How to Get to Isla Mujeres: All Ferry and Tour Options

Crossing to Isla Mujeres: Your Caribbean Adventure Starts on the Ferry

Imagine waking up in Cancun knowing that in less than 30 minutes you'll be walking through the colorful streets of Isla Mujeres, with turquoise waters at your feet and the feeling of being in a true Caribbean paradise. The good news is that reaching this beautiful island is simple, accessible, and part of the adventure that you and your family or partner will remember forever.

The island is only 13 kilometers from the Cancun coast, and there are several ways to cross depending on your budget, comfort level, and sense of adventure. Here we explain all your options so you can choose the one that best fits your trip.

Public Ferry: The Most Popular and Affordable Option

The most common way to reach Isla Mujeres is by taking one of the public ferries that depart from three main points in Cancun:

Puerto Juárez (The Main Port)

This is the port most used by tourists and locals. Two main companies operate here:

• Ultramar: The most well-known, with departures every 30 minutes from approximately 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM. The trip takes 15-20 minutes.
• Jetway: A recent alternative with similar schedules and competitive prices.

Approximate price: Between $10-15 USD per adult (round trip). Children under a certain age often pay less or travel free.

Playa Tortugas (Hotel Zone)

If you're staying in Cancun's Hotel Zone, this pier is much closer. Ultramar also operates here, though with less frequency (approximately every hour). The journey is slightly longer, around 25-30 minutes, but you save the trip to Puerto Juárez.

Playa Caracol (Hotel Zone)

Another Hotel Zone option, also operated by Ultramar, with schedules similar to Playa Tortugas.

Tip for families: If traveling with young children, Puerto Juárez is usually more comfortable because departures are more frequent and you can choose the schedule that works best around naps or meals.

All-Inclusive Tours: Convenience and Extra Experiences

If you prefer everything organized and don't want to worry about schedules, buying tickets, or planning what to do on the island, all-inclusive tours are ideal, especially for families.

These tours typically include:

• Transportation from your hotel in Cancun or Riviera Maya
• Round-trip ferry
• Buffet meal or box lunch
• Activities like snorkeling, golf cart rental, kayaking, or visits to parks like Garrafón
• Tour guide

Advantages: Everything is taken care of, perfect if you want to relax without thinking about logistics. Ideal for couples wanting a romantic experience without complications or families with children.

Approximate price: From $60 to $130 USD per person, depending on included activities.

Private or Shared Catamaran: The VIP Experience

For those seeking something more exclusive, there are private or shared catamaran options. Imagine sailing with your partner or family, with drinks on board, music, and perhaps snorkeling along the way.

• Shared catamarans: Group tours with a festive atmosphere, unlimited drinks, and snorkeling. Prices from $75 USD per person.
• Private catamarans: Perfect for celebrations, marriage proposals, or simply enjoying family time without strangers. Prices vary by boat size and services but range from $800 to $1,500 USD for groups up to 15 people.

Private Speed Boat: Speed and Exclusivity

If time is precious and you want something ultra-personalized, you can rent a private speed boat. In 15 minutes you'll be on the island, without waiting for ferries or sharing space.

Ideal for: Couples celebrating something special or small families who value privacy and total flexibility.

Which Option Should You Choose?

• Tight budget and flexibility: Public ferry from Puerto Juárez.
• Convenience without complications: All-inclusive tour.
• Romantic experience or celebration: Private catamaran or boat.
• Families with young children: Public ferry from Puerto Juárez (for frequency) or organized tour (for comfort).

Final Tips Before Crossing

• Arrive early: Especially during high season (December-April), ferries fill up quickly.
• Biodegradable sunscreen: Isla Mujeres protects its marine ecosystem.
• Cash: While many places accept cards, some small island businesses prefer cash.
• Note your return ferry: Mentally mark the last ferry of the day so you don't get stranded (though staying an extra night doesn't sound bad either).

Preparing your arrival to Isla Mujeres is as important as what you'll do there. And speaking of preparation, if you're arriving at Cancun Airport and need comfortable, reliable transportation to your hotel in Cancun or Riviera Maya before your island adventure, at Welcome Shuttle we've spent 18 years connecting families and couples like yours with paradise. Get a quote for your private transfer and start your trip worry-free from the very first moment.

Isla Mujeres awaits you with its crystal-clear waters and that Caribbean magic you'll never forget!