6 hours on a Private Yacht in Puerto Vallarta – Snorkeling & Beaches

Imagine cruising along the shimmering waters of Puerto Vallarta in a 50-foot private yacht, just your group and the ocean ahead. That’s exactly what this 6-hour private yacht tour offers — a chance to explore the bay’s best spots in comfort, with a splash of adventure and plenty of time to soak in the scenery. This experience is perfect if you’re craving a personalized, relaxed day on the water away from the crowds.

What I really like about this trip is how flexible and intimate it feels — with only your group on board and the ability to customize the stop times to your liking. Plus, the crew’s reputation for being helpful and accommodating is a real plus. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the non-refundable nature of the booking, so it’s best to be fairly sure about the weather forecast before confirming. This tour is ideal for families, friends, or couples who want a private, well-rounded day with snorkeling, beaches, and good food, all wrapped into one comfortable package.

Key Points

• Private & Flexible: You’ll have your own boat and can choose between 4 or 6 hours — perfect for customizing your day.
• Highlights include snorkeling and beaches: Swim at beautiful spots like Playa Colomitos and Las Animas, and enjoy the floating platform.
• All-inclusive: Snacks, drinks, towels, snorkeling gear, and even a floating lily pad are provided, making it a fuss-free experience.
• Expert crew: Multiple reviews highlight how helpful and accommodating the crew is, often going above and beyond.
• Value for money: A per-group price might seem steep, but considering the private boat, food, drinks, and personalized service, many find it worth every peso.
• Ideal for groups: Up to 15 people can comfortably share the experience, making it a great group activity or family outing.

An In-Depth Look at the Private Yacht Experience in Puerto Vallarta

Taking to the water on a private yacht in Puerto Vallarta offers a blend of comfort, adventure, and exclusive access that big cruise ships simply can’t match. This particular tour, operated by PV Marine Tours, boasts a 50-foot vessel that comfortably seats up to 18 guests — perfect for small groups or families seeking a private escape.

The Itinerary: A Day of Sun, Sea, and Snorkeling

The adventure begins at Marina Vallarta, a convenient starting point close to many accommodations and easily accessible via public transportation. Set sail around 10:00 am, giving you ample daylight hours to explore the bay’s best spots.

The journey first takes you toward the Los Arcos National Marine Park, a highlight for many visitors. This protected area features towering rock formations and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. As one reviewer put it, “they found us a nice private beach to swim and snorkel in,” which speaks volumes about how personalized the experience can be.

Once at the marine park, you’ll have the chance to snorkel among vibrant fish and perhaps even spot some marine life. The crew often catches fish and may surprise you with fresh sashimi, adding a culinary twist to your day. The floating platform, or lily pad, adds a fun element for lounging, relaxing, or even doing a bit of sunbathing — a favorite detail noted by past guests.

Beach Stops: Playa el Paredón, Colomitos, and Las Animas

The tour offers flexibility with beach visits; you can choose to go directly to Las Animas, known for its lively seafood restaurants and relaxed vibe, or visit Playa el Paredón and Colomitos. The latter are beloved spots for swimming and exploring secluded coves, with some reviews mentioning that the crew took them to a private beach.

A guest shared, “they took us to a private beach, and stopped in the ocean to swim,” emphasizing how the crew’s local knowledge enhances the experience. This is especially valuable if you’re looking for fewer crowds and more authentic surroundings.

Food and Refreshments

Included in the price are fresh seasonal fruit and guacamole, along with 24 bottles of water, ice, and a selection of 12 beers or sodas, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day. Several reviews praise the snacks and drinks, noting how helpful the crew was in serving and accommodating extra beverages.

For lunch, you might find yourself enjoying seafood at Las Animas, which has multiple restaurants lining the beach. The fact that some reviews mention seafood highlights how this tour combines nature with culinary delights, a real plus if good, fresh food is a priority.

Comfort and Convenience

The tour offers towel service, parking at the pier, and the use of snorkeling gear, making your outing comfortable and convenient. The vessel’s size ensures plenty of space for everyone to relax, chat, or sunbathe without feeling crowded.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

What sets this tour apart is the private, tailor-made experience. Unlike larger, group tours, you won’t be herded from one spot to another with strangers. Instead, you can customize stops and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The crew’s reputation for helpfulness and their effort to find special spots — whether a quiet beach or a snorkeling reef — earns high praise from past guests, who describe the staff as “amazing” and “very accommodating.”

Pricing and Value

At $1,470.72 for up to 15 people, this might seem steep for some. However, when breaking down the cost, it’s akin to renting a luxury boat and private guide for a day. Considering the inclusions — snacks, drinks, snorkeling equipment, towels, and a private setting — many guests find it excellent value, especially compared to the cost of multiple individual excursions or large group tours.

Booking and Practicalities

The tour is most often booked about 12 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular but also manageable to reserve ahead of time. Meeting at Marina Vallarta is straightforward, and the tour begins at 10:00 am, a good time to maximize your daylight hours. Keep in mind that it is weather-dependent; if the weather doesn’t cooperate, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private yacht experience suits travelers who value exclusivity, comfort, and personalized service. It’s ideal for families wanting a safe, fun day at sea, groups celebrating special occasions, or couples looking for a romantic escape. If you enjoy snorkeling, fresh seafood, and scenic beauty without the hustle of crowded tours, this one is a winner. It’s especially good for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and spontaneous adventures — like catching a fish or exploring hidden beaches.

The Sum Up

In essence, this private yacht tour offers a well-rounded taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal charm. It combines the thrill of snorkeling in protected marine parks with relaxing beach visits, all wrapped in a private setting that makes you feel like your own VIP. The high praise from past guests underscores the quality of the crew and the thoughtful touches that make this experience stand out.

While the price is on the higher side, the inclusions and intimacy of the experience make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a memorable, stress-free day on the water. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a luxurious way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty, this tour delivers genuine value, authentic moments, and plenty of good stories to tell.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a family-friendly option. The vessel is spacious and designed for comfort, making it suitable for kids.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks (fresh seasonal fruit and guacamole), ice, towels, and a floating lily pad are included. Beverages include 12 beers or sodas.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
You can bring extra drinks, and the crew will serve them. It’s not specified if outside food is allowed, but bringing additional drinks is mentioned.

What is the meeting point?
The starting point is Av. Paseo de la Marina Sur 214, Marina Vallarta, Mexico. The tour begins at 10 am and ends back at this location.

What is the duration of the tour?
You can choose between 4 and 6 hours, with the review focusing on the 6-hour option, giving ample time to explore and relax.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, parking at the pier is included, making arrival for the tour straightforward.

How many people can this yacht accommodate?
Up to 15 guests per group, making it ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 12 days ahead, which helps secure your preferred date and time.