Isla Mujeres, Snorkel, Lunch & Pick Up from Cancun to P.Morelos

Exciting full-day trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres for snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxation

This full-day tour from Cancun costs $93.50 per person and includes pickup from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Costa Mujeres, making it convenient for travelers staying in these areas. The 10 to 11-hour experience features a scenic trimaran cruise, breakfast, an open bar, and a mix of free time and guided activities on Isla Mujeres. While the tour offers flexible options — a freestyle visit or an all-inclusive package — it also has some limitations, such as shorter time at the island for some guests and varying snorkeling experiences.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and leisure. The guided snorkeling at El Meco Reef and the beach club lunch boost its appeal, especially for travelers eager to explore Isla Mujeres’ waters and shoreline. However, reviewers note that crowds and some logistical issues can affect the experience, so it’s best suited for visitors who are flexible and enjoy lively group outings.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $93.50 for a 10-11 hour trip, including transportation and activities.
• Pickup Locations: Pickups are available from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Costa Mujeres.
• Main Activities: Snorkeling at El Meco Reef, free time on Isla Mujeres, and a buffet lunch at a beach club.
• Onboard Perks: Includes breakfast and an open bar for all guests, with optional snorkeling gear rental and guided tours when booked as all-inclusive.
• Stops and Highlights: Visit Punta Sam, snorkel in El Meco Reef, relax at Playa Norte, and explore Punta Sam’s underwater sculpture garden.
• Tour Limitations: Some guests report shorter island stay (around 1.5 hours) and crowded boats, with occasional issues like loud music or less engaging food options.

Scenic departure from Punta Sam on a trimaran

The tour begins at the Punta Sam ferry terminal, where guests are welcomed aboard a colorful trimaran. The boarding process includes a light breakfast before setting sail across the Caribbean Sea, with views of Cancun’s coastline fading into distance. The trip lasts approximately 20 minutes to reach Punta Sam, the departure point for the cruise.

This sailing vessel offers a comfortable deck where guests can enjoy the Caribbean breeze. The seating is flexible, allowing passengers to lounge in the sun or relax in the shade. The cruise leads through scenic waters toward Isla Mujeres, with breakfast and tropical drinks served to start the day on a festive note.

Snorkeling at El Meco Reef and guided tours when all-inclusive

One of the main highlights is the guided snorkeling tour at El Meco Reef, which is included in the all-inclusive package. The reef is known for colorful fauna and the opportunity to see turtles and a variety of fish. The snorkeling equipment and life vests are provided, and a certified guide leads the tour, ensuring safety and informative commentary.

Guests on the all-inclusive enjoy guided snorkeling and swim at Playa Norte, while those on the free option can choose to snorkel or relax on the boat. The reef visit lasts around 45 minutes, providing enough time to experience the underwater scenery, although some reviews mention challenging conditions due to rough waters or limited fish visibility.

Flexible free time and activities on Isla Mujeres

Once at Isla Mujeres, guests with the free-style option have around 5 hours to explore independently. The island’s quaint streets and shops are perfect for wandering at a leisurely pace. The main gathering point is the pier, where travelers can meet the crew for the return trip.

Meanwhile, those with the all-inclusive package participate in guided activities like snorkeling at Playa Norte and enjoy a buffet lunch at a beach club. The lunch features Mayaland-style BBQ, including fish, but reviews indicate that some found the buffet average. The beach club setting offers hammocks and lounge chairs, ideal for soaking up the sun.

Visiting Playa Norte and Punta Sam’s cultural sites

Following the beach and leisure time, the tour continues with a visit to Playa Norte, renowned for its calm waters and relaxed vibe. Visitors can unwind on beach chairs or in hammocks, enjoying the warm sand and gentle waves for about 45 minutes.

Before returning to Cancun, the boat stops at Punta Sam again, where guests can visit the Temple of IXCHEL, the Fertility goddess of the Mayans, and explore the Underwater Sculpture Garden. These cultural and artistic sites add an engaging element to the trip, with music and a lively onboard party to cap the day.

Logistics: pickup, transportation, and group size

The tour includes pickup from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Costa Mujeres, making it accessible for many travelers. The meeting point is at Punta Sam ferry terminal, a convenient departure spot. The group size is capped at 80 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.

The transportation is arranged from select hotel zones, and the boarding process is straightforward. Guests should be aware of additional costs: a $20 Marine Reef Tax payable at the dock and a MX$15 pier tax for Punta Sam.

Dining and beverages onboard: what’s included and what’s not

All bookings include breakfast, served in the morning, as well as an unlimited open bar featuring tropical drinks. When the all-inclusive option is selected, snorkel equipment and a certified guide are also provided.

However, the lunch at the beach club is a buffet that some consider average, with limited drink options at that point. Notably, drinks are not included during lunch, and additional charges apply for marine tax and pier tax.

Review insights: strengths and common concerns

The crew and guides receive praise for their friendly attitude and professionalism, especially those like Edgar, nicknamed Shrek, who is frequently mentioned as warm and helpful. Guests highlight stunning views, turtle sightings, and beautiful water as key highlights.

On the downside, some reviews mention crowding on the boat, short durations at Isla Mujeres (around 1.5 hours for some), and loud music that requires guests to ask for volume adjustments. Snorkeling conditions can vary, with rough waters sometimes limiting underwater activities, and snorkel gear issues also reported.

Who will enjoy this tour and who should consider alternatives

This tour offers a fun mix of sailing, snorkeling, and island exploration suited for active travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere. The guided snorkeling and cultural stops add educational value, but crowds and limited island time may not appeal to those seeking a more relaxed or exclusive experience.

Guests should be comfortable with group activities, public transportation, and moderate physical activity like walking and snorkeling. The price point makes it a competitive option, especially considering the included breakfast, open bar, and guided tours, but some guests find the lunch buffet average.

Isla Mujeres full-day cruise: a lively, flexible adventure with some caveats

The full-day trip to Isla Mujeres offers a balance of guided activities and free exploration, with scenic sailing and several stops. The guided snorkeling at El Meco Reef is a highlight, as is the beach club lunch and cultural sites. For those wanting a lively group experience, the onboard music and party atmosphere appeal.

However, short time on Isla Mujeres — especially for free explorers — and crowded boats can impact enjoyment. The loud music, average buffet lunch, and occasional snorkeling challenges are worth considering. This tour suits visitors who value a spirited, all-inclusive day with plenty of social energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Costa Mujeres, with transportation arranged to and from the Punta Sam ferry terminal.

What activities are part of the all-inclusive package?
The all-inclusive option features guided snorkeling at El Meco Reef, snorkeling at Playa Norte, a buffet lunch at a beach club, snorkel equipment rental, and a certified snorkeling guide.

How long do I get at Isla Mujeres?
Guests on the free-style option have about 5 hours to explore on their own, while all-inclusive guests enjoy guided activities and a more structured schedule, with lunch included.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, a $20 Marine Reef Tax must be paid at the dock, along with a MX$15 pier tax for Punta Sam. Drinks during lunch are not included in the price.

What is the quality of snorkeling?
Snorkeling is a main feature, with a guided tour at El Meco Reef. However, rough waters and limited fish visibility may affect the experience, especially if the weather is challenging.

Would you recommend this tour?
This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy group sailing, snorkeling, and some free time at the island. Those seeking a more relaxed or private experience might prefer other options, given some reviews’ comments on crowded boats and short island stops.