Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres Day Trip from Cancun — Snorkel Ixlache and Protected Bird Island
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness for short swims and walking on sand/boardwalks; suitable for most travelers.
Overview
Set off from Cancun for a nine-hour catamaran day trip that pairs snorkeling at the Ixlache reef with a guided visit to protected Isla Contoy and free time on Isla Mujeres. Expect clear water, seabirds, a regional buffet, and strict conservation rules on Contoy.
Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres Day Trip from Cancun — Snorkel Ixlache and Protected Bird Island
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The catamaran slips away from Punta Sam with the shoreline of Cancun shrinking into a sun-bright smear, and the Caribbean begins to take charge: a palette of turquoise that dares you closer. Within an hour the boat drops anchor at Arrecife Ixlache, where the coral promises to hold its color beneath small, glassy waves. Masks on, fins kicking, the reef becomes a low, living city — staghorn and brain coral flanked by curious parrotfish and snappers.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Isla Contoy is a protected reserve — choose mineral-based sunscreen and reapply after swimming to protect coral and marine life.
Bring a reusable water bottle
The tour provides drinks but having your own reduces plastic waste and keeps you hydrated under the sun.
Pack light water shoes
Beaches are fine sand but rocky patches and boat ramps benefit from soft-soled water shoes.
Carry small cash for souvenirs and dock fees
There’s a $20 dock fee per person and local vendors on Isla Mujeres accept cash for crafts and snacks.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- frigatebird
- green sea turtle
History
Isla Contoy has been protected since the 1960s and is managed to preserve nesting seabirds and marine habitats; Isla Mujeres grew from a fishing village into a tourist hub but retains Maya and fishing heritage.
Conservation
Visitor numbers to Contoy are strictly capped to protect nesting birds and coral reefs; tours emphasize reef‑safe products and no‑take policies to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cancun
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects coral and reduces your environmental impact while keeping you safe from UV.
summer specific
Mask and snorkel (optional)
Onboard gear is provided but a personal, well-fitted mask improves comfort and visibility.
summer specific
Light windbreaker
The return trip can be breezy; a thin layer stops the chill without weighing you down.
winter specific
Waterproof phone case or camera
Useful for reef shots and protecting electronics from salt spray during snorkeling and on deck.
summer specific