Isla Mujeres: catamaran or ferry? Which one to pick and what it costs (2026)

The ferry is the cheapest way to reach Isla Mujeres (about $580 MXN round trip in 2026) and it suits you if you want to explore the island at your own pace. The catamaran costs more, but it already includes an open bar, reef snorkeling, a buffet lunch, a beach club on Playa Norte and transportation from your hotel: it suits you if you want an all-included day without organizing anything.

Ferry: how it works

• It leaves from Puerto Juárez and the Cancún Hotel Zone, roughly every 30 minutes.
• About $580 MXN round trip per adult (price published in October 2026).
• The crossing takes about 20 minutes.
• You pay separately for the taxi to the pier, food, drinks, golf cart rental and snorkeling if you want it.

It is ideal if you want to see Punta Sur, downtown and Playa Norte at your own pace, or stay overnight.

Catamaran: what ours includes

Our Isla Mujeres Plus costs from $1,944 MXN per person and includes:

• Transportation from your hotel or a meeting point, and the dock fee.
• Open bar on board and at the beach club: rum, tequila, vodka, beer, soft drinks and water.
• Reef snorkeling with gear (ages 10 to 60).
• Buffet lunch on Playa Norte.
• Free time on the island.

It lasts about 7 hours, with departures at 10:00 am or 1:00 pm from Marina Las Perlas. Children 0 to 5 go free on an adult’s lap.

Quick comparison

• Price: ferry about $580 MXN; catamaran from $1,944 MXN.
• Food and drinks: ferry, separate; catamaran, included.
• Snorkeling: ferry, separate; catamaran, included.
• Hotel transportation: ferry, separate; catamaran, included.
• Schedule: ferry, total freedom; catamaran, the tour’s schedule.

Which one to pick

• Ferry: you are on a tight budget, want to explore the whole island or will sleep there.
• Catamaran: you want a day of beach, snorkeling and open bar without thinking about anything, as a couple, with friends or with family.