Puerto Vallarta: All-inclusive cruise-ship passenger snorkeling beach and waterfall

If you’re dreaming of spending a day on Mexico’s Pacific coast exploring its scenic beaches, vibrant water life, and lush waterfalls, the Puerto Vallarta: All-inclusive cruise might just fit the bill. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, its detailed itinerary and consistently positive reviews suggest it offers an engaging, value-packed way to experience some of the area’s best natural sights.

What we particularly like about this trip? First, the inclusive nature—covering breakfast, lunch, drinks, and water gear—means you can relax and enjoy without constantly reaching for your wallet. Second, the guided waterfall visit offers a chance for real immersion into local scenery, complemented by the opportunity to swim and take photos in stunning surroundings.

The one potential hitch? The tour’s duration (around 7 hours) might be a long day for travelers with tight schedules or little patience for boat travel.

This experience often appeals most to travelers who enjoy water activities, natural scenery, and social atmospheres. It’s especially suitable for those seeking a straightforward, well-organized day that combines adventure with comfort, all at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Value for Money: For $79, you get a full day of activities, meals, and drinks included.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Breakfast, lunch, and drinks on board make it easy to relax and focus on the fun.
• Variety of Experiences: Snorkeling, beach time, and waterfall visits offer a well-rounded adventure.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides.
• Flexibility & Safety: Equipment is provided, and safety instructions are given, making water activities accessible and safe.
• Good for Groups & Families: The tour’s accessible setup and varied stops suit a wide range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What to Expect

Starting Out: Comfort and Safety First

Your day begins at the maritime terminal, where you’ll board the boat with your fellow travelers. The process is straightforward: after entering, you’ll don your life vest, listen to the safety instructions, and then settle into the onboard breakfast. The breakfast is a thoughtful touch—fuel for the adventure ahead—allowing everyone to start the day with some nourishment and anticipation.

Cruising to the Arches of Mismaloya

Once underway, your first stop is the famous Arches of Mismaloya, a trio of iconic islands within the bay. Here, the scenery really comes alive—craggy rock formations, clear water, and the chance to take some memorable photos. Water activities, especially snorkeling, are the highlight here. From the comments we’ve seen, many travelers appreciate how the guides help newcomers get comfortable in the water, making snorkeling accessible for all.

Snorkeling and Water Fun in the Bay

Expect to spend a decent amount of time at Mismaloya, with water gear provided—fins, masks, snorkels—so you don’t need to pack your own. The water is usually calm, and the marine life visible beneath the surface can be quite colorful, adding a layer of excitement to the experience. Some reviews mention an enjoyable social atmosphere during snorkeling, with guides always attentive and eager to help.

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Relaxing at Las Animas Beach

Next, the boat takes you to Las Animas, a lively beach with a laid-back vibe and a variety of beachside restaurants. Here, you’ll enjoy free lunch at a beach restaurant, with many reviewers praising the quality of the food—think fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and friendly service. Drinks are free only on board, so plan to buy some beverages or bring cash for extra drinks and souvenirs.

At Las Animas, you can relax, swim, or explore the shoreline. It’s a perfect break before the next adventure: the Quimixto waterfall.

The Quimixto Waterfall Excursion

From Las Animas, you’ll travel to the nearby town of Quimixto, a small, authentic Mexican fishing village. The guided tour to the waterfall involves a short hike through lush surroundings, culminating in a refreshing swim in the waterfall pool. Multiple reviews describe this as a highlight—”swimming and taking photos in the waterfall are unforgettable moments,” as one participant put it. The guides help you navigate the trail and ensure safety, making it suitable even for those who aren’t avid hikers.

Returning with a Show

After the waterfall visit, you’ll head back to the boat, where a lively show awaits—a fun way to wrap up the day. On the return journey, the atmosphere is often jovial, with music and shared stories, making it a fitting end to a day packed with activity.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

Included in the tour are breakfast on board, a lunch at the beach restaurant, free drinks (only during the boat ride), water activity equipment, and the guided tour of the Quimixto waterfall.

To make the most of your day, bring:
– Cash (for extra drinks or souvenirs)
– Towel (for swimming and relaxing)
– Bathing suit (for water activities and waterfall swimming)

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and languages offered are Spanish and English, accommodating a broad range of travelers.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• The tour lasts about 7 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Reservations can be made with flexible cancellation—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• For those with back problems, this activity might not be suitable due to the physical nature of some stops.
• Entering the departure point is straightforward: in Puerto Mágico, look for the stairs on the left side of the plaza leading to the second floor of the Beach Boy company. The boat crew will be waiting at Muelle los Muertos.

The Price and Its Value

At $79 per person, this cruise offers a lot—meals, water gear, guided excursions, and entertainment—making it a solid value. While some travelers might find the day a bit long, most appreciate the balance of structured activity and free time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for water lovers, families, and groups who want a safe, organized day filled with scenic spots and fun activities. If you’re looking to snorkel, swim in waterfalls, and enjoy good food without fuss, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s especially suitable for travelers new to the area or those who prefer a guided experience over independent trips.

Final Thoughts

The Puerto Vallarta all-inclusive cruise offers a well-rounded, accessible way to enjoy some of the region’s most beautiful oceanic and terrestrial sights. With knowledgeable guides, included meals, and a variety of water activities, it provides a good deal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging day of discovery.

The tour’s balance of structure and freedom makes it ideal for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. If you’re craving a mix of snorkeling, beach time, and waterfall swimming without the hassle of planning every detail, this adventure will meet your expectations—and likely leave you with plenty of memorable photos and stories.

FAQs

Is transportation to the departure point included?
You need to meet at the designated pier in Puerto Mágico; transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive on your own.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, giving plenty of time for water activities, lunch, and sightseeing.

Are drinks included during the trip?
Only the drinks served on board are free; extra beverages or alcohol can be purchased at the beach restaurant.

Is it suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most water activities are guided and equipment is provided, making it accessible for non-swimmers, but children should be comfortable in water and be supervised.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, this tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specifics when booking.

This Puerto Vallarta cruise offers a balanced day of scenic beauty, water fun, and good food—ideal for those looking to experience the coast without the fuss. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a group of friends, you’ll find something to love about this adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby