Marietas Sail, Snorkel and Beach

If you’re considering a boat trip around Puerto Vallarta’s famed Marietas Islands, you’re in for a treat. This seven-hour adventure offers a blend of snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and beach lounging—making it an appealing option for those seeking a relaxed day on the water with plenty of scenic highlights. While not perfect for everyone, especially those who prefer more exclusive or customizable experiences, it generally provides good value for the price.

What we particularly like about this tour is its well-rounded mix: the chance to snorkel among tropical fish and maybe even spot sea turtles, combined with the spectacular views of cliffs and rock formations. Plus, the delicious onboard meals and open bar add a touch of indulgence. However, one potential downside is the variable quality of reviews, especially regarding reservation accuracy, which is worth keeping in mind. This tour is ideal for travelers who have a moderate budget and want an accessible, enjoyable way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s marine and coastal beauty.

Key Points

• Varied Experiences: Snorkeling, wildlife sightings, and beach time cater to different interests.
• Value for Price: At $99, it’s a reasonably priced way to see the islands, especially with included meals and gear.
• Group Size: Small groups of up to 7 travelers enhance a more personal experience.
• Wildlife Opportunities: Over 100 bird species and marine life including whales, dolphins, rays, and turtles.
• Potential Challenges: Reviews suggest possible confusion around reservations and cancellation policies.
• Best for: Nature lovers, families, and casual snorkelers seeking a laid-back day with scenic views.

A Close Look at the Itinerary

The Departure and Setting Sail

Starting from the Paradise Village Public Pier in Nuevo Vallarta, this tour begins with anticipation. The boat, described as smaller and more intimate than larger tour vessels, aims to create a cozy atmosphere—something many travelers appreciate. The 7-hour duration includes a mix of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing, with plenty of time to absorb the stunning coastal vistas.

Stop 1: Marietas Islands – The Main Attraction

The highlight is undoubtedly the Marietas Islands—a protected ecological zone known for its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and unique rock formations. Visitors usually get about 2 hours here, which includes time to snorkel, explore, or just sit back and take in the scenery.

You’ll love the experience of snorkeling in clear waters with tropical fish, possibly spotting octopuses, rays, sea horses, or even turtles—an exciting prospect for marine life enthusiasts. The tour provides well-sanitized snorkeling gear and life vests, making it accessible even for less experienced snorkelers.

The hidden beach is often praised as a “spectacular” spot, although access is controlled by the marine park. Some reviews have noted that access to the famous Love Beach is optional and requires an additional MX$85 fee, so travelers should plan accordingly if they want to visit.

Marine Wildlife and Bird Watching

The islands are a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 100 species of birds calling the cliffs home. From booby blue-footed birds to other seabirds, the bird-watching opportunities are plentiful. Several reviews mention whale, dolphin, and even seabird sightings, especially during the whale watching season from December 8th to March 15th.

Lunch, Drinks, and Water Activities

A continental breakfast and deli-style lunch help keep travelers energized, while an open domestic bar provides alcoholic drinks after water activities. Paddle boards and snorkeling gear are included, giving guests some flexibility to extend their fun beyond snorkeling.

The Return Journey

As the tour winds down, you’ll enjoy catching the warm afternoon breeze on your way back to Puerto Vallarta. The boat’s smaller size allows for a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere, with staff often entertaining guests and involving everyone in the experience.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

The Value of the Tour

At $99 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for those interested in spending a full day immersed in nature. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddle boards, breakfast, and lunch makes it a convenient package. However, there are additional costs—such as the port tax (MX$35) and the conservation fee (MX$85)—that travelers should budget for.

Reviews reveal a broad spectrum of satisfaction. One guest raved, “Great day trip to Marietas Islands! Staff was great and attentive,” citing enjoyable beach time and kayaking as highlights. Conversely, some experienced issues with reservations, with one reviewer noting, “we paid and got confirmation but then the actual boat operators told us they had no registry of our reservation.” Such hiccups highlight the importance of confirming your booking and understanding the cancellation policy.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of seven travelers, this tour leans toward a more intimate setting. Smaller groups tend to mean more personalized attention from guides and less crowding at the stops, which many travelers appreciate. The boat’s size also influences the experience—smaller vessels are often more agile, allowing for closer wildlife encounters and more relaxed sailing.

Considerations for Travelers

• Reservation and Cancellation: Always double-check your booking and be aware of the cancellation policy. The tour permits free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which offers some peace of mind.
• Weather Dependence: Like all boat trips, the experience is weather-dependent. Poor conditions could lead to cancellations or altered plans.
• Additional Costs: Remember that some attractions or activities, like visiting Love Beach, are optional and require extra fees.
• Wildlife and Season: Marine sightings, including whales, are seasonal, so if whale watching is a priority, plan your trip between December and March.

What People Are Saying

Many travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the food. One reviewer exclaimed, “Staff was great and attentive,” emphasizing the friendly and professional service. Another shared, “The hidden beach was amazing and the food was delicious,” confirming that the meals onboard exceed expectations for a boat tour at this price point.

On the flip side, a few reviews mention reservation issues and the size of the boat, which might matter if you’re seeking a seamless or more luxurious experience. Nonetheless, many found the tour to be a fun, well-organized way to see the islands and enjoy marine activities.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is particularly suited for families, casual snorkelers, and wildlife enthusiasts who want a straightforward, engaging day out without the hefty price tag. The inclusion of meals, drinks, and snorkeling gear makes it a convenient all-in-one package for travelers wanting to maximize their time at the islands.

If you’re seeking a more exclusive or private experience, or if you have specific requests like guaranteed whale sightings or private transportation, this tour might fall short. However, for those eager to explore the natural beauty of the Marietas Islands with a friendly crew, it offers a practical way to do just that.

FAQ

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, transportation to and from the marina is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport or consider arriving early to avoid missing the boat.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers a continental breakfast, deli-style lunch, snorkeling gear, life vests, paddle boards, and an open bar with alcoholic drinks after water activities.

Are the tours suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the small group size and water-based activities suggest it’s best for children comfortable around water. Always check if your kids meet the age and safety requirements.

Can I visit Love Beach?
Yes, access to Love Beach is optional and controlled by the marine park. It costs an additional MX$85 per person and may require extra planning.

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

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience.

This boat tour around the Marietas Islands offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and leisure, making it a solid choice for travelers looking to experience Puerto Vallarta’s marine side without overextending their budget. With its combination of snorkeling, birdwatching, and relaxing on secluded beaches, it provides a memorable, if sometimes imperfect, adventure—best suited for those who want a taste of nature and adventure without the fuss of luxury.