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Selvana › Experiences › Isla Mujeres Catamaran
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Isla Mujeres — the island named for a goddess

Sail turquoise water to Playa Norte, snorkel the reef, and spend the day with an open bar and lunch aboard.

7–8 hrsDuration
EasyDifficulty
All agesAges
IncludedHotel pickup
Nov–AugBest season
About this experience

A pilgrimage island, then and now

Spanish sailors named it in 1517. Landing on the southern point, they found clay figurines of a female deity at a shrine — and called the place Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women. The temple honoured Ixchel, goddess of the moon, weaving and childbirth.

Maya canoes crossed here for centuries. Pilgrims set out from mainland ports such as Polé — the inlet that is now Xcaret — to seek Ixchel's blessing. Punta Sur, where the shrine stood, is the first place in Mexico to catch the sunrise each morning.

The water is calm for a reason. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — the second largest on Earth, running roughly 1,000 km to Honduras — breaks the ocean swell offshore. That is what creates the flat, impossibly clear turquoise shallows around the island, and why Playa Norte is consistently ranked among the finest beaches in the Caribbean.

  • Sail on a catamaran across open turquoise water
  • Guided snorkel stop on the Mesoamerican reef
  • Hours at Playa Norte — shallow, calm and pale as milk
  • Open bar and lunch served aboard
  • Free time to explore the island's town and colours
  • Private charters available for families and celebrations

Your day, hour by hour

  • 08:30 Pickup from your hotel and transfer to the marina.
  • 09:30 Board the catamaran; welcome drinks and safety briefing.
  • 10:00–11:00 Sail across open water with the coastline in view.
  • 11:00–12:00 Snorkel stop on the reef with a guide and full equipment.
  • 12:00–15:00 Ashore on the island: Playa Norte, lunch and free time in town.
  • 15:00–16:30 Return sail with open bar, music and swimming from the boat.
  • ~17:30 Drop-off back at your hotel.

A first look

Gallery

What's included

  • Round-trip hotel transport
  • Catamaran sailing with crew
  • Snorkel equipment and guide
  • Open bar aboard
  • Lunch
  • Marine park and dock fees
  • 24/7 support during your stay

Not included

  • Golf-cart rental on the island
  • Spa or beach-club upgrades
  • Souvenirs
  • Gratuities for the crew
  • Professional photo packages

What to bring

  • Swimsuit and towel
  • Reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen only
  • Hat, sunglasses and a light cover-up
  • Motion-sickness tablets if you are sensitive
  • Cash in pesos for the island
  • A waterproof bag for electronics

Safety & good to know

  • Life jackets are available for all ages and compulsory for children while snorkelling
  • Sailings may be adjusted or rescheduled for weather and sea conditions — safety is the captain's call
  • Playa Norte is shallow and calm, which makes it excellent for children
  • Touching or standing on coral is strictly prohibited
  • Sun on deck is intense; bring cover as well as sunscreen
  • Vegetarian and allergy-friendly meals available with advance notice
Before you book

Frequently asked questions

How rough is the crossing?+

Usually gentle — the reef shelters the whole channel. If you are prone to seasickness, take a tablet an hour before and sit mid-deck.

Is the open bar really included?+

Yes, on the shared and premium options, from boarding until we dock. Soft drinks and water are always available.

Can children come?+

Absolutely. Playa Norte is shallow and calm and one of the best family beaches in Mexico. Child life jackets are on board.

What if I don't want to snorkel?+

Stay aboard and swim from the boat, or simply enjoy the deck. Nothing is compulsory.

Is a private charter worth it?+

For groups of eight or more, or for a birthday or anniversary, usually yes — you choose the route, the music and the timing. Tell us your group and we'll price both.

Is there a best season?+

November to August is most reliable. September and October bring the highest chance of weather disruption, and sargassum can affect some beaches in late spring — We'll always tell you honestly what to expect for your dates.

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