Ferry, Catamaran, or Yacht to Isla Mujeres: Which Is Best and What It Costs
November 2, 2026 · 6 min read
There are three ways to cross from Cancun to Isla Mujeres: the ferry, a catamaran tour, or a private yacht. All three get you to the island in under an hour, but they differ a lot in price, comfort, and what's included. Here we explain where the ferry to Isla Mujeres leaves from, what each option includes, what it costs, and which one makes sense for your trip.
Quick comparison
| Ferry | Catamaran | Private yacht | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | The most affordable (ticket per person) | From 79 USD per adult | From 1,000 USD for the whole yacht (5 hours) |
| What's included | Just the crossing | Snorkeling, buffet lunch, open bar with domestic brands, guide, and free time on the island | Captain and crew, drinks, snorkel gear, and a custom itinerary |
| Schedule | Frequent departures all day | Fixed tour schedule | You choose the departure time |
| Best for | Independent travelers on a tight budget | Couples, friends, and families who want everything taken care of | Groups, celebrations, and travelers looking for privacy |
List prices for our tours as of November 2026. There are often promotions, so check the current price on each tour's page.
Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Where does the ferry to Isla Mujeres leave from?
- Puerto Juárez: the most popular departure point, north of downtown Cancun. It has frequent departures from early morning until night, and the crossing takes about 20 minutes.
- Hotel Zone: there are also departures from some docks in the Hotel Zone. They're less frequent and the trip is a little longer, but they save you the ride to Puerto Juárez if you're staying there.
- Punta Sam (car ferry): if you want to take your car across, the car ferry leaves from Punta Sam, a little farther north. It's slower and has fewer departures. You don't need a car for a day on the island: you get around by golf cart there.
Ferry pros and cons
- Pros: it's the cheapest option, has plenty of departures a day, and gives you total freedom to stay as long as you like or spend the night on the island.
- Cons: it only covers the crossing. Snorkeling, food, a golf cart, and admission fees are all extra, and there are lines at the ticket booth in high season.
Tips for taking the ferry
- Buy your ticket at the official booth or on the ferry company's website. Be wary of street resellers.
- Check what time the last ferry back leaves, especially if you're staying for the sunset.
- Arrive with time to spare in high season and on long weekends.
- If the sea is choppy, sit on the lower deck in the middle of the boat: there's less movement.
Catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres
A catamaran makes the crossing part of the outing. Our Isla Mujeres Catamaran tour includes:
- Sailing the Caribbean with a stop to snorkel on the reef (gear included, with a new snorkel tube).
- Time at a beach club with a buffet lunch.
- Open bar with domestic brands: tequila, rum, vodka, beer, soft drinks, and water.
- Free time on Isla Mujeres to walk around downtown or go shopping.
- A guide to accompany you.
Price: from 79 USD per adult and 59 USD per child (list price).
It's the best option if you want snorkeling, food, and drinks in a single day without organizing anything. The downside is that you follow the group's schedule and your free time on the island is limited. To find out what the day feels like, read about our experience on the catamaran to Isla Mujeres.
Private yacht to Isla Mujeres
On a private yacht, the boat is just for your group: you decide when to leave, where to stop, and how long to stay. Trips usually cover the reef area, the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), El Farito, and a swim stop at the Playa Norte sandbars.
| Yacht | Capacity | Price from |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Ray 44 Sundancer | Up to 15 people | 1,000 USD (5 hours) |
| 50-foot yacht "Moet" | Up to 15 people | 1,250 USD (5 hours) |
| Sea Ray 64 "Caribe" | Up to 20 people | 2,700 USD (6 hours) |
They include a captain and crew, drinks (water, soft drinks, and beer), ice, and snorkel gear. The details vary by yacht.
Do the math per person: split among 10 people, the Sea Ray 44 comes to about 100 USD each, just a little more than a catamaran, but with the boat all to yourselves. That's why, for groups of 8 or more, a private yacht is usually the option with the best balance of price and experience.
Which one is right for your trip?
- You're on a tight budget or want to spend the night on the island: ferry.
- You want snorkeling, food, and drinks without organizing anything: catamaran.
- You're with a group, celebrating something, or looking for privacy: private yacht.
- You only have a few days and also want to see Chichén Itzá: the Chichén Itzá + Isla Mujeres Catamaran Combo covers both days.
Once you're on the island: what to do and where to eat
However you get there, make the most of the day with our guide to things to do in Isla Mujeres (15 ideas and a one-day itinerary), and pick a restaurant from where to eat in Isla Mujeres.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres?
From Puerto Juárez, about 20 minutes. From the Hotel Zone it takes a little longer, depending on the departure dock and sea conditions.
How often does the ferry to Isla Mujeres run?
From Puerto Juárez, there are frequent departures throughout the day, from early morning until night. Schedules change with the season, so confirm them with the ferry company before you go, especially the last trip back.
Can I take my car to Isla Mujeres?
Yes, on the car ferry that leaves from Punta Sam. But you don't need one to visit the island: it's small and easy to get around by golf cart, bicycle, or taxi.
Which is cheaper, the ferry or the catamaran?
The ferry ticket is cheaper, but it only covers the crossing. Once you add snorkeling, food, and drinks, the catamaran usually works out better for a full day.
Can you go to Isla Mujeres and come back the same day?
Yes. It's the most popular day trip from Cancun. The ferry has return departures until night, and catamaran and yacht tours bring you back to Cancun in the afternoon.
Choose how to get there and book
If you just want to cross, the ferry is the simplest option. If you want the trip itself to be part of the fun, book the Isla Mujeres Catamaran or message us for a quote on a private yacht for your group.
