How to Get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres
🛳️ Cancun to Isla Mujeres: Ferries, Transportation & Travel Tips 2025
Isla Mujeres is one of the most popular getaways from Cancun. Just 25 minutes away by ferry, you’ll find crystal-clear beaches, a laid-back vibe, and great food. The trip is easy and there are several ways to reach the ferry docks from anywhere in the city.
🚕 Transportation from Cancun to the ferry dock
Ferries to Isla Mujeres depart from Puerto Juárez, Playa Tortugas, Playa Caracol, or El Embarcadero (km 4.5) in the Hotel Zone. Here are your best transport options:
✅ Option 1: Uber (great for small groups)
- Estimated fare: $90–$150 MXN
- You can request rides to:
- Best for 1 to 4 people traveling light
- ✅ Fast, affordable, and easy
✅ Option 2: Private transportation (ideal for groups)
- Price: from $850–$950 MXN per van (up to 6–9 passengers)
- Door-to-door service from hotel or Airbnb
- You can choose your preferred dock
- 👉 Book at: transfers.socialcarcancun.com.mx
🚖 Option 3: Local taxi
- Average fare: $250–$300 MXN from the Hotel Zone
- Always agree on the price before boarding
- Choose the dock closest to your location
🚌 Option 4: Public transportation
- R-1 or R-10 buses stop near Puerto Juárez
- Get off at “Terminal de Ferrys”
- Total cost: ~$12 MXN
- More info here: Cancun bus routes
⛴️ Cancun to Isla Mujeres Ferries
Two main ferry operators run frequent departures throughout the day.
⛴️ Ultramar
- Price: $290 MXN (one-way) / $580 MXN (round-trip)
- Schedule: every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Duration: ~25 minutes
- Departure docks:
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, snack bar, VIP areas, A/C, pet-friendly
- 🔗 ultramarferry.com
⛴️ Xcaret Xailing
- Price: $262 MXN (one-way) / $524 MXN (round-trip)
- Schedule: hourly from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Duration: ~25 minutes
- Departure dock:
- Amenities: scenic tower, A/C, Wi-Fi, travel insurance included
- 🔗 xcaret.com
⛵ Xcaret Xailing Catamaran (tour option)
For a more exclusive experience, Xcaret offers catamaran tours to Isla Mujeres:
- Duration: half-day experience
- Includes: open bar, snorkeling, lunch buffet, free time on the island
- Departure point: El Embarcadero Xcaret (km 4.5)
- Vibe: laid-back, live music, certified crew
- Perfect for: anyone wanting a premium day trip
- 🔗 Xcaret Catamaran Tours
📊 Ferry Comparison
| Operator | Type | Adult Fare (One-Way) | Duration | Departures from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultramar | Standard Ferry | $290 MXN | ~25 min | Puerto Juárez, Playa Tortugas, Caracol |
| Xcaret Xailing | Standard Ferry | $360 MXN | ~25 min | El Embarcadero (Hotel Zone km 4.5) |
| Xcaret Catamaran | Premium Tour | From $1,900 MXN¹ | ~7 hrs | El Embarcadero (Hotel Zone km 4.5) |
¹ Prices may vary depending on season and package.
🔗 More: Xcaret Catamaran Tours
🎒 What to Bring
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Water and snacks
- Printed or digital ticket
- Cash for taxis or dock fees
- Hat or cap
💡 Local Tips
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early to your ferry
- Buy tickets online during high season
- Choose the dock closest to your accommodation
- Ultramar has more frequency and dock options
- Xcaret offers more comfort if you’re near El Embarcadero
- Traveling with pets? Check each company’s policy
- Bring your trash back—keep the island clean 🌿
🔗 Useful Links
- 🚗 Social Car Cancun – Private Transfers
- ⛴️ Ultramar Ferry
- ⛴️ Xcaret Xailing
- 📍 Puerto Juárez
- 📍 El Embarcadero Xcaret
🧭 Conclusion
Getting to Isla Mujeres from Cancun is fast and easy. Uber is great for solo travelers, while private transfers are best for groups. With multiple ferry operators and departure points, you can choose the route that fits your day plan best. 🌴
