Puerto Vallarta: Snorkel and Swim Tour with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re looking for a way to combine luxury, adventure, and stunning scenery in Puerto Vallarta, a private yacht tour like this one might be just what you need. The experience promises a mix of relaxing deck time, exciting snorkeling, and delicious local cuisine—all wrapped in the comfort of a well-equipped boat with a professional crew. It’s a chance to see the city’s iconic coastline from a unique perspective while enjoying all the comforts of a private cruise.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are its focus on personalized service and the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Los Arcos. The boat’s luxurious amenities, like shaded seating and high-speed WiFi, make it feel indulgent without losing sight of authentic marine encounters. That said, some travelers might find the 4.5-hour duration a bit long if they’re not keen on water-based activities or want a less structured day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy comfortable, private experiences with a touch of adventure. It’s especially perfect for those who want to combine scenic beauty, wildlife spotting, and good food into one seamless trip. However, if you have mobility issues or are not comfortable in the water, this experience might not be ideal.

Key Points

• Luxury and Privacy: A private yacht provides a comfortable, personalized environment to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.
• Snorkeling and Wildlife: The waters of Los Arcos offer vibrant marine life and interesting rock formations.
• Scenic Views: Cruising along the Malecon and seeing the iconic church crown from the water creates memorable photo opportunities.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: The tour includes a tasty sandwich lunch, salads, and an open bar with water, sodas, beers, and cocktails.
• High-Tech Amenities: Stay connected with high-speed WiFi and enjoy the convenience of air conditioning and shaded seating.
• Family-Friendly but Water-Dependent: Best suited for non-mobility-impaired travelers comfortable with swimming or snorkeling.

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A detailed look at the experience

Setting the Scene: Starting at Marina Vallarta

Your adventure begins at Marina Vallarta’s Pier H, a well-equipped pick-up point with easy access for cruise ships and land travelers alike. The tour kicks off with a brief safety briefing, a practical moment to meet your crew and get familiar with the boat’s amenities. The crew is described as professional and attentive, which sets the tone for a relaxing yet well-organized trip.

The Yacht: Comfort and Convenience at Sea

The boat itself is a highlight—offering air conditioning, three cabins, and two bathrooms—meaning you won’t have to endure the usual cramped boat feeling. Plenty of outside seating, much of it shaded, ensures you can relax, soak up the sun, or enjoy the sea breeze without feeling crowded. The high-speed WiFi, powered by Starlink, is a surprisingly modern touch that allows you to share your trip in real-time or just catch up on messages.

Cruising to Los Arcos National Marine Park

The main event is the cruise to Los Arcos, about 75 minutes from the marina. The captain, Carlos, is reputed to be a knowledgeable guide who will lead the snorkeling expedition, pointing out wildlife and the unique rock formations that make Los Arcos so photogenic. Expect to see a variety of marine life, as many reviews highlight the abundant fish and the scenic beauty of the rocky arches.

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Snorkeling at Los Arcos

Once you arrive, you’ll be given assistance with snorkeling equipment, and the crew is known for their helpfulness. Expect around 45 minutes of snorkeling, which gives plenty of time to explore and spot colorful fish, sea stars, and possibly even small sharks or rays, depending on the day. Reviewers appreciate the way they’re guided and assisted, ensuring even first-timers feel confident.

Lunch at Playa Paredón

After snorkeling, the boat anchors at Playa Paredón, a tranquil spot where you can swim, relax, or try paddleboarding or floating on the provided cushions. The included sandwich lunch with a salad trio is praised as tasty and satisfying—an important detail when you’re fueling up after swimming. The open bar offers a welcome variety of drinks, including beer and cocktails, which can turn this into a laid-back, social affair.

Scenic Cruise Along the Malecon

Following the beach stop, the boat cruises along Puerto Vallarta’s famous Malecon, giving you a chance to admire the city’s skyline, the iconic church crown, and the bustling waterfront from a unique perspective. Many travelers find this to be a highlight, capturing excellent photos of the cityscape with the ocean in the foreground.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a final cruise back to Marina Vallarta, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. The familiarity of the boat’s amenities and the professionalism of the crew contribute to a smooth, enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Value and Practical Considerations

While the price for this private yacht tour might seem high compared to group excursions, the value is evident in the personalized service, comfort, and flexibility it offers. You’re paying for an intimate experience with fewer people, which generally translates to more attention, better scenery, and a more relaxed pace.

For travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of activity and leisure, the 4.5-hour duration feels just right—long enough to explore, snorkel, and enjoy a leisurely lunch without feeling rushed. The inclusion of food, drinks, and WiFi adds to the perception of value, especially since these often cost extra on similar tours.

However, this experience isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility challenges, as snorkeling and swimming are central activities. Also, given its private nature, it’s likely best booked in advance, especially during peak seasons when availability might be limited.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a more exclusive, comfortable day on the water. It appeals to those who enjoy marine life, scenic viewpoints, and good food. If you value a smooth, hassle-free experience with a touch of luxury, this outing will meet your expectations.

It’s also ideal for visitors who appreciate modern amenities—like high-speed WiFi and shaded comfort—and who prefer a flexible, private experience over crowded group tours. If your idea of a vacation includes relaxing on a boat, taking in the impressive views, and enjoying quality snorkeling, this is an excellent choice.

The Sum Up

This private yacht tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a well-rounded mix of comfort, adventure, and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat. The chance to snorkel among vibrant marine life, marvel at the city’s skyline from the water, and enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed setting makes it a tempting option for many travelers.

While it leans toward the pricier side, the personalized service, luxurious amenities, and the opportunity to create memorable moments justify the cost. It’s especially suited for those seeking an elegant, less crowded way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s coast, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it feel like a special outing rather than just another boat ride.

If you’re after a day of sunshine, sea breeze, and scenic splashes, then this tour could very well be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable in the water and enjoy snorkeling will likely love it. However, non-swimmers or very young children might find the water activities challenging.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your schedule shifts.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. The boat provides snorkeling gear, but personal gear might be preferred if you have specific equipment.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, high-speed WiFi powered by Starlink is available, so you can stay connected during your trip.

How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll have approximately 45 minutes to enjoy snorkeling at Los Arcos, enough time to explore and see marine wildlife.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Absolutely. The starting location at Marina Vallarta is cruise ship friendly, and the tour includes a separate entrance to skip lines, making it convenient.

This Puerto Vallarta snorkeling and yacht experience balances comfort, adventure, and scenery, making it a smart choice for travelers who want an authentic and enjoyable day on the water.

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