Transparent Boat Tour Isla Mujeres: Three Caribbean Reefs

Watch the reef world unfold beneath a transparent hull

A transparent boat tour from Isla Mujeres takes you above three Caribbean reefs (Cadenita, El Farito and La Cabonera), where you drift over shallow waters to see fan coral, fire coral and colorful fish through the boat's hull. The guide speaks English or Spanish. Infants sit on an adult's lap. Public transportation reaches the departure point.

The experience

What makes this different is the boat itself: a transparent hull gives you 360-degree views of the water below without getting wet. You start at Cadenita reef, where shallow waters let you see the diversity of corals up close: the majestic fan coral and the fire coral that gives the reef its name. The boat then moves to El Farito reef, a marine sanctuary packed with colorful fish, and finishes at La Cabonera reef for one last underwater view before heading back to port. Each stop is a different window into the Caribbean.

The whole outing runs 45 minutes, which keeps the pace unhurried without eating your whole afternoon. A live guide in English or Spanish narrates what you're seeing as you float above each reef. Infants travel free but need to sit on an adult's lap. The boat is suitable for all fitness levels. Public transportation options are nearby if you're staying elsewhere on the island or don't have a rental.

What’s included

• All fees and taxes.
• a live guide in English or Spanish.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day8 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 17:00

Book up to10h before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (4 to 11 years) · Infant (under 4)

GroupUp to 14

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “Marina Bartolomé, easily recognizable by its blue building and distinctive sign, is located on the main avenue of Isla Mujeres, a few steps from the port of Ultramar.”

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.

Prices and times updated 10 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Midas Travel

Is this one for you?Book this if you're staying on Isla Mujeres or prefer not to drive. The boat departs from the island itself. Choose it over snorkeling if you want to see the reefs without entering the water.

Traveler reviews

4.50★★★★★★★★★★

2 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 11 years); Infant (under 4).

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.

What can I actually see through the transparent boat hull?

The three reefs (Cadenita, El Farito and La Cabonera) each show different coral and fish. Cadenita has fan coral and fire coral in shallow water; El Farito is a sanctuary full of colorful fish; La Cabonera offers a final marine view before the return.

How long is the transparent boat tour?

The tour runs 45 minutes total, covering all three reefs and the return to port.

Do I need to know how to swim or be in good shape?

No. The boat is suitable for all fitness levels, and you stay aboard the whole time. There's no swimming or snorkeling involved.

How do I get to the boat if I don't have a car?

Public transportation options are available nearby the departure point on Isla Mujeres, so you can reach the boat without a rental.