The Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise from Puerto Vallarta provides an all-inclusive adventure for nature enthusiasts. The tour includes round-trip transportation, meals, and an open bar as guests explore the vibrant marine life surrounding the Marietas Islands. While the cruise offers a lively atmosphere with activities like snorkeling and kayaking, some travelers have encountered issues with crowding and additional fees. Whether you’re seeking an immersive eco-tour or a relaxing day on the water, this excursion promises a memorable experience in one of Mexico’s natural wonders.
Key Points
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This all-inclusive snorkeling cruise departs from Puerto Vallarta and lasts 12 hours, with round-trip transportation, breakfast, open bar, and snorkeling equipment provided.
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The tour visits Playa la Nopalera, La Bufadora, and Stone Arches, with music for dancing and travel insurance included.
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The meeting point is at Puerto Mágico, with an arrival time required by 8:30 AM and a full day of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and site visits.
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The tour has a maximum capacity of 40 travelers, is not wheelchair accessible, and is not recommended for pregnant travelers over 4 months.
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Feedback suggests mixed experiences with snorkeling due to overcrowding and cold water, but positive comments on the crew and onboard food quality.
Tour Overview and Inclusions
The Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise departs from Puerto Vallarta, offering a well-rounded maritime experience.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, an open bar, snorkeling equipment, and a visit to Playa la Nopalera.
Travelers can also observe La Bufadora and descend into the Stone Arches. Music for dancing is provided, and travel insurance is included.
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with an arrival time of 8:30 AM.
However, customers have reported issues with overcrowding at snorkeling sites and long wait times, as well as hidden fees for eco-tours and beach access.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puerto Vallarta.
Meeting Point and Schedule
The meeting point for the Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise is Puerto Mágico, located at Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.
Guests are expected to arrive at the meeting point by 8:30 AM. The tour duration is approximately 12 hours, and the cruise returns to the same meeting point at the end of the experience.
The schedule allows for a full day of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and visiting various sites around the Marietas Islands. Guests should plan their transportation accordingly, as the tour operates on a fixed schedule.
Additional Information and Restrictions
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise. This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the cruise. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers, especially those over 4 months. The tour has a maximum capacity of 40 travelers.
Accessibility | Restrictions |
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Not wheelchair accessible | Not recommended for pregnant travelers over 4 months |
Stroller accessible | Infants must sit on laps |
Maximum capacity: 40 travelers | – |
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Snorkeling Experiences and Feedback
According to customer reviews, the snorkeling experiences on the Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise have received mixed feedback. Some found the water cold and visibility poor, while many noted overcrowding at the snorkeling sites.
On the positive side, travelers complimented the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the food served on board.
However, there were complaints about additional fees for eco-tours and hidden beach access, as well as dissatisfaction with long wait times and lack of clear communication regarding included activities.
To improve the snorkeling experience, the tour operator could consider shorter boat rides from closer locations and increase the time allocated for snorkeling and beach visits.
Catering and Onboard Amenities
The Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise includes a range of onboard amenities to cater to passengers’ needs.
Travelers can enjoy a complimentary breakfast served aboard the catamaran. An open bar offers a selection of soft drinks, beer, tequila, rum, brandy, and whiskey. Snacks and meals are provided throughout the day.
Onboard music creates a lively atmosphere for dancing. The cruise also includes essential equipment like snorkels, kayaks, and paddleboards for exploring the marine environment.
While the catering and amenities receive positive feedback, some reviewers note issues with overcrowding and long wait times that could be improved.
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Accessibility and Accommodations
The Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible.
Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The cruise isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, especially those over 4 months.
The maximum capacity is 40 travelers, so it’s essential to book early. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Potential Areas for Improvement
Based on the customer reviews and feedback, several areas for potential improvement emerge for the Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise.
The tour could consider offering shorter boat rides from closer locations like Sayulita or Punta de Mita to increase time allocated for snorkeling and beach visits.
Plus, enhancing the seating comfort and cleanliness on the catamaran, as well as providing clearer information on additional costs and inclusions, could lead to a more positive guest experience.
Lastly, addressing issues with staff responsiveness to guest concerns and improving entertainment during the boat rides may further enhance the overall tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
Yes, guests can bring their own snorkeling gear. However, the tour also provides snorkeling equipment as part of the included amenities, so bringing your own gear is optional.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
From the information provided, there doesn’t seem to be an explicit option to extend the tour duration. The tour is described as having a set schedule of approximately 12 hours, with no mention of the ability to add extra time.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?
There are no age restrictions for the cruise. Infants must sit on laps, but the tour is open to travelers of all ages. Children and seniors are welcome to participate in the snorkeling and other activities.
Can I Store Personal Belongings Securely on the Boat?
The tour operator provides storage space on the boat for personal belongings, though it’s recommended to keep valuable items secure. Passengers can store their items in the designated areas during the cruise.
How Often Do the Boats Depart for the Marietas Islands?
The boats depart for the Marietas Islands several times daily. The exact departure schedule may vary depending on demand and weather conditions, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date information.
The Sum Up
The Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise from Puerto Vallarta offers an immersive adventure with round-trip transportation, meals, and an open bar. Guests can explore the marine life through snorkeling and kayaking. However, some travelers have reported issues with overcrowding and additional fees, suggesting room for improvement to enhance the overall experience.
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