What is included in a Cancun catamaran cruise
The standard Cancun catamaran trip is a full day to Isla Mujeres (the island facing the hotel zone). Most operators include:
- 7 hour cruise from 9 or 10 AM.
- One snorkel stop at a reef near Isla Mujeres.
- 2 to 3 hours of beach time on Playa Norte (Isla Mujeres main beach).
- Lunch on the beach or on the boat.
- Open bar (beer, rum, cocktails) for the entire trip.
- Snorkel gear, life jackets, hotel pickup.
Types of catamaran cruises
Full day Isla Mujeres (most popular)
The standard. 7 hours, reef snorkel, beach time, lunch, open bar. From $89 on a small boat (max 25 guests), around $65 on the big party boats.
Book: Isla Mujeres all inclusive catamaran
Sunset sail
Shorter 2 to 3 hour cruise, usually 5 to 8 PM. No snorkeling, just drinks, appetizers and a sunset view of Cancun hotel zone. From $45 to $75. Better for couples.
Dinner cruise
3 hour evening cruise with dinner included. Live music or DJ, full bar. Sometimes includes a lobster upgrade. From $89 to $150.
Private catamaran charter
Rent the entire boat for up to 30 people. Ideal for groups or special events. From $1,200 for 4 hours.
Small vs big boat
This is the single biggest decision. Small boats (max 25 guests) are noticeably more pleasant: better food, space on the deck, less waiting for drinks, quieter music. Big boats (60 to 100 guests) feel crowded, food is buffet style with long lines, and the music is louder for the party crowd.
If you are deciding between two similar options, pay the extra $15 to $25 for the small boat. The difference in experience is large.
Price comparison 2026
| Type | Duration | Price | Group size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big boat Isla Mujeres | 7 hrs | From $65 | 60 to 100 |
| Small boat Isla Mujeres | 7 hrs | From $89 | Max 25 |
| Sunset sail | 2 to 3 hrs | From $45 | Varies |
| Dinner cruise | 3 hrs | From $89 | Varies |
| Private charter | 4 hrs | From $1,200 | Up to 30 |
What to bring
- Swimsuit under your clothes (change rooms are small).
- Light cover up for the boat.
- Reef safe sunscreen.
- Cash in pesos for tips (standard 10 to 15 percent).
- Seasickness medication if you are sensitive.
Best time of year
All year round, but the smoothest crossings are February to May. Hurricane season peaks in August and September when some trips can be canceled. Book in advance during peak winter months (December to April), last minute availability is common in the shoulder months.
Ready to book?
Mobile ticket, instant confirmation, free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Questions Frequentes
A Cancun catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres costs $65 to $120 per person for 6 to 7 hours including open bar, lunch, snorkel gear and beach time. Sunset sails are shorter and cheaper at $45 to $75.
Most Cancun catamarans depart from El Embarcadero marina in Cancun hotel zone, Km 4.5 on Boulevard Kukulcan. A smaller number leave from Marina Aquatours. Transport from major hotels is included in most tours.
Small catamarans (max 25 guests) offer a quieter experience with better food and more attention. Big catamarans (60 to 100 guests) are cheaper but louder and busier. For a relaxing day, pay the extra $20 for a small boat.