Catamaran Islas Marietas – Snorkel & Open Bar

If you’re planning a day trip from Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands, chances are you’ve come across the popular Catamaran Islas Marietas tour. While it boasts attractive features like snorkeling, kayaking, an open bar, and meals, it’s worth taking a closer look to understand what you really get—and what surprises might be waiting. We’ve sifted through the reviews, itinerary details, and the experience elements to help you decide whether this adventure matches your travel style.

This tour promises a full day of fun, combining nature, water sports, and socializing on the water. Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the stunning ocean views along Banderas Bay and the delicious onboard meals and drinks. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the group size can be quite large, which might dilute the feeling of intimacy some travelers seek. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, scenic views, and a mix of activities—perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family looking for both relaxation and adventure.

Key Points

• Sailing to a marine sanctuary offers remarkable scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.
• All water sports equipment provided makes it easy to try kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
• Meals and drinks onboard are included, with a focus on fresh, satisfying fare.
• Group size can be large, which may impact the intimacy of the experience.
• The tour’s timing and duration offer a full, leisurely day on the water.
• Price point is competitive but should be weighed against the large crowds and mixed reviews.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

Starting promptly at 8:00am from Puerto Mágico, the tour kicks off with a continental breakfast and hot cakes, giving you fuel for the day. The boat itself is a catamaran, a point that many travelers might assume but is worth confirming—some reviews mention it’s not a true catamaran, and the boat can carry up to 90 travelers. The sailing across Banderas Bay is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the chance to begin spotting marine life.

Once you arrive at the Marietas Islands, what makes this trip compelling is the variety of activities available. You can snorkel in crystal-clear waters to see vibrant fish and coral, paddleboard near striking rock formations, or simply relax on the beach soaking up sun and scenery. For those curious about the Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor), it’s an optional visit—though note that some reviews suggest the experience is crowded and less intimate than expected.

Back on the boat, a lunch service keeps everyone satisfied. Expect fresh, filling dishes, which complement the lively atmosphere onboard. The open bar is available during the return trip, with alcoholic drinks flowing freely—though some reviewers found that the drinks were limited or lacked volume. The return journey is filled with music, games, and karaoke, making it a fun, social ride back to Puerto Vallarta.

Water Sports and Wildlife: What You’ll Encounter

The water activities are a core part of this tour. You’ll have access to snorkel gear, paddleboards, and kayaks, all provided at no extra charge. These options enable you to explore the rocky coves and marine life at your own pace. Many travelers enjoy the opportunity to get close to nature and see the local wildlife in their natural habitat—an essential element for nature lovers.

The tour’s sailing through Banderas Bay also offers chances to observe marine animals, though specific sightings aren’t guaranteed. The islands are a UNESCO-protected marine sanctuary, making this a valuable experience for those interested in conservation and wildlife.

Food and Drink: Satisfying and Refreshing

A standout point for many participants is the quality of onboard meals. Starting with a continental breakfast and hot cakes with fruit, yogurt, and granola, the food options feel thoughtfully prepared for travelers eager for a substantial start. The lunch served on board is described as fresh and satisfying, with enough variety to keep everyone happy.

The open bar is a highlight, offering a chance to relax with cocktails and drinks while taking in ocean views. However, some reviews note that the drinks may be limited in volume or not as plentiful as expected, so travelers who enjoy more robust beverages might want to pace themselves or bring extra supplies.

The Downside: Considerations and Caveats

While many travelers rave about the vistas and water activities, some point out that the large group size impacts the experience. One review was particularly candid, stating, “There was over 100 people on this trip, not 30,” which can lead to crowded spaces, especially at the Hidden Beach. The language barrier was also a concern for some, with the guide speaking primarily Spanish and only limited English.

The food quality and drink volume received mixed reviews—some found the offerings just average. Plus, there’s a small government fee ($3 and $10 per person) that adds to the overall cost, which travelers should budget for.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip caters well to adventurous travelers who enjoy water sports and lively atmospheres. If you’re looking for a full day of sun, sea, and socializing, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and relax, this tour could be a great fit. Families, groups of friends, or couples who don’t mind crowded conditions and a varied pace will likely find it enjoyable.

However, those seeking a quiet, intimate experience or hoping for a high-end, exclusive trip might want to explore smaller or more tailored options. Also, travelers who prefer fluent English guides and more personalized service** should be aware of the language limitations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Catamaran Islas Marietas tour offers a lively, scenic, and activity-packed day that showcases the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s marine environment. The stunning vistas of Banderas Bay, combined with snorkeling and water sports, make it a memorable outing. The meals and open bar add a social, celebratory feel that many travelers enjoy.

That said, the large group size and mixed reviews on food and drinks mean this experience might feel more like a group party than a serene escape. For those who thrive in a vibrant, social setting and want a full-day adventure with diverse activities, this tour is a solid choice.

If you’re after an authentic, fun-filled day with beautiful views and good food, it’s quite likely you’ll find this trip worth the price. Just go in with the understanding that it’s a lively, sometimes crowded outing—perfect for travelers eager for a bit of everything, rather than those seeking solitude.

FAQs

• What time does this tour start?

It begins promptly at 8:00am from Puerto Mágico, so plan to arrive a little earlier to check in and settle.

• How long does the tour last?

The entire experience runs approximately 10 hours, offering a full day of activities and relaxation.

• Is the boat a true catamaran?

Not necessarily; some reviews mention that the vessel might not be a classic catamaran, and it can carry up to 90 travelers, which affects the intimacy of the experience.

• What should I bring?

Pack your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, and biodegradable sunscreen. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the islands.

• Are water sports equipment included?

Yes, snorkel gear, paddleboards, and kayaks are provided at no extra charge.

• Is there an additional fee?

Yes, there are government fees of $3 and $10 per person, payable at the start of the tour.

In closing, the Catamaran Islas Marietas tour from Puerto Vallarta balances beautiful scenery, active water sports, and social fun. It’s best suited for those looking for a lively, full-day outing rather than a quiet retreat. With some flexibility on crowds and a cheerful, energetic vibe, it can be a highlight of your trip—just keep expectations aligned with the realities of a bustling group adventure.