Yelapa and Majahuitas Snorkeling Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

Thinking about a day out on the water in Puerto Vallarta? The Yelapa and Majahuitas snorkeling cruise offers a taste of Mexico’s unspoiled coastline, with plenty of chances to relax, snorkel, and explore. This tour promises a full day—about eight hours—of fun, food, and scenery, all wrapped up in an all-inclusive package.

What we love about this experience? First, the scenic catamaran ride that sets the tone for the day—sailing past green mountains and shimmering waters. Second, the delicious food and drinks served onboard, which make the journey feel like a floating fiesta. On the flip side, the snorkeling conditions seem hit or miss—some travelers report murky waters and limited marine life.

Still, if you’re comfortable with a group adventure and want a straightforward, lively trip, this tour might be right up your alley.

It’s worth noting that some reviews mention disorganization and extra fees at the start. So, if you’re seeking a perfectly curated experience, it’s good to go in with realistic expectations. Ideal for those who enjoy socializing, a bit of adventure, and a relaxed day at sea, this tour appeals most to travelers looking for value and lively atmosphere rather than pristine, secluded nature.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and activities are included, offering good value.
• Lively Atmosphere: The crew keeps the energy high with music, dancing, and plenty of drinks.
• Varied Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and an optional waterfall trek make the day dynamic.
• Authentic Local Vibe: Visits to traditional villages like Yelapa give a genuine taste of local life.
• Variable Water Conditions: Some reviews warn about murky water and limited marine life at certain times.
• Group Size: The tour caps at 40 travelers, keeping things lively but not crowded.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Setting Sail on a Catamaran

Your day starts at Puerto Mágico, a lively pier in the Zona Hotelera. The boat departs around 9:15 am, giving you plenty of daylight hours to soak in the views and enjoy the continental breakfast. We liked the way the crew kicked things off with bread, coffee, seasonal fruits, yogurt, and granola—simple but satisfying fuel for a day on the water.

Sailing on a beautiful catamaran, you’ll glide past lush mountains and blue waters, with the national open bar offering tequila, rum, vodka, beer, and soft drinks. Many reviews highlight the friendly, fun crew that keeps the vibe upbeat with music, games, and dancing. It’s worth noting that some guests mention loud music, which can be fun but might be overwhelming if you prefer quiet or relaxing surroundings.

The Highlights: Yelapa and Majahuitas

The tour’s main destinations are Yelapa and Majahuitas, two spots that showcase different sides of the Puerto Vallarta coastline. Yelapa, a car-free fishing village, is known for its tranquil atmosphere, scenic waterfalls, and traditional crafts. You’ll have time to explore native shops, walk to the Cola de Caballo waterfall, or just unwind on the long beach where the river meets the ocean. One review mentioned the waterfall as a “charming,” and it’s certainly a highlight for nature lovers wanting a break from the boat.

However, some travelers have found the snorkeling at Majahuitas disappointing, citing murky waters and limited marine life. One reviewer noted, “the water was gross, dirty, murky, can’t see a thing through goggles,” which is important to consider if snorkeling is your main goal. That said, you might find the waters clearer on a different day, or if you’re just there for the scenery and relaxing on the beach, it’s still a lovely spot.

Water Activities and Optional Adventures

On the boat, you’re provided with snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards—tools to explore the turquoise waters at your own pace. The crew is helpful and attentive, helping guests snorkel or paddle around. One guest called it an “excellent” experience, while others felt the snorkeling was less impressive due to water clarity.

For the adventurous, there’s an option to visit Yelapa’s waterfall via a jungle walk or even upgrade to an ATV tour—adding an extra layer of excitement. Several reviews praised the guided nature walk to the waterfall, describing it as a “fun jungle trek” that ends with a cool dip.

Dining and Refreshments

Lunch is served at Vela Roja, a popular restaurant where you can select from dishes like fish steak, beef fajitas, chicken quesadillas, or shrimp. Many mention the delicious food, with some describing the beef fajitas and fish as “really good,” and the all-day open bar keeps the energy lively. Reviewers appreciated the generous supplies of drinks and snacks, which make the day feel like a floating party.

The meal options are quite broad, accommodating different tastes, and the inclusion of beverages, soft drinks, and water means you won’t go thirsty. Keep in mind that there’s an additional tax fee of MX$32 per person at each pier location, which is standard but worth budgeting for.

Return Journey and Overall Vibe

As the day winds down, most guests enjoy the sunset views on the way back, with many noting the timing was perfect to see the sun dip behind the mountains. The return trip is filled with music, dancing, and shared stories, making it a festive end to the adventure. The boat arrives back at Puerto Mágico generally around 5 pm, giving you a full, well-paced day.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price and Value

At $100 per person, the tour offers a lot—transportation, meals, drinks, activities, and guided excursions. Many reviews suggest that it’s a reasonable price for an all-day experience with plenty of variety. However, some guests felt the experience was slightly disorganized or that there were extra fees that weren’t clear upfront, which can detract from the overall value.

Group Size and Tour Logistics

With a maximum of 40 travelers, the group stays lively but not overcrowded. The departure point at Puerto Mágico is accessible, and the tour includes mobile tickets, making check-in straightforward. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join, but note that the crew’s English may be limited, so some guests mentioned communication issues.

Weather and Water Conditions

The experience is weather-dependent; storms or poor water visibility can impact snorkeling quality. Several reviews mention that water clarity was less than ideal during their trips, which can be disappointing if snorkeling is your main focus. It’s best to plan for a clear day, and always check the weather forecast before booking.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy social environments, scenic boat rides, and a mix of relaxation and activity. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a lively, all-inclusive day will appreciate the combination of good food, drinks, and varied activities.

If your priority is pristine snorkeling or quiet, secluded beaches, you might want to consider other options. However, if you’re after a fun-filled day with beautiful views, local flavor, and the chance to explore Yelapa’s unique charm, this tour has a lot to offer.

Final Thoughts

The Yelapa and Majahuitas snorkeling cruise strikes a balance between fun, scenery, and authentic local experiences. The friendly crew, delicious meals, and lively atmosphere create a memorable day on the water. While some reviews point to disorganization and less-than-ideal snorkeling conditions, most guests come away with good memories and a sense of having experienced something truly different.

It’s an experience that provides great value for money, especially if you’re open to a day of socializing, scenic views, and relaxed adventure. For those who enjoy a mix of activities, friendly guides, and authentic coastal villages, this cruise is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, the tour starts at Puerto Mágico, and ground transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way there.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, from departure at 9:15 am to return in the late afternoon.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a continental breakfast, lunch, and an open bar with alcohol and soft drinks are included in the price.

What activities are available onboard?
You can snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, and enjoy music and dancing—there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

Is snorkeling worth doing?
It depends on water clarity. Some reviews mention murky waters and limited marine life, but others enjoyed the snorkeling. It’s a bit of a gamble.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a MX$32 tax per person at the piers and reefs, which isn’t included in the ticket price.

Can I upgrade or add on activities?
Yes, some guests opt for activities like ATV rides to Yelapa’s waterfall, which can be booked separately.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water shoes for walking, and perhaps a waterproof camera for photos.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers seem to find it appropriate for families, but check your children’s comfort with boat rides, snorkeling, and outdoor activities.

In all, the Yelapa and Majahuitas snorkeling cruise offers a lively, scenic, and reasonably priced way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s coast. Whether you’re after adventure, authentic culture, or simply a relaxing day at sea, it provides a well-rounded slice of Mexican seaside life.