Catamaran On Islas Marietas – With Open Bar

If you’re planning a day out on the water near Puerto Vallarta, a catamaran trip to the Marietas Islands promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, reviews and detailed descriptions help piece together what to expect from this full-day experience.

What immediately appeals are the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and enjoy unlimited drinks while soaking up the sun. You’ll also appreciate the chance to explore the famous Hidden Beach and learn about the local wildlife—all from the comfort of a spacious catamaran.

One thing to consider is the cost—$92 per person—which includes most activities, but you’ll need to budget for government fees and optional extras like a SEMARNAT bracelet. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities, social atmospheres, and scenic coastal views, and who are comfortable spending several hours on a boat.

Key Points

• Water activities galore: Snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are included with all necessary equipment provided.
• Relaxing and social: Open bar, music, and a lively onboard atmosphere make for a fun day out.
• Stunning scenery: The coastlines, rock formations, and wildlife offers authentic beauty and photo opportunities.
• Varied experience: Enjoy both active water sports and relaxed lounging on deck.
• Meal options: A continental breakfast and a hearty lunch keep you fueled for the day.
• Group size and logistics: Tours can accommodate up to 90 travelers, starting at 8:00 am from Puerto Mágico.

The Itinerary in Detail

The journey begins early at Puerto Mágico, where you’ll board the catamaran around 8 am. The ride out to the Marietas Islands National Park is part of the adventure—an approx. 10-hour trip that combines scenic views with lively onboard entertainment. Expect to be greeted with a delicious breakfast, including hot cakes, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, honey, and juice—an energizing start before the water activities.

Once at the islands, you’ll have the chance to experience a range of water activities. Snorkeling here is a highlight—the waters are said to be vibrant, full of marine life, and the clarity invites for spectacular underwater photos. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also included, giving you the flexibility to explore secluded coves and rocky arches at your own pace.

A notable optional activity is visiting the famous Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor)—a small, secluded cove accessible only through a narrow tunnel or via boat tour, which adds an element of exclusivity and fun to the day. Keep in mind, this optional visit might be subject to weather conditions or group size.

As the sun climbs higher, you’ll be served a lunch onboard—a fresh, satisfying meal that fuels you for more exploring or relaxing. The boat features a full open bar on the return trip—sip cocktails, beer, or soft drinks while enjoying panoramic ocean views and music, turning the afternoon into a social celebration.

The return journey offers lively entertainment—music, games, or even karaoke—making the whole day a combination of laid-back enjoyment and lively fun. The trip wraps up back at Puerto Mágico in the late afternoon, leaving plenty of time to plan your evening.

Experience Highlights and Real Traveler Insights

Snorkeling in the vibrant waters of the Marietas is often described as a highlight, with travelers noting the clarity and marine life. One reviewer, Rashan_J, mentioned, “Riding around the island experiencing the nature and the natural beauty of the water and wild life, the crew was fun and informative about the island.” This suggests that the crew’s knowledge enhances the experience, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.

The onboard atmosphere receives positive comments for its liveliness. The open bar, combined with music and games, makes the trip feel like a celebration. As one traveler put it, “Relax on deck with an open bar and panoramic ocean views,” capturing the essence of the trip’s relaxing yet social vibe.

Wildlife and scenery are also highly praised. The natural rock formations, secluded coves, and the chance to see local wildlife make this trip more than just a boat ride. It’s an opportunity to witness the coastline’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

However, some considerations are worth noting. The price point includes most activities but not the government fees—$3 and $10 per person—and optional permits like the SEMARNAT bracelet for $10. Budgeting for these extras is wise if you want to keep all your costs transparent.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour departs from Puerto Mágico, a location easily accessible by public transportation or taxi, which adds convenience for most travelers.

Timing: Starting at 8 am, this tour lasts approximately 10 hours, offering a full day of activities, relaxation, and scenic cruising.

Group Size: With a maximum of 90 travelers, the boat offers a lively, social environment, but it’s large enough that you won’t feel crowded during water activities.

What to Bring: Pack your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended since you’ll be active and outdoors all day.

Cost and Value: For $92, you get a full day of activities, meals, drinks, and stunning scenery. Compared to other water excursions, this is a solid value—especially considering the included water sports equipment and onboard amenities.

Booking: Most travelers book about 19 days in advance, which suggests solid availability, but early booking is wise during peak seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for water lovers and social travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation. If snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding excite you, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. The open bar and onboard entertainment make it perfect for groups or those looking to celebrate a special occasion.

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, those sensitive to long boat rides or with mobility issues might want to consider the physical demands of water activities or the optional visit to Hidden Beach. It’s also best for travelers who appreciate stunning coastal scenery, wildlife, and lively atmospheres.

Final Thoughts

A day on the catamaran exploring the Marietas Islands offers a blend of scenic beauty, water sports, and social fun. The included meals and open bar make it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one adventure. The chance to see the famous Hidden Beach, snorkel in colorful waters, and relax on deck with a cocktail in hand makes this a well-rounded outing.

While at $92, it’s not the cheapest option out there, the value comes from the full-day experience, the variety of activities, and the stunning natural surroundings. It’s best suited for travelers eager to combine adventure with some leisure, and who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.

This tour offers a memorable way to experience the coast of Puerto Vallarta from the water, with plenty of opportunities for fun, relaxation, and stunning photos.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What time does the tour start?
The trip departs at 8:00 am from Puerto Mágico.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately a 10-hour experience, including travel, activities, meals, and return.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are all included with equipment provided.

Is food provided?
Yes, a continental breakfast with hot cakes and a hearty lunch are included.

Is alcohol included?
There’s an open bar on the way back, serving alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and more.

Can I visit Hidden Beach?
Yes, an optional visit to Playa del Amor is available, but may depend on weather and group size.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, government fees of $3 and $10 per person apply, plus a $10 SEMARNAT bracelet if you choose.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but water activities and boat conditions should be considered for younger children.

How many people are on the boat?
Up to 90 travelers, making for a lively, social atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable footwear.

This full-day catamaran tour to the Marietas Islands offers a lively, scenic, and activity-packed experience that captures the essence of coastal Mexico. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, it’s worth considering for your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.