Puerto Vallarta: Yelapa Mega Yacht Cruise

Anyone looking to mix adventure, relaxation, and a splash of luxury in Puerto Vallarta should consider the Yelapa Mega Yacht Cruise. This full-day trip offers a well-balanced blend of water activities, scenic sightseeing, and local culture—all aboard a modern, stable yacht that promises comfort for everyone. From the moment you step on board, you’ll notice that this isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience designed for travelers who want more than just a standard tour.

Two things stand out immediately: the professional guides who know the waters and waterfalls intimately, and the luxury amenities like the premium open bar and onboard massage. But, as with all tours, there are a few things to keep in mind—namely, that the trip can get crowded and involves some early mornings depending on your pickup location. Still, if you’re eager for a day filled with water, wildlife, and lively camaraderie, this tour fits the bill perfectly, especially for those who enjoy a good party with their adventure.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of adventure and relaxation: snorkel, hike, swim, and unwind on beautiful beaches.
• Family-friendly with options for all ages: includes a guided waterfall walk and water activities.
• Great value for the price: all food, drinks, water toys, and guided excursions included.
• Excellent reviews for staff and food: consistently high praise for crew attentiveness and local cuisine.
• Premium amenities: open bar, onboard massage, and comfortable yacht facilities.
• Potential for crowds: some guests note the boat can feel busy, but never cramped.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Well-Organized Day on the Water

This tour is designed for travelers who want a full day of fun without feeling rushed. The experience starts with pickup at two convenient locations: Puerto Mágico or Paradise Village. The comfortable, modern yacht—impressively stable and well-equipped—sets the tone for a relaxed yet lively day. Onboard, you’ll find plenty of seating options, modern bathrooms, a sound system pumping out lively tunes, and a lay of the land (or sea) that invites lounging, socializing, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Expect to spend part of your morning cruising through the picturesque Bay of Banderas, with chances to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life. The crew is eager to point out wildlife along the way, and many reviews highlight how impressive the views are, especially when the boat gets close to the coast. The cruise itself is a chance to unwind with a premium open bar offering water, coffee, sodas, margaritas, piña coladas, beer, and wine. Many guests note the drinks flow freely and the service is attentive—”never an empty hand,” as one reviewer put it.

Snorkeling, Water Toys, and Beach Time

Once in Yelapa, you’ll love the variety of activities available. The snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and floating mattresses are all included, giving you options to explore the vibrant marine life or lounge in the ocean’s gentle waves. Several reviews mention how much fun they had bobbing around with the water toys—a highlight for families and adventure lovers alike.

Yelapa’s beaches are described as white sands with inviting, warm waters, perfect for a swim or just soaking up the sun. Many travelers appreciate the well-organized water activities, noting that the crew is eager to assist and make sure everyone gets to use the gear. The water is clear and lively, with some reviewers sharing that they saw a good amount of marine life during their snorkeling sessions.

Guided Hike to Yelapa Falls

A key feature of this tour is the guided walk to Yelapa Falls, a relatively short trek that offers stunning views and a refreshing splash of water at the end. The water always flows, providing a cool escape after the walk. Guests who have tried the hike praise their guides for making it accessible and informative, and many mention how the fall’s setting is picture-perfect—an ideal spot for photos and cooling off. The waterfall area also has a nearby bar, adding an extra touch of refreshment.

One reviewer called the waterfall visit “worth the trek,” and another loved how it broke up the day with a scenic, active component. After the hike, many guests choose to relax back on the boat or on the beach, enjoying the delicious local cuisine and drinks.

Authentic Yelapa Experience

Yelapa itself is a car-free village that offers a glimpse into traditional Mexican life. The guided tour allows you a short sightseeing stop, giving some insight into the local community and its vibrant culture. Many guests enjoy wandering the town, shopping for handmade souvenirs, or simply soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

The reviews consistently praise the friendly locals and the authenticity of the village. Several mention how nice it is to visit a destination that isn’t overrun with travelers, and how the laid-back vibe makes it a perfect escape from the busy city life.

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Lunch and Onboard Comfort

Back on the yacht, lunch is served with authentic Mexican fajitas, rice, beans, and fresh tortillas. Many say the food is surprisingly good and plentiful, especially considering the all-inclusive price. The all-day premium bar complements the meal, and many reviews highlight the high quality of the drinks and the attentive service.

The yacht’s amenities aim for comfort, with shaded and sunny lounging areas, modern bathrooms, and space to socialize. Some guests mention the onboard massage as a relaxing surprise, adding a luxurious touch to the day.

The Return Journey and Overall Experience

As the day winds down, the boat cruises back along scenic coastlines, with opportunities to spot more wildlife and enjoy the sunset. The lively, party-like atmosphere on board continues, with good music and plenty of laughs. The reviews repeatedly emphasize how well the crew manages to keep everyone happy, ensuring drinks, food, and entertainment are flowing.

Guests’ feedback consistently highlights the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and excellent service. The tour’s price, around $165 per person, is seen as fair value considering the inclusions—food, drinks, activities, and guided excursions.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates a blend of adventure and comfort, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, good food, and lively water activities. Families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a fun-filled day with a touch of luxury will find plenty to love.

However, if you prefer quiet, less crowded experiences or a more relaxed pace, the high-energy vibe and the larger boat size could feel overwhelming. Also, the early check-in times are worth noting—arriving early might mean waiting in the heat until departure.

This tour is ideal for those eager to see Yelapa’s natural beauty, enjoy water sports, and indulge in a full day of good food and drinks—all with excellent guides ensuring safety and fun.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Vallarta Yelapa Mega Yacht Cruise offers a well-rounded experience for those who want a memorable day on the water, combining sightseeing, water activities, local culture, and luxurious amenities. We loved the professional guides and the high-quality food and drinks, which elevate this from just another boat trip into a genuine adventure with a party atmosphere.

This tour delivers value for money, especially considering the all-inclusive nature—food, drinks, water toys, and guided hikes are all included. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy a lively, social experience in a beautiful setting. If your idea of a perfect day involves sun, water, good company, and authentic scenery, you’ll find yourself happily booked for this tour.

The only caveat is the crowds, but many guests find that the energetic vibe and excellent service more than compensate. For anyone seeking a full-day escape with a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural glimpses, the Yelapa Mega Yacht Cruise is a smart choice that will leave you with plenty of stories—and maybe some new friends.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 6 hours, including check-in, travel time, activities, and return.

What are the pickup locations?
You can choose between Chica Locca Tours Puerto Mágico and Paradise Village Nuevo Vallarta.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes all food—fajitas, rice, beans, tortillas—and snacks like guacamole and blue corn chips.

Are drinks included?
Absolutely. The premium open bar offers water, coffee, sodas, margaritas, piña coladas, beer, and wine all day.

Can I do water activities?
Yes. Snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and floating mattresses are all provided free of charge.

Is there a guide for the waterfall hike?
Yes, a guide accompanies the group to Yelapa Falls, making the trek accessible for most fitness levels.

What is the boat like?
The yacht is large, stable, modern, with comfortable seating, shade, sound system, and clean bathrooms.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

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

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, many families enjoy the activities, but keep in mind the day does involve some walking and water time, so consider children’s ages and comfort levels.

This Yelapa Mega Yacht Cruise balances adventure and indulgence beautifully, making it a standout option for those looking to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty with a lively and luxurious twist.

You can check availability for your dates here: