Private Marietas Islands Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Puerto Vallarta’s famous Marietas Islands, a private boat tour might just be the highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the details paint a picture of a flexible, fun, and well-equipped adventure that promises plenty of memorable moments. Whether you’re into snorkeling, fishing, or just soaking up the scenery, this tour offers a chance to see the bay in a way that’s both intimate and personalized.

What truly stands out are the fully equipped 34-foot Neptune Boat, designed to comfortably accommodate small groups of up to four people for a private experience, and the flexibility of trip lengths—from 4 to 8 hours, with options to visit the Marietas Islands or simply cruise the coastline. Another plus is the inclusion of snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks, which makes the outing feel all-inclusive and laid-back.

One thing to keep in mind: there are additional fees for the Cave of Love entrance and island bracelets, and not all attractions, like the cave, are included in the base price. This could be a consideration if you’re eager to explore specific sites inside the islands.

This tour seems perfectly suited for small groups or families looking for a private, flexible, and engaging day on the water—ideal for travelers who value a personalized experience in a stunning setting.

• Private experience tailored for small groups (up to 4 people), ensuring personalized service.
• Flexible durations (4, 6, or 8 hours), letting you choose how much time you want to spend exploring.
• All-inclusive amenities like snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and a bathroom onboard.
• Additional fees apply for specific attractions like the Cave of Love and island bracelets.
• Recreational options include snorkeling, fishing, and scenic shoreline cruising.
• Professional guides fluent in both Spanish and English enhance the experience.

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at TB ToursQuilla, in Marina Vallarta—a convenient location near public transportation, making it easy to find your way there. From this spot, a fully equipped 34-foot Neptune Boat awaits, ready to take you on an intimate journey around Puerto Vallarta’s waters. The boat’s size and design are perfect for up to 14 passengers for the broader bay tour, but this private experience is limited to your group of up to four people, ensuring a relaxed, uncrowded environment.

The Boat and Its Amenities

You’ll love the modern, well-equipped vessel that features shaded and sun areas, a stereo system for your favorite music, a bathroom for comfort, and an ice chest to keep drinks cool. The onboard amenities make it clear that comfort and entertainment were considered. The boat’s size—34 feet—is just right: large enough for a group to spread out but small enough to navigate narrow waterways and access hidden shoreline spots.

Itinerary and Highlights

Choose the 6 or 8-hour option if you’re eager to explore the Marietas Islands themselves. These islands are famous for their hidden beaches, birdlife, and natural beauty. The tour can include visits to the Cave of Love, a popular cave with a heart-shaped opening—though note that entrance tickets, costing around $900 pesos per person, are extra and subject to availability.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience or have limited time, the 4-hour trip offers a scenic cruise and perhaps some snorkeling along the coastline or near the islands.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

A key feature is the use of snorkeling equipment, allowing you to dip below the surface and see the vibrant marine life. The inclusion of snacks like ceviche and soda adds a flavorful touch after your water activities. The tour guides, fluent in Spanish and English, are knowledgeable and helpful—making sure you get the most out of your time in the water and onshore.

Fishing and Recreational Options

If fishing is your thing, this boat is configured for recreational fishing, whether you’re interested in casting a line just for fun or targeting specific fish species. The flexibility of the tour means you can tailor the day to include fishing along the way, or focus solely on sightseeing and snorkeling.

The Cost and Value

At $850 for a group of up to four people, this private tour offers a good value for those wanting exclusivity and flexibility. When you factor in the all-inclusive amenities—snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and the boat’s comfort—the price becomes more reasonable, especially compared to larger group tours that might lack the same level of personalization.

Additional fees for the Cave of Love entrance ($900 pesos per person) and the island bracelet ($120 pesos per person) are worth considering if you’re eager to explore those attractions. These are not included in the base price, but they offer access to some of the most iconic sights.

From the single available review, one traveler highlighted the exceptional service and the private nature of the trip: “We had a 40 cabin cruiser all to ourselves. The captain, Pacco, and first mate, BamBam, were exceptional. They showed all around the shoreline of Jalisco and Baja.” This suggests that, when operated well, the experience can be very personalized and enjoyable.

While some attractions like the Cave of Love require extra fees, travelers seem to appreciate the flexibility of the tour. The review also indicates a well-maintained vessel and attentive crew, which are crucial for a comfortable day on the water.

Timing is flexible, with the tour lasting approximately 5 hours, but longer options are available. Since the tour is private, you can coordinate with the guides to customize your experience—whether that means spending more time snorkeling, fishing, or just relaxing on deck.

The meeting point at Marina Vallarta is accessible, and since the tour offers pickup, it simplifies logistics. Just remember that port fees ($5 USD per person) are extra, along with fees for specific attractions.

This private Marietas Islands tour is ideal for small groups or families who want a personalized, relaxed day on the water. If you value a flexible schedule, comfortable amenities, and the ability to include activities like snorkeling or fishing, this could be a perfect fit. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a guided group experience or those who are budget-conscious, given the higher price point. However, for those who want privacy and the ability to tailor their day, it’s a compelling choice.

This private boat tour offers a luxurious yet practical way to see the Marietas Islands and the surrounding coastline. Its small-group exclusivity ensures you won’t be crowded, and the flexibility of trip lengths allows you to customize your day. The boat’s amenities—shaded areas, snorkeling gear, bathroom, stereo—are all designed to keep your comfort in mind, making it suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free adventure.

If your goal is to enjoy scenic views, underwater exploration, and possibly fishing in a private setting, this tour delivers on those promises. The extra fees for specific attractions are worth noting, but they do not detract from the overall value. It’s particularly suited for active, outdoorsy groups or families who appreciate personalized service and a flexible itinerary.

For travelers who prioritize privacy, comfort, and customization over large-group tours, this experience offers a memorable and authentic way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s stunning waters and islands.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since it’s a private tour with small groups, it can be suitable for children, especially if they enjoy water activities. Just check with the provider about age restrictions or recommendations.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear and drinks, but you might want to bring your own snacks or additional water if desired.

Are the snorkeling equipment and fishing gear included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included. The boat is also equipped for recreational fishing, so you can enjoy fishing if you wish.

How long is the typical trip?
You can choose from approximately 4, 6, or 8 hours, depending on your interest and schedule.

What additional costs should I expect?
Entrance to the Cave of Love is extra ($900 pesos per person), as is the island access bracelet ($120 pesos per person). Port fees are also payable ($5 USD per person).

Is the tour guided in both Spanish and English?
Yes, guides are fluent in both languages, ensuring clear communication regardless of your preferred language.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since the tour is private, you can coordinate with your guides to focus on snorkeling, fishing, or specific sites like the Cave of Love (noting that additional fees apply).

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

This private Marietas Islands tour from Puerto Vallarta combines comfort, flexibility, and authenticity—perfect for small groups seeking a tailored day on the water in one of Mexico’s most beautiful coastal settings.