Puerto Vallarta: Scuba Diving Expedition at El Malinal

Introduction

If you’re looking to add some real depth to your Puerto Vallarta visit, a scuba diving trip to El Malinal might just be the adventure you’re after. While Puerto Vallarta itself offers plenty of land-based sights, it’s the underwater landscapes that truly steal the show. This expedition promises a chance to see large schools of fish, explore intriguing tunnels, and enjoy a personalized experience with expert guides.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on both beginner-friendly options and more advanced dives, ensuring everyone from first-timers to seasoned divers can enjoy it. The small group size enhances safety and intimacy, making it easier for guides to give each diver attention. On the downside, the roughly 90-minute boat ride may be a consideration for those prone to seasickness or looking for a quicker trip.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic marine encounters and are comfortable with snorkeling or scuba diving. It’s perfect for those eager to explore beyond Puerto Vallarta’s crowded beaches and venture into quieter, less-visited underwater spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized attention with a maximum ratio of 5 divers per Dive Master.
• Two tank dives, giving ample opportunity to explore marine life, tunnels, and landmarks.
• All equipment and entrance fees included, simplifying the planning.
• Small group size (up to 8 participants), ensuring a more relaxed experience.
• Suitable for certified divers; non-divers can try the Discover Scuba Program.
• Convenient departure from Marina Vallarta at 9 am with gear fitting at 8:45 am.

The Underwater Landscape of El Malinal

El Malinal is a lesser-known but fascinating site outside the main bay, on the Nayarit side. Its location away from the bustling tourist zones means you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds and a more authentic marine environment. The site’s defining feature is a notable tunnel, which adds an element of adventure and curiosity that divers talk about with enthusiasm.

The water clarity is typically described as crystal-clear, offering excellent visibility, and making it easier to appreciate the vibrant marine life. Large schools of fish are common, creating a lively and colorful spectacle. As one review mentions, “We loved the way the schools of fish moved around us, almost like a living dance.” Such sightings help justify the $189 price tag, especially compared to more expensive resorts, given the quality and intimacy of the experience.

Getting There and the Trip Duration

The tour kicks off with a 90-minute boat ride from Marina Vallarta, which is a comfortable and scenic start to the day. The boat holds up to 10 passengers, emphasizing a small, intimate group rather than a crowded vessel. You’ll be on deck, enjoying the sea breeze and perhaps catching sight of the coastline and marine birds.

Once at El Malinal, each diver gets two dives, typically separated by a surface interval where you can relax, snack, or chat with your fellow explorers. Post-dive, a delicious box lunch and soft drinks await on the boat, providing a satisfying end to your underwater journey. The entire trip lasts about 5 hours, a good balance between adventure and relaxation, especially for those who prefer morning outings.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip is ideal for certified divers of all levels because of its personalized guidance and small-group setting. Even if you’re a beginner with a certification, you’ll appreciate the safety and attention from guides who keep the group at a maximum of five per Dive Master. Non-divers or snorkelers can join in on the fun too, thanks to the availability of snorkel gear and the opportunity to explore the surface world.

It’s particularly suited to travelers who value authentic marine encounters over crowded, touristy spots. If you’re eager to see large schools of fish and explore underwater tunnels, this tour delivers on those fronts. However, those uncomfortable with boat rides or with limited diving experience should note that the trip involves two tank dives, so some physical readiness is advisable.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What to Expect

All necessary scuba gear—including mask, fins, wetsuit, regulator, BCD, etc.—are provided, streamlining your packing list. The entrance fees for protected areas are included, which might be a surprise bonus for some travelers. Your box lunch and soft drinks are also on the house, making the day more convenient and enjoyable.

Guides are fluent in both English and Spanish, and the trip operates daily at 9 am, with gear fitting and paperwork at 8:45 am. The small group size, limited to 8 participants, enhances safety and ensures guides can give personalized attention. The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, catering to travelers’ changing plans.

The Experience Itself: What You’ll See and Feel

Once aboard, the boat ride sets the tone—highlighting the scenic coast, the open sea, and a sense of adventure. When you arrive at El Malinal, the water’s transparency allows you to see marine life from the surface, heightening anticipation.

The first dive usually takes you along a route where large schools of fish swirl in unison, creating a stunning visual. The landmark tunnel offers an exciting passageway, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of exploration and novelty. Guides will ensure everyone stays safe, especially when navigating the tunnels or encountering the larger schools of fish.

Reviews highlight the crystal-clear waters and the feeling of floating weightlessly among the marine creatures. Many mention the personalized guidance, which makes even nervous divers feel comfortable and confident. After the second tank, the provided lunch offers a chance to reflect on what you saw and share stories with others.

Safety and Comfort

Vallarta Undersea emphasizes safety through small group sizes and experienced Dive Masters. They maintain a 5:1 diver-to-guide ratio, ensuring individual attention. All gear is included, so you won’t need to worry about packing or renting equipment elsewhere.

The boat ride is relatively short but smooth, and the water conditions are generally calm, making it suitable for a wide range of divers. Those prone to seasickness might consider taking precautions, as the boat ride is a significant part of the adventure.

Price and Value Analysis

At $189 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusive nature—gear, entrance fees, lunch, and soft drinks. Compared to other marine excursions that might charge more for similar experiences, this trip’s focus on small groups and personalized guides adds more value to your day.

If you’re a certified diver who appreciates a quiet, less crowded site with stunning underwater features, this trip is worth the investment. The small group size and attentive guides ensure you get a more tailored experience than larger, more commercial tours.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for certified divers who want to explore less-visited marine environments with the comfort of a small-group setting. If you’re new to scuba, you might consider the PADI Discover Scuba Program offered by Vallarta Undersea, which includes pool training and introductory dives.

It’s also suitable for snorkelers, thanks to the provided gear and the chance to observe the underwater scenery from above. Travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures will appreciate the quieter, more natural setting of El Malinal.

The Sum Up

This Puerto Vallarta scuba expedition to El Malinal offers an accessible, well-organized way to explore the region’s underwater treasures. Its focus on personalized attention, small groups, and stunning marine views makes it stand out for those wanting an authentic experience away from the crowds. The inclusion of all gear, protected area fees, and a tasty lunch adds to its appeal, offering a hassle-free day.

Perfect for certified divers seeking a quieter, more intimate marine adventure, this trip balances safety, comfort, and adventure beautifully. It’s a chance to encounter large schools of fish and navigate fascinating tunnels in a pristine setting—memories that will stay with you long after you leave.

If you value authenticity, small-group intimacy, and striking underwater scenery, this is an experience worth considering for your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for non-divers?
Yes, non-divers can join the tour as snorkelers using provided gear and exploring the surface, though the main focus is on the two tank dives for certified divers.

How many dives are included?
You will enjoy two tank dives during the trip, giving plenty of time to explore the marine environment.

What equipment is provided?
All essential scuba gear—mask, fins, wetsuit, regulator, BCD—is included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.

When does the tour depart?
It departs daily at 9 am from the Marina Vallarta dive shop, with gear fitting and paperwork at 8:45 am.

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

What if I don’t have certification?
You might find the PADI Discover Scuba Program suitable, which includes pool training and introductory dives, leading to a certification card.

You can check availability for your dates here: