Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling.

This full-day boat excursion visits two islands in the Caribbean, Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres, with snorkeling along the way. The listed duration is 480 minutes. It combines time on the water, a protected nature reserve and a stop in a small island town, with lunch served on the beach.

The day starts with a light snack of juice, banana, coffee and cookies. Your first stop is a guided reef snorkel of about 45 minutes, where the listing describes brightly colored coral and plenty of tropical fish. Snorkeling depends on weather and sea conditions; if they are not favorable, the operator compensates with additional time on the islands.

Next is Contoy Island, a protected nature reserve known for its birdlife and clear, shallow water suited to snorkeling, swimming or simply relaxing. About 180 minutes are set aside here, including a beachside lunch of grilled chicken or Tikin Xic-style fish with rice, totopos, salad and fresh fruit. Water, soft drinks and beer are included.

The last stop is Isla Mujeres, where you get one hour of free time to walk its colorful streets, enjoy the beaches and pick up a souvenir or an ice cream. A certified bilingual guide accompanies the group and round-trip transportation is included.

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels, and strollers are welcome for infants and small children, with specialized infant seats available. It is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health. For what to pack, the operator lists a towel, a change of clothes, hat and sunglasses, comfortable shoes, a long-sleeve shirt and a swimsuit.

Follow the reserve rules: do not touch coral or marine life, and do not use sunblock or mosquito repellent on Contoy; the listing notes that even biodegradable sunscreen harms reefs, so apply it on exposed skin at your hotel and after water activities. Contoy is smoke-free. Bring cash, as cards are not accepted. Hotel pickup is offered: around 6:00 am from Tulum, between 7:00 and 7:40 am from Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen, and between 8:00 and 8:40 am from Cancun. Private residences, hostels and B&Bs are picked up where possible or at the nearest meeting point.