Puerto Vallarta: Snorkel y tour de 2 hrs en bote a Los Arcos

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and looking for an experience that combines breathtaking scenery, marine life, and a relaxed boat ride? This 2.5-hour boat tour to Los Arcos offers just that. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see the coast from a different perspective while enjoying some snorkeling in a protected marine sanctuary. With a high 4.9 rating, the tour promises great value, especially for those who want a taste of authentic marine biodiversity without overdoing it.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the balanced mix of scenic cruising and underwater adventure. The boat ride itself provides stunning views of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, and the snorkeling gives you a chance to see colorful fish and corals in their natural home. However, it’s worth noting that the snorkeling conditions can depend on the weather, so it might not always be ideal. This tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a small, intimate group—limited to just 8 participants—making it easier to get personalized attention from the guide.

One potential drawback? If you’re not comfortable in the water or have mobility issues, you might find the snorkeling component less suitable. The tour does not require swimming if you prefer not to, but the main highlight—snorkeling in the marine sanctuary—is what makes this experience stand out. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle boat rides, wildlife spotting, and exploring the outdoors at a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The boat ride offers beautiful vistas of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.
• Marine Biodiversity: Snorkel in a protected sanctuary home to many fish, corals, and possibly turtles or rays.
• Expert Guidance: Learn about local fauna and flora from a knowledgeable guide.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, providing a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for Non-swimmers: Those who prefer not to get in the water can still enjoy the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at the Muelle de los Muertos, in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone. This bustling area is easy to find, with a recognizable landmark being a nearby OXXO convenience store and the colorful buses parked nearby. The coordinates (20.60237, -105.23452) point you directly to the meeting spot, where you’ll meet your guide and captain.

The group is small, capped at 8, which means you’ll likely get more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. After a quick safety briefing and introductions, the boat departs for the approximately 30-minute ride to Los Arcos. As we set out, the views are captivating; you’ll see Puerto Vallarta’s skyline against the Pacific, with the distant mountains adding a dramatic backdrop.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The first part of the tour, a relaxing cruise, lets you get a sense of the coastline and the ecological importance of the area. Many reviews praise the beautiful vistas and the opportunity to capture memorable photos. The boat’s size and stability are suitable for most travelers, and the crew is attentive, providing a comfortable ride.

During the journey, the guide shares insights into the history and significance of Los Arcos, which are considered a marine sanctuary due to their thriving biodiversity. This educational element adds value, especially for nature lovers. Some reviewers mention that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories about the local environment.

Exploring Los Arcos Marine Sanctuary

Upon arrival, the boat anchors in a protected zone famous for fish, corals, and scenic caves. This is the highlight—snorkeling in a natural habitat teeming with life. You’ll be equipped with snorkel gear, and if you’re not comfortable getting in the water, you can still enjoy the scenery from the boat.

The snorkel session lasts about 30 minutes, during which you can expect to see colorful fish, corals, and maybe even a ray or a sea turtle—though sightings depend on the weather and time of year. Several reviews mention the vivid marine life and the opportunity to observe a diverse array of species.

One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide explained the different fish species and pointed out turtle sightings,” which highlights how the guide enhances the experience with informative commentary. For many, being in the water surrounded by such vibrant life makes the trip memorable.

Additional Highlights: Wildlife and Nature

Beyond the snorkeling, travelers can observe birds soaring above the cliffs and caves, which adds another layer of interest. The guide explains the flora and fauna, giving you a richer understanding of the local ecosystem.

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Returning to Puerto Vallarta

After the snorkeling, the boat heads back to the marina, offering more chances to enjoy the coastline and take photos. The return trip is typically smooth, and many travelers comment on how beautiful the sunset views are—though this depends on the timing of your tour. The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that doesn’t overcommit.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes snorkel gear and a guided experience in Spanish and English. It’s recommended to bring a hat, swimsuit, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen—important for protecting marine life. Note that babies under 1 year and individuals with certain health issues are not recommended, and the tour isn’t suitable for those over 70 or over 270 lbs.

Pricing and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, considering the small group size, the expert guidance, and the snorkel activity, the tour offers good value for those interested in marine nature and scenic cruising. It’s a relatively short commitment for a substantial experience—perfect for travelers who want a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s underwater world without dedicating a full day.

Overall Impression

This tour offers a balanced combination of scenic boat ride, wildlife observation, and snorkeling adventure. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a small-group setting and authentic marine encounters. The stunning vistas of Puerto Vallarta’s coast and the vibrant underwater life are the main draws.

Who’s it best for?

Those who want a relaxed, educational experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife viewing will find this tour ideal. It’s also great for travelers who prefer a small group environment and value knowledgeable guides. If you’re looking for an active snorkeling trip in a protected marine area with beautiful scenery, this experience hits the mark.

If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and seeking an activity that combines easy adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insight, this boat tour to Los Arcos is tough to beat. It offers a chance to see the coast from the water, explore a vibrant marine ecosystem, and enjoy some well-earned relaxation on the ocean. The fact that it’s suitable for non-swimmers makes it accessible for many, and the small group size ensures a personal touch.

While weather can influence snorkeling visibility, the overall experience remains impressive thanks to the stunning coastal views and the chance to learn about local wildlife. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving a short, memorable outdoor adventure that highlights the natural allure of Puerto Vallarta.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 2.5 hours, including boat ride and snorkeling time.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at the Muelle de los Muertos near OXXO and the colorful buses, using the coordinates 20.60237, -105.23452.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, if you prefer not to snorkel, you can still enjoy the scenery from the boat, and snorkel is not mandatory.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s designed for most adults, but very young children under 1 year or those with certain health conditions might not be advised to participate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides operate in both Spanish and English.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, biodegradable sunscreen is recommended to minimize environmental impact.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This tour provides a wonderful snapshot of Puerto Vallarta’s marine beauty, perfect for travelers eager to see the underwater world without heavy logistics. With its combination of scenic views, small-group intimacy, and marine wildlife, it promises a memorable half-day outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby