Islas Marietas & BBQ lunch at Majahuitas

Planning a day out on the water in Puerto Vallarta? If so, the Islas Marietas & BBQ lunch at Majahuitas offers an engaging mix of marine exploration, wildlife viewing, and relaxing beach time — all wrapped into about seven hours of adventure. This tour is perfect for those who love being on the water, enjoy snorkeling, and aren’t shy about a bit of lively entertainment.

What makes this trip especially appealing are the well-organized activities, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and indigenous birds in their natural habitat. On the flip side, a few travelers have noted that the schedule can feel a little rushed, especially around the island stop and activities.

But if you’re after a day packed with marine sights, fun on the water, and a tasty BBQ, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience suits families, wildlife enthusiasts, and water sport lovers. It’s a good fit if you’re comfortable on a boat for most of the day and want the convenience of an all-in-one adventure that combines sightseeing, active fun, and a hearty meal.

This experience made our article of 6 Best BBQ Experiences In Puerto Vallarta (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding for all skill levels
• Wildlife sightings including dolphins, whales (seasonal), and exotic birds
• Delicious BBQ lunch at Majahuitas with drinks included
• Expert guides ensure safety and engaging commentary
• Small dock fee and conservation fee payable in cash at the port
• Long boat ride, so seasickness could be a consideration

An Overview of the Experience

This tour kicks off early from Puerto Vallarta, with a meeting point at Puerto Magico. You’ll pay a small dock fee in cash ($40 MXN), which is a standard thing here in Mexico, and then hop aboard a stylish vessel. The actual departure time is around 7:00 am, which means an early start but also plenty of time to enjoy the day.

Once underway, the main attraction is the Bay of Banderas, where your guides keep a sharp eye out for bottlenose, spotted, and spinner dolphins frolicking in their natural territory. As we’ve seen in reviews, the crew’s commentary about these mammals adds a layer of appreciation—many travelers mention how captivated they were by the marine life. During the cruise, there’s an open bar, so you can sip on drinks while soaking in the scenery.

The boat then heads north toward the Marietas Islands, famous for their rugged rock formations, hidden beaches, and vibrant underwater world. Keep your eyes peeled for whales during the season, giant manta rays, and a variety of bird species like blue-footed boobies and tropicbirds. Several reviews highlight whale sightings as a memorable highlight — “we saw no less than 15 whales, some breaching, which was incredible,” says one happy traveler.

Exploring the Islands: Snorkeling, Kayaking, and Paddleboarding

Once at the islands, you’ll have a choice of activities: snorkel, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. The snorkeling is generally fantastic in clear waters with interesting coral, but some reviews note that visibility can be affected by the weather. As one reviewer pointed out, “snorkeling during rainy season is terrible,” so conditions may vary.

Expect the guides to provide all necessary equipment and safety instructions. Many travelers appreciate the eco-conscious approach of the guides, who are attentive and knowledgeable. The underwater scenes are described as vibrant and full of life, making it a prime spot for nature lovers.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular options. The waters are warm enough for comfort, and the calm bays make for safe paddling, even for beginners. However, some reviewers mention that the activities can feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to spend more time exploring. The guides do their best to facilitate, but with a packed schedule, you may need to move quickly.

The Lunch at Majahuitas: A Tasty Reward

After a good morning of activities, your tour includes a barbecue lunch onshore at Majahuitas. The setting is beautiful, and the food consistently receives praise. It’s described as better than many hotel buffets, with fresh, well-prepared grilled options and drinks. The reviews mention “delicious BBQ and refreshing drinks,” which serve as a perfect pick-me-up after the water activities.

Be aware that there’s a small conservation fee ($20 USD) and additional port fee ($40 MXN) payable at check-in — bring cash to avoid hassle. Also, note that towels are not provided, so bringing your own is recommended, especially after swimming. The lunch is a highlight for many, with guests commenting on the friendly service and the quality of the food.

Wildlife Encounters and Unique Moments

One of the tour’s big draws is wildlife. Many travelers rave about dolphin sightings, and during certain times of year, whales are visible. A reviewer mentioned that “we saw no less than 15 whales, some breaching right next to us,” making it clear that this tour can deliver spectacular marine encounters.

Bird watchers will also appreciate the native species, with the blue-footed booby and red-billed tropicbird often seen flying overhead. The guides’ commentary about the natural habitat and conservation efforts adds depth to the experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since most of the day is spent on the boat, some travelers have noted that if you’re prone to seasickness, this trip may not be ideal. The boat ride is long and can be bumpy, and there’s limited time on land or in the water for resting.

The tour uses small metal ladders to get back on the boat from the islands, as there’s no dock. This can be a minor challenge for those with mobility issues. Also, the schedule can feel tight, especially around the island stop where you might want more time to relax or explore leisurely.

Be aware that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. If you’re staying outside the meeting point, plan your transportation accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. Dani and Pancho, in particular, earn mentions for their excellent service and entertaining shows, including choreographed dances that many found hilarious. Guests appreciated the lively atmosphere and the fact that the crew goes out of their way to make everyone comfortable.

The food and drinks are considered a major plus, with several travelers noting that the onboard bar kept everyone refreshed. The organized wildlife shows and the chance to spot whales and dolphins of course add to the memorable nature of the trip.

Final Thoughts

For travelers who value guided marine adventures with lots of wildlife sightings, active water sports, and a delicious onboard meal, this tour offers a compelling package. The combination of professional guides, beautiful scenery, and entertaining crew members makes it stand out among similar tours in Puerto Vallarta.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, or if seasickness is a concern, you might want to consider other options. The schedule can be tight, and the focus is very much on the water-based activities.

Overall, this tour is best suited for those who want a full day of engaging activities, wildlife encounters, and good food, all in the company of experienced guides who know how to keep the energy high. It’s a lively, well-organized trip that promises plenty of memorable moments, especially if you’re lucky with the weather and wildlife sightings.

If you’re after a full-day, active adventure with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and water sports, this tour delivers excellent value for the price. The delicious BBQ lunch and the friendly guides make it a standout experience in Puerto Vallarta. It’s especially suited for families, wildlife lovers, and water sports enthusiasts who don’t mind a busy schedule and are comfortable on boats for most of the day.

While it might feel a bit rushed at times, the memorable wildlife encounters and spectacular scenery more than compensate. Just remember to bring cash for fees, towels, and any personal needs, and be prepared for a lively, fun-filled day on the Pacific’s waters.

FAQ

• What’s included in the tour?
  All water activities (snorkel, kayak, paddleboarding), a BBQ lunch at Majahuitas with drinks, and guided wildlife and marine life observation.

• Are all activities suitable for beginners?
  Yes, the water sports are designed for all skill levels, and guides are attentive to safety and confidence-building.

• How long is the boat ride?
  Most of the day is spent on the boat, with the departure at 7:00 am and return at approximately 2:00 pm, depending on conditions.

• Do I need to bring anything?
  Bring cash for fees, towels, sunscreen, water, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

• Is the tour suitable for kids?
  Yes, many families enjoy this trip, especially those with children comfortable on boats and interested in wildlife.

• Can I see whales?
  Whale sightings are possible in season, with some reviews reporting sightings of multiple whales including breaching.

• Are meals and drinks included?
  Yes, a BBQ lunch and drinks are included, with the onboard bar serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

• What about the wildlife?
  Expect to see dolphins, possibly whales, manta rays, and native seabirds like blue-footed boobies.

• Is there hotel pickup?
  No, the tour starts at Puerto Magico, so plan your transportation accordingly.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour is dependent on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, if your idea of a perfect day involves being on the water, spotting marine wildlife, and enjoying great food in a lively atmosphere, this Puerto Vallarta tour is a solid choice. It balances adventure and comfort, with guides who genuinely care about sharing the natural beauty of the region.