Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Island, Breakfast, Lunch, Open Bar

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and looking for a day packed with wildlife, stunning scenery, and fun water activities, this Marietas Islands tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that offers plenty of value for the price.

We particularly like the chance to see humpback whales (in season), the variety of water activities like snorkeling and kayaking, and the all-inclusive bar and meals — perfect for travelers wanting a lively, hassle-free day. However, potential participants should be aware of some extra costs for the marine park fee and optional excursions like Playa de Amor. This tour suits those who love marine life, good food, and a lively atmosphere, especially if they’re eager to relax and socialize as they explore one of Mexico’s most beautiful protected areas.

Key Points

• Wildlife Watching: Spot humpback whales (seasonally), dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays, making this tour particularly attractive for nature lovers.
• Snorkeling & Water Fun: The protected marine park offers vibrant underwater scenery and opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply swimming.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: From continental breakfast to a hot cooked lunch, plus an open bar, everything is taken care of during the 6-hour journey.
• Expert Guides & Safety: Friendly, bilingual guides focus on safety and informative commentary, enhancing the experience.
• Authentic & Fun Atmosphere: With karaoke, music, and games on board, this tour balances leisure with lively entertainment.
• Cost & Extras: While $100 per person is a reasonable price, be aware of additional fees like the Marine Park Conservation Fee ($180 Pesos) and optional extras like Playa de Amor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Booking and Prep: Setting the Stage

This tour, operated by Puerto Vallarta Net, is designed for travelers who appreciate convenience and a lively atmosphere. For $100 a person, you get a full 6-hour itinerary that begins in the morning — perfect for making the most of your day. Booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance — a plus for spontaneous travelers or those with uncertain plans.

Before heading out, you’ll want to prepare your camera, swimsuits, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring extra cash for tips, photos, and optional fees, and remember the $180 Pesos (about $9 USD) Marine Park Conservation Fee, plus a small deposit if you want to rent snorkeling gear. These small costs are typical for protected marine areas, but they do add up, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

The Journey: Scenic Cruising & Wildlife Encounters

The tour kicks off with a continental breakfast served en route, giving you a chance to fuel up while cruising across Banderas Bay. The boat ride itself is a highlight, as you’ll be treated to views of dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and, if you’re visiting during the season, humpback whales. Several reviews praise the crew’s attentiveness and the guides’ knowledge, making the wildlife sightings more engaging and educational.

One reviewer, Alejandra from Mexico, summed it up nicely: “From the moment you step onto the boat, you can feel the good vibes… the staff is always making sure everything is going well.” That cheerful, welcoming atmosphere makes the day even more enjoyable.

Visiting Las Marietas: The Hidden Gem

Once at Las Marietas, you’ll have time for snorkeling in the protected marine park. The guides are attentive, pointing out the spots with the most diverse marine life, and you’ll likely see colorful fish and maybe even the rare Blue Footed Booby — a bird unique to this area and the Galapagos Islands. For many travelers, snorkeling in such a pristine environment feels like swimming in an aquarium, with vibrant coral and lively marine creatures.

Some critiques mention that snorkeling can be underwhelming if the conditions aren’t ideal. One review from a visitor from France noted: “The worst snorkeling I’ve done — we couldn’t see anything,” which highlights how weather and water clarity can impact the experience. It’s worth keeping expectations flexible, especially if visibility is affected that day.

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Water Activities and Relaxation

After snorkeling, you can choose to kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax in the water. The crew seems well-prepared with life jackets, masks, and snorkel gear, and many guests enjoy just floating or swimming in the calm, clear waters.

Following the water activities, the open bar kicks in. The bar offers a selection of drinks, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the scenery with a refreshing beverage. The included hot lunch is another highlight — freshly cooked on the boat, it often receives praise for its quality and flavor, transforming the tour from a simple excursion into a culinary experience at sea.

Entertainment & Return: Dancing, Games, and Reflection

As the boat heads back to Puerto Vallarta, the fun continues with a lively atmosphere. The music turns up, and the crew often hosts karaoke and games — adding a social, festive vibe to the trip. One reviewer appreciated this aspect: “The dance floor finally opens, so you can enjoy the music, dance, or even sing karaoke!”

The relaxed, friendly environment is what many travelers remember most, whether it’s sharing drinks, singing, or simply soaking up the sun and views.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a fun, social day on the water with plenty of wildlife watching and water activities. It’s ideal for those who enjoy good food and drinks, and don’t mind a lively atmosphere that combines relaxation with entertainment. Families with children (ages 3-5) can participate, though they pay a small fee at check-in.

However, it might not be the best choice for snorkelers expecting professional dive-quality gear or pristine visibility every day. If snorkeling is your main focus, consider the weather conditions and potential extra costs for exploring Playa de Amor or other nearby spots.

In Summary

This tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day with wildlife viewing, water-based fun, delicious food, and lively entertainment, all at a reasonable price. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, with guides who care about safety and sharing their knowledge. The included meals and open bar make it a hassle-free way to experience one of Mexico’s most stunning marine parks.

While some guests have noted that snorkeling conditions can vary and extra charges apply for certain activities, most find the overall value and experience to be worth it — especially when you’re looking for a memorable, active day out.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after a fun-packed marine adventure with opportunities to see whales, dolphins, and colorful fish, combined with good food and a lively party vibe, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy socializing and water activities. The flexible booking, friendly guides, and inclusive amenities make it a convenient choice for those seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation.

On the other hand, if your priority is serene snorkeling with high visibility or exploring the islands at a more leisurely, less crowded pace, you might want to explore other options or prepare accordingly.

This tour offers a balanced blend of nature, fun, and comfort, making it a memorable part of your Puerto Vallarta experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children ages 3-5 can join, though they pay a small fee at check-in. The lively atmosphere and water activities tend to suit families with older kids as well.

What is included in the price?
For $100 per person, you get a continental breakfast, a hot lunch, access to water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, an open bar, life jackets, masks and snorkels, and guided wildlife viewing.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes. There’s a $180 Pesos (about $9 USD) Marine Park Conservation Fee, and optional expenses for activities like Playa de Amor or extra photo souvenirs. A small deposit for snorkeling gear may also be required.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 6 hours, usually starting in the morning, making it a great option for a full day of adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, extra cash for tips, and any personal items needed for water activities.

Is the wildlife viewing seasonal?
Yes, humpback whales are seasonal and only visible during certain times of the year. Dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays are more consistent visitors.

What is the quality of the food?
Guests frequently mention the food as delicious and plentiful, adding to the overall value of the tour experience.

To sum it up, this Puerto Vallarta tour to the Marietas Islands offers a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich day that highlights the best of Banderas Bay’s marine environment. With friendly guides, good food, and plenty of activities, it’s a fine choice for those seeking fun, relaxation, and natural beauty in one package — especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a social outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby