Introduction

Planning a day trip from Playa del Carmen to the stunning Isla Mujeres? This Unlimited Sailing Adventure offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Mexican charm — perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a laid-back day on the Caribbean Sea. We’ve looked into this tour to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.
What we particularly like about this experience is the unlimited open bar and buffet lunch on board, making it a true all-inclusive escape. Plus, the snorkeling stops at Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte promise a peek into vibrant marine life, which many travelers find memorable. However, a consideration to keep in mind is the dock fee of $20 USD per person, which isn’t included in the initial price — so budget accordingly.
This tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, social day on the water with plenty of drinks and scenic views, rather than a deep-dive into island history or guided tours. If you want a fun, picturesque day with some snorkeling and lively ambiance, this could be a great choice.
Key Points

- All-Inclusive Experience: Unlimited drinks, buffet lunch, and snorkeling gear included.
- Transport Included: Round-trip transfers from Playa del Carmen and Cancun make logistics easy.
- Flexible Free Time: Ample time in Isla Mujeres to explore independently.
- Snorkeling at Two Spots: Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte, with marine life encounters.
- Boat Options Vary: Double-decker or single-floor catamaran, assigned at the marina.
- Additional Costs: Dock tax of $20 USD per person and infant transportation fee of $18 USD apply.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Playa del Carmen
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transit
The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a bonus for those staying in Playa del Carmen or Cancun. You’ll be driven to a private marina at Punta Sam, where the boats are waiting. This is a comfortable way to avoid the hassle of arranging your own transport, especially since the boat pickup is included.
The departure time usually aligns with morning schedules, giving you plenty of daylight for your activities. The journey out on the double-decker catamaran or sailing boat is part of the fun — expect lively chatter, refreshing sea breezes, and stunning views of the Caribbean coast.
The Snorkeling Stops: Punta Sam Reef and Playa Norte
The first snorkeling stop is at Punta Sam Reef, home to a variety of fish, turtles, and other marine creatures. We loved how the tour highlights this spot as a natural reserve, promising a chance to see Caribbean marine life in its natural habitat. The snorkeling equipment is provided, making it hassle-free for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
However, it’s important to note that non-swimmers, people over 60, or children under 8 are not recommended for snorkeling. If you’re comfortable in the water, you’ll find the reefs beautiful and teeming with life. Many reviews mention the vibrant colors and the lively fish as the highlights of this part of the trip, making it well worth the effort.
Following the reef, most of the boat’s party heads to Playa Norte — a famous beach known for its soft white sand and calm, shallow waters. While the tour provides free time here, it’s without a guide, so travelers are encouraged to explore independently, buy souvenirs, or just relax with a drink in hand.
On Isla Mujeres: Free Time and Exploration
Once ashore, you’ll have several hours to wander the streets of Isla Mujeres. The town is quaint, with colorful murals and lively shops that sell handmade souvenirs and marine-themed art. Many travelers enjoy taking photos of the murals depicting marine life, or simply strolling to soak in the island vibe.
You can choose to relax at the beach club—which offers spectacular views of the Caribbean—or explore on your own. The tour emphasizes a laid-back, unstructured experience, making it ideal for those wanting a taste of local life rather than a guided tour.
You can also read our reviews of more sailing experiences in Playa del Carmen
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The Beach Club Experience
The included buffet lunch and open bar are served at a comfortable beach club, which many guests praise for its beautiful setting and relaxed atmosphere. While enjoying your meal, you can sip unlimited drinks, including tequila, which the tour promotes as part of a lively “tequila party.”
Guests have reported that the atmosphere at the beach club is fun and casual, and the views of the Caribbean are spectacular. The all-you-can-drink approach adds to the festive mood, but it’s wise to pace yourself and stay hydrated with water, especially in the sun.
Return Journey and Final Thoughts
After several hours of free exploration, you’ll board the boat again for the trip back to Punta Sam. The return ride offers more chances for socializing and enjoying the sea breezes. The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full day of activity, relaxation, and scenic beauty.
What This Tour Does Well
Travelers consistently mention the stunning views and fun atmosphere as key highlights. The snorkeling at Punta Sam Reef is often described as lively and colorful, with many noting the marine life as a standout feature. The all-inclusive drinks and buffet lunch add significant value, as they eliminate the need to worry about bringing extra cash or packing food.
The group size, limited to 50 travelers, helps maintain a lively but manageable environment. The round-trip transport from both Cancun and Playa del Carmen simplifies your day, removing logistical stress.
Areas for Consideration

While the tour offers a lot of fun, there are some points to keep in mind. The dock fee of $20 USD per person is not included in the original price, which can surprise some travelers. Also, free time on Isla Mujeres is unaccompanied by a guide, so those looking for more structured or educational tours may find this aspect lacking.
Snorkeling is not recommended for non-swimmers or young children under 8, so families with young kids should plan accordingly. The boat assignment (double decker or single floor) can vary, which may affect the onboard experience slightly.
Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed, social day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the scenery. If you’re after a fun, informal atmosphere with unlimited drinks and a lively vibe, this tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal if you prefer independent exploration rather than a guided, structured experience.
However, if you’re looking for a deep historical tour or prefer more structured activities, you might want to consider other options. This tour is about having fun, soaking in views, and enjoying good company — a classic Caribbean day out.
The Sum Up

For those craving a day of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing with drinks, this tour provides excellent value. The combination of scenic boat rides, marine life encounters, and free time on Isla Mujeres makes it a well-rounded experience. The all-inclusive aspect, including lunch and unlimited drinks, simplifies planning and adds to the carefree atmosphere.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to combine adventure with leisure — whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends. The tour’s focus on stunning views and lively socializing makes it a memorable way to spend a day in the Caribbean.
If you’re comfortable with the extra costs (dock fee and possible infant transportation fee), this adventure could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring your swimsuit, towel, and a good camera — you’ll want to capture the vibrant scenes and shimmering sea.
FAQ

Is transportation from Playa del Carmen included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from both Playa del Carmen and Cancun is included, making it an easy way to get to the marina without extra hassle.
How long is the trip?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, including transportation, sailing, snorkeling, free time, and lunch.
Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, the tour offers an open bar on board, with a variety of drinks available throughout the trip.
What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen, and a camera. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but personal items are up to you.
Can children participate in snorkeling?
Snorkeling is not recommended for children under 8 or non-swimmers. Always check with the provider if you have concerns about your child’s participation.
Is there an extra fee I should know about?
Yes, there is a $20 USD dock tax per person, which is paid at the marina, and an $18 USD infant transportation fee if you’re bringing an infant.
What boat type will I be on?
The boat will be a double-decker or a single-floor sailing catamaran, assigned at the marina.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
This sailing adventure offers a lively, scenic day out that balances relaxation with fun activities. If you’re looking for a laid-back but lively way to enjoy Isla Mujeres, it’s hard to go wrong with this well-organized and enjoyable tour.
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