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How to Get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres: Ferry & Info [2024]

Wondering about transportation from Cancun to Isla Mujeres? I got you! Check all the transportation options in this post and decide how to get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun.

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island located off the coast of Cancun, Mexico, and it would be a shame to leave the area without exploring it. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip from Cancun or you’re planning to spend a few days there, you’ll have to first figure out how to get there.

Learn about your options so you can decide what’s the best way to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, whether you’re going from the airport, downtown Cancun, or the Cancun Hotel Zone. Here you’ll find the Isla Mujeres ferry times from Cancun+ prices, and alternative options to the ferry.

METHODCOST
FERRY FROM PUERTO JUAREZ$14 per person one wayBOOK IT HERE
FERRY FROM CANCUN HOTEL ZONE$13 per person one wayBOOK IT HERE
TOUR$40-$139BOOK IT HERE
PRIVATE CATAMARAN$560 – $1,143BOOK IT HERE

✈️ The closest airport to Isla Mujeres is Cancun International Airport (CUN Airport), located 22 miles from the island.

⌛From Cancun Downtown, where the ferry terminal is located, it’s only a 30-minute ferry ride to reach Isla Mujeres. This makes the trip not only easy but absolutely indispensable!

Read on to find out all the transportation options available, and choose the one more suitable for your plans and budget.

FERRY FROM CANCUN TO ISLA MUJERES

Take the Ferry to Isla Mujeres From Cancun

yellow and blue ferries in turquoise waters, inserted in a post about getting from Cancun to Isla Mujeres

Taking the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres is by far the most popular option. You’ll simply have to head to Puerto Juarez, located a 10-minute drive from Cancun Downtown, and take the Ultramar ferry to Isla Mujeres from there.

⌛Length: 30 minutes
💲Price: 14 USD per person (one way)
👉 Where to book it: BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Puerto Juarez ferry by Ultramar is a high-speed ferry, and the ride to the island takes around 30 minutes. The ferries to Isla Mujeres from Cancun operated by Ultramar are well maintained and have a good safety record. They feature air-conditioning and wifi connection, and food and drinks can be purchased aboard.

I highly recommend buying your tickets for the Isla Mujeres ferry in advance, especially in the high season. The Cancun to Isla Mujeres ferry costs around14 USD per person per way (27 USD round trip), and there are departures every hour from 5.30 AM to 11.00 PM ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

Check the Ultramar ferry schedule to Isla Mujeres below (and from Isla Mujeres to Cancun):

Schedule of the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres

Another company, Naveganto, serves the same route from Puerto Juarez, but Ultramar is the most known company. I personally had a good experience with Ultramar ferries, so I recommend them.

The Puerto Juarez ferry terminal is a modern terminal – here you’ll find bathrooms, an OXXO store, an ATM, and a cafe that serves food and drinks.

How to Get to Puerto Juarez Ferry Terminal from Downtown Cancun

Puerto Juarez ferry terminal is just 3.5 kilometers (2.1 miles) from downtown Cancun, an easy 10-minute drive.

To get to Puerto Juarez from downtown Cancun, you can either:

Take a taxi – the taxi ride to Puerto Juarez should cost around 100 MXN. Make sure to set a price before getting in the taxi.

➤ Take the public bus line R1. Ask the driver “Puerto Juarez?” to make sure it goes there, as not all of them go there. The ticket costs less than 1 USD.

⚠️ Staying in the Cancun Hotel Zone instead? Check out the next section.

Take the Isla Mujeres Ferry from Cancun Hotel Zone

If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, you can also take the ferry from Playa Tortugas, Playa Caracol, or El Embarcadero to Isla Mujeres. These ferries are as good as the one I recommended above, but they are less frequent and quite a bit more expensive.

⌛Length: 20 to 30 minutes
💲Price: 13 USD per person (one way)
👉 Where to book it: BOOK IT HERE

If you’re really budget-friendly, you could be taking a taxi or the public bus from the Cancun Hotel Zone to Puerto Juarez. Look for lines R1 or R2. However, I think there’s a better way to get to Isla Mujeres from the Hotel Zone.

There’s a new ferry service operated by Grupo Xcaret (owner of all the parks like Xcaret, Xplor, etc), called Xcaret Xailing, which takes you from Cancun Hotel Zone to Isla Mujeres on a modern and very comfortable catamaran.

You can make the journey in the air-conditioned cabin or outdoors, make use of the complimentary wifi, and secure your bags at the luggage storage.

The ticket also includes access to the Scenic Tower, which I thought was a very cool experience. You can get a 360 view over the Cancun Hotel Zone and the Nichupte Lagoon, and get fantastic photos from 260 feet above the ground.

I took this the last time and it was excellent, much better than Ultramar. The service was exceptional and it was a lot less crowded. Also closer to most hotels (they depart from Embarcadero Isla Mujeres by Xcaret). Below you’ll find the Cancun – Isla Mujeres ferry schedule:

The open ticket lets you board at any time, so you don’t have to choose your schedule when you buy the ticket. Secure your seat, and show up when you feel like heading to the island! You can buy single or round trip tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Pros and Cons of the Ferry

✅ Taking the ferry is the best way to get to Isla Mujeres, whether you’re leaving from Cancun Downtown or the Hotel Zone. It’s fast, and a very affordable option.

✅ The ferries are air-conditioned and in great shape, offering a comfortable and pleasant ride to Isla Mujeres.

✅ There are ferries running between Isla Mujeres and Cancun very frequently throughout the day, so you can travel at any time.

❌ It might not be a convenient option if you’re heading to Isla Mujeres just for the day. Not only do you need to get to the port in Cancun, but then take a taxi from the ferry terminal to the island’s downtown, which adds to the cost and time of the visit. You might be better off with a tour in this case.

DAY TOURS FROM CANCUN TO ISLA MUJERES

A palm leaf framing an image of the beach, with three white yachts sailing in blue waters

Many people only have time for a day trip from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. Is that you? Then maybe taking the ferry isn’t the best option.

⌛Length: 5 to 10 hours
💲Price: 40 – 139 USD
👉 Where to book it: BOOK IT HERE

Joining a Cancun to Isla Mujeres day trip will save you time and often money as well, when you take into consideration the cost of ferry + taxi to the port in Cancun, and transportation on the island plus activities.

Tours to Isla Mujeres tend to be pretty affordable (unless you choose some private tour on a fancy yacht).

Of course, some people prefer to travel on their own, but if you don’t mind joining an organized tour, this is a sure way to enjoy your day without any hassle or stress.

▶️ The Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel with Lunch & Open Bar Onboard and Visit to Isla Mujeres is spectacular. You’ll sail toward the island, enjoying fabulous snorkel stops along the way. Explore Isla Mujeres either with a guide or on your own, and relax on the beach before returning.

This luxury Isla Mujeres tour from Cancun includes lunch and an open bar onboard. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres with Snorkel, Open Bar and Hotel Transfers will have you dancing on deck with upbeat music, and enjoying drinks from the open bar. Go snorkeling along the coral reef, and make the most of your free time to explore Isla Mujeres. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Catamaran Trip to Isla Mujeres with Open Bar & Optional Lunch is the cheapest option. The most basic tour does NOT include lunch or transfers (unless you opt to add them!), so only choose it if you’re on a budget.

It offers snorkeling stops on your way to Isla Mujeres, and free time to enjoy the island. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Pros and Cons of the Tours

✅ Everything, from roundtrip transfers to activities and equipment is included. The trip is planned for you to such an extent that all you have to do is show up and enjoy.

If you’re only planning a day trip to the island, this is the best option for comfort, ease of travel, and overall cost.

❌ It’s more expensive than making the trip on your own, and not a good option if you plan on staying in Isla Mujeres for a few days.

BOOK A PRIVATE CATAMARAN FROM CANCUN TO ISLA MUJERES

Not liking the idea of a ferry ride from Cancun to the island? Well, there’s an alternative, but it’s not for everyone.

⌛Length: 2 to 7 hours
💲Price: 560 – 1,143 USD
👉 Where to book it: BOOK IT HERE

Some private companies like AGI offer door-to-door service from Cancun airport to your hotel in Isla Mujeres. If you opt for a luxury transfer, you’ll most likely travel on a yacht. This is the most luxurious option, but definitely also the most expensive one.

However, if it fits into your budget, it definitely beats taking the ferry or going on a group tour!

▶️ This Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour from Cancun can be customized to last half or a full day. You’ll set sail to Isla Mujeres on your very own vessel, stopping at coral reefs to snorkel and sipping drinks from the open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Private 46FT Yacht Rental in Cancun Bay accommodates up to 15 people and includes snorkel stops, music on deck, soft beverages, and free time in Isla Mujeres beach. Depending on how many hours you rent the yacht for, the itinerary may vary. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Beware of traveling on small boats though, as the ride might be longer and rougher than the ferry one – definitely not recommended if you get seasick.

If you decide to book a private boat from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, make sure the tour operator has proper insurance, the skipper is certified, and there is safety equipment on board. Always better to ask a few more questions and be safe.

Some luxury hotels on Isla Mujeres such as Isla Mujeres Palace Resort All Inclusive and Zoetry Villa Rolandi also offer their own private boat to Isla Mujeres, and from Isla Mujeres to Cancun; sometimes it’s even included in the hotel rate.

Pros and Cons of the Private Catamaran

✅ It’s an exclusive experience for you and your group. You’ll call the shots, enjoy stops for snorkeling if you feel like it, and spend as much time in Isla Mujeres as you want before going back.

❌ It’s much more expensive than the other options, and not a good transfer method if you just want to get to Isla Mujeres rather than enjoy a sailing trip.

HOW TO GET FROM CANCUN AIRPORT TO ISLA MUJERES

Cancun International Airport letters on the building's entrance, and a plane reflected on its mirror walls

Arriving by plane and wondering how do you get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun airport? These are the transportation options available for your transfer to Puerto Juarez, from which you’ll take the Cancun ferry to Isla Mujeres as described above.

Private Transfer from Cancun Airport to Puerto Juarez

⌛Length: approx. 30 minutes
💲Price: 60 USD
👉 Where to book it: BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Pre-book private transportation from Cancun Airport to Puerto Juarez ferry terminal – the car transports up to 8 people for 60 USD (definitely a convenient choice even if you’re 3 people). I think it’s the best transportation from the airport to Isla Mujeres.

I’ve traveled with this company many times and happily recommend it because it offers a top-notch service.

private transer from Cancun to Isla Mujeres

💲You can save money by booking your Isla Mujeres to Cancun airport transfer at the same time. The price for up to 8 passengers is $115. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Book your private transfer in the search box below 👇

Read what the reviews say:

“Victor was a a very kind and knowledgeable driver who went out of the way to ensure we had an enjoyable and safe ride from the airport while vacationing.’

Sam Watts – Read more reviews

Pros and Cons of the Private Transfer

✅ With the private transfer, a bilingual driver will wait for you at the arrival area, and drop you off directly at the port.

Your vehicle will be ready whenever you are, regardless of flight delays, as they’ll be tracking your flight’s status.

✅ The private transfer is much more comfortable, and it’s only for you and your party.

❌ It’s considerably more expensive than taking the ADO bus. It’s also not a great option if you’re traveling on your own.

 Bus + Colectivo from Cancun Airport to Puerto Juarez

⌛Length: 30-40 minutes
💲Price: 8.50 USD + colectivo
👉 Where to book it: BOOK IT HERE

An alternative is taking the ADO bus from Cancun Airport to Downtown Cancun, and then a colectivo (shared shuttle) to Puerto Juarez.

This is the most affordable transportation to get from the airport to Isla Mujeres. It takes around 25 minutes and the ride costs 8.50 USD at the time of writing. Multiple departures all day long.

👉 Another option is to take a taxi from ADO Bus Station, located in Calle Pino (SM23, MZ56), to Puerto Juarez. If you get the taxi at the bus station, the ride will cost you around 150 Pesos.

You could get a cheaper ride (around 80 Pesos) by flagging a taxi on the street, although the first alternative is more convenient if you’re carrying luggage.

⚠️ Note: The private transfer takes you to Puerto Juarez, and the ADO bus to Cancun Downtown. From there you’ll still have to take the ferry. The ferry trip is not included in these options. You can buy online your ferry tickets to Isla Mujeres.

Pros and Cons of the ADO Bus

✅ It’s the most affordable option, and it’s perfect for those traveling solo or on a tight budget.

The bus will drop you off in Cancun Downtown rather than at the ferry terminal, so you’ll then need to take a taxi to the port, which adds to the cost.

You need to work around the ADO bus schedule, and plan the time you take the ferry accordingly. You’ll also be sharing the ride with other people, and if you’re a group of 7, taking the bus costs the same as the more comfortable private transfer.

TAKE YOUR CAR TO ISLA MUJERES

Good news and bad news. Do you want to take your car to Isla Mujeres? You can. Is it wise, though? Probably not. Isla Mujeres is a pretty small island, and parking can be a problem. You can avoid the hassle and rent a golf cart to get around, I’ll assure you it will be more fun!

However, if for any reason you still want to bring your own car to the island, you can do that by taking the car ferry to Isla Mujeres (Ultracarga operated by Ultramar) from Punta Sam ferry terminal. The terminal is located a few kilometers north of Puerto Juarez (10 minutes drive).

Depending on the day, there are 2 to 4 departures per day scheduled at the time of writing. Fares change based on the type of vehicle you’re driving.

ISLA MUJERES: A SHORT GUIDE

Image of a rugged coastline with a lighthouse in the distance, and turquoise waters to the right in Isla Mujeres

How To Get Around Isla Mujeres

You might be wondering how to get around Isla Mujeres once you’re there, but worry not. You’ve got a couple of options.

▶️ Take a taxi – This is the best option to get from the Isla Mujeres ferry terminal to your hotel, or for one-off transportation during your stay. Once you get to Isla Mujeres, you’ll find a taxi station right outside the ferry port.

▶️ Rent a golf cart – Golf carts seem to be everyone’s favorite Isla Mujeres transportation method, and you can easily rent one in town. However, renting a golf cart can be fairly expensive (60-80 USD per day).

You probably will spend a good amount of time just relaxing at the beach, so I recommend renting one just for those days when you want to go exploring. If you just need to go from point A to point B and return, you’ll be better off taking a taxi.

▶️ Private hotel transfer – If you prefer to have a transfer pre-organized, ask your hotel for a private car service; most hotels will organize this for you.

Best Things to Do on Isla Mujeres

I won’t keep this section long as you probably don’t need me to convince you to visit Isla Mujeres – you’re already looking at how to get there!

There are plenty of guides to the best things to do in Isla Mujeres, and I’ll probably even write one myself at some point. If you need a little reminder though, these are the top things to do on the island:

▶️ Hit the beach and that crystal-clear water. Playa Norte, on the north side of the island, is one of the most famous beaches on the island. If you’re looking for something a bit wilder, check out the beaches around Punta Sur on the south side of the island, where you’ll find a more rugged coastline.

▶️ Swim with whale sharks in a responsible way. Isla Mujeres is one of few places in the world where you can swim with these good giants. I haven’t personally tried it, but it must be an incredible experience, Make sure you choose an ethical tour operator that cares about the well-being of the animals.

➤ This Whale Shark Adventure in Isla Mujeres offers a great opportunity to swim with the magnificent creatures. You’ll be provided with snorkeling gear, and enjoy a memorable and safe encounter. You might also get to spot dolphins and rays! Lunch and bottled water are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Dive at MUSA, an underwater museum and sculpture park. Here you’ll find over 500 statues and sculptures, all underwater! You can also enjoy this unique attraction by snorkeling if diving isn’t your thing.

➤ The Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure will take you to the underwater museum. You’ll snorkel – gear provided – among the striking sculptures, and also visit two other snorkeling spots that include the coral reef. Cap off the tour with a tasty seafood lunch. BOOK IT HERE

➤ An alternative is this 2 Tank Dives Musa and Manchones Reef (Certified Divers). Geared up in your scuba diving equipment, you’ll enjoy two dives in gorgeous spots near Isla Mujeres. One of them is in the underwater museum, and the other one in the colorful reef that teems with marine life. BOOK IT HERE

Where to Stay in Isla Mujeres, Mexico

There are plenty of options for all budgets when it comes to accommodation on Isla Mujeres (and yes, I do recommend spending here at least a couple of days!). These are my favorite hotels on Isla Mujeres:

LUXURY RESORT: Zoetry Villa Rolandi – This all-inclusive, luxury resort is a beautiful hotel with great service and facilities. The all-inclusive treatment also comes with a complimentary transfer from Cancun.

AFFORDABLE LUXURY HOTEL: Izla Beach Front Hotel – New hotel with modern rooms and a beautiful private beach and pool. Some rooms come with private plunge pools with a view.

ON A BUDGET: Nomads Hostel & Beachclub – This boutique hostel features both dorms and very nice private rooms. Minimal design and private pool, located directly on the beach.

HOW TO GET TO ISLA MUJERES FAQs

Can I fly to Isla Mujeres airport? What is the most convenient airport to fly into Isla Mujeres?

There’s an airport on Isla Mujeres, but there are currently no passenger flights to Isla Mujeres. The closest airport to Puerto Juarez is Cancun International Airport.

How much is the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres?

The Ultramar ferry from Puerto Juarez (Cancun) to Isla Mujeres costs around 14 USD at the time of writing.

How to get from Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres?

The best option for getting to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen is heading to Cancun and taking a ferry Cancun-Isla Mujeres from Puerto Juarez. There are a few options for getting from Playa del Carmen to Cancun.
The most affordable ones are taking the ADO bus or a colectivo (shared shuttle) to downtown Cancun – the ferry port to Isla Mujeres is a short taxi ride from there. If comfort is the priority, you can look into booking a private transfer from Playa del Carmen to Puerto Juarez.

How far is Isla Mujeres from Cancun?

The distance from Cancun to Isla Mujeres is 13 kilometers (8 miles).

How long is the ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres?

The ferry Cancun to Isla Mujeres takes approximately 30 minutes.

What’s the best Cancun-Isla Mujeres tour?

These are the tours Cancun – Isla Mujeres that I recommend:
Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour
Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel with Lunch & Open Bar and Visit to Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres: Catamaran Tour with Open Bar & Optional Lunch

How do you get to Puerto Juarez?

From Cancun Downtown, you can get to the port either by taxi or by line R1 of the public bus.

Where can I buy Isla Mujeres ferry tickets?

I recommend buying your ferry tickets online and ahead of time. It’s not only the easiest way to get them, but you’ll also make sure you secure your seat for the day and time you want to travel.

What is the cost of taxi from Cancun Airport to Isla Mujeres ferry?

You can take a taxi from the airport to the ferry terminal for about 45 USD.

How far is Isla Mujeres from Cancun Airport?

The island is 22 miles east of the airport. The Cancun Isla Mujeres ferry takes merely 30 minutes to make the journey.

How to get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun Hotel Zone?

I recommend taking Xcaret Xailing, the new ferry service by Xcaret Group which departs from the Hotel Zone and takes you directly to the island.

This is it! Hopefully, this info is useful for you to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. On this blog you’ll find tons of other content about Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum so make sure to check out my most popular articles to plan your trip in the region.

  • Stefania Guglielmi

    Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.