Cancun to Isla Mujeres: Private Catamaran & Snorkel Tour

Sail from Cancun with private crew, snorkel art reefs, relax at Isla Mujeres

You’ll board a private catamaran in Cancun with friends or family, sail across turquoise waves with an open bar and local crew, snorkel among surreal sculptures at the Underwater Museum of Art, then sink your feet into Isla Mujeres’ North Beach. Expect laughter, salt air, and those small moments that linger long after you’re back on land.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each

1. Underwater Museum of Art1h 15m · entry included
2. North Beach1h

Catamaran tour and snorkeling

• Snorkel at Cancun Underwater Museum
• Snorkel at Manchones reef
• Swim at Isla Mujeres North Beach

The experience

First thing I noticed was the way the sun bounced off the water as we stepped onto the catamaran in Cancun: almost too bright to look at, but you get used to it. Our guide, Rafa, handed me a cold drink before I even realized I wanted one (he just grinned and said “bienvenido”). There’s something about that first salty breeze that makes you forget your phone exists. The boat felt steady under my feet (not what I expected with thirty people), and everyone sort of melted into their own spots, some up front catching wind, others already eyeing the open bar.

We stopped near this spot called the Underwater Museum of Art. I’d read about it but didn’t really get it until I put on the snorkel mask and looked down: sculptures covered in coral, schools of these tiny blue fish darting around like they owned the place. My friend tried to name all the fish (she got maybe three right), while Rafa pointed out a statue shaped like a car. The water tasted weirdly sweet when it splashed into my mouth. It’s quieter underwater than you’d think. Just your own bubbles and muffled laughter from above.

After that we drifted toward Isla Mujeres, and honestly North Beach is just… soft sand everywhere, shallow water so clear you can see your toes. A few locals were playing music farther down. Someone offered us fresh mango slices right on the beach (sticky hands for hours after). The whole time, our crew kept checking if anyone needed another drink or just wanted to float for a bit longer. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed: like time slowed down out there. Still think about that light on the water sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

What’s included

Your day includes a private catamaran with driver-guide from Cancun for up to 30 people, unlimited open bar drinks throughout the trip, all snorkeling activities at both Manchones Reef and the Underwater Museum of Art near Isla Mujeres’ North Beach. Just remember there’s a small reef tax due when you check in before sailing off.

Options for this experience

2 options

4 Hours CharterGuide in 4 languages · 09:00, 10:00 and 14:00Catamaran trip lasting 4 hours, with an open bar included.

7 Hours CharterGuide in 4 languages · 09:00, 10:00 and 14:00Snorkel gear is included, along with an open bar.

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00, 10:00 and 14:00

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Paid on siteUS$ 20

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Cancun Sailing Catamarans

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Is this catamaran tour from Cancun private?

Yes, this is a private tour for your group only.

Does the tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, all activities including snorkeling are included.

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

The tour lasts either 4 or 7 hours depending on your choice.

Are drinks included on this catamaran tour?

Yes, unlimited drinks are included with an open bar onboard.

Can children join this Cancun to Isla Mujeres catamaran?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to pay any extra fees for this tour?

A $20 USD reef tax must be paid at check-in on the day of your private tour.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.