Tour Yelapas and Mahahuitas in Catamaran with Lunch and Open Bar!

Travelers looking to soak up the laid-back coastal life of Mexico while enjoying scenic views, cultural touches, and a touch of adventure will find this Yelapas and Mahahuitas tour a compelling option. This guided day trip combines the pleasure of a catamaran cruise with the opportunity to explore charming fishing villages and secluded beaches. The experience is ideal for those who want a mix of relaxation, cultural insight, and some light water activities—plus good food and drinks.

What makes this tour stand out are the stunning vistas you get along the way and the knowledgeable guides who help uncover the local flavor. However, it’s worth noting that the group size and activity choices, like kayaking, can sometimes lead to a bit of waiting, as one recent traveler pointed out. Still, if you’re eager for a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and beach lounging, this trip offers a fine value.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences in a relaxed setting, enjoy being on the water, and love the idea of discovering small towns and hidden beaches without all the hassle of planning it themselves.

Key Points

• Balanced experience of cultural exploration and beach relaxation
• Includes a hearty lunch, open bar, and water gear like snorkeling equipment
• Small-group vibe with a maximum of 35 travelers, making it intimate
• Secluded Mahahuitas Beach offers a peaceful retreat with options for water sports
• The itinerary’s timing allows ample exploration at each stop without rushing
• Some reviews mention waiting for kayaks or minor delays but generally see the tour as worthwhile

An Honest Look at the Tour: What to Expect

This full-day adventure gives you the chance to escape the more touristy areas of Puerto Vallarta and dive into a day filled with coastal charm, local flavor, and fun water activities. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing with leisure, making it appealing for a broad range of travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Departure

Your day begins at the Terminal Maritima in Puerto Vallarta at 9:00 am. From there, you’ll board a catamaran—a vessel that’s spacious enough to accommodate up to 35 travelers comfortably but still small enough to foster a friendly atmosphere. The ride to Yelapa and Mahahuitas offers beautiful views of the bay, and the crew’s lively spirit helps set a cheerful tone for the day.

First Stop: Yelapa

Upon arrival in Yelapa, you’ll have approximately four hours to explore. The town is a mosaic of colorful artwork, narrow pathways, and a relaxed fishing village vibe. You can choose to lounge on the beach, soak up the scenery, or take a scenic hike through the town. The hike provides a chance to enjoy views that blend the beach, mountain foothills, and river, a favorite among travelers who love to combine nature with culture.

One reviewer, Sarmaine_S, was disappointed because only single kayaks were available, and she had only four minutes to paddle before moving on. This highlights that while water activities are included, they are subject to availability, and waiting times can vary. If kayaking is a priority, it might be worth arriving early or planning for a standalone kayak tour.

Second Stop: Majahuitas Beach

After Yelapa, the group heads to Majahuitas, a nearly private beach with a relaxed, hippie-chic atmosphere. Here, you’ll have about three hours to enjoy the peaceful sands, go snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply soak up the sun. The water at Majahuitas is inviting, and the setting feels secluded enough to escape the crowds, making it a favorite for those craving a tranquil retreat.

This part of the trip is all about flexibility—you can snorkel among vibrant marine life, paddle along the coast, or relax with a drink from the onboard open bar. The included snorkeling gear means you can explore the underwater world without renting additional equipment.

The Food and Drink

A major highlight is the lunch included in the tour price, along with breakfast at the start. The onboard open bar adds to the relaxed, festive mood—perfect after a morning of exploration and swimming. It’s worth noting that drinks at the restaurant are not included, so tipping and additional beverages are extra.

Guides, Safety, and Group Size

With a bilingual guide leading the way, you can expect to learn about local sights and customs in both Spanish and English. The small group setting means more personalized attention, though the tour can have up to 35 travelers, which is still manageable.

The tour includes travel insurance, snorkeling equipment, and admission tickets to the stops, making it a convenient all-in-one package. The port tax of MX$30 applies at the end, a minor fee to keep in mind.

The Experience as a Whole

We loved the friendly crew that keeps the atmosphere lively without being overwhelming. The stunning views along the cruise and the authentic charm of Yelapa make this trip memorable. The opportunity to see local artwork and architecture adds a cultural layer often missed on more touristy excursions.

However, some reviewers, like Sarmaine, experienced minor frustrations with kayak availability and the timing of water activities. These are not deal-breakers but are worth considering if water sports are a priority.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $120 per person, this tour offers a full day of activities, including transportation, meals, drinks, and water gear. When you consider the value of a guided experience, the included meals, and the boat ride, it’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy a variety of coastal experiences without the hassle of planning multiple bookings.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic small towns, beautiful beaches, and light adventure, you’ll find this trip a good investment in your vacation time. If kayaking or other water activities are essential, be prepared for potential wait times or consider booking separate solo experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers seeking a balance of culture, nature, and relaxation. It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Those who prefer an active day with some downtime will enjoy the combination of sightseeing, water sports, and lounging.

It’s also good for visitors who want to avoid overly commercialized tours, as the stops in Yelapa and Majahuitas retain their local charm. If you’re looking for a lively, social atmosphere with friendly guides and stunning scenery, this tour is a solid pick.

Final Thoughts

The Yelapas and Mahahuitas catamaran tour offers a well-rounded day that captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal beauty. It’s a chance to see a traditional fishing village, relax on a pristine beach, and enjoy some water fun—all with the comfort of an organized trip. The inclusion of good food, drinks, and knowledgeable guides makes it a valuable choice for travelers who want more than just a boat ride.

While it’s not perfect—expect some minor delays and limited water activity availability—the overall experience is engaging and authentic. If you cherish stunning views, local culture, and beachside relaxation, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

How early should I arrive? The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am; arriving a little early ensures you’re ready to go and may help with water activity availability.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate. Kids who enjoy water activities, beaches, and scenic walks will find plenty to love.

What should I bring? Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket for the boat ride. Water shoes are helpful for walking at Yelapa.

Are there any hidden costs? The main additional expense is the MX$30 port tax, and drinks at the restaurant are extra.

Can I do this tour if I don’t swim? Yes, you can enjoy the beaches, scenery, and cultural stops without swimming, though snorkeling gear is provided for those interested.

What about the group size? The tour limits group size to 35, so it’s intimate enough to ask questions but large enough for a lively environment.

Is tipping expected? Tipping guides and crew is customary but not mandatory. Consider tipping based on your experience.

What happens in bad weather? The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be given a different date or a full refund.

This trip offers a slice of authentic coastal Mexico, perfect for travelers wanting a lively, scenic, and culturally engaging day—just be prepared for some minor waiting and the chance to customize your water activities.