📍 ISLA REFERENCE GUIDE: GETTING FROM THE CANCUN AIRPORT TO ISLA MUJERES

One of the most common questions I get is:

"How do I get from the Cancun Airport to Isla Mujeres?"

The good news? It's actually very simple! A little planning before your trip can make the process smooth and stress-free.

✅ STEP 1: ARRANGE YOUR AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION

My favorite recommendation is to reserve transportation before you arrive.

Many travelers use private transfer companies that will meet you at the airport and take you directly to the Puerto Juárez ferry terminal.

Some popular options include:

✔ CARM Tours & Transfers (use code CARMCARES for $5 off)
✔ Happy Shuttle
✔ PAPA ISLA Experience
✔ ADO Bus (budget option)

Many transfer companies can also arrange your Ultramar ferry tickets when you book your transportation, which means one less thing to worry about upon arrival.

💡 Airport Tip: As you exit the airport, continue toward Ground Transportation. Your transportation company will be waiting in the designated meeting area with a sign displaying their company logo and/or your name. Stick with your pre-arranged transportation and avoid accepting rides from anyone approaching you along the way.

🎟️ HOW TO PURCHASE FERRY TICKETS

You have several options:

1️⃣ Purchase online before your trip at:
https://www.ultramarferry.com/en

2️⃣ Purchase through your transportation company when booking your airport transfer.

3️⃣ Purchase at the Puerto Juárez ferry terminal ticket counter or kiosk.

💡 My recommendation: Buy your tickets ahead of time whenever possible. Ferry lines can get long during busy travel periods.

⏰ Ferries typically run every 30 minutes throughout the day. Check the Ultramar website for the most current schedule.

✅ STEP 2: TAKE THE ULTRAMAR FERRY

The Ultramar ferry ride to Isla Mujeres takes approximately 20-25 minutes.

The ferry has both a front entrance and a rear entrance. If you have larger luggage, you'll typically board through the rear entrance where the luggage storage racks are located. Large luggage is stored on designated racks during the crossing while backpacks and personal items stay with you.

Onboard you'll find:

🎶 Live music on many sailings
🍺 Cold drinks available for purchase
☀️ Open-air upper deck seating
❄️ Air-conditioned indoor seating

🍹 Pro Tip: If you arrive early, stop by Bajo del Mar overlooking the ferry terminal. Their margaritas are delicious and available para llevar (to go). Traveling with someone? Have one person hold your place in line while the other grabs drinks.

🎟️ Ferry Ticket Tip:

If you purchase roundtrip ferry tickets, do not throw away your ticket after arriving on Isla. The same ticket is used for your return trip to Cancun. I also recommend taking a photo of the entire ticket and QR code as a backup.

✅ STEP 3: ARRIVE ON ISLA MUJERES

Welcome to Isla! 🌴

🧳 Need help with your bags?

As you exit the ferry, you'll likely see the maleteros waiting to assist with luggage. These hardworking gentlemen transport luggage throughout downtown Isla Mujeres using carts and bicycles. They work entirely for tips, so please keep a few small bills handy.

💱 Need pesos?

Once you enter the ferry terminal, look immediately to your right. You'll find two currency exchange windows that often offer some of the best exchange rates on the island.

🚕 Need a taxi?

Taxis are an inexpensive and convenient way to get around Isla Mujeres. The taxi stand is located just outside the ferry terminal.

💡 Pro Tip: Be sure to agree on the price of your ride before getting into the taxi.

A little planning before your trip can make arrival day easy and stress-free. Before you know it, you'll be watching turquoise water from the ferry and starting your Isla Mujeres vacation. 💙