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When visiting Cancun, at the top of many tourist to-do lists is a boat trip to the quaint island of Isla Mujeres.
Known for its more authentic, small-town feel, Isla Mujeres is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy a day at the beach or even longer at the many resorts and hotel properties that line the coast.
Travelers Love Isla Mujeres
Recently, there has been an uptick in travelers to the island as the peak season in the Mexican Caribbean approaches.
The boats have been leaving Puerto Juárez Maritime Terminal 60 percent full recently, which is higher than normal than the 40 to 45 percent full expected during the slower season in the area.
Travelers from the United States, as well as tourists from Peru and Colombia, have been a main part of the increase in demand for island transportation.
What’s Behind the Increase?
A representative of the Puerto Juárez Maritime Terminal, Mario Novelo, said recently in the news that he attributed the increase in trips to Isla Mujeres to the value provided by the location as a convenient day trip from Cancun.
He said it was more important than other cost or currency-related issues, adding that most tourists know what to expect from a price basis when they arrive in beach resort destination.
What is There to See?
According to reports, between 200 and 300 visitors per day are heading to Isla Mujeres to enjoy beaches, snorkel, tour the town, shop, and of course eat great food.
Those are high numbers for what is normally considered the slow season in Isla Mujeres.
On average, the day trips last about six to seven hours of enjoying the sun, sand, and surf on the island.
A popular tourist destination on the island is Playa Norte, or North Beach.
Playa Norte is a favorite for swimmers and snorkelers alike as there are crystal clear turquoise waters and soft sand beaches to enjoy.
It’s also a great place for sun worshippers as the beaches feature great amenities, and there are plenty of beach clubs, bars, and traditional restaurants to enjoy.
In short, Playa Norte is a great place to work on your tan with your toes in the sand.
If travelers would rather explore than spend a day lounging on the sand, Punta Sur, or South Point, is a great place to hang out.
Jagged cliffs provide breathtaking scenic views from multiple lookout locations at Punta Sur on Isla Mujeres.
Travelers can also get pictures with a small lighthouse built at the point to advise local fishermen and boaters of the edge of the island.
For a more cultural experience, with an opportunity for some shopping, visitors to the island enjoy checking out the Women’s Beading Cooperative on Isla Mujeres.
Handmade beaded items are made by local Isla Mujeres women at the cooperative to make money for their families. The artwork is exquisite, and the beaded items are even available for sale.
What Tourists Need to Know
Travelers coming to Cancun during the upcoming peak fall and winter travel season can expect the level of occupancy on the boats to Isla Mujeres to hit a projected 90 percent full or more.
Reports are there are already advance reservations being made for the peak season, and visitors coming to the Mexican Caribbean with Isla Mujeres on their bucket travel list should book their tickets in advance of arrival for the best availability.
Waiting until arriving in Cancun may leave travelers with few opportunities for convenient times to make the boat ride to Isla Mujeres.
Schedules can be viewed, and tickets can be reserved at the Ultramar website, among others.
Ultramar Premium Plus ticket prices are $540 pesos (about $30) round trip for adults and $400 pesos (about $22) for children, not including required environmental fees and taxes.
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Deanna
Tuesday 19th of December 2023
From Playa Del Carma is there a tour to take to get to the Isla Mujeres island? Also can you take a catamaran to the island?