Boat Operators Propose New Route to Boca Iglesia Convent in Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo — Boat operators who transport visitors to the historic Boca Iglesia convent have proposed opening a new access route that would cut travel distance by up to 10 kilometers and reduce transit time by approximately one hour for tourists coming from the Riviera Maya, Cancún, Isla Mujeres, and Costa Mujeres.

Currently, access to the convent is through Boca Nueva, requiring a lengthy journey through mangrove channels to enter the northern part of the lagoon before heading south to the site. The alternative route, supported by local boat operators like Rodolfo Bass, would create an eastern connection reducing the distance to less than three kilometers to the sea.

“This would make the trip much more efficient,” said Bass, a local resident. “Right now, we have to navigate slowly through narrow mangrove passages, maneuvering around curves with outboard motors at low speeds.”

The proposed change would particularly benefit visitors staying in Costa Mujeres hotels, which are less than 30 kilometers from the convent. For those traveling from Holbox, the current northern route would remain in place since their journey is already longer than from Isla Mujeres, according to local fishing families including the Figueroa, Velázquez, and Magaña families.

Current travel distances average 50 kilometers from the wooden pier at the Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo in Isla Mujeres to the disembarkation point, followed by a 150-meter walk inland to reach the convent. From Holbox, the journey is approximately 60 kilometers.

Tour operators currently offer trips to the site from Cancún, Costa Mujeres, and Isla Mujeres, with group rates ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 pesos per person. Private services for small groups cost between 4,700 and 10,000 pesos depending on demand.

According to Tripadvisor reviews compiled recently, 12,885 out of 14,009 users rated the convent as excellent, while 744 considered it good, 180 average, 89 poor, and 111 terrible.

Visitors have recommended wearing comfortable shoes and mid-length pants to protect against branches and insects during the walk from the disembarkation point. They’ve also noted the lack of infrastructure on land, including no pier, showers, restrooms, or dining areas.

Local residents suggest the municipal government should develop projects to improve visitor experience at the site, particularly after some tourists expressed dissatisfaction with the difficulties encountered during the journey through this natural and cultural environment.