Puerto Vallarta: Catamaran to Arcos, Colomitos and Animas

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Puerto Vallarta’s scenic coastlines, this catamaran tour promises a lively and varied experience. Designed for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, beach relaxation, and fun entertainment, it’s an excellent way to spend a full day under the sun. We’re here to help you decide if this adventure matches your travel style, based on what’s included, what to expect, and real traveler feedback.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its combination of active and relaxing elements—from birdwatching at the Arches and snorkeling at Colomitos, to chilling at Las Animas Beach. Plus, the all-inclusive setup — with open bar, lunch, and equipment like kayaks and paddleboards — adds a lot of value. The only potential issue is the timing: at 7.5 hours, it’s a long day, and some might find the schedule a bit packed, especially if you prefer a quieter, less hurried pace.

This tour will suit adventurous travelers, families, or groups who want a full, lively day on the water with plenty of options for activity and relaxation. If you enjoy a good mix of sightseeing, socializing, and water play, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of activities including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach lounging.
• All-in-one experience with lunch, open bar, and equipment included for great value.
• Beautiful scenic stops at iconic Arches, Colomitos, and Las Animas Beach.
• Long duration suits those ready for a full day but might be tiring for some.
• Convenient transportation with gear provided, plus a small entrance fee for the marina.
• Lively atmosphere with music, contests, and social vibe aboard the catamaran.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Tour

Setting Out: From Puerto Vallarta’s Coastline to the Bay’s South Side

The tour departs in the afternoon, typically lasting about 7.5 hours, giving you ample daylight — crucial for making the most of each stop. Starting from the marina, you’ll board a well-equipped catamaran that’s reputed to be comfortable and fun. The provider, Puerto Vallarta Net, holds a solid 4.4-star rating, indicating most travelers have a positive experience.

What’s immediately noticeable is the convenience of the included equipment: helmets, gasoline, kayaks, snorkel gear, and paddleboards. This means you can switch from relaxing on deck to active water sports without hunting for rental shops or extra costs.

First Stop: The Mismaloya Arches

The journey’s first highlight is the famous Arches of Mismaloya, a striking natural rock formation where seabirds often perch. The reviews highlight how this spot is perfect for photos and birdwatching, with many travelers appreciating the opportunity to snap memorable shots amid this scenic backdrop. We loved the way the guide pointed out local bird species and shared some fun facts, adding an educational touch to the sightseeing.

Second Stop: Colomitos Beach and Snorkeling

Next, the boat drops anchor at Colomitos, a tiny, unspoiled cove with clear waters teeming with marine life. Here, water activities are included — snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. According to reviews, snorkelers often encounter colorful fish, and the calm waters make it accessible even for less experienced swimmers.

While you’re busy exploring underwater, the chef is busy preparing a delicious grilled lunch on the boat, featuring chicken, roast beef, chorizo, and green salad. This setup earns high praise for offering a well-prepared meal in a stunning setting, turning the water-based adventure into a full culinary experience.

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Final Stop: Las Animas Beach

The last major stop is Las Animas Beach, a lively spot with a beach club where you can swim again, relax on the sand, or join parties and contests. Many reviews mention how this part of the tour feels less hurried, offering time to soak up the sun, chat with fellow travelers, or just unwind with a cold drink. The beach’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect place for casual fun, and the open bar keeps the mood lively.

The Whole Experience: Atmosphere and Entertainment

Throughout the trip, the crew keeps the energy upbeat with music, contests, and friendly interaction. The included open bar is a hit, with most travelers appreciating the unlimited drinks — a real value considering the length of the trip.

The tour’s social vibe makes it especially appealing for groups or couples who enjoy a shared adventure. Some travelers have mentioned that the lively entertainment adds a fun, party-like feel, though if you prefer quieter excursions, this might not be your ideal choice.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $93 per person is quite reasonable when you consider all that’s included: transport, water gear, lunch, and drinks. On top of that, the flexibility to reserve now and pay later is helpful for planning. Keep in mind the marina entrance fee of about 32 pesos (~$1.50 USD), which is separate from the tour price but important to note.

The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of activity without the hassle of organizing individual rentals or meals.

What Real Travelers Say

Feedback from previous participants confirms the overall positive impression. Many appreciate the diverse stops and engaging water activities, with some quoting, “The snorkeling was great, with plenty of colorful fish.” Others mention the delicious barbecue lunch as a highlight, calling it “surprisingly good for a boat meal.”

A few reviewers note that the day can feel “a little rushed,” especially when trying to fit in snorkeling, beach time, and social activities. If your goal is a leisurely, quiet day, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after a lively, multi-activity experience with plenty of scenic photo ops, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This catamaran trip offers a great balance of adventure, relaxation, and social fun. It’s best suited for active travelers, groups, or families looking for a full day of water-based activities with good food and drinks included. It’s ideal if you want to see iconic spots like the Arches and Colomitos while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the boat and beach.

However, if you prefer a slow, quiet day or are not interested in water sports or group entertainment, you might find this tour a bit too energetic or crowded. Also, keep in mind the longer duration—it’s a substantial part of the day, so consider your comfort with long outings.

To sum it up, if you want an authentic, engaging experience of Puerto Vallarta’s coast with lots of options, this tour provides excellent value and plenty of memorable moments. Just come prepared for a fun, active day on the water, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of photos and stories.

Is snorkeling included in the tour?
Yes, snorkeling is included at Colomitos, and you can enjoy watching for colorful fish and marine life in calm waters.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, and some extra cash for tips or photos.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, there’s a grilled lunch served on the boat, along with an open bar offering unlimited drinks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, usually happening in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time for each activity.

Is there a fee for entering the marina?
Yes, there’s a small marina entrance fee of 32 pesos (around $1.50 USD) per person.

What languages are offered?
The tour is available in both English and Spanish.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, water activities and a lively atmosphere suggest it could be fun for families, but check if your children are comfortable with long boat rides and active water sports.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this Puerto Vallarta catamaran tour fits your travel style. Whether you’re after adventure, scenic beauty, or a lively social outing, it offers a memorable way to enjoy Mexico’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: