so it’s not guaranteed.

Arrival at Isla Mujeres and Beach Club

After the water activities, the boat docks at a beach club on Isla Mujeres. Here, you’ll find facilities to relax and a buffet lunch included in the tour price. The quality of the food receives mixed reviews—some say it’s mediocre, while others appreciate the free buffet as a good value.

The beach club has limited shade space, and some guests report overcrowding, which can make lounging less comfortable, especially for the elderly or families with children.

Free Time and Exploration

Once at the island, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace. Many guests take the opportunity to walk through the charming town, enjoy the ocean views, or shop for souvenirs. Some reviews praise the beautiful scenery and friendly atmosphere in town.

Return Journey

The boat departs in the late afternoon, offering scenic views of the shoreline. Many travelers mention that the return trip can be disorganized, with some experiencing delays or difficulties with transportation back to their hotels.

The Experience in Depth

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers snorkeling gear, an open bar, and a buffet lunch—all on board the boat. Access to a beach club with amenities is also part of the package. You’ll also get some free time to explore Isla Mujeres itself, which is a real highlight for many.

However, additional costs include a dock fee ($20 USD) and a conservation fee (600 pesos), both of which are paid upon arrival. Transportation from Cancun or Riviera Maya is extra, ranging from $15 to $20 per person, depending on your location, and must be booked separately.

Reviews and Real Perspectives

Some guests rave about the stunning scenery and friendly crew. For example, one reviewer called it a “great day in Isla Mujeres,” praising the flawless transport and delicious buffet. Others, however, warn against booking due to overcrowding, poor organization, and hidden fees.

A few travelers have had frustrating experiences with missed pickups or long delays—sometimes up to 2.5 hours. Several reviews mention the chaotic snorkeling with too many people and the crowded beach club, which can detract from the enjoyment.

The Real Value

At only $20 per person, the base price appears attractive, especially considering the snorkeling, lunch, and drinks included. But when factoring in dock fees, transportation costs, and potentially overcrowded conditions, the value might diminish for those seeking a more relaxed or intimate experience. It’s best suited for party-minded travelers looking for a lively, social day out rather than those seeking tranquility or a quiet family outing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, lively day on the water with plenty of socializing and drinking. It suits groups of friends or young travelers who enjoy bustling atmospheres and don’t mind a bit of chaos. If you’re comfortable with crowded snorkeling conditions and organisational hiccups, you’ll likely find this a fun, energetic adventure.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, smaller groups, or a family-friendly environment, you might find this tour too hectic. The overcrowding and inconsistent organization could be off-putting for those wanting a peaceful escape or a more curated experience.

Final Thoughts

The Isla Mujeres Sailing Catamaran Tour offers a cost-effective way to visit the island with plenty of water-based fun, including snorkeling and parasailing. Guests love the beautiful scenery, friendly staff, and the all-you-can-drink bar, making it a lively social experience.

However, the downsides of overcrowding, organizational issues, and additional fees mean it’s not for everyone. If you’re seeking peace, exclusivity, or a more tranquil day, consider other options. But if you’re after a spirited, budget-friendly adventure with ample opportunities to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the Caribbean vibe, this tour could suit you.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, most guests are picked up from Cancun or Riviera Maya hotels, but transportation from your hotel is an extra cost.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 8 hours, including transfers, activities, and free time.

Are snorkeling masks included? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, so you don’t need to rent equipment elsewhere.

What is the dock fee? There is a $20 USD dock fee payable upon arrival at the marina.

Can I skip the beach club? The tour includes beach club access, but guests can choose to leave earlier if they prefer not to stay.

What about the weather? The snorkeling activity depends on weather conditions; it might be canceled if the weather isn’t suitable.

Are drinks really unlimited? Yes, during the cruise and activities, the open bar offers unlimited alcoholic beverages.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is lively and considered more appropriate for adults or older children comfortable with crowds and noise.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fun-filled day on the water with notable highlights like snorkeling and open bar. It’s best suited for adventurous, social travelers who don’t mind the crowds and occasional disorganization. For those seeking a peaceful escape or a more intimate experience, exploring other options might be a wise choice.