Slip through crystal-clear waters in endless shades of turquoise, it’s all aboard the Xailing catamaran for an unforgettable voyage to Isla Mujeres, a Mexican Caribbean treasure.
Settle down in your seat, order a drink from the bar, snack on fruit and cookies and enjoy the views of the bay between Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The Xailing Catamaran Prime includes snorkeling at El Meco reef. In addition to corals and colorful fish, El Meco is one of the “galleries” comprising the Cancun Underwater Art Museum (MUSA). As you swim among the sculptures, you’ll see how they are being transformed by the sea into living art as they are colonized by marine creatures such as sponges, corals, algae, shells and tiny fish.
Exploring Isla Mujeres
Upon arrival at Isla Mujeres, the Xailing Catamaran Prime includes admission to a beach club for sunbathing, swimming and lunch, and time for exploring the island. You can hire a golf cart, bike or taxi (additional charges apply) and visit the bustling fishing village to shop for crafts, jewelry and souvenirs, enjoy more amazing views under the palms at Playa Norte or head to Punta Sur.
Taking in the glorious view of the Caribbean and Cancun’s skyline in the distance on Punta Sur is one of the highlights of a visit to Isla Mujeres. In ancient times, the tiny Maya temple was dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of the moon, fertility and fishermen. In 1517, the Spanish conquistador Francisco Hernández de Cordoba anchored off the island and espied feminine idols on the southern headland, naming it Punta Mujeres or Isla Mujeres. Take a deep breath on the point and listen to the waves crashing against the rocks and the sigh of the breeze, simply heaven.
If there’s still time before your boat departs, you may want to head back to the north of the island for more beach relaxation at Playa Norte. Order a cocktail and fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants before you go. Some boats have music and dancing on the way back to Cancun for more fun or you can just relax and take in the Caribbean sunset.
More island hopping
After a day on Isla Mujeres, you’ll be ready to embark on more sailing adventures. Thomas More Travel will take you on an eco tour to Contoy, a desert island bird sanctuary, to Holbox in the Gulf of Mexico, and to Cozumel, Mexico’s second largest island. A short boat ride from Playa del Carmen and world-famous for its majestic coral reefs, it also has beautiful beaches, rare wildlife, and is steeped in history.
Join the Caribbean jet set on a private yacht
Sail the Caribbean in style on board a private yacht with a crew to look after you. Explore at your own pace, stopping for swimming and snorkeling along the way. Thomas More Travel offers a rental service for stylish 41, 48 and 52-foot Sea Ray yachts with space for 12, 18 or 25 people.
Booking cruises and tours
For details of these experiences, browse the Thomas More Travel website or visit the tour desk in the lobby of your resort
