Marietas Islands

If you’re considering a day on the water near Puerto Vallarta, the Marietas Islands tour offers a blend of marine life, outdoor fun, and relaxing boat time. As a seasoned traveler and reviewer, I’ve gone through plenty of tours, and this one stands out as a solid choice for those looking to combine adventure with comfort.

What we love about this experience includes the comfortable catamaran ride with an attentive crew and the variety of water activities—snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding—plus the delicious food and open bar. On the flip side, one of the few drawbacks seems to be price-related, especially if you want to visit Playa Escondida, which costs extra.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded outdoor day, enjoy marine life, and appreciate good value for money. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or a group of friends, if you love the idea of exploring an island archipelago with plenty of water-based fun, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Comfortable Catamaran: The journey to the islands is in a well-equipped boat with a friendly crew.
• Diverse Water Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding provided with all necessary gear.
• Tasty Food & Drinks: Enjoy a breakfast with yogurt and fruit or chilaquiles, plus an open bar for the adults.
• Marine Wildlife: Expect to see dolphins, tropical fish, and other aquatic creatures in their natural habitat.
• Accessible & Convenient: Tour departs from Puerto Mágico; easy access and timing suitable for most travelers.
• Cost & Extras: The main tour costs $125 per person, but some attractions like Playa Escondida require extra fees.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

The Journey to Marietas Islands

The trip begins at Puerto Mágico around 9:00 am, where the crew welcomes you with friendliness and efficiency. You’ll want to arrive an hour early to check in; unfortunately, some travelers have reported confusion during this process, so it’s wise to confirm your booking beforehand. The boat itself is a comfortable catamaran, designed for stability and cruising ease, perfect for relaxing while taking in the views.

The crossing to the islands takes about an hour and a half, a manageable ride that offers glimpses of Puerto Vallarta’s coast and the chance to settle in with a drink or a snack. You might find this part a highlight if you enjoy boat rides—plenty of space to lounge, chat, or simply watch the scenery.

Marine Wildlife & Snorkeling

Once at the Islas Marietas, the first main activity is snorkeling, lasting about 25 to 35 minutes. The guides provide well-maintained equipment—mask, snorkel, and life jackets—so you’re ready to explore underwater life. We loved the way the guides kept everyone safe while giving helpful tips, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Expect to see tropical fish and possibly dolphins—many reviews highlight dolphin sightings as a memorable part of the trip. One traveler commented that the diversity of aquatic creatures was impressive, making the snorkeling session worthwhile.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Following snorkeling, you have options: kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax on the boat. The guides are helpful in explaining how to use the gear, and all equipment is provided—no need to bring your own. Kayaking around the islands offers a different perspective of the rugged coastline and hidden coves.

Food and Drinks: A Highlight of the Tour

The delicious breakfast is included—yogurt, fresh fruit, or hearty chilaquiles with eggs, along with juice. After the water activities, you can enjoy the open bar, which is a real plus for those wanting to unwind with a cold drink. It’s an easy way to kick back and soak in the sunshine while chatting with fellow travelers.

Visiting Playa Escondida & Additional Fees

One of the trip’s optional highlights is Playa Escondida, a private beach accessible for an extra MX$1,000 per person. Keep in mind, this is a significant additional cost, so if visiting this secluded spot is a priority, budget accordingly. There’s also a small port fee (MX$33) and a Semarnat bracelet (MX$180), which are standard for park access.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a return to Puerto Vallarta in the late afternoon, giving you time to relax or explore the city afterward. The group size maxes out at 25 travelers, providing a more intimate experience, though some reviews suggest that check-in can be confusing, so arrive early and confirm your booking.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

A couple of reviews highlight the tour’s stunning scenery and good value. One traveler raved about the beautiful views and the variety of aquatic life, while another appreciated the delicious food and open bar.

However, not all experiences have been perfect. A review from Courtney_S shared a less-than-ideal encounter during check-in, almost missing the boat, and felt the snorkeling didn’t quite meet expectations. This reminds us to be prepared for some organizational hiccups and to communicate clearly before the day of the trip.

Why This Tour Could Be a Great Choice

This experience offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty, ideal for those who want to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta without spending an entire day on land. The marine wildlife sightings and water activities cater well to adventurous spirits, while the comfortable boat and included meal appeal to travelers looking for convenience and good value.

While the extra fee for Playa Escondida might be a deterrent for some, the main tour delivers plenty of memorable moments, making it a worthwhile addition to your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re after a scenic boat ride combined with aquatic adventures and a relaxed atmosphere, this tour is a good fit. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or friends who enjoy outdoor activities and tropical scenery. Those who prefer a more organized, all-inclusive experience will also find value here.

However, if you’re a solo traveler concerned about check-in logistics or prefer to customize your day more freely, it’s worth clarifying details and possibly considering alternative options.

Final Thoughts

The Marietas Islands tour from Puerto Vallarta offers a beautiful mix of marine life, outdoor activities, and laid-back fun. The well-equipped catamaran, engaging guides, and tasty food make it a worthwhile day trip, especially for those who love being on the water and exploring nature.

The tour’s value hinges on your interest in water-based adventures and whether you want to spend a day soaking in views, wildlife, and sunshine. The optional extra for Playa Escondida adds a special touch but comes with a hefty price tag.

In the end, if you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventurous escape with plenty of chances to see marine life and enjoy good food, this tour can be a highlight of your Puerto Vallarta trip. Just remember to arrive early, confirm your booking, and be ready for a day of fun under the sun.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:00 am from Puerto Mágico, so plan to arrive an hour early for check-in.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the water activities and group size suggest it’s suitable for families, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Are water activities included in the price?
Yes, all equipment for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding is provided.

How long is the boat ride?
The crossing from Puerto Vallarta to the islands takes about 1.5 hours each way.

What food is included?
A breakfast buffet featuring yogurt, fruit, or chilaquiles with eggs, plus juice.

Is there an open bar?
Yes, the tour includes an open bar, making it easy to enjoy drinks during the day.

Can I visit Playa Escondida?
Yes, but it costs MX$1,000 extra per person, and availability depends on weather and group size.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, sunscreen, towel, and a sense of adventure. Arrive early and bring confirmation details to avoid check-in issues.

To sum it up, the Marietas Islands tour from Puerto Vallarta offers a well-rounded day of marine exploration, scenic boat rides, and outdoor fun. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy water activities, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere. While some organizational hiccups have been noted, the overall experience is a memorable way to spend a day on the water in this beautiful part of Mexico.