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Spend a day sailing from Cancún to two very different Caribbean islands: a protected wildlife reserve where visitors are strictly limited, and Isla Mujeres’ bustling shore with shops and cafes. The trip mixes morning reef snorkeling at Ixlache with a guided tour of Isla Contoy and a relaxed hour to explore Isla Mujeres.
Spend a day sailing from Cancún to two very different Caribbean islands: a protected wildlife reserve where visitors are strictly limited, and Isla Mujeres’ bustling shore with shops and cafes. The trip mixes morning reef snorkeling at Ixlache with a guided tour of Isla Contoy and a relaxed hour to explore Isla Mujeres.
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Operated by Joy Travel Rewards · Cancún, Quintana Roo
You step off the catamaran and the Atlantic rearranges your senses: the water sharpens to a Caribbean blue, the sand underfoot is fine and bright enough to make the sky look deeper. The morning begins with a short, bracing snorkel at Ixlache Reef — masks fog, fins kick, and a scattered city of parrotfish, angelfish and branching corals move around you with indifferent grace. By late morning the boat eases into the protected cove at Isla Contoy, a small reserve that admits only a handful of visitors each day. A certified guide opens the gate to an island where the principal activities are quiet observation and measured awe.
moderate.
10 hours (full day).
Suitable for travelers with average fitness—able to handle short swims, moderate walking on sandy and uneven surfaces, and boarding boats.
This is a full-day tour of about 10 hours, including snorkeling, Contoy visit, lunch and time on Isla Mujeres.
Yes—snorkeling gear is included if weather allows, but bringing your own mask and fins is recommended.
Snorkeling is not available for non-swimmers, children under 8, or guests over 60 for safety reasons.
No individual permit is needed—the operator secures park access; Contoy limits daily numbers, which is why booking in advance is advised.
Yes—a regional buffet meal is served; unlimited national open bar is available after the meal.
Yes—there’s a dock fee (~$20 USD) not included in the tour price and an $18 USD infant transportation surcharge.
Contoy has long been a navigational waypoint and was declared a protected natural park to preserve breeding bird colonies and coastal marine habitats.
Access to Contoy is strictly limited to protect nesting birds and turtle habitat; visitors are asked to use reef-safe products and minimize waste.
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