Isla Mujeres & Dolphins part 2

The bus made record time, although the air con was on full bore and the temperature cold enough to hang meat! We arrived in Cancun at the dock just after 9am, Angela and I were let off and others remained on the bus and continued on.
They checked the vouchers again in the terminal and told us that because we had arrived late, our ferry had left, but not to worry because he would put us on another boat, which was also due to leave but they were holding it for us, so we had to hurry.
Off we went at a cracking pace across the road and down the dock to a lovely catamaran, where guess who was waiting? all the other people from our bus. Ours is not to wonder why.....

Ah! Caribbean sea!

As soon as we were aboard, the boat left, and drinks were served - beer, juice or coffee. It was a beautiful day, the sun shining and the Caribbean a brilliant turquoise, but we were in for another unexpected bonus. Instead of just a shuttle to Isla Mujeres for the dolphin swim and return, this was a full day trip, including a guided snorkel trip off the island, then a visit to the man town for shopping. All accompanied by great music, wonderful friendly crew and unlimited drinks.

Although most of the coral was unfortunately dead, we did see some wonderful tropical fish on our snorkel trip, where all the equipment was provided and we even got to keep the snorkel mouthpiece.
We had enough time to do a quick circuit of the town and buy some postcards, and for me to know that it's a place I could enjoy exploring more if the opportunity presents itself.

Madonna & her baby

Then off to the other side of the island to Dolphin Discovery, where first we had a buffet lunch. I did have to pay $15 for the lunch but it included an open bar so we had several pina coladas and were feeling very mellow by the time the dolphin group was called. The 50 minute experience included having the dolphin push you on a boogie board, dancing with it, a kiss photo opportunity, and then a ride on its belly while you held its fins. It turned out that Angela's dolphin had been badly scratched previously by someone's acrylic nails and so every time it went near her to do the belly tow it took one look at her nails and scampered off. They had to take her to another dolphin in the pool next door.

Party time on the catamaran

We had another 2 hours to relax and drink more pina coladas at the park, then the catamaran put up the sail and we headed home, accompanied by tequila shots, music and dancing. It was a wonderful day and I can really recommend the tour company. We got home around 8pm and could do little more but have a coffee and toast and collapse into bed!

Angela catches a few zzzzs on the way home

My only suggestion is that they might consider moderating the bus air con, we were all trying to protect ourselves with our towels but cold air and a wet towel doesn't help much! Still, if the meat department at the supermarket ever needs extra room I can recommend something for them now!