Planning a day full of adventure, relaxation, and a splash of local flavor? This Puerto Vallarta boat tour offers an engaging way to see some of the region’s best spots in just one day. With a good mix of snorkeling, beach lounging, village exploring, and lively onboard entertainment, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking authentic experiences on the water.
What immediately strikes us about this tour is its balance of activities—you get to explore marine life at Los Arcos, enjoy some downtime on Las Animas Beach, and venture into Quimixto’s lush surroundings. Plus, the all-you-can-drink open bar and lively vibe make it feel more like a celebration than just a sightseeing trip. That said, it’s a fairly long day, so those who prefer a more relaxed pace might want to consider how much activity suits them.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is designed to be fun and social, so it’s best suited for those open to a lively atmosphere. If you’re looking for a quiet, contemplative day, this might be a bit too bustling. Overall, it’s a fantastic pick for travelers who want a taste of ocean, nature, and local hospitality—all wrapped into one memorable cruise.
Key Points
- Diverse activities from snorkeling and beach relaxation to village exploration
- All-inclusive drinks keep the energy lively and hassle-free
- Relatively long duration (8 hours) suitable for full-day adventurers
- Guided tours in bilingual format make navigation and understanding easy
- Value for money considering food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and entertainment included
- Potential for crowd due to popular nature of the trip but generally well-reviewed
The Breakdown: What You Can Expect
If you’re considering this tour, here’s a detailed look at what makes it appealing—and what to be aware of.
Starting the Day: A Smooth Morning Begin
Most departures are scheduled in the morning, giving you ample time to enjoy the full experience. The day kicks off with a continental breakfast onboard, which is a nice touch, especially if you’re arriving hungry after a morning of travel or sightseeing. Expect a relaxed start, with guides providing bilingual narration (English and Spanish). This helps everyone follow along, whether you’re a seasoned Spanish speaker or just brushing up.
Snorkeling at Los Arcos: Vibrant Marine Life
The first highlight is the snorkeling session at Los Arcos, a renowned marine preserve. We loved the way the boat anchors in calm waters, and the staff quickly fit everyone with mask and snorkel gear. The reviews mention how lively the marine life is, with tropical fish swimming close to the rocks—an underwater spectacle that makes the $87 price well worth it.
Be prepared to get your face wet—this is a true highlight for nature lovers. The life jackets are supplied, and the guide will likely share some info about the local ecology. If you’re a confident swimmer, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to explore at your own pace. For others, the shallow areas around the boat still offer plenty to see without diving deep.
Relaxing at Las Animas Beach
After snorkeling, the boat heads to Las Animas Beach, a favorite for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty. Here, you’re free to swim, sunbathe, or engage in optional beach activities—such as kayaking, which is included. The beach is lively but not overcrowded, making it a great spot to unwind.
From the reviews, many travelers appreciate how well the crew manages to strike a balance between fun and comfort. You can lounge on the sand, enjoy some drinks, or stroll along the shore. The lunch served on the beach is typically a hearty, freshly prepared meal, adding to the value.
More Great Tours NearbyInto the Village of Quimixto: Waterfalls and Local Charm
One of the tour’s standout features is a visit to Quimixto, a charming fishing village tucked along the coast. Here, adventurous travelers can opt to hike or take a horseback ride to a seasonal waterfall—a scenic spot perfect for photos and cooling off.
The waterfall is a delightful bonus, especially if you enjoy natural scenery away from the crowds. The guides often lead a short hike, providing insights into local flora and fauna. You might also enjoy a swim in the pool below the cascade, which many say offers a refreshing escape after the hike.
The Onboard Vibe: Food, Drinks, and Entertainment
Throughout the day, the boat hums with music, dancing, and games—all part of the lively atmosphere created by the crew. The all-you-can-drink open bar is a highlight for many, keeping spirits high and the energy lively. Expect unlimited beer, soft drinks, and perhaps some cocktails, all served with a smile.
The included lunch on the beach is typically a generous serving of local fare—think grilled options or seafood—adding real value for the price. The boat also provides kayaks on the beach, so if you’re feeling energetic, paddling around the bay is an excellent way to extend your water fun.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
To make the most of this tour, be sure to bring essentials like swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and camera. Extra cash is handy for tips or souvenirs. There’s a small marina entrance fee of 30 Pesos (~$1.50 USD), which is paid at check-in.
Children ages 3-5 are welcomed but pay a reduced rate of 100 Pesos, paid directly at check-in. The tour’s duration of 8 hours makes it a full day, so plan accordingly—this is ideal if you want to maximize your Puerto Vallarta experience but might be too long if you prefer short excursions.
The Authentic Experience and Overall Value
This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Puerto Vallarta’s waters and coastal villages. It’s not just a sightseeing trip; it’s a social, fun-filled day that combines natural beauty with lively entertainment. Several reviews mention how the crew helps create a positive atmosphere, with some saying, “We loved the way they kept everyone entertained,” and “The open bar made it feel like a party.”
The price of $87 includes snorkel gear, a guided experience, food, drinks, and activities—offering solid value considering the full-day itinerary. For travelers eager to explore the marine environment, relax on a beautiful beach, and visit a charming village—all with a good dose of fun—this tour ticks many boxes.
Who Will Love This Tour?
It’s perfect for active travelers, groups of friends, or families with children who enjoy a mix of water-based activities and social fun. If you’re after a lively, engaging day with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re seeking quiet solitude or a slow-paced day, this might feel a bit hectic.
Final Thoughts
This tour is all about delivering a memorable, lively experience that combines the best of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal charms. You’ll love the variety—snorkeling in vibrant waters, relaxing on a sandy beach, hiking to waterfalls, and enjoying unlimited drinks onboard. It’s a good value for the price and leaves you with plenty of photos and stories.
Just remember—it’s a full day, so bring your energy and your camera, and prepare for a boatload of fun. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this trip offers a spirited taste of Mexico’s Pacific coast that’s hard to match.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children ages 3-5 are welcome but pay a reduced fee of 100 Pesos. The tour is generally lively, so consider your child’s comfort with boat trips and group activities.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, and extra cash for tips or souvenirs. A camera is especially good for capturing the waterfall and underwater scenes.
Is the open bar included?
Yes, there’s an all-you-can-drink open bar onboard, offering unlimited soft drinks, beer, and cocktails, which helps keep the atmosphere fun and festive.
How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, usually starting in the morning. It’s a full-day outing, ideal if you want to make the most of your time in Puerto Vallarta.
Are meals included?
Yes, a continental breakfast is served onboard, and a hearty lunch is provided on the beach, often featuring local specialties.
Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a small marina entrance fee of 30 Pesos (~$1.50 USD) paid at check-in. It’s a minor cost but good to keep in mind.
This tour offers a lively, engaging way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s best coastal spots. Perfect for those wanting fun, food, and adventure—all rolled into one full day on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here: