Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto Boat Tour

If you’re looking to combine natural beauty, lively marine life, and a splash of adventure, the Puerto Vallarta boat tour to Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto offers just that. It’s a full-day outing that promises snorkeling among colorful fish, relaxing on sunny beaches, and discovering a waterfall that’s perfect for snapping photos. While it’s not a perfect experience – and some reviews point out areas for improvement – it’s undeniably a great way to see some of the most iconic spots along Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.

We like that this tour provides a balanced mix of activity and relaxation. The boat experience is lively but well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and the water sports. Also, the local guides seem genuinely friendly and knowledgeable, making the day more engaging. On the flip side, the tour’s large boat size and some logistical hiccups could be a concern if you prefer a more intimate or seamless experience. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a fun, all-in-one day with plenty of variety without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Ideal for water lovers with snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding included.
• Scenic stops at Los Arcos, Playa Las Ánimas, and Quimixto offer diverse landscapes.
• Food and drinks are included, but some reviews mention limited quantities.
• The tour length is approximately 7 hours, with a lively, social atmosphere.
• Large boat size means some may feel crowded or experience delays.
• Expect a mix of guided explanations and free time for personal exploration.

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An Overview of the Experience

This boat tour is designed to give you a comprehensive look at Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, combining marine activities, scenic vistas, and a taste of local beach life. Priced at $60 per person, it offers reasonable value, especially considering the inclusion of food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water sports equipment. The tour lasts about 7 hours, mostly in the morning, which suits travelers eager for a full-day adventure.

The adventure begins at the Marina Vallarta, where you’ll check in, settle any outstanding balances, and pay a $32 port tax (for guests over 8 years old). The check-in process is straightforward, with friendly staff ready to assist, and the guides wearing recognizable gray polo shirts. Once aboard, a breakfast of scrambled eggs, ham, hotcakes, and fresh fruit is served, along with coffee, juice, or water. It’s a surprisingly hearty start before hitting the water.

The Itinerary in Detail

Journey to Los Arcos

The boat departs across the bay, offering spectacular views of Puerto Vallarta’s skyline and rugged mountains. This 35-minute ride is actually part of the fun, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and relax. When you arrive at Los Arcos National Park, the guide explains how snorkeling works and hands out equipment.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos is often the highlight for many travelers. With about 40 minutes allocated, you’ll have time to see vibrant fish, coral, and perhaps even some sea turtles if you’re lucky. As one guest noted, “We had a blast. The crew was friendly and worked hard to keep us happy.” The marine life is colorful enough to make your underwater photos worth the effort, though some reviewers mention that the time spent snorkeling felt rushed due to large groups.

Playa Las Ánimas: Relaxation and Water Sports

Next, the boat heads south to Playa Las Ánimas, a serene stretch of sand perfect for unwinding after the water activities. Here, you’re free to lounge on the beach, kayak, or paddleboard. The inclusion of kayaks and paddleboards means you can explore the calm waters at your own pace. Some reviews mention disappointment—specifically that they didn’t see kayaks or felt the activities were limited, but that can depend on the day’s conditions and group size.

The tour includes a visit to a local restaurant, providing a chance to try some authentic Mexican beach fare. It’s a nice touch, giving you a break from the boat’s onboard offerings.

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Quimixto and Waterfall

The last major stop is Playa Quimixto, a charming spot with a beautiful waterfall. Visitors often appreciate the chance to hike a short trail to the waterfall, which offers excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful setting. The guide describes it as a perfect place for relaxing and taking pictures, and many guests enjoy a swim or simply lounging in the shade.

The tour includes a beachside lunch with four options (which vary daily) and an open bar on the boat. This combination of good food, drinks, and stunning scenery makes for a very enjoyable end to the day. However, some reviews mention that the lunch portions can be small or that the experience felt a bit rushed, especially if the boat’s schedule is tight.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price includes a hearty breakfast, snorkeling gear, a visit to Los Arcos, and access to water sports at Playa Las Ánimas. You’ll also get to visit Quimixto and see the waterfall, with a beachside lunch and open bar adding to the value.

Not included is the $32 port fee per person (a minor extra), and photos aren’t provided—so bring your camera or phone with waterproof protection. The tour is conducted in both Spanish and English, and the guides are generally friendly and helpful.

The Realities Based on Guest Feedback

Some travelers rave about the friendly staff and the beautiful scenery, with one reviewer stating, “The whole crew was extremely friendly and worked hard to keep us happy.” Others, however, have had less satisfying experiences:

• One guest pointed out that they weren’t told to bring ID and felt the experience was disorganized, with long waits for activities.
• A few mention the large boat size meant snorkeling was in shifts, limiting underwater time, and that getting on and off the boat could be slow and cumbersome.
• Several reviews note that some activities like kayaking weren’t available or were limited, which can be disappointing if you’re eager to be active.

The slow pace of travel between stops was also highlighted, with some spending a significant amount of time just moving from place to place rather than engaging in activities. One guest commented, “Some in my party wanted to hike to Quimixto waterfalls, but they didn’t have the right shoes, and this wasn’t communicated beforehand.”

On the positive side, the guides’ knowledge and friendliness shine through, making even less-than-perfect moments more bearable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for water enthusiasts who enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. The scenic boat rides and beach stops are ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. It suits those willing to tolerate some logistical slowdowns for a value-packed day of sightseeing, water fun, and good food.

If you’re sensitive to crowds or delays, or expecting a luxury experience, this might not be your best bet. Instead, travelers who appreciate a friendly vibe, a lively atmosphere, and a chance to explore several spots in one day will find it compelling.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Vallarta boat tour offers a well-rounded day of marine exploration, beach relaxation, and scenic views. The inclusion of water sports and a waterfall visit makes it a versatile choice for active travelers, while the meals and open bar add to the overall value. The large vessel can be a downside for some, leading to crowding and longer wait times, but the friendly guides and stunning scenery often outweigh these logistical issues.

If you’re eager for a full day of fun in the sun, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained, this tour can be a memorable part of your Puerto Vallarta trip. Just remember to bring your ID, prepare for some waits, and enjoy the genuine hospitality of the crew.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my ID?
While not explicitly stated, some reviews suggest bringing ID just in case, especially for any additional payments or activities.

What is the port fee?
The fee is $32 pesos per person and is paid at the check-in point before boarding.

Can I buy photos of the trip?
Photos are not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring your own camera or waterproof phone case.

How long is the boat ride?
The journey to Los Arcos takes about 35 minutes, with additional travel time between stops.

Are water sports equipment included?
Yes, kayaks and paddleboards are part of the package, but availability may vary depending on the day.

Is there a lunch option?
Yes, a beachside lunch with four options (which change daily) is included, along with drinks from the open bar.

What are the language options?
Guides operate in Spanish and English, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and possibly water shoes if you plan on hiking or going into shallow water.

To sum it up, this tour is a lively, engaging way to see Puerto Vallarta’s marine and coastal highlights without breaking the bank. It’s suitable for adventurous spirits who value good guides, scenic stops, and casual fun. Just be prepared for some logistical quirks and crowds, and you’ll likely leave with lots of memories—and maybe a few good stories to tell.

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