Marietas Sail, Snorkel and Beach

Explore the Marietas Islands with a Sail, Snorkel, and Beach Tour

This Puerto Vallarta tour offers a chance to experience the stunning Marietas Islands — a highlight for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. It’s crafted for those wanting a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and marine life encounters, all while enjoying the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

We like that this tour combines activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding with plenty of time to relax on secluded beaches, making it attractive for a variety of travelers.

One of the biggest draws is the chance to see hundreds of bird species and marine creatures including octopus, rays, seahorses, and turtles, along with potential whale sightings during the winter months. The guides seem to be knowledgeable and engaging, adding value to the experience.

On the flip side, a possible concern is that the overall rating hovers around 3.5/5, reflecting mixed reviews, including some complaints about booking issues and limited access to certain park areas.

This tour works best for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling and wildlife, as well as those interested in capturing photos of dramatic cliffs and rock formations. If you’re sensitive to smaller groups or want a perfectly seamless experience, it’s worth considering how the company’s logistical challenges might influence your day.

Overall, it’s an authentic outing blending nature, adventure, and relaxation—ideal for curious explorers eager to see Puerto Vallarta’s marine treasures.

Key Points

• A scenic sailing experience with opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds.
• Snorkeling gear and paddleboards included for hands-on fun in the water.
• Stunning vistas of cliffs, coves, caves, and rock formations perfect for photography.
• Secluded beaches with relaxing breaks and optional access to the controlled Love Beach.
• Delicious onboard food and drinks, including a continental breakfast and deli-style lunch.
• Small group size (max 7 travelers) for a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at the Paradise Village Public Pier in Nuevo Vallarta, where you’ll meet your vessel. The boat itself is on the smaller side, which many travelers appreciate for its intimacy and ease of movement. From there, the adventure kicks off with a scenic cruise heading towards the Marietas Islands, a protected ecological reserve known for its dramatic cliffs and secret coves.

Stop 1: Marietas Islands (about 2 hours):
This is the core of the tour, giving you time to marvel at the rocky formations and take photographs of the rugged coastline. The islands are famous for their hidden beach—a secluded cove accessible only by boat or swim, and controlled by the marine park to preserve its beauty. As one reviewer noted, “The hidden beach was amazing,” which is a sentiment echoed by many visitors.

While the island’s access is regulated, you’ll have opportunities for snorkeling, which is often the highlight. You’re provided with sanitized snorkeling gear and life vests, ready for you to explore the waters filled with tropical fish, rays, and even occasionally turtles or seahorses. The marine life here is vibrant, and some travelers have reported seeing octopus and spotted rays—a true treat for underwater photographers and wildlife lovers alike.

Snorkeling and Water Activities:
After some time on the island, many guests get in the water using the provided gear. We loved the way the snorkeling gear is well sanitized, and paddleboards are available for those who prefer to stay above the water. As noted in reviews, some guests found the smaller boats and tight spaces charming, making for a more intimate outing.

Relaxation and Beach Time:
The tour offers the chance to kick back on one of the secluded beaches. The natural beauty of these spots makes for perfect photo ops, and the calm waters lend themselves well to swimming and relaxing. Guests can also opt to visit Love Beach, which is controlled by the marine park and available for a small additional fee.

Wildlife and Sea Life Watching:
The region is an excellent place for birdwatching, with over 100 species recorded around the islands. During whale season (Dec 8 to Mar 15), there’s a good chance of spotting whales, with some tour participants reporting close encounters with whales and dolphins. One reviewer happily recounted, “We saw whales so close we could reach out and touch one,” emphasizing how memorable these sightings can be.

Return Journey:
As you sail back to Puerto Vallarta, you can enjoy the warm breeze with a drink in hand. The crew does a good job entertaining guests, with some reviews mentioning engaging staff who involve everyone on board. The trip back is usually relaxed, often sailing most of the way, providing a pleasant end to the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $99 per person, this tour provides a solid value considering the length, activities, and amenities. Included in the price are a continental breakfast, deli-style lunch, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and an open bar (alcoholic drinks only after water activities). These amenities contribute to a laid-back, enjoyable experience.

Additional costs include a port tax of MX$35 per person and a conservation fee of MX$85, which is typical for protected park visits. Access to Love Beach requires an optional fee and is controlled by the park authorities. Transportation to the marina isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The boat is specifically mentioned as being smaller than larger tour boats, which many travelers find preferable for its cozy atmosphere. The maximum group size of 7 helps ensure personalized attention but also means booking early is wise if you don’t want to miss out.

The Reviews: A Balanced View

While some reviews highlight the excellent guides and fun crew, others point out the challenges. For instance, one reviewer expressed frustration when their reservation was canceled at the last minute, which underscores the importance of confirming your booking and understanding the company’s cancellation policy.

On the positive side, many travelers rave about the abundant marine life, the delicious onboard food, and the breathtaking scenery. One quoted review mentioned, “The hidden beach was spectacular, and the crew was helpful,” adding that the experience felt authentic and memorable.

Some reviews comment on the smaller boat size, appreciating the more intimate vibe, while others note that the snorkeling experience might not be as extensive as on larger tours. This highlights the importance of managing expectations—this is a tour for those who appreciate the personal touch and scenic sailing rather than an all-out snorkeling extravaganza.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, wildlife, and photography. Those who like small group settings and personalized attention will find it appealing. It’s also great for families or couples looking for a leisurely day combining scenery, marine encounters, and food.

However, travelers seeking a more structured or luxury experience might find the boat’s size and the logistical aspects less aligned with their preferences. It’s worth noting the possibility of last-minute cancellations or delays, so flexibility is key.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a compelling combination of scenery, wildlife, and water-based activities for a reasonable price. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and delicious food enhances its value, especially for those eager to explore under the sea and photograph stunning cliffs and caves.

If you’re looking for a personalized, interactive day with knowledgeable guides and the chance to see whales (in season), this tour hits many of those marks. The mixed reviews remind us to confirm reservations and be prepared for possible last-minute changes, but overall, it provides a genuine experience of the beautiful Marietas Islands.

For travelers who value authentic encounters, scenic sailing, and marine wildlife, this trip is a worthy choice. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a relaxed yet adventurous day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to relax on a quiet beach after exploring the underwater life.

FAQ

• What is the starting point of the tour?
  The tour begins at the Paradise Village Public Pier in Nuevo Vallarta, on Blvrd Nayarit.

• How long does the tour last?
  The entire experience takes about 7 hours from start to finish.

• Is food included?
  Yes, there’s a continental breakfast and deli-style lunch included in the price.

• Are snorkeling gear and paddleboards provided?
  Yes, sanitized snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are included for use during the trip.

• What are the costs besides the tour price?
  You’ll need to pay a port tax of MX$35 and a conservation fee of MX$85 if visiting the islands.

• Can I visit Love Beach?
  Access to Love Beach is controlled by the marine park and requires an optional fee.

• Are whale sightings common?
  There’s a good chance of whale sightings from December 8 to March 15, with some guests reporting close encounters.

• Is the boat large or small?
  The boat is smaller than typical large tours, which many travelers enjoy for its intimacy.

• What if my reservation is canceled?
  The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, but last-minute cancellations have occurred, so confirm early.

• Who would enjoy this tour most?
  Active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those who appreciate a relaxed, small-group vibe will find it ideal.

In summary, the Marietas Sail, Snorkel, and Beach tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a well-rounded, authentic day on the water. It’s a great choice for those eager to explore marine life, enjoy stunning vistas, and relax on quiet beaches—all in a smaller, more personal setting. Just be sure to confirm your booking and go with an open mind for a memorable adventure.