Puerto Vallarta Islas Marietas Eco Discovery

Taking a boat out to the Islas Marietas sounds like the perfect way to spend a day in Puerto Vallarta—crystal waters, scenic islands, and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on pristine beaches. Our review focuses on what potential travelers can really expect from this full-day adventure, offered by Gray Line Puerto Vallarta, at a cost of about $90 per person. While it promises a blend of water sports, local cuisine, and stunning scenery, there are some practical considerations to keep in mind.

We like that the tour covers multiple stops—from snorkeling around the famous Marietas Islands to relaxing on La Cargada beach—and that it includes lunch and drinks. The chance to paddleboard and kayak is a bonus for active travelers. On the flip side, the tour’s mixed reviews highlight some red flags, particularly concerning customer service, which could impact your overall experience.

This tour might appeal most to adventurous travelers craving a day in nature with plenty of water activities and good food, but those who value reliable communication and service should proceed with caution.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and beaches offer memorable views and relaxing spots.
• The lunch—BBQ at Majahuitas Beach—is a highlight for food lovers.
• Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and kayaks are included, adding fun options for water activity enthusiasts.
• Customer service issues have been reported, so manage expectations accordingly.
• The timing includes roughly 8 hours, with designated stops for water fun and relaxation.
• There are additional fees for conservation and port taxes, which can catch travelers off guard.
• The tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and a love for outdoor adventure.
• The relatively small group size (up to 20 travelers) can make for a more intimate experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Puerto Vallarta Islas Marietas Eco Discovery Tour

What’s on the Agenda?

The day kicks off early—9:00 AM at Puerto Magico—and lasts about 8 hours. The tour is designed to give you a taste of the iconic islands and the local coastline. We’ll explore two main stops: Playa Nopalera and the Beach of Love on the Islas Marietas, and the Bay of Banderas at La Cargada beaches.

Stop 1: Islas Marietas — Here, you’ll visit the famous Playa Nopalera and get the chance to snorkel in waters famous for their clarity and vibrant marine life. Admission is included, but if you want to visit the Beach of Love, that’s an extra cost. The island’s natural beauty is undeniable, with towering cliffs and clear water creating a postcard-perfect scene.

Expect around 35 minutes at this stop, which might not be enough for a thorough exploration but enough to snap some photos and dip your toes in the sea. The snorkel gear is included, so you can look for fish and other sea creatures. One review mentioned that the operator never contacted a participant beforehand, and some travelers felt the service was lacking, which can be frustrating if you’re hoping for a seamless experience.

Stop 2: La Cargada Beaches and Water Activities — After the islands, the tour moves to the Bay of Banderas, specifically a lovely stretch known as Las Cargadas. Here, you’ll have 1 hour and a half to enjoy water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on water mats. It’s a generous amount of time for fun in the sun, and the included open bar makes it an easy choice to unwind with a beer or cocktail in hand.

The highlight is the beach at Majahuitas, where a delicious BBQ is served, including beef burgers with fries—perfect fuel for more water play. The admission fees for conservation are $20 per person, and port taxes are $2, payable in cash at the port, so keep some small bills handy.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour offers a lot at the listed price: lunch, snorkeling equipment, kayak, paddleboard, water inflatables, onboard entertainment, and an open bar with drinks and non-alcoholic options. It’s a good value for those who enjoy variety and making the most of their day on the water.

However, photos are not included—so if you want professional shots of your day, you’ll need to bring your own camera or smartphone. Also, remember the extra fees—the $20 conservation fee and $2 port tax—which can add up if you’re not prepared.

Timing and Group Size

The group size is capped at 20, which is a plus for those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than a crowded boat. The timing is designed to maximize your day, but some travelers might find the short stops don’t allow for exhaustive exploration or relaxation.

How Reliable Is the Service?

One scathing review from a recent traveler states, “They suck!” citing a lack of contact and absence at the meeting point. While such negative feedback is not universal, it does highlight the importance of managing expectations, especially regarding customer service. If you’re someone who values clear communication and reliability, this is a point to consider.

The Experience and Atmosphere

From what we gather, the tour’s stunning vistas and delicious BBQ are the real highlights. The water activities are a big draw, especially for families and active travelers. The open bar onboard adds a leisurely vibe, and the chance to relax on beautiful beaches is appealing.

However, the lack of consistency in service and extra fees can detract from the overall value. If you’re lucky, you’ll enjoy a smooth, fun-filled day. If not, it might be more of a frustrating experience than an escapade.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers who enjoy water sports and scenic beaches. It’s also ideal for those who value meals included and a small-group environment. Travelers who plan to stay flexible and are okay with some unpredictability in service will find it a decent option.

Conversely, if you prefer highly reliable, professionally managed tours or have limited time and want a tightly organized experience, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

For $90, this tour provides a comprehensive day in the water with opportunities to snorkel, paddleboard, and relax on beautiful beaches. The included BBQ lunch and open bar add to the laid-back tropical atmosphere, and the small group size fosters a more personal experience.

However, it’s important to weigh the service reviews—some travelers have experienced significant issues with communication and organization. The extra costs, such as the conservation fee and port taxes, are also points to keep in mind, as they can increase the total expense.

If what you’re after is stunning scenery and fun water activities with decent food, this tour could fit the bill—just be prepared for potential hiccups.

Who Is It Best For?

This experience works well for active travelers who want a full day of adventure and don’t mind some unpredictability. It’s suitable for families, couples, or groups that enjoy socializing on boat trips and outdoor fun. If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized, and trouble-free day, do consider reading recent reviews carefully or exploring alternative tours.

FAQ about Puerto Vallarta Islas Marietas Eco Discovery

Is transportation included from Puerto Vallarta?
The tour starts at Puerto Magico, so you’ll need to make your way there yourself, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:00 AM and returning to the meeting point later in the afternoon.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly some cash for additional fees. Cameras are optional, as photos are not included.

Is snorkel gear provided?
Yes, snorkel equipment is included in the tour, so you’ll have everything needed to explore the marine life.

Can I visit the Beach of Love?
Yes, but it comes with an extra cost, so plan accordingly if you want to visit this iconic spot.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch at Majahuitas Beach is part of the package, and there’s an open bar onboard with beer and cocktails.

What about group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, making it more intimate than larger group excursions.

Are there any hidden costs?
Consider the $20 conservation fee and $2 port tax, payable in cash, which are not included in the base price.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this tour offers a lively and scenic way to spend a day in Puerto Vallarta, especially if you love water activities, good food, and scenic beaches. Just keep in mind the mixed reviews on customer service and extra fees, and you’ll be better prepared for an enjoyable day in paradise.