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Swim with Manatees

Manatee Encounter at Isla Mujeres: swim and interact with manatees

Cross the Caribbean Sea by ferry from Cancún to Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres·Children must be taller than 1 m to participate in the manatee program.
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About Manatee Encounter at Isla Mujeres: swim and interact with manatees

Isla Mujeres is a 7 km island located about 13 km from Cancún, in the Mexican Caribbean. On the southern tip sits Dolphin Discovery-Isla Mujeres, surrounded by white sand, palm trees, and crystal-clear turquoise waters — the perfect setting for an unforgettable encounter with one of the ocean's most beloved mammals. You'll get there by ferry, crossing the clear Caribbean waters from Cancún in a relaxing 20-minute ride. Enjoy the scenery as you head toward the fun ahead. With the Manatee Encounter program, you'll swim very close to gentle, friendly manatees. They'll let you pet them, give you a big hug and even a kiss, and you can feed them to create a truly special bond. A memorable experience for you and your family. After the interaction, unwind in Isla Mujeres' warm climate, swim in the pool, or rest on the lounge chairs. A full day combining nature, marine wildlife, and relaxation by the Caribbean.

The experience

Cross the Caribbean Sea by ferry from Cancún to Isla Mujeres
Get up close with gentle, affectionate manatees at Dolphin Discovery
Pet, hug, and feed these adorable marine mammals
Receive a briefing before entering the water
Relax in the pool or rest on comfortable lounge chairs
Enjoy a buffet and non-alcoholic drinks, included

What's included?

Included

  • Round-trip ferry transport Cancún – Isla Mujeres – Cancún
  • Amenities: lockers, showers, lounge chairs, and pool
  • Buffet meal (once) and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Briefing prior to the activity

Not included

  • Photos of your manatee experience
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Dock fee (paid on-site)
  • Other activities in Cancún or Isla Mujeres
  • Land transport (must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance)

What to expect

1

Ferry transfer — Board the ferry in Cancún and cross the Caribbean Sea to Isla Mujeres in about 20 minutes.

2

Arrival and briefing — Upon arrival at Dolphin Discovery-Isla Mujeres, you'll receive a briefing. Arrive 30 minutes before your program.

3

Manatee encounter — Get in the water and swim up close with the manatees: pet them, receive a hug and a kiss, and feed them.

4

Free time — Relax in the pool, rest on the lounge chairs, and enjoy the included buffet before heading back by ferry to Cancún.

Good to know

  • Biodegradable sunscreen
  • Towel
  • Swimsuit
  • Cash for taxis, shopping, and other expenses
  • Children must be taller than 1 m to participate in the manatee program.
  • Life vests are mandatory for all in-water programs.
  • Children taller than 1.40 m may participate alone and pay the adult rate.
  • Children between 1.20 m and 1.40 m must be accompanied by one adult with a paid ticket.
  • Children between 1 m and 1.20 m must be accompanied by two adults with paid tickets.
  • Women who are 5 months pregnant or less may participate with a companion and after signing a waiver; those more than 5 months pregnant may not
  • Arrive 30 minutes before your program for the briefing.
  • Land transport must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance.

Meeting point

Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Isla Mujeres, Mexico