There is no road to Holbox. Every visitor crosses by boat from Chiquila, a small port on the mainland, in a crossing that the Mexican Caribbean tourism board puts at about twenty minutes, with departures about every half hour and the last boats around nine at night. Two ferry companies operate passenger boats, and tickets are bought at the terminal or from the operators. Cars cannot go to the island, so visitors leave vehicles in guarded lots at Chiquila, and porters meet the boat at the Holbox pier to carry luggage by cart. The ferry is a simple, scenic and slightly adventurous part of the trip, with views of the lagoon and the island growing on the horizon. Plan the connection from Cancun airport or Merida in advance, since the overland journey to Chiquila takes about two to three hours.
Why it matters
The ferry is the way onto the island, so it frames your whole visit. A late boat or a missed connection can turn arrival day into a scramble, while a well-planned one starts the trip calmly. It is also a charming ride, with pelicans, lagoon water and the island coming into view.
How to do it
Reach Chiquila first. From Cancun, regional travel sources say the ADO bus and airport shuttles take about two and a half to three and a half hours, and rental cars can be left in guarded lots at the port. At the terminal, buy a ticket for the next boat. The tourism board says boats run about every half hour and the last crossings leave around nine at night, but schedules change with season and weather, so check the day's timetable at the terminal or with the operators before you travel.
Fares are low by international standards and are best paid in cash, so carry pesos. Leave extra time on the day you fly out so that you are not racing the connection.
Practical points
Bring a light jacket for the crossing, protect electronics from spray and keep valuables with you. At the Holbox pier, porters with cargo tricycles carry luggage, and golf cart taxis wait for visitors. Tell your hotel your arrival time so that they can meet you, and ask for directions on the island, since streets are sand and have few signs. If you are travelling at the end of a day, allow for a possible later bus or shuttle if you miss a boat.
What to expect
The experience
A short passenger ferry from the mainland port of Chiquila to the Holbox pier, with luggage carried by porters.
Best time
Daytime crossings are easiest, and the tourism board says the last boats leave around nine at night.
How long
About twenty minutes each way, plus waiting time at the terminal.
Tips
Carry pesos, check the day's timetable at the terminal and tell your hotel your arrival time.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Every visitor, since this is the only way onto the island.
- Families
- Easy for families, though children should stay close on the pier and in the boat.
- Couples
- A scenic and relaxed way to start the trip.
- Pair with
- A walk through town and a first sunset on the beach.
- Time needed
- About twenty minutes each way.
Good questions
How long is the ferry crossing?+
The Mexican Caribbean tourism board says about twenty minutes from Chiquila. Allow extra time for waiting and boarding.
How often does the ferry run?+
The tourism board says about every half hour, with the last crossings around nine at night. Schedules change with season and weather, so check the day's timetable.
Can I take a car to Holbox?+
No, cars stay on the mainland. Guarded lots at Chiquila hold vehicles, and Holbox has no private cars.
How do I get to Chiquila?+
Regional travel sources say ADO buses and shuttles from Cancun take roughly two and a half to three and a half hours. A rental car is another option.
What about luggage?+
Porters with cargo tricycles carry luggage from the Holbox pier. Agree on a fee before you go and carry small cash.
