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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 20 kilometre distance from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 5 ways to get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. You can choose between the ferry, ferry (the way back), minivan + ferry, private transport, day trip. The most affordable option is by ferry, starting from $13. The fastest route is by ferry (0h 30m).
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30m
$13
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30m
$13
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1h 20m
$47
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1h 20m
$201
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10h
$860
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The public ferry is the most common way to travel from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. Ferries sail from early morning to late at night, so you’ll have plenty of options throughout the day.
Tickets start from $13, and the ferry ride to Isla Mujeres takes around 20-30m.
If you're staying outside downtown Cancún, it might be easier to use one of the other ferry terminals operated by Ultramar:
Ferries from Puerto Juarez are cheaper and more frequent, but if one of the other terminals is closer to your accommodation, you’ll save time and money on transport — meaning you'll be relaxing on Isla Mujeres even sooner!
Going back to Cancun from Isla Mujeres is simple. If you booked a round-trip ticket, just head to the ferry dock at your scheduled time. If not, you can book your ticket online through BookAway or buy it directly at the port.
The same ferry companies operate on this route with the same travel time, and prices also start from .
If you're heading straight to Cancún Airport, you can also take a combined shuttle + ferry service with BD Experience Mexico.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Isla Mujeres translates to ‘Island of Women’ in Spanish, but no, it's not an island full of women! It's a dreamy little island situated in the turquoise waters just off the coast of Cancun. Isla Mujeres boasts dramatically beautiful and calm beaches on the north side and admirable coral reefs in the south.
The island is a great destination for a day trip, but we'd reFrequently asked questionscommend a longer stay as there's so much to do. One of the best ways to spend your time is simply exploring Isla Mujeres downtown. Rent a golf cart and ride it around town, already an adventure in itself!
For lunch, you can enjoy some of the island's delicious dishes such as Tikinxikla fish or an extra-large helping of ceviche. Make sure to visit Garrafon Natural Reef Park for snorkelling, Punta Sur viewpoint for some spectacular sunrises, and Playa Norte for its powdery-soft white-sand beach.
Every route on GeckoRoutes is independently researched and regularly verified.
Coming from Cancun Airport? You can book a combined minivan + ferry transfer to Isla Mujeres. The journey takes about 1h 20m in total.
The minivan takes you to Ultramar Puerto Juarez Ferry Terminal, where you'll board a public ferry to the island. The final stop is at Ultramar Pier in Isla Mujeres.
BD Experience Mexico is operating on this route.
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Cancun to Isla Mujeres.
The service includes pickup from Cancun Airport and a ticket for the public ferry to Isla Mujeres. After a private transfer to Puerto Juarez, you'll board the ferry and arrive at Ultramar Pier on the island. The journey takes around 1h 20m.
Prices for private transfer start at $201 for a -seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about each.
If you’re visiting Isla Mujeres for just a day, deciding where to start can be overwhelming with so many things to do. That’s why joining a tour can be useful. They organise everything for you!
An Isla Mujeres day trip normally includes set stops, activities, transportation, snorkelling equipment and lunch. Some tours even offer alcoholic drinks. It all depends on how much you’re willing to pay.
Catamaran tours cost around 860 MXN, but this price doesn’t include the 400 MXN port fee. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cancún, as well as a lunch buffet, are available at an extra cost.
Ultramar and Xcaret also offer shared day trips from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. They’re reliable but come with a higher price tag, starting at 1,400 MXN, excluding the port fee. You can book them through BookAway.
These tours offer a more local experience, and many travellers find them enjoyable. But reviews are mixed, and a common complaint is that tours often start later than scheduled. It’s important to choose your lanchero carefully since not all provide good service.
To join a local day tour, go to Puerto Juarez and look for Terminal Maritima de Puerto Juarez Capitan Cook.
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
Carbon Footprint
This 20 km journey produces approximately 2 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
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