
moderate
8 hours
Moderate—comfortable swimming ability, ability to climb small boat ladders and walk on soft sand.
A full-day boat trip that pairs reef snorkeling with a visit to the protected Isla Contoy and a whirlwind stop on Isla Mujeres. Expect clear Caribbean water, a guided snorkel over healthy reef, a beachfront buffet, and strict conservation rules that keep the island pristine.
The boat slips out of Punta Sam before the heat of midday, engines softening into a steady hum as the Caribbean spreads its brightest tones across the horizon. Sea spray dots your shoulders; a bilingual guide scans the water and points—an errant eagle ray arcs like a question mark—while the reef ahead seems to pull the boat forward with its color. By the time you cut through Isla Mujeres’ northern fringe the air smells of salt, grilled fish and citrus from the ship’s buffet line, and the day turns into a sequence of salt, birdsong and shallow-water wonder.

Oils and chemicals damage coral—use biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen and reapply sparingly before re-entering water.
Choose an early pickup to get clearer snorkel conditions and quieter beach time on Isla Contoy.
Stash phones and passports in a waterproof pouch during snorkeling and boat transfers; moving boats can be slippery.
If you booked hotel transport, confirm your pickup point and time at least the day before to avoid delays.
Isla Contoy has been managed as a protected area to limit human impact and preserve important bird nesting and marine habitats.
Strict visitor caps, no overnight stays, and guided paths reduce disturbance; visitors should use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching corals.
Protects coral and prevents sunburn during long sun exposure on deck and beach.
summer specific
Keeps electronics and documents dry during transfers and while on the beach.
Provides sun protection for long snorkel sessions and reduces chafing from lifejackets.
summer specific
Useful for boarding boats, walking rocky points and protecting feet on hot sand.