Full Day Tour Isla Marietas with Meals and Open Bar

If you’re considering a day trip to the Marietas Islands from Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find plenty of options. This particular tour offers a full day of marine discovery, with opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing with good food and drinks. While it might not be perfect for every traveler, it packs enough highlights to make it worthwhile — especially if you’re after a lively, well-organized experience.

Among its strengths, we love the knowledgeable guides who help you navigate the waters and caves, and the stunning views of the islands from the boat and from atop the caves. The meals and open bar add a nice touch of comfort and social fun. On the flip side, some travelers have noted the long ride to the islands and certain communication issues. Still, if you’re looking for a full day of adventure with a lively crew, this tour might just suit your style.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy water activities, good food, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want to see marine life and explore caves but don’t mind a bit of a crowd or a longer day on the water. If your priority is a quiet, private experience, or if you’re sensitive to the price of optional extras, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Comprehensive marine experience with snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trip.
• Includes meals and open bar for a relaxed, social atmosphere.
• Guides are knowledgeable and attentive, enhancing safety and enjoyment.
• Long travel time (around 2 hours each way) may feel lengthy for some.
• Optional extras like access to Playa del Amor come with additional costs.
• Mixed reviews on organization and communication highlight the importance of reading details carefully.

Introduction: What’s the Deal with the Isla Marietas Tour?

This full-day tour to the Isla Marietas from Puerto Vallarta is tailored for travelers craving a lively, water-based outing. It combines the thrill of snorkeling among colorful fish with the fun of paddling around in kayaks or paddleboards, all aboard a catamaran that promises wide-open views of the islands.

What we particularly appreciate are the well-organized activities and the meals included—a hearty breakfast and a satisfying lunch—making the day feel complete without the need to search for food elsewhere. The open bar, available on the return trip, is a nice way to unwind and chat with fellow explorers.

However, keep in mind that some guests have found the two-hour transfer each way to be a stretch, especially if you prefer shorter excursions. Plus, the tours can be crowded, with group sizes up to 80, which might not suit travelers seeking a more intimate experience. But for those eager to enjoy marine wildlife, caves, and good company, this tour offers a fun, memorable day.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you value learning from friendly guides, or if you’re interested in seeing dolphins, whales, and marine fauna, this trip hits the mark. Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, making the snorkeling and cave explorations not just beautiful but educational and safe.

The fact that meals and drinks are included adds a lot of value, especially considering the full day out at sea. The kayaks and paddleboards mean you’re not just sitting back but actively engaging with the environment. Plus, the chance to witness the distinctive blue caves and hidden beaches makes it a visual feast.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Start Point and Departure

The tour begins at the Terminal Maritima API in Puerto Vallarta, with a meeting time of 8:15 am. This early start means you’ll need to get there on time, but it also ensures you’ll maximize your day on the islands. The trip starts with a catamaran ride that promises scenic views, and although the ride to the islands takes roughly two hours, many travelers find it a worthwhile prelude.

Marietas Islands: Marine Life and Caves

Once you arrive, the real fun begins. The Marietas Islands are a protected area, famous for their diverse marine fauna. Expect to see an abundance of colorful fish, and if your timing is right (December to March), the chance to spot humpback whales or dolphins. An authentic highlight is swimming through the famous caves—a bit of a workout and sometimes a challenge, as some reviews mention needing good swimming skills to reach certain spots like the Hidden Beach.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

The tour provides snorkel equipment—fins, vests, and snorkels—that make exploring the underwater world accessible. However, some reviews note that snorkeling time can be brief, around 20 minutes, depending on the group and conditions. Kayaks and paddleboards are also available, allowing you to cover more ground or simply relax on the water.

Food and Drinks

Lunch is included, often described as delicious and plentiful, with salads, chicken, tuna, and vegetarian options. Guests praise the quality of the food, noting it’s a big plus for a day trip. The open bar is available on the return, with soft drinks, coffee, and a selection of alcohol. Some reviews mention that the open bar is only on the way back, so you might want to pace yourself.

Optional Access to Playa del Amor

Access to the famed Playa del Amor (Love Beach) isn’t included in the basic package and costs an additional MXN 1000. If seeing this secluded spot is your main goal, be prepared for an extra fee and limited availability.

Return Trip

The trip back is equally scenic, and many guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere with drinks flowing. The tour wraps up back at the pier around 3-4 pm, making it a full, active day that leaves you with plenty of stories.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Positives: Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One guest notes, “You’ll need to be a strong swimmer to get to the hidden beach. It was worth the effort and swimming through the cave was cool.” Others point out that the food and drinks are a highlight, with “plenty to eat and a flowing open bar” making the day comfortable.

Cautionary notes: On the flip side, some travelers found the 2-hour ride each way tiring, especially if they prefer shorter excursions. Reviewers mention that communication could be improved—some had trouble with meeting point details or additional charges. One guest expressed frustration over long waiting times and extra fees for the hidden beach, which is limited in number daily.

Mixed experiences: While many praised the friendly crew and beautiful scenery, a few review comments reflect dissatisfaction with orga­nization or perceived value. For example, some said the snorkeling was brief, and others were upset about additional costs not clearly communicated upfront.

Practical Details for Your Planning

Duration and Group Size

This tour lasts around 6 to 7 hours, which means a full day of fun but also a long time on the water. The group size can go up to 80 participants, so expect a lively, bustling scene, especially during peak season booked about 27 days in advance on average.

Price and Value

At $115 per person, the price covers transportation, meals, guides, and water activities. When you add up the included features—snorkel gear, kayaks, meals, open bar—the tour offers decent value. Optional extras like access to Playa del Amor cost extra, so budget accordingly if that’s a priority.

Accessibility and Recommendations

Travelers should be comfortable with water activities and long boat rides. The long transfer might be a consideration if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer shorter trips. For those wanting a more private experience or less crowded, alternatives like private tours might be better.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day Isla Marietas adventure offers a lively, immersive experience that combines marine life, caves, and good food. It’s best suited for active, social travelers who enjoy being on the water and don’t mind a longer day. The guides’ knowledge and fun atmosphere shine through, making it a memorable outing for many.

However, be prepared for the long ride, the potential for crowds, and extra costs for special access spots. If you’re seeking a relaxed, intimate tour, or if strict timing is critical, you might want to explore other options. But for those who want a full, fun-packed day with plenty of opportunities to see marine life and explore caves, this tour delivers.

FAQs

How early do I need to arrive?
The tour starts at 8:15 am at the Terminal Maritima API in Puerto Vallarta, so plan to arrive a little earlier to check in comfortably.

Is the open bar available throughout the day?
No, the open bar is only available on the return trip. Drinks include soft drinks, coffee, and alcohol, but the selection may be limited.

What is included in the meal?
You’ll receive breakfast and lunch, with options like salads, chicken, tuna, and vegetarian dishes. Many guests find the food tasty and plentiful.

Can I access Playa del Amor?
Access to Playa del Amor is not included in the standard tour and costs an additional MXN 1000. Spots are limited and must be paid for on the day.

How long does snorkeling last?
Snorkeling time is usually around 20 minutes, but this can vary depending on conditions and group size.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s best for strong swimmers due to the caves and water activities, but children comfortable in water may enjoy it. Always assess your group’s swimming skills and comfort level.

In summary, the Full Day Tour Isla Marietas from Puerto Vallarta offers a lively, engaging way to experience the islands’ marine beauty, caves, and beaches. With knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and plenty of water activities, it suits travelers looking for a fun and full day out. Just keep in mind the long ride, potential crowds, and extra costs for certain spots—planning ahead and reading the details will ensure you get the most from this adventure.