THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Board a catamaran from Cancún for a full-day trip to Isla Contoy—one of Mexico’s most protected islands—paired with snorkeling at Ixlache reef and a stop in Isla Mujeres. Limited to about 200 visitors per day, this tour blends close-up wildlife viewing, beach time and certified-guided snorkels.
Board a catamaran from Cancún for a full-day trip to Isla Contoy—one of Mexico’s most protected islands—paired with snorkeling at Ixlache reef and a stop in Isla Mujeres. Limited to about 200 visitors per day, this tour blends close-up wildlife viewing, beach time and certified-guided snorkels.
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Operated by Open Vacations · Cancún, Quintana Roo
The catamaran slips free of the Cancún marina as morning light runs down the hotel zone—steel rail warm beneath your palms, salt air already working at your hair. The first stop is a shallow patch of reef called Ixlache, where the boat slows and the ocean opens into stinging-blue clarity. Fins slice through water and a compact world of parrotfish and corals unfolds; the reef holds your gaze long after you climb back aboard.
easy.
10 hours.
Suitable for travelers in average fitness—short walks on sand and repeated getting in/out of the boat; must be able to swim to snorkel.
The island is limited to roughly 200 visitors per day to protect wildlife—book in advance to guarantee entry.
No; the dock tax of about $20 USD per person is usually payable at the marina on departure day.
Snorkeling at Ixlache is not offered to non‑swimmers, children under 8, or some guests over 60; there are still guided walks and beach time for everyone.
A regional buffet meal is included; an open national bar is available after the meal as listed in inclusions.
Pickups generally start around 7:00 a.m., but exact pickup time depends on your hotel location—confirm with the supplier after booking.
Yes—the itinerary typically includes a one‑hour stop in Isla Mujeres on the return for a short walk and souvenir shopping.
Local fishing communities used these islands for generations; Contoy was later designated a national park to protect seabird colonies and reef habitat.
Strict visitor limits and guided routes protect nesting birds and coral; bring reusable bottles, use reef‑safe sunscreen and follow all guide instructions.
Open Vacations operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
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Book directly with Open Vacations for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
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