Puerto Vallarta: Private Swim & Snorkel Tour Aboard Luxury Yacht

If you’re dreaming of an elegant day on the water in Puerto Vallarta, this Private Swim & Snorkel Tour aboard a sleek 48-foot Sea Ray yacht might just be your perfect escape. From the moment you step aboard, you’re treated to a blend of comfort, stunning scenery, and personalized service. It’s a trip that balances adventure with relaxation, making it ideal whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in the beauty of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

What we love about this experience: First, the professional crew—they’re both knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone feels safe and well looked after. Second, the variety of stops, including snorkeling at the iconic Los Arcos and lounging at Gamelas Beach, offers a well-rounded day of fun and tranquility.

A potential consideration: this tour is priced at $922.02 per person, which is a premium for a half-day outing. However, the exclusivity, luxury features, and all-inclusive nature provide a sense of value that many travelers find worthwhile.

This tour suits travelers seeking a luxurious, private experience with a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially those arriving on a cruise or celebrating a special event. If you appreciate comfort, stunning coastal views, and personalized service, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: The yacht has air-conditioned interiors, multiple cabins, bathrooms, and high-speed WiFi, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Expert Guidance: A bilingual guide with over 20 years of experience in the Bay of Banderas leads the snorkeling, making the trip educational and safe.
• Flexible Stops: Snorkeling at Los Arcos and beach time at Gamelas Beach provide diverse activities within a manageable timeframe.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, an open bar, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and WiFi are included, adding convenience and value.
• Cruise Ship Friendly: The tour is designed to fit cruise schedules and offers private, personalized experiences.
• Authentic Experience: Reviews highlight the quality of food, the friendliness of the crew, and the stunning scenery as standouts.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Mástil 13, Marina Vallarta, a location that’s easily reachable if you’re staying locally or arriving via cruise ship. The process is straightforward—once you check in, you’re directed to the luxurious yacht, which is ready to set sail between 9:00 am and 3:30 pm, depending on your preference.

The experience lasts around four to five hours, which provides enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed. Being a private tour, your group has the flexibility for a personalized schedule, making it perfect for celebrations like birthdays or just a special day with friends or family.

The Yacht and Comfort Features

The yacht itself is a standout feature. It’s a luxurious 48-foot Sea Ray, equipped with all the comforts you’d expect from a premium vessel. Inside, the air-conditioned cabins are perfect for resting between activities or catching up on a quick nap. With two bathrooms, you won’t have to wait or worry about privacy, and shaded outdoor seating offers a cool place to relax while enjoying the sea breeze.

High-speed WiFi, powered by Starlink, means you can stay connected—perhaps sharing photos or just checking messages—without sacrificing the experience’s exclusivity. The onboard restroom adds a layer of convenience, especially during longer stops or if traveling with children.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Los Arcos de Mismaloya

Your first stop is at the Los Arcos National Preserve, famously known for its towering rock formations and abundant marine life. It’s here that your licensed guide—who has over 20 years of experience—takes the lead on a snorkel adventure. Expect clear waters, vibrant coral, and a variety of fish. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledgeable and friendly approach—one reviewer called the guide “put everyone at ease for an enjoyable event.”

This stop typically lasts about 45 minutes, enough to explore without feeling rushed. The natural beauty of the arches combined with the sea life makes for memorable photos and a genuine connection with nature.

Stop 2: Gamelas Beach

After snorkeling, the yacht anchors at Gamelas Beach for about an hour. This is your chance to swim, paddleboard, or just lounge on the boat’s comfortable cushions. The crew prepares a delicious sandwich lunch with a fresh baguette and a salad trio that’s often highlighted as a highlight of the day for its freshness and quality.

Guests mention the relaxing ambiance and appreciated the flexibility—many simply enjoyed sunbathing or floating in the gentle waves. The beach’s calm and scenic setting offers a perfect balance to the underwater adventure.

Cruising Along the Puerto Vallarta Coast

Before wrapping up, you’ll cruise along Vallarta’s famous Malecon—the bustling boardwalk lined with shops, cafes, and iconic architecture. From the water, you’ll get a different perspective of the city, including the famous church Coroa. This scenic cruise doubles as a photo opportunity and a way to see the city’s lively coastline.

Amenities and Extras

Throughout the tour, you’re well taken care of. The open bar includes water, sodas, juices, beer, and cocktails, ensuring you stay refreshed. Snorkel equipment and paddleboards are provided, so you can choose your preferred way to explore the water. All these amenities are included in the price, making it a convenient and hassle-free day out.

The tour is cruise ship friendly, with flexible scheduling and a private setting that allows for intimacy and tailored experiences. This is particularly appealing for travelers seeking exclusivity or celebrating special occasions.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Guests consistently praise not just the scenery, but also the superior service. One reviewer noted, “Philip and his crew were wonderful,” highlighting the attentiveness and professionalism. Others mention the delicious food—especially the ceviche and fresh sandwiches—along with the friendly guides that make snorkeling less intimidating for first-timers.

Even travelers celebrating events like birthdays or bachelorette parties emphasize how smooth and enjoyable the day was, despite some girls feeling seasick—yet the crew was quick to assist. Such genuine concern for guests’ comfort makes this trip stand out.

Pricing and Value

At over $900 per person, this experience is undoubtedly on the premium side. Yet, when you consider the all-inclusive amenities—luxury yacht, guided snorkeling, lunch, drinks, paddleboards, WiFi, and privacy—the price reflects a high-value package. It’s essentially a bespoke adventure tailored specifically to your group, with the luxury and flexibility to match.

For travelers wanting a special day with personalized service, this price point might be justified. It’s worth noting that many reviews describe it as “flawless from beginning to end,” indicating satisfaction with the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for couples, families, or groups celebrating special occasions who want a luxurious and private experience. It’s ideal if you value comfort, personalized service, and a mix of water-based activities and scenic cruising.

It’s especially suitable for cruise passengers, given the flexible schedule and convenient location. If you’re seeking an elegant way to see Puerto Vallarta’s coast, snorkel at Los Arcos, and relax in style, this tour checks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

This private yacht tour in Puerto Vallarta offers more than just a boat ride—it’s an all-in-one experience of comfort, adventure, and stunning scenery. The knowledgeable crew and personalized service elevate the day, making it memorable for special occasions or just a luxurious treat. The variety of stops keeps the experience engaging, while the included amenities give you everything needed for a relaxed, hassle-free day.

While the price tag might seem steep, the combination of luxury, exclusivity, and authentic Mexican hospitality makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-end coastal adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, a private setting, and quality food and drinks—all delivered with a friendly, professional touch.

If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation with a touch of luxury, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable way to discover Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful coastline.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it’s designed to be cruise ship friendly, with flexible schedules and a private, personalized experience that fits cruise itineraries.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy snorkeling, beach time, and cruising without feeling rushed.

What amenities are included?
You’ll enjoy lunch (fresh sandwiches and salads), an open bar (water, sodas, beer, cocktails), snorkeling gear, paddleboards, WiFi, and onboard restrooms.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, enhancing intimacy and customization.

What’s the starting point?
Meet at Mástil 13, Marina Vallarta—easy to access if you’re staying locally or arriving on a cruise.

Can children join this tour?
Children over the age of 4 are welcome, making it suitable for families with young kids.

What is the snorkeling like?
Snorkeling at Los Arcos offers vibrant marine life and beautiful rock formations, guided by a bilingual expert.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a sense of adventure. The crew provides snorkeling equipment and paddleboards.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all listed amenities—lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear—are included in the price.

This detailed look at the Puerto Vallarta private yacht tour shows it’s a top-tier option for a personalized, luxurious day on the water. It balances comfort, adventure, and authentic experiences, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to this vibrant coastal destination.