Bay tour: Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Fishing

If you’re after a day of sun, sea, and a touch of adventure, a private boat tour in Oaxaca might just be your perfect escape. This 7-hour journey promises a mix of relaxing scenery, underwater discovery, and fresh local flavors. While it costs $653 for up to 10 people, most will agree that the price offers good value for a personalized experience that combines the thrill of snorkeling, the calm of fishing, and the pleasure of great food.

We particularly like the fact that this tour is private, meaning you won’t be sharing space with strangers — just your group, your boat, and the coast’s best sights. The stunning coastal views and delicious meal topped with beautiful scenery really stand out. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour isn’t suitable for everyone — especially young children, pregnant women, or non-swimmers, due to water activities and the boat ride’s nature. Perfect for groups of friends, couples, or families with older children who love the water, this trip offers genuine moments of connection with Oaxaca’s marine environment.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at What to Expect

2 How This Tour Adds Value

3 Practicalities and Considerations

4 Who is This Tour Best For?

5 Final Thoughts

6 FAQ

Key Points

Private experience ensures a personalized, intimate trip.
Snorkeling offers a chance to see vibrant marine life up close.
Fishing provides a relaxing break and a chance to catch your dinner.
Secluded beaches promise tranquility away from crowded tourist spots.
Delicious local meals with scenic views add a satisfying finish.
Ideal for those who enjoy water activities and authentic coastal scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What to Expect

Starting with the Journey:
The adventure begins with hotel pickup, ensuring your day starts hassle-free. The boat, operated by Goo tours Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, including snorkeling gear and fishing equipment. With a small group or just your family, you’ll set out on a 7-hour voyage that balances activity with relaxation.

Secluded Beaches and Quiet Retreats:
Your first stop is a secluded, untouched beach—a quiet spot where you can enjoy the sound of waves and the fresh sea breeze. Unlike the busy tourist beaches, this one feels like your own private paradise, perfect for unwinding. Travelers often mention how peaceful and unspoiled these spots are, offering an authentic escape.

Snorkeling at Playa Manzanillo:
Next, the highlight for many is the snorkeling adventure at Playa Manzanillo. Here, the water clarity tends to be excellent, letting you see vibrant fish and coral formations. The tour notes that snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to dive right in. Expect colorful marine life, and if you’re lucky, you might see some of the local species that call these waters home. One reviewer commented, “We loved the way the water looked so clear — it was almost like swimming in an aquarium.”

Relaxing Fishing Session:
After snorkeling, the boat anchors for fishing, a serene break where you can try your luck catching dinner or simply enjoy the slow rhythm of the sea. For those who enjoy a leisurely pace, this is a real highlight, giving you time to unwind and take in the scenery.

A Delicious Meal with a View:
Before heading to the next snorkeling stop, you’ll savor a lunch at Contramar, a local restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent cuisine. The meal is well regarded, and the scenic view enhances the experience. While the tour price doesn’t include the meal, many consider it a worthwhile addition that highlights local flavors.

Second Snorkeling & Relaxation at Playa Las Gatas:
The day concludes with more snorkeling at Playa Las Gatas, another beautiful spot with calm waters and picturesque coastal vistas. This provides a perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the scenic beauty, possibly taking photos or just enjoying the silence of the bay.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Oaxaca De Juarez.

How This Tour Adds Value

For travelers seeking a balanced day mixing adventure, relaxation, and authentic local experiences, this tour ticks many boxes. The private aspect ensures your group moves at your pace, and the variety of stops prevents the day from feeling repetitive. Because you’re visiting untouched beaches and engaging in snorkeling and fishing, you’ll get a taste of Oaxaca’s coastal environment that many can’t access via larger tours.

The inclusion of 20 beverages keeps everyone refreshed, especially on warm days, and the snorkeling and fishing gear provided means you’re ready to go without extra hassle or expense. If you’re a lover of scenic views, the stunning coastline alone makes this trip worthwhile.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or people with back problems or non-swimmers. Seasickness could also be a concern for some, so if you’re prone to feeling queasy, bring appropriate medication. The pickup from your hotel simplifies logistics, and the full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

What you bring is straightforward: sunscreen, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, and comfortable clothes. Biodegradable sunscreen is recommended to protect the marine life. Remember that touching marine life or plants is discouraged — this is about respecting the environment.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers who enjoy water sports and exploring coastal environments without the crowds. It’s ideal for families with older children, couples craving a romantic day at sea, or groups of friends looking for a private escape. If you’re seeking a relaxed yet active day, with plenty of scenic and gastronomic highlights, this tour offers a well-rounded package.

However, it’s less suitable for young children under 9, pregnant women, or those with health issues that prevent water activities. Also, if you’re not comfortable on boats or dislike being in open water, this might not be the best fit.

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Final Thoughts

This private boat tour in Oaxaca delivers a genuinely enjoyable day for those craving a mix of seclusion, marine discovery, and local flavor. The ability to customize your experience with snorkeling, fishing, and scenic stops makes it a flexible choice, especially for groups who value personalized service.

The stunning views combined with a delicious meal in a scenic setting create a memorable escape from everyday life. The overall 4.8 rating from past travelers suggests this tour reliably delivers a satisfying experience, making it a solid investment for anyone looking to enjoy Oaxaca’s coastal treasures.

If you’re after authentic moments, scenic beauty, and the chance to enjoy the sea on your terms, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate relaxing, water-based adventures with a touch of local charm.

You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Oaxaca De Juarez

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is designed for a private group, up to 10 people, allowing a more personalized experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting from hotel pickup to return.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and 20 beverages. Meals are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to jump into the water without bringing your own.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children under 9, pregnant women, and non-swimmers are not recommended to join.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for water activities.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves boat transfers and water activities, it may not be ideal for those with significant mobility challenges.

What kind of views can I expect?
You’ll see stunning coastlines, untouched beaches, and clear waters perfect for photos.

Where does the tour take place?
In Oaxaca’s coastline, with stops at Playa Manzanillo and Playa Las Gatas.

In summary, this private boat tour offers a well-rounded taste of Oaxaca’s coastal beauty, blending adventure, relaxation, and authentic local experiences. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to enjoy the sea in a quiet, personalized setting.