Sailing at Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres! Snorkel at Ixlache Reef

Planning a day on the water around Cancun? There’s a tempting option that promises a blend of snorkeling, island wandering, and some well-deserved beach time. We’re talking about the Sailing at Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres tour offered by New Choice Travel. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, by analyzing reviews, itinerary details, and what’s included, we can give you a well-rounded picture of what to expect.

Two aspects stand out right away: the opportunity to snorkel in a protected reef filled with vibrant marine life and the chance to wander through colorful island streets. We also appreciate the included buffet lunch and hotel pickup, which add convenience and value. On the flip side, potential travelers should be aware of a dock tax and the fact that snorkeling isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or very young children.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy active days, love discovering marine life, and want a taste of both natural beauty and local island charm. If you’re after a laid-back beach day only, this might not be your best fit. But for those seeking an engaging, full-day adventure with guided insights and scenic sailing, it offers a solid option.

Key Points

• Includes transfer from Cancun or Riviera Maya for hassle-free travel.
• Snorkeling at Ixlache Reef offers colorful marine life, perfect for underwater fans.
• Guided tours at Isla Contoy enrich the experience with local insights.
• Meal included: a regional buffet that refuels after snorkeling.
• Exclusive beach access at Isla Contoy allows for quiet relaxation.
• Limited free time at Isla Mujeres, with only about an hour for exploring.
• Booking well in advance (average 23 days ahead) indicates steady demand.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Isla Contoy: The Nature Lover’s Haven

The day kicks off early with pickup around 7:30 AM, heading towards the marina at Cancun. Once aboard the catamaran — which could be a double-deck or single-floor vessel depending on the marina’s assignment — the first major stop is Isla Contoy.

This uninhabited island is protected, meaning it’s a haven for birdlife and unspoiled beaches. But the main draw for most visitors is the snorkeling opportunity at the reef. With provided gear (weather permitting), you’ll float over vibrant coral formations and see a variety of marine creatures, including possibly sea turtles and dolphins. Reviewers mention the reef is filled with colorful marine life, making the snorkeling experience especially rewarding.

The tour includes a guided walk on the island, giving you a chance to learn about its ecological significance. The lunch here is a regional buffet, typically served after the snorkel session, providing a hearty meal to recharge. The admission to Isla Contoy is included, and you’ll have about four hours to explore, snorkel, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings. One guest noted, “The trip to Isla Contoy was amazing, and the snorkeling was great,” highlighting how the natural spot often lives up to expectations.

Isla Mujeres: The Colorful Escape

After leaving Isla Contoy, the boat sets sail toward Isla Mujeres. The journey is roughly an hour, offering scenic views of the Caribbean coast. Once there, you’ll get about an hour of free time to stroll the vibrant streets, browse souvenirs, or relax on the beach.

Many travelers appreciate the informal, laid-back vibe of Isla Mujeres. The streets are lined with shops, cafes, and small attractions, perfect for a quick wander before heading back to the boat. While this part of the tour is relatively short, it allows you to experience a taste of island life without a long stay.

Return Trip and Additional Details

The tour concludes with the boat heading back to Cancun, arriving around late afternoon. The whole experience lasts approximately 10 hours, with most of that time spent on the water and exploring.

Transportation is included, with pickup options from Cancun or Riviera Maya, making logistics easier. The catamaran varies — sometimes double-decked, sometimes single-floor — and is equipped for comfort and safety.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included in the price ($151 per person):

• Round transportation from Cancun and Riviera Maya
• Catamaran sailing (1 or 2 floors)
• Certified guides knowledgeable about the area
• Unlimited open national bar (post-meal)
• Snorkeling equipment (weather permitting)
• Regional buffet meal
• Access to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres
• About an hour of free time at Isla Mujeres

Additional costs to keep in mind:

• Dock tax of $20 USD per person
• An extra $18 USD per infant for transportation (if traveling with infants)
• Snorkeling isn’t available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or those over 60, so plan accordingly

The Experience: What Travelers Say

While the overall rating is a modest 3.5/5 based on five reviews, comments highlight some key strengths. One traveler from June 2023 exclaimed, “We had an amazing time, the tour was very organized, and the snorkeling was great.” Another from February 2024 praised the friendly staff and paradisiacal island atmosphere, expressing high satisfaction with the attention received.

A recurring theme is the value of knowledgeable guides and the stunning views of the Caribbean, which many found memorable. The free time at Isla Mujeres may be brief, but it’s enough for a quick stroll and some souvenir shopping — some travelers mentioned they appreciated the balance of structured activity and free exploration.

What Could Be Better

Some reviews indicate that the free time on Isla Mujeres might feel rushed, especially if you want to explore more deeply. The dock tax can be a surprise if not prepared, adding to the cost. Plus, snorkeling is weather-dependent, so if ocean conditions aren’t ideal, you might find the experience less vibrant.

Is This Tour Worth the Cost?

At $151 per person, the tour offers a good mix of transportation, guided insights, snorkeling, and island exploration. When you factor in the included meals and amenities, it’s generally seen as offering solid value for the full day. However, the price might seem steep if you’re just looking for a quick beach day without the activity of snorkeling or guided tours.

For active travelers or those eager to see both islands and the reef, this tour hits many sweet spots. It’s especially suited for first-timers wanting a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning individual bookings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys sailing, discovering marine life underwater, and exploring uninhabited or semi-inhabited islands, this tour is a good fit. It’s perfect for families with older children, snorkelers, and anyone eager to combine nature with a bit of local flavor. The group size max of 50 travelers keeps it lively but manageable.

However, if you’re looking for a relaxing beach day with little activity, or if you’re traveling with small children or non-swimmers, you might prefer a different type of excursion.

Final Thoughts

This sailing adventure to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, marine exploration, and local island charm. The inclusion of transportation, guided tours, and a buffet lunch makes it convenient and adds value. The highlights—especially the snorkeling at Ixlache Reef and the chance to explore Isla Mujeres—are likely to appeal to travelers seeking an active, engaging day.

While some may find the free time on Isla Mujeres a bit limited, the overall experience provides a good glimpse into the region’s vibrant marine environment and relaxed island life. It’s a tour that caters well to those who want more than just sunbathing — it’s about connecting with the sea, observing wildlife, and enjoying scenic sailing.

In essence, if you’re looking for a full-day, well-organized trip that combines adventure, beauty, and local culture, this tour is worth considering. Just prepare for the dock tax and weather-dependent snorkeling to get the most out of your day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off are offered, making logistics easier for travelers staying in Cancun or Riviera Maya.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly 10 hours, beginning at 7:30 AM and concluding in the late afternoon.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat capacity is up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but comfortable group size.

When should I book this tour?
It’s best to reserve about 3 weeks in advance, as it’s typically booked 23 days ahead on average.

What’s the snorkeling experience like?
Snorkeling at Ixlache Reef is the highlight for many, with colorful marine life and coral. Weather conditions can affect availability, and snorkeling is not suitable for non-swimmers or very young children.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional buffet is served on Isla Contoy, providing energy for the day’s activities.

Are there any hidden costs?
Yes, there’s a $20 USD dock tax per person that is payable at the marina, and additional fees for infants transportation.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded Caribbean adventure with natural beauty, marine encounters, and island charm. It’s ideal for active travelers, families with older kids, or anyone eager to see both the reefs and the vibrant streets of Isla Mujeres. Just keep in mind the weather, the limited free time at Isla Mujeres, and the extra costs to fully plan your perfect day on the water.