Yelapa and Majahuitas Snorkeling Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

Planning a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta? This Yelapa and Majahuitas snorkeling cruise promises an all-inclusive trip filled with spectacular views, lively atmosphere, and marine adventures. As seasoned travelers, we’ve gathered detailed insights to help you decide if this trip fits your style.

What we love about this experience is the beautiful boat ride aboard a spacious catamaran and the chance to explore two very different coastal settings—Yelapa’s charming, car-free village and Majahuitas’ tranquil coves. Both spots offer a taste of local charm and natural beauty that’s hard to beat.

On the flip side, a few travelers mention disorganization and variable water clarity for snorkeling. If your idea of a perfect day involves pristine waters and a smooth schedule, this might require some flexibility.

This tour appeals most to those craving a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation—families, groups of friends, or anyone eager to see the coast from a unique vantage point while enjoying good food and drinks. Now, let’s take a deep dive into what makes this trip tick—and what could be better.

Key Points

• All-inclusive comfort with food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water activities.
• Beautiful boat ride on a spacious catamaran with music, open bar, and scenic views.
• Authentic stops in Yelapa and Majahuitas, offering cultural charm and natural scenery.
• Varied activities including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and waterfall hikes.
• Mixed reviews highlight excellent guides and food, but water clarity can vary.
• Price point around $100 per person, offering good value for a full day on the water.

Overview of the Tour

This 8-hour adventure provides a comprehensive look at some of Puerto Vallarta’s most scenic and culturally rich spots. Starting at the Puerto Magico pier, you’ll hop aboard a large, comfortable catamaran where the journey begins. The trip is designed to be all-inclusive: a continental breakfast, a national open bar (tequila, rum, beer, soft drinks), and a hearty lunch await you on board.

The core of the tour is the boat ride, which offers incredible vistas of the coastline, green mountains, and the ocean. Music sets a lively tone, and the crew’s friendly attitude helps keep everyone engaged. The size of the group is capped at around 40 travelers, balancing a social atmosphere with enough space to relax.

What to Expect on the Water

The boat itself is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate a scenic maritime journey. The spacious deck allows you to lounge comfortably, sip drinks, or dance as the crew plays music. The all-day open bar ensures you stay refreshed with tequila, rum, beer, and soft drinks. For breakfast, expect a simple but satisfying continental spread—bread, fruits, yogurt, and coffee.

Water activities are a major part of the trip. You’ll have access to snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and a paddleboard, allowing you to explore the turquoise waters at your own pace. While some reviews mention that water visibility can be less than ideal—possibly due to weather conditions or water currents—the option to kayak or paddleboard offers an alternative if snorkeling isn’t perfect.

Exploring Yelapa: A Town of Charm and Natural Beauty

The trip’s first major stop is Yelapa, a small, car-free fishing village where donkeys still serve as cargo carriers. This laid-back town offers a welcome escape from the hustle. You can stroll through native craft stalls, admire colorful houses, or just relax on the long beach where the river meets the ocean.

Many travelers praise Yelapa’s natural beauty and the chance to swim in its calm waters. One reviewer highlighted the Yelapa waterfall hike, describing it as a “walk you will never forget.” The trek into the jungle leads to the Cola de Caballo waterfall, a picturesque spot perfect for cooling off or simply soaking in the scenery.

However, some reviews point out that water clarity at the beaches isn’t always perfect, especially after storms or weather changes. Water may appear murky, which can impact snorkeling experiences, but the town’s charm often makes up for it.

Majahuitas: A Hidden Cove with Marine Life

After Yelapa, the boat takes you to Majahuitas, a quieter stretch of coast renowned for its calm waters and marine life. Here, you can snorkel among colorful fish or relax on the secluded beach. Some reviews note that snorkeling visibility can vary, with murky water being a common complaint—though many still enjoyed the chance to see aquatic life, including the occasional manta ray.

The quiet environment and beautiful scenery make Majahuitas an ideal spot for a peaceful swim or paddle. For those interested in exploring the underwater world, the provided snorkeling gear and water toys make it easy to dive in.

Delicious Food and Beverages

A major highlight is the lunch at Vela Roja, an à la carte restaurant where you can indulge in fish steak, beef fajitas, chicken quesadillas with shrimp, or a beef burger. Many reviews rave about the quality of the food, especially the seafood, which is fresh and flavorful.

Complementing the meals is the open bar—a favorite among travelers who appreciate a relaxing drink while taking in the views. Beverages include tequila, rum, beer, juice, and water, making it easy to stay refreshed all day.

Guides and Atmosphere

The tour provides guides in both Spanish and English, which helps with understanding the itinerary and local facts. Several reviewers mention that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, making the journey more enjoyable.

Music and games on the boat add to the lively atmosphere, while the crew’s attentiveness ensures safety and comfort. However, some travelers note language barriers or a lack of detailed instructions, which might be frustrating if you prefer a more structured experience.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Pros:

• Stunning scenery and memorable boat ride.
• The authenticity of Yelapa with its local crafts and waterfalls.
• The delicious, plentiful food and refreshing drinks.
• The variety of water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Friendly and attentive guides and crew.

Cons:

• Water clarity for snorkeling isn’t always optimal, especially after weather events.
• Some reviews mention disorganization at the start or confusing instructions.
• The schedule can feel loose, especially if you’re on a cruise with tight timing.
• An additional tax fee of MX$32 per person applies at the pier and reefs, adding to the cost.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For $100 per person, you’re getting a full day of adventure, culture, and relaxation—a good value considering the included meals, drinks, and activities. The trip offers a well-rounded experience combining scenic boat travel, cultural exploration in Yelapa, and marine activities. It’s a solid choice for those who enjoy a social atmosphere, good food, and a taste of authentic Mexican coastal life.

However, if your priority is crystal-clear snorkeling or perfectly timed schedules, you might find this tour a bit inconsistent. The water conditions can change, and the itinerary might feel somewhat flexible or disorganized at times.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a fun, lively day out on the water with a mix of sightseeing, culture, and leisure. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers willing to go with the flow will appreciate the friendly guides, tasty food, and scenic stops.

It’s also a good choice for those curious about local villages like Yelapa or looking for a relaxed beach day with marine activities. If you’re looking for a quiet, exclusive snorkeling experience, you might want to explore other options—yet, for overall value and a taste of local charm, this cruise offers plenty.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:15 am from Puerto Magico and generally lasts around 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, ground transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your way to Puerto Magico in time for the start.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers meals, snorkeling gear, water activities (kayaks, paddleboard), open bar (tequila, rum, beer, soft drinks), breakfast, and insurance.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, there’s a MX$32.00 tax per person at the pier and reefs, payable on the day of the tour.

Is the water activity equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards are included, so you can enjoy the water without bringing your own equipment.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

This Yelapa and Majahuitas snorkeling cruise offers a lively, well-rounded day of exploration, water fun, and culture in Puerto Vallarta. It excels in delivering beautiful scenery, tasty food, and friendly guides, making it a good pick for those wanting a full, fun-filled day on the coast.

While water visibility for snorkeling can sometimes be less than perfect and some organizational issues are noted, the overall experience remains enjoyable, especially for travelers who prioritize a social atmosphere and authentic local settings. With a reasonable price point and a variety of activities, it’s a solid value for a memorable day.

If you’re ready for a mix of scenic boat rides, relaxed beach time, and cultural discovery, this cruise can be a highlight of your Puerto Vallarta stay—just keep expectations flexible and enjoy the adventure.