What’s the cheapest way to get to Isla Mujeres? It’s one of the most common questions among people planning a trip to Cancún. The answer seems obvious at first glance: the ferry always sounds cheaper, but when you add up all the expenses for the day, the picture changes completely. Here, we’ll show you the real cost of each option, experience, tour, and mode of transportation from Cancún to Isla Mujeres with no fine print.
Image credit: Ultramar Ferry
Ferry tickets from Cancun to Isla Mujeres typically cost between $14.33 and $17 USD (290 MXN) one way, or around $28 to $35 USD (580 MXN) round trip per adult. Kids and teens have different fares, starting at 200 MXN for a one-way ticket. For the latest details, you can always check directly at the ticket counter.
|
Extra Expenses |
Estimated Cost |
|
Transportation from your hotel to the ferry terminal |
$10–$20 USD by taxi or around $1 USD by public bus |
|
Golf cart rental to explore the island |
$45–$60 USD for half a day |
|
Snorkeling on your own (gear + tour) |
$25–$40 USD per person |
|
Food and drinks on your own |
$20–$35 USD per person |
|
Beach access or beach club |
$15–$30 USD per person |
When you add everything up, a round-trip ferry visit from Cancun to Isla Mujeres can realistically cost anywhere from $130 to $250 USD per person, depending on how much you want to do while you're there. And if you're planning to squeeze in a few extra activities, that total could go even higher.
A full-day catamaran tour usually runs between $90 and $130 USD per person, depending on the tour operator and what's included. The biggest difference? Most of the planning is already taken care of, and you get a lot more for your money.
Here's what you can typically expect:
|
Ferry + DIY Activities |
Tour en catamarán todo incluído |
|
| Estimated total cost |
$130-200 USD |
$90-130 USD |
| Snorkeling included |
No |
Sí |
| Food and drinks |
No |
Sí |
| Hotel transportation |
No |
Depende del operador |
| Time spent planning and coordinating |
High (you're handling everything) |
Bajo (todo resuelto) |
| Schedule flexibility |
Limited once you've purchased your ticket |
Fija |
Keep in mind that different catamaran tour operators may offer discounts when you book ahead of time. And if you're a Cancun local, Cancun Sailing even has a special rate just for you!
It really comes down to what you consider "cheap."
Some options save you money upfront, while others save you time, planning, and the hassle of figuring everything out as you go.
If you just want to get to the island and already have your day planned out (you know your way around, aren't interested in snorkeling, and plan to grab a quick, budget-friendly bite), the ferry might be the cheaper option on paper.
If you're looking for the full experience snorkeling, food, drinks, and transportation without juggling separate bookings or unexpected expenses a catamaran tour often ends up costing about the same or even less than putting the whole day together yourself. Plus, it's way less hassle.
There isn't an official discounted fare specifically for tourists. Standard ticket prices are generally the same for locals and visitors, although rates may vary slightly depending on the ferry company.
Generally speaking, no, there shouldn't be any hidden fees when booking a catamaran tour. You can always double-check pricing on the official website of the tour operator or travel agency you're booking with.
That said, it's worth asking exactly what's included in the advertised price.
Some operators charge the dock fee or dock and sanitation surcharge separately (usually around $20 USD per person). Since this is a mandatory fee that supports marine and reef conservation efforts in Quintana Roo, it's always a good idea to confirm the amount and factor it into your budget before booking.
Absolutely! Some travelers take the ferry for quick trips to Isla Mujeres or when they're visiting the island again. Then, they book a catamaran tour for a day when they want to go all out with snorkeling, beach time, and the full experience.
Another option is booking a complete catamaran tour and choosing to stay on the island afterward.
If you're thinking about spending the night on Isla Mujeres or sticking around to explore more of its attractions, just let your booking agent know ahead of time that you won't be returning with the group.
Keep in mind that this is entirely your decision, and you'll be responsible for your own arrangements, safety, and activities on the island once your tour has ended.
Definitely, especially if you're into a fun atmosphere on board, snorkeling around the reef, and enjoying your day without having to worry about where to eat or what to do next.
Remember, "cheaper" doesn't always mean "better value."
Once you start adding up every little expense throughout the day, a catamaran tour often gives you more bang for your buck, without the surprises or extra planning.
Check out our Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour and enjoy a full day of fun without having to piece everything together yourself.
Located just north of downtown Cancun, Puerto Juarez is one of the main departure points for ferries heading to Isla Mujeres.
Ferries typically depart every 30 to 40 minutes, and you can purchase your tickets directly at the terminal.
However, don't assume there'll always be a ferry ready to leave as soon as you arrive. Departure times aren't always flexible once you've purchased your ticket, and occasional delays can happen under special circumstances.
Depending on the time of day and demand, ferries may be packed or have plenty of room available.
There are several ferry departure points throughout Cancun's Hotel Zone that connect to Isla Mujeres.
Some of the most popular include the Cancun ferry terminal, Playa Caracol, and Playa Tortugas.
Each terminal operates on its own schedule, although ticket prices generally don't vary much between departure points.
You can check current fares, departure times, and arrival schedules directly on the Ultramar Ferry website.
Some of the best-known departure points for catamaran tours from Cancun to Isla Mujeres include:
Marina Las Perlas, located in Cancun's Hotel Zone.
View Marina Las Perlas on Google Maps
Marina Punta Norte, located in Puerto Juarez.
View Marina Punta Norte on Google Maps
Prices don't change based on which marina you depart from, but the type of tour and departure times may vary.
You can book your experience in advance through the official Cancun Sailing website.
Image credit: Riviera Maya
ADO offers bus services from downtown Cancun and Terminals 1 and 2 at Cancun International Airport.
It's a convenient option for travelers looking to get around without renting a car.
You can book a private transportation service in Cancun to take you from your hotel, airport terminal, or another pickup location directly to the marina or ferry terminal of your choice.
You can also arrange a ride back, making the whole trip a little easier.
Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to explore Cancun and get around the surrounding areas at your own pace. Just keep in mind that parking isn't available everywhere.
Before heading out, it's a good idea to ask whether your chosen marina or ferry terminal has parking and if there's an additional fee.
If you're staying at a hotel in Cancun's Hotel Zone, you might be close enough to walk to one of the main marinas or ferry departure points.
For example, Marina Las Perlas is only about 0.6 miles (1 km) from Plaza Puerto Cancun.
You can also mix things up by walking part of the way and hopping on a local bus, which usually costs around 15–18 MXN.
Uber can be a convenient and reliable way to get around Cancun, but fares can get a little pricey, even for relatively short trips.
A one-way ride within the Hotel Zone can cost up to 500 MXN, so it's worth checking the fare before booking.
Prices can also change without much notice depending on demand, so keep that in mind when planning your transportation budget.
We hope this guide helps you kick off your next Isla Mujeres adventure on the right foot!
Have you ever taken the ferry or a catamaran from Cancun to Isla Mujeres? Which one did you enjoy more?
Drop a comment below and let us know! And if there's another transportation option you think we should add to this guide, we'd love to hear about it.