Cloudless skies and a gentle breeze, perfect sailing conditions for a summer day out on the water in the Mexican Caribbean and Thomas More Travel has a variety of options for seafaring adventures.
For starters, set sail for a morning of snorkeling in the bay between Cancun and Isla Mujeres, at the reefs off Punta Nizuc or in Puerto Morelos National Marine Park. A short boat trip through crystal-clear waters in incredible shades of turquoise will have you out at the reef where wonders await you below the surface.
Part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second longest coral reef system, all three sites are perfect for snorkeling and rich in marine life. You’ll soon spot fish of all shapes and sizes in a dazzling kaleidoscope of colors. Queen angelfish sail regally by in pairs, Blue tangs, blue striped grunts gather around the reef crest in a shimmering cloud of scales and parrotfish nibble algae on the reef. Tiny sergeant majors, neon wrasses, squirrel and butterfly fish defend their territory in the coral gardens. You may even see a turtle glide past the reef.
sla Mujeres bound
Next stop, hop on board a luxury yacht or catamaran bound for Isla Mujeres. As you cross the bay to Cancun’s sister island, relax and take in the view of the Mexican Caribbean. You can stop for a spot of snorkeling on the way or sail along the coast of Isla before docking.
Explore the tiny island on a golf cart or by bike and then head for the world-famous Playa Norte. Once you have swum in the shallows, sit down for a delicious seafood lunch at one of the restaurants along the waterfront. You’ll want to stay on for the sunset; the views are incredible.
Cruise to Contoy, the island of birds
Go in search of nature and plan a trip to Contoy, a palm-fringed island that is an important bird sanctuary and a beautiful spot to spend the day.
Over 150 species of birds make their home on the island year round or are migratory visitors in the winter. They include colonies of frigate birds and cormorants, terns, ibis, roseate spoonbills, herons and egrets.
Contoy is a two-and-a-half-hour boat trip north of Cancun and the shades of turquoise and blue water that you’ll pass through en route are breathtaking. Once you reach the island, spend the time watching the birds, relaxing on the beach or snorkeling and swimming with rays and other fish in the sheltered bay. Only 200 people a day are permitted to visit Contoy and it is uninhabited except for a handful of park wardens.
Sailing along the Riviera Maya coast
If you are staying in the Riviera Maya, board a catamaran cruise along the coast. You’ll be following maritime routes once used by ancient Maya traders and as you sail along the Mexican Caribbean shoreline you’ll catch a glimpse of lone temples and watch towers guarding hidden inlets.
If hopping on a boat means going in search of the big fish of your dreams, then there are plenty of fishing charters available in the Riviera Maya, Puerto Morelos, Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The seasoned captain and his crew will take you right to where the fish are running.
When the sun goes down
Your summer sailing adventures don’t stop when the sun goes down. Board a catamaran for a romantic champagne cruise under the stars. Watch the sunset as you sail through the lagoon on board a lobster dinner cruise or join a fun-packed expedition through the bay on a pirate ship.
