Cancun - Isla Mujeres Ferry: Fast Xcaret Crossing & Pet Friendly

Summary

Easy ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres with flexible times and pet area

You’ll ride a modern Xcaret ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres with open seating (inside or outside), free WiFi, and even space for pets. Flexible tickets mean you can choose your return time without stress. Along the way, you’ll feel that warm Caribbean breeze—and maybe pick up a local tip or two about where to go once you land.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the ferry because I couldn’t find my printed voucher—turns out they’re fine with the digital one (just don’t forget your ID, like I almost did). The Embarcadero in Cancun’s hotel zone was buzzing that morning, families dragging wheeled suitcases, a couple of dogs sniffing each other near the pet area. It smelled like sunscreen and sea breeze—sort of salty but also sweet from someone’s breakfast pastry. The staff at the dock were patient even when I fumbled my Spanish; one guy just grinned and pointed me to the right line.

We got seats outside for the crossing to Isla Mujeres, which took maybe 25 minutes? Hard to tell—I kept getting distracted by pelicans gliding next to us and this weirdly hypnotic blue of the Caribbean. There’s WiFi on board but honestly I barely touched my phone. Some local kids were giggling over a game near us, while an older woman in a sunhat told me about her favorite beach on Isla Mujeres (Playa Norte—she swears by it). I tried sitting inside for a bit—the air conditioning felt good after all that sun—but ended up back outside because you can actually smell the ocean out there.

The return ticket works any time, so we didn’t have to rush back—kind of rare for a day trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. Our guide later said you could even bring your dog if you wanted (I saw someone’s chihuahua peeking out of a tote bag). The only thing I regret is not going up the Scenic Tower in Cancun before we left—I didn’t realize it was included until too late. Next time, maybe. Anyway, it’s not fancy-fancy but it’s easy and friendly, which is what I needed that day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ferry trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres

• Arrive at Embarcadero Isla Mujeres
• Present voucher and photo ID
• Board modern ferry
• Enjoy Caribbean Ocean views
• Travel 20 to 30 minutes to Isla Mujeres
• Disembark at Isla Mujeres

Top questions

How long does the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres take?

The crossing usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes each way.

Where does the Xcaret ferry depart in Cancun?

It leaves from Embarcadero Isla Mujeres at Km 4.5 in the Hotel Zone.

Is there WiFi on board the Xcaret ferry?

Yes, free WiFi is available during your journey.

Are pets allowed on this ferry?

Yes, there is a special pet area so you can bring your dog or cat along.

Can I use my ticket at any departure time?

Your round-trip ticket is flexible; just choose any available schedule.

Is there wheelchair access on board?

Yes, both boarding and seating are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

What do I need to bring to board?

You must show your digital or printed voucher plus official photo ID.

Does my ticket include access to attractions?

If you buy the round ticket at tourist fare, you get free access to Cancun’s Scenic Tower.

What’s included

Your trip includes tax and dock fees already covered, onboard WiFi, air-conditioned indoor seating as well as outdoor spots for sea views, restrooms on board, wheelchair-accessible spaces, designated pet areas if you’re traveling with an animal companion, plus flexible return times and free entry to Cancun’s Scenic Tower when booking round-trip tourist fare tickets.