Planning a trip from Cancún or the Riviera Maya and considering a day trip to Isla Mujeres? With so many options available, it’s worth finding one that balances fun, comfort, and value. The Tour Isla Mujeres with All-Inclusive by CATAMARAN FRAGATA CANCUN stands out as a popular choice, especially at a friendly price of $49 per person. It promises a lively day filled with sightseeing, snorkeling, delicious food, and relaxing beach time — a package aimed at families, groups, and anyone looking to enjoy a slice of island life without fuss.
What we love about this tour? First, the two-level catamaran offers a flexible experience — whether you want to soak up sun or stay shaded. Second, the well-organized snorkeling with complete equipment makes it accessible and enjoyable even for beginners. But, a possible snag is the occasional inconsistency in reviews—some travelers have highlighted issues like limited time at key stops or extra charges. Still, most find it offers great value for money and plenty of lively, authentic moments that make it worth considering.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balance of laid-back beach days, a bit of adventure, and a lively social atmosphere. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or seniors, and want a straightforward, inclusive day trip from Cancun, this could be a winner.
Key Points

- Two-level Catamaran with shaded and sunny zones offers flexible comfort.
- Complete snorkeling gear makes exploring the underwater statues and coral formations accessible.
- All-inclusive drinks and buffet provide a hassle-free, relaxed experience.
- Efficient itinerary includes sightseeing, snorkeling, beach time, and island exploration.
- Cost-effective at around $49, especially considering all that’s included.
- Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind with full refunds for 24 hours’ notice.
The Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Quintana Roo.
Starting at La Isla Paradise Experience in Cancun
The tour kicks off at La Isla, located at km 12.5 on Boulevard Kukulcán, near Marina Lighthouse. The location is easy to find given its prominence, and it acts as a lively hub full of shops, cafés, and boats. The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff generally friendly and organized. If you’ve booked transportation from your hotel, be sure to notify at least 24 hours in advance—this is crucial for seamless planning.
The Scenic Ride to Isla Mujeres
From Cancun, you’ll set sail on a two-hour journey across Nichupte Lagoon, a highlight for many. We loved the way the tour combines scenic views with birdwatching—mangroves and local bird species make this a peaceful, visually appealing part of the day. The boat ride itself is lively but not overbearingly noisy, thanks to good music and ample space for everyone.
Most travelers find the boat comfortable, with the choice to stay in shaded areas or bask in the sun. The boat’s layout is well thought out, allowing groups to spread out and enjoy the views. We noticed that some guests appreciated the friendly crew who checked regularly if drinks were needed, making the experience feel relaxed and attentive.
Snorkeling and the Underwater Museum
One of the main attractions here is the snorkeling session, where all equipment is provided. You’ll get masks, snorkels, fins, life jackets, and a guide to help you navigate. This part of the trip is especially valued: snorkelers get to see underwater statues—a sub aquatic museum—plus coral reefs teeming with fish.
Reviewers repeatedly praise the quality of the snorkeling gear and the helpful guidance, which makes the experience suitable for beginners. However, some note that the snorkeling might be less than 30 minutes, so if underwater exploration is your top priority, keep that in mind. Also, the reviews from some travelers mention less-than-ideal food quality at the buffet, but most agree the drinks and lively atmosphere compensate for that.
More Great Tours NearbyArrival at Isla Mujeres and Beach Time
Once you arrive at Isla Mujeres, the tour guides lead a brief safety orientation before free time begins. You’ll typically spend about an hour exploring the island, which includes a walk through its charming center. Many describe this part as a chance to browse local shops, take photos, or simply relax.
The highlight for many is the swim at North Beach, famous for its clear waters and gentle waves. It’s an excellent spot for lounging, cooling off, and soaking in island vibes. The opportunity to explore the island at your own pace adds a layer of freedom to the trip.
Beach Club and Buffet
After some sightseeing, it’s time to enjoy the Caribbean buffet at the beach club. The included buffet is a highlight for some, featuring a variety of local and international dishes, along with an open bar—alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks flowing freely. The relaxed setting with lounges and hammocks makes for perfect downtime.
According to reviews, the food quality varies—some found it “not great,” likening the buffet to a factory-style setup. Still, most guests appreciate the generous drinks service and the opportunity to unwind.
Return Journey and Sunset
As the day winds down, the boat departs for Cancun, with the return trip offering scenic sunset views. Many travelers mention the lively atmosphere on board, dancing and enjoying the music as they cruise back, making it a memorable end to the trip. The timing of the sunset adds a romantic and picturesque finish to the day.
Practical Details and What It Means for You

Duration and Pacing
The 7-hour itinerary is fairly packed but balanced. You’ll spend about two hours traveling to and from Cancun, an hour exploring Isla Mujeres, and a good chunk of time snorkeling, relaxing, and dining. For travelers wanting a full, active day without feeling rushed, it hits the mark.
Cost and Value
At $49, this tour is quite affordable for what it offers: a mix of sightseeing, water activities, good food, and island exploration. When you consider the all-inclusive drinks, snorkeling gear, and buffet, it’s a good deal, especially for travelers on a budget. However, some reviews mention extra costs like a $20 USD dock use tax—something to be prepared for.
Group Size and Atmosphere
Most tours are private groups, but the lively atmosphere suggests a social environment, perfect for making new friends or enjoying with family. The crew’s friendliness and the music contribute to a festive vibe. Keep in mind, though, that the tour is designed to cater to a broad audience, including families with children and groups of partiers, so experiences may vary.
Accessibility and Considerations
The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus. However, it’s not suitable for people with respiratory issues, seasickness, high blood pressure, or recent surgeries—these conditions could be affected by boat travel and water activities. Be sure to bring biodegradable sunscreen (to protect the reef) and cash for extras.
Authentic Traveler Insights

One traveler from France appreciated the friendly crew, noting they were “incredibly nice and punctual,” but also mentioned a less-than-stellar buffet. Conversely, a traveler from the UK highlighted that the staff asked frequently if drinks were needed and created a welcoming environment.
However, not all reviews are glowing: a United States traveler described their experience as “horrible,” citing rude guides, insufficient snorkeling time, and even food poisoning. Such feedback underscores the importance of being prepared and setting realistic expectations.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is especially well-suited for families, groups of friends, or seniors who want a lively yet manageable day at sea and ashore. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, inclusive option with plenty of social fun, this tour covers the essentials and offers authentic, relaxed enjoyment.
If your priority is luxury, gourmet food, or extensive time snorkeling, you might want to explore other options. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness or have specific health restrictions, be cautious or consider alternatives.
Final Thoughts

This Isla Mujeres tour offers a practical, fun-filled way to enjoy some of the best parts of the island: the vibrant boat ride, snorkeling amidst colorful reefs, and relaxing on a Caribbean beach. The value is solid, with most guests leaving satisfied — especially those who appreciate lively atmospheres and a bit of spontaneity.
It’s a solid choice for those who want a straightforward, all-inclusive day trip with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and unwinding. Just be mindful of the occasional extra charges, variable food quality, and the importance of arriving prepared.
Overall, it’s a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and social atmosphere—a trip that will leave you with warm memories and a tan to match.
FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Transportation from your hotel is not included in the standard package, but it can be arranged at an extra cost. Be sure to notify at least 24 hours in advance if you need this service.
What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable and beachwear, and some cash for extras or tips. Sunscreen is essential to protect the reefs and your skin.
How long is the snorkeling session?
Snorkeling usually lasts less than 30 minutes, but it’s enough to see underwater statues and coral reefs with provided gear. It’s suitable for beginners.
What’s the food like at the beach club?
The buffet offers local and international dishes, with drinks included. Some reviews mention the food quality as average, but most guests enjoy the relaxed setting and drinks.
How much does the dock use tax cost?
There’s a dock use tax of $20 USD per person, payable on site or included in the total price, depending on the booking.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.
Can I join the tour if I get seasick easily?
If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions. The boat ride isn’t very long, but boat motion can be bothersome for sensitive travelers.
What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.
In all, this Isla Mujeres tour offers a lively, affordable way to experience the island’s highlights, especially if you’re looking for a day packed with water fun, good food, and tropical scenery. It’s a trip that balances adventure with relaxation, perfect for making the most of your time in Cancun or the Riviera Maya.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Quintana Roo
More Tour Reviews in Quintana Roo
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Quintana Roo we have reviewed
- Bacalar: Group Sailing Tour with Guide
- Cozumel: Island Highlights Tour with Tequila Tasting
- Private Chichen Itza & Cenote
- Cozumel Highlights Visit Benito Juarez Park
- Chichen Itza Tour with Lunch and Transportation from Playa del Carmen
- Cozumel: Private Xrail Buggy Adventure to Virgin Beach
- Taco Fest at Cozumel
- Cozumel: Electric Carriage Tour
- Play Hard Rock Golf Course W/Clubs
- Kohunlich Mayan Ruins: With Professional Native Guides
- Cozumel: ATV Jungle Adventure
- Puerto Aventuras: Dolphin & Manatee Encounter with lunch
