The Excursion - Cancun to Isle Mujeres & Isla Contoy
Isla Mujeres Snorkeling, White Sandy Beaches & Shopping
Isla Contoy Quick Tour, Relaxing Beach Time & Lunch
Comfortable Boat Ride, Drinks & Light Snack
Photo of Isla Contoy, Mexico
Photo ~ Sunset Cruise Isla Contoy to Cancun, Mexico
Do you want to jump ahead?
- Planning, Booking. Best Time of Year to Visit – Weather
- Booking
- Transportation Pick up
- Checking In
- Boat & Crew
- Isle Mujeres. Snorkeling, Docking, Touring the Island
- Isla Contoy Docking, Lunch, Guided Tour.
- Sunset Cruise
- Cancun. Docking
- Transportation. Drop Off
- Traveling In Mexico
- Traveling
Planning . Planning is an essential for any trip, so keep track of all of your information that you might need along the way. Making a list of important phone numbers, addresses, email addresses, contact information readily available while you travel. Having the information saved offline, in the cloud or your email is a great idea.
Isla Mujeres Snorkeling, White Sandy Beaches & Shopping Isla Contoy Quick Tour, Relaxing Beach Time & Lunch Comfortable Boat Ride, Drinks & Light Snack
Packing Guide ~ Coming Soon!
Weather. What time of year has the best weather to enjoy our visit? Most of the year is a great time to visit. The exception is when there is a hurricane. Currently, hurricane season is approximately June through November, but they are unpredictable & sporadic, so there is no fool-proof way to plan around them. Since it varies so much, its highly recommend getting travelers insurance for any time of year that you visit. The most popular time to visit is the winter months of November to April. The summer into fall months of May to October are still a beautiful time to visit, but you may have a rain shower pop up.
There’s a lot of weather websites that are popular, but the National Weather Service is a great resource for up-to-date information. National Hurricane Center – NOAA Weather: weather.gov. https://www.weather.gov/
Booking. For this trip, I booked with Cancun Sailing. If you’re looking for discounts, check for specials, especially around the holidays. The calendar on the website shows the cost for the day. If you’re a local resident, check for discounts, but make sure that you bring your ID with you at pick up. Cancun Sailing has a great cancelation policy in case of bad weather, etc. Also, remember Isla Contoy limits how many people visit per day, so make sure to book your reservation before you arrive – don’t wait too long in the high season.
Transportation, Pick-up & Check In
Transportation. The day started out by meeting at one of many pickup points along Cancan Sailing’s route. I was picked up in a luxury van that held about 20 passengers. Having the convenience, along with the cost of the transportation included, made the morning stress-free. The driver was very pleasant and he confirmed my reservation while making sure that everyone was on the list. After picking up everyone, we were driven directly to the dock in Cancun, where we were promptly checked-in. The pick-up locations and addresses are located on their website. There are a lot of convenient locations for pick-ups, including most major hotels & resorts. The cost was included in the price at the time that I went.
Photo ~ Cancun Dock
Check-in. When I arrived at the dock, I was dropped off right in front of the check-in area. There seemed to be a lot of people getting ready to board different boats, but they were very organized. The check-in went smoothly and it was also nice to have the ride to and from home included and organized with the excursion. One less thing to try and coordinate.
Photo ~ Isla Mujeres
The Boat Ride. Setting sail on the boat ride to Isle Mujeres was very pleasant with a soft breeze, while enjoying the changing of several shades of the blue in ocean. The sailboat was clean and could accommodate approximately 50 people. It didn’t feel over-crowded and had an excellent crew. The crew members were friendly and attentive, while also being aware of everything going on to ensure everyone’s safety. They are also certified tour guides that were very knowledgeable on the island while giving the tours on Isla Contoy. They work hard to make your day special.
What to expect – First Island: Isla Mujeres, Mexico.
Photo ~ Isla Mujeres, Mexico
What to expect on the island, beside the beautiful shades of blue water & white sandy beaches.
By the time we were getting close to the island, everyone was suited up in life vests and snorkel gear. It was time to snorkel in the beautiful water, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world. This underwater paradise is filled with colorful corals, tropical fish, and other fascinating marine life. The time went by fast, but we enjoyed the approximately 45 minutes of water time.
Photo ~ Snorkel Site Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Once we all were back on board from snorkeling, we took a short sail and docked for a quick land tour of Isla Mujeres, to get a peek of the island and to experience both sea & land. After exited the boat and leaving the docking area, I turned left toward the white sandy beaches. The beaches and turquoise water is a beautiful sight to see, while visiting the Isla Mujeres.
Photo ~ Isla Mujeres Dock
Since the time allotted to visit Isla Mujeres was short, I utilized my time on the beach and then strolled back to the dock through the shopping areas to get a feel of what the island has to offer. This time was considered “free time” and you were able to do what you wanted, without a guide. Next time I visit, it will be to scuba dive, snorkel & relax on the beach – probably away from the many shops but not too far away from the many restaurants. It was a beautiful island and I see why this it is so popular.
Photo ~ Isla Mujeres
On Isla Mujeres, maps are located around the dock area so you will be able to find your way around. Don’t miss the leaving at the time they give you and note that your docking number is written on the bracelet that you receive when you docked on the island. It may be different than from where you arrived, but should be close by.
Photos ~ Three Beaches of Isla Mujeres
Back on the boat, everyone enjoyed music and conversation with their fellow sailing mates while we sailed to our next destination. The boat crew has a full bar, so you can ask for water, juices, beer, wine & mixed drinks, along with snacks. Drinks & snacks are included!
Photo ~ Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Onward to Isla Contoy! It was a beautiful sail. You will notice the water changing different shades of teals & vibrant blues. Once you start getting closer to the island, you will be amazed by the magnificent beauty! Take it all in, snaps some photos, but don’t forget to enjoy the amazing view.
Photo ~ Isla Contoy Dock
What to Expect – Second Island: Isla Contoy
Discover Isla Contoy, Mexico …… A Paradise Preserved
Photo ~ Isla Contoy, Mexico ~ Caribbean _ Lagoon _ Gulf of Mexico
About the Island: Isla Contoy,is a beautiful island located off the coast of the Yucatán peninsula that is only accessible by boats from Cancun or Isla Mujeres, Mexico. It is a pristine, federally protected island known as a haven for wildlife. This island is part of the Isla Contoy National Park. This Natural Preserved Island is truly guarded as much as they can. The protected area is a prime example of how ecotourism and preservation can work hand in hand to maintain fragile ecosystems.
Photo ~ Isla Contoy
Photo ~ Isla Contoy, Mexico
Tour: I highly recommend taking the educational tour that they offer to learn about the island. The main guided tour was after lunch, which is given in Spanish for the visitors from Spain. The guides spoke several languages and offered the small group of us an English-speaking tour right when we arrived, which I enjoyed.
Photo ~ Isla Contoy Lagoon & Birds
The tour was an amazing, well worth the 20-to-30-minutes it took to complete. Just know that when they ask if you want to see the lagoon that is full of mosquitos, you can ask to skip that part of the tour if you wish. The guided tours and all activities are supervised by certified guides to ensure adherence to conservation rules, but you had a free range of a lot of space to explore while you’re there. Shoes to walk in the sand on your short hike up the hill would be something to keep in mind while packing.
Photo ~ Isla Contoy Beach
Relax. While you’re relaxing and taking it all in, you’ll wonder how more places can be as eco-friendly, similar to Isla Contoy, Mexico. The best Eco-Conscious experience that I have experienced in a long time. The beaches are lined with small areas of covered shade. Stay within the areas that designated and follow the guidelines regarding zero plastic and chemicals, to ensure the success of preserving this natural habitat.
Photo ~ Isla Contoy, Mexico. Sun is starting to set.
On the way from Isla Contoy to Cancun – Different shades of the sunset.
Photo ~ Isla Contoy to Cancun, Mexico Sunset
Ride Back. Enjoying the last moments of the evening. in the fresh ocean breeze, enjoying the sights & smells of the breathtaking view of the of the ocean & sky. The crew members had multiple jobs to do and they were great at all of them. They worked hard to keep everyone safe in the ocean, organized throughout the day and teaching us about Isla Contoy, while making sure that you have an enjoyable visit. Snap a few photos of the beautiful sunset, while snacking on treats and sipping a cocktail.
Photo ~ Isla Contoy to Cancun, Mexico Sunset
After docking back in Cancun, everyone gathered in the waiting area that were filled with tables and chairs, overlooking the docks. It was an organized way for a restroom break, stay with your group and for the driver to find you when it’s time for departing in the luxury van for the trip back to where you were originally picked-up.
Photo ~ Cancun, Mexico Sundown Boat Dock
A final note about Isla Contoy and many beaches in the surrounding area. There are a lot of beaches in Mexico and throughout, that are Blue Flagged Beaches. These beaches have rules in place to help preserve the natural habitats of the wildlife in the areas. Read more about blue flagged beaches, but one rule is zero sunscreen is allowed. Know that once you dock on Isla Contoy, you have to leave any chemicals and plastics on the boat, including sunscreen & bug sprays.
If you’re a fan of sunscreen in the mornings before you start your day of adventures, read more on the truth about Sunscreens on My Spinning Mind Travels, Stream2Sea, Reef Relief & other trusted websites. While researching for the best & safest sunscreen, there’s a very small number of companies that produce a good, safe product but I’m hopeful that will change for the better. If all sunscreen was truly reef safe, we won’t have these restrictions. Until those changes are made, check out the what Ingredients to Avoid List when buying sunscreen and help with demanding safe sunscreens. Just beware of the marketing lies on the front label of most sunscreen.
The future of Sunscreen is Coral Care. The first Sunscreen that nourishes the coral reefs, by Stream2Sea. Support the sunscreen companies that are making a difference in helping us by producing safe products for us and the environment. I’ve have found Stream2Sea has been a wealth of information and I’ve discovered my favorite sunscreen that I use for daily sunscreen protection, which is also great for day adventures. When you apply Stream2Sea, Everyday Wet Boost Sunscreen in the morning for my daily protection of UV rays. Normally I carry an eco-stick or the Sport Zinc Balm, if needed throughout the day. When I can’t find sunscreen that is proven to be non-toxic, I will wear sun protected clothing
Hopefully you will enjoy your day adventure as much as I did. Take what you learned and share as much as you can of different ways of protecting our planet, every day.
Who – This adventure is for those seeking exploring islands, snorkeling and a serene beach day on an island only accessible by boat. Then toping of the day with a beautiful sunset cruise on the Caribbean.
What – Hopefully you’ll be prepared for your visit with reading ‘what you can expect’ above in the bonus section, before visiting this incredible natural gem off of the coast of Cancun, Mexico.
When – Any time! Available to visit all year-round. If you plan on visiting between May to September, you’ll have a unique opportunity to possibly witness the whale shark’s migration through the waters around Isla Contoy.
Where – Isla Contoy, Mexico. Located off of Cancun, Mexico. The Isla Contoy, Mexico. Located off of Cancun, Mexico. The Isla of Contoy on the Yucatán Peninsula, is a pristine, federally protected island that is part of the Isla Contoy National Park and is only accessible via guided tours and only be able to access this island by boat from Isla Mujeres or Cancun, Mexico.
Why – To experience an island paradise.
Read more on what to expect from the excursion
What to Expect on The Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Nature Experience
What you need to know when visiting Isla Contoy & Isla Mujeres, Mexico.
1. The Excursion – Cancun to Isle Mujeres & Isla Contoy
2. Research – Read more about how Isla Contoy is managed, and what you can expect from this protected & persevered National Park.
3. Effective Packing – Check out the post for PACKING, with the list for of what to pack & what not to pack. This will help you plan ahead and be prepared for your adventure.
4. Planning & Travel Tips – What is provided by Cancun Sailing?
Are you ready to travel?
Isla Mujeres Snorkeling, White Sandy Beaches & Shopping
Isla Contoy Quick Tour, Relaxing Beach Time & Lunch
Comfortable Boat Ride, Drinks & Light Snack
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