Puerto Vallarta: Catamaran Cruise With Snorkeling and Lunch

Travelers looking to combine scenic views, lively beach activities, and a taste of local flavor will find this Puerto Vallarta catamaran cruise ticks many boxes. This 7-hour adventure, operated by Puerto Vallarta Net, offers a balanced mix of relaxation, exploration, and entertainment, making it a solid choice for those wanting a well-rounded day on the water.

What we love about this tour are the crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and the delicious lunch at Predator Beach Club—both great ways to savor the region’s natural beauty and local hospitality. The onboard entertainment and variety of beach activities add a lively, fun vibe. However, a possible drawback is that the group size and timing might not suit travelers seeking a very private or flexible experience.

This cruise appeals best to visitors eager for a social, active, and scenic day that combines the best of Puerto Vallarta’s coastlines, with plenty of options for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying good food. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere with lots of options, but perhaps not the best fit for those with limited mobility or expecting a very quiet, intimate experience.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Puerto Vallarta and Cabo Corrientes Bay provide a picturesque backdrop throughout the day.
• The snorkeling stop at Colomitos Beach offers a chance to see vibrant marine life in clear waters.
• Lunch at Predator Beach Club features fresh, flavorful dishes like fish fillet, quesadillas, and grilled chicken.
• Plenty of beach activities such as volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding keep the energy high.
• The onboard entertainment with music and games adds a lively touch to the cruise.
• The all-inclusive drinks ensure you stay refreshed without worry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Puerto Vallarta

The adventure begins at the marina—though the exact meeting point can vary based on your booking. You’ll board a well-equipped catamaran, dubbed the ‘Predator of the Sea,’ which hints at the excitement ahead. The vessel offers ample space for relaxing or mingling, with a good capacity to keep the group lively but not crowded.

The scenic cruise gives you your first taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline—hills, beaches, and iconic landmarks flicker past as you set out into Cabo Corrientes Bay. A highlight is the stop at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a famous national marine park known for its stunning rock formations, birdwatching, and snorkeling opportunities. Expect a photo-worthy backdrop that’s equally beautiful from water level as it is from land.

Snorkeling at Colomitos Beach

After cruising, the boat halts at Colomitos Beach, a tiny, secluded cove renowned for its crystal-clear waters. It’s a real treat for snorkelers—many reviews praise the vibrant marine life just below the surface. You’re given about an hour to swim, relax, and explore.

One guest said, “We loved the way the water was so clear, and the fish were plentiful. It felt like being in a natural aquarium.” The beach is small but charming, with soft sand and lush surroundings, ideal for taking photos or simply soaking up the sun.

Visiting Quimixto Beach and Waterfall Hike

Next, the tour includes a visit to Quimixto Beach. Here, you can opt for a scenic hike to the Quimixto Waterfall—a nice touch for those wanting a little more activity. The hike is manageable and offers a different perspective of the jungle landscape, with the reward being a refreshing swim beneath the waterfall.

While some reviews note the hike’s accessibility, it’s worth considering if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility issues, as the terrain could be uneven.

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Lunch at Predator Beach Club

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared lunch at the beach club. The menu includes options like fish fillet (breaded or grilled), quesadillas with guacamole, and grilled chicken—all typical dishes that highlight regional flavors.

Guests consistently praise the quality and variety of the food, saying it’s well-cooked and satisfying—perfect for refueling after a morning of activities. The all-you-can-drink policy with unlimited drinks adds to the relaxed, party-like atmosphere onboard.

Beach Activities & Relaxation

Post-lunch, there’s ample time for beach volleyball, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Many travelers appreciate the choice and flexibility—if you prefer to lounge, you can do so under the sun with a cold drink. If you’re feeling energetic, the water sports are a fun way to get moving.

Entertainment and Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat transforms into a floating party, with music, games, and unlimited drinks. The lively atmosphere keeps spirits high as you cruise back to Puerto Vallarta, with the sun setting over the bay.

Practical Details and Insights

Price and Value

At $109 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—scenic cruising, snorkeling, beach time, a hearty lunch, and entertainment. When you consider the inclusions, especially the meals and unlimited drinks, it’s a reasonable cost for a full day of fun and exploration.

A few reviews mention the marina fee of 90 pesos, which is an additional expense to budget for, but an easy one to handle with cash. The duration of 7 hours allows for a relaxed pace, covering multiple highlights without feeling rushed.

Timing and Group Size

Tours are typically available in the morning or afternoon, giving flexibility for your schedule. Group sizes vary, but the experience generally feels lively without being overcrowded. This makes it a good choice if you want a social experience without feeling lost in a massive crowd.

What to Bring

To get the most out of the day, pack comfortable shoes for the hike, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and swimwear. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning views, especially at Los Arcos and the waterfall. Towels and extra cash for gratuities are also advisable.

Accessibility & Considerations

Pregnant women are advised against participating, likely due to the physical aspects of the trip. Also, think about your comfort with water activities—if you’re not comfortable swimming or snorkeling, you might want to skip those parts.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Feedback

Multiple reviewers mention the breathtaking scenery as a standout feature. “The views of the bay and the coast are truly spectacular,” one traveler noted, emphasizing how the natural surroundings elevate the entire experience. Others appreciated the informative guides and the fun onboard atmosphere, which makes the trip more memorable.

Some reviews highlight the quality of the food at the beach club, while others focus on the variety of activities available on board. The lively environment with music and games keeps energy high, making it a great option for groups or families wanting to share a fun day.

The Sum Up

This Puerto Vallarta catamaran cruise is a well-rounded, value-packed way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights while enjoying a day of swimming, beach games, and good food. Its scenic stops—from Los Arcos to Colomitos and Quimixto—offer plenty of photo opportunities and chances to connect with nature. The lively onboard atmosphere, with music and unlimited drinks, makes it a perfect choice for travelers who enjoy social, active outings.

While it might not suit those seeking a quiet or private experience, it’s ideal for those eager for a full day of fun, scenic beauty, and relaxation—all wrapped into one affordable package.

Whether you’re on a cruise stop or a longer stay, this tour provides a lively, authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, emphasizing natural beauty and good times.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour?

You get a scenic cruise, stop at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, an hour at Colomitos Beach for snorkeling, a visit to Quimixto Beach with a hike to the waterfall, a delicious lunch at Predator Beach Club, beach activities like volleyball and paddleboarding, onboard entertainment, and unlimited drinks.

• How long is the cruise?

The total duration is around 7 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy each stop and activity without feeling rushed.

• Is lunch included?

Yes, a full lunch is provided, with options like fish fillet, quesadillas with guacamole, or grilled chicken, with unlimited drinks.

• Are water activities suitable for everyone?

Most activities are suitable for those comfortable in water, but the hike to Quimixto Waterfall may be more challenging for some. Pregnant women should avoid physical exertion and water sports.

• What should I bring?

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes, a camera, and cash for gratuities and the marina fee.

• How much does the marina fee cost?

The fee is approximately 90 pesos per person and is paid at the marina.

• Can I book a different departure time?

Tours are typically available in both morning and afternoon slots, providing flexibility for your schedule.

• What is the group size like?

While size varies, the experience tends to be lively but not overcrowded, making it suitable for social travelers.

• Is this tour family-friendly?

Generally, yes, but consider the physicality of some activities like hiking or snorkeling, which might not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

• What is the main attraction of this tour?

The combination of stunning scenery, marine activities, and relaxed beach atmosphere offers a memorable day in Puerto Vallarta’s waters.

This cruise offers a great way to see the coast, enjoy good food, and have fun in the sun—all wrapped into a lively, scenic adventure that highlights the beauty and spirit of Puerto Vallarta.

You can check availability for your dates here: