Cruise to Arcos, Colomitos Beaches and Animas

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s stunning coast while combining sightseeing, water activities, and a relaxed atmosphere, this boat tour might just be the ticket. It promises an adventurous day aboard a catamaran with stops at iconic sights and hidden gems. The experience is tailored for those who enjoy beautiful scenery, good food, and lively social moments, all packed into a roughly 7-hour day.

What we really like about this trip is its balance: it offers spectacular views of Los Arcos, the chance to snorkel at Colomitos, and some well-earned downtime at Playa Las Ánimas. Plus, the onboard food and drinks, including an open bar, are notable for adding to the fun without extra hassle.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour involves multiple stops, which can feel rushed if you prefer a more relaxed, single-location experience.

Still, it’s a good fit for travelers who want a full, active day that hits several highlights with minimal planning on your part.

This tour is most suitable for adventurous travelers eager for scenic views and water fun, families looking for a shared outing, or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a lively social vibe. If you’re after a relaxing beach day with fewer moves, you might prefer a more isolated experience, but for those wanting variety and excitement, this tour delivers.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Los Arcos and the surrounding bay make this a photographer’s delight.
• Water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding are included, perfect for active participants.
• The delicious onboard lunch and open bar elevate the experience, offering great value for the price.
• The short stops allow sightseeing without long waits, but some may find the pace a bit brisk.
• The group size is capped at 100, creating a lively but manageable atmosphere.
• Flexible cancellation policy provides reassurance with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Los Arcos de Mismaloya: The Iconic Landmark

We start the day with a cruise across the bay toward the famous Los Arcos, breathtaking limestone formations that rise from the water. The boat pauses briefly, giving everyone just enough time to snap some photos of this signature scenery. Think of it as a quick postcard moment—a photo opportunity that’s worth every shot. It’s a great way to set the mood for the day, and the relatively short stop ensures you’re not spending too much time away from the water.

Playa Colomitos: A Hidden Coastal Treasure

Next stop is Playa Colomitos, a little cove that feels like a secret spot. Not only is this a gorgeous beach, but it’s also a prime location for water activities. The clear, calm waters are perfect for snorkeling, and the provided equipment makes it accessible even for beginners. We’ve read that many enjoy crossing a charming bridge before heading to the beach, adding a little adventure before settling in for some sun and waves. With about two hours allocated, you get enough time to relax, explore, or splash around without feeling rushed.

Playa Las Ánimas: Relax and Refresh

The final stop is Playa Las Ánimas, a lively stretch of sand with a beach club vibe. Here, the onboard chef fires up a delicious barbecue with options like chicken, roast beef, and chorizo, complemented by fresh green salad. This meal alone is a highlight, making the trip excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of all-you-can-drink on the boat. After lunch, you can take a leisurely walk, explore the area, or just soak up the sun. The short tour of the surroundings adds a bit of local flavor and helps you appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Puerto Magico: The Lively End to Your Day

As the sun starts to set, the boat heads back toward Puerto Vallarta, ending with a party atmosphere onboard. Expect live music, games, and contests that get everyone involved. It’s a lively way to wind down, with plenty of laughs and good energy filling the air.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour offers a lot of value for $75.80 per person. Included in the price are the lunch, open bar, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and life vests. These inclusions mean you won’t need to worry about extra costs for water activities or food, making it easier to relax and just enjoy the day.

However, there are some additional charges to note. The port fee of 32 pesos is a small expense, and tips are not included—so bringing some cash for gratuities is advisable. Transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t provided, so you should plan your own way to Puerto Magico. The tour operates daily, with start times around noon, fitting well into a relaxed beach day.

The Experience Provider and Practicalities

Operated by Puerto Vallarta Net, the tour is designed for groups of up to 100 travelers, making it lively but not overwhelming. The meeting point is Puerto Magico, a central and accessible location in the hotel zone. The tour duration is approximately 7 hours, making for a full but manageable day of fun.

You’ll receive confirmation at booking, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with no specific restrictions mentioned. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours before if your plans change.

Authentic Insights from Travelers’ Reviews

While no reviews are officially available yet, the description and features suggest high potential for a fun, scenic, and food-filled day. The inclusion of delicious food and fun activities seems to be a major draw, and the focus on stunning views of the natural landscape ensures memorable photos. The quick stops mean you get to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed, which is ideal for travelers who want a taste of many highlights.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing combined with casual socializing. If you’re after a full day of scenic views, water fun, and good food, then this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for those traveling in a group or family, looking for an engaging experience that balances adventure and relaxation.

On the other hand, if your main goal is a quiet, laid-back beach day without multiple stops or activities, you might find this tour a bit too energetic. Similarly, those with mobility issues could want to check whether all stops are accessible, as some walking and crossing bridges are involved.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded, lively experience that captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, blending natural beauty with fun and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation to the meeting point?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your own way to Puerto Magico, where the tour begins.

What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 7 hours, starting around noon and ending in the late afternoon.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are provided for free, allowing you to enjoy the water at Colomitos and Playa Las Ánimas.

Is food and drinks included?
Absolutely. You’ll enjoy a barbecue lunch and have access to an open bar onboard, making it a value-packed experience.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $75.80 per person. Be aware of the optional port fee of 32 pesos and tips, which are not included.

How many people can join?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, ensuring a lively, social atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Cash for tips and the port fee is advisable, and perhaps a waterproof camera for photos.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check if all stops are accessible.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a lively, scenic, and tasty slice of Puerto Vallarta’s coast that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to see iconic sights, explore hidden beaches, and enjoy a fun-filled day with plenty of good eats and drinks. For travelers eager for a mix of adventure and social vibes, it’s a memorable way to spend a day in paradise.