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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| Transport | Duration | Price | Best For | Popularity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FerryFastestBudget | 30m | ($13) | -- | |
| Ferry (the way back) | 30m | ($13) | -- | |
| Minivan + Ferry | 1h 20m | ($47) | -- | |
| Private Transport | 1h 20m | ($201) | -- | |
| Day Trip | 10h | ($860) | -- |
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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.
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.
This transfer costs $47 and includes your ferry ticket. BD Experience Mexico is operating on this route.Catamaran tours cost around [price 860 MXN], but this price doesn’t include the [price 400 MXN] port fee. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cancún, as well as a lunch buffet, are available at an extra cost.
You can book this catamaran tour online through GetYourGuide.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 [price 1,400 MXN], excluding the port fee. You can book them through BookAway.
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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