Catamaran Yelapa Beach Tour with Snorkeling, Food and Open Bar

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and considering a day trip to Yelapa, this all-inclusive catamaran tour might be on your radar. We haven’t done it ourselves, but after reviewing the details and multiple traveler reviews, we can give you a clear picture of what to expect. Whether you’re craving scenic water activities, a taste of local culture, or just a relaxing day on the beach, this tour offers a little bit of everything.

One thing we like about this trip is the variety of activities included — from snorkeling and kayaking to enjoying the beautiful Yelapa Waterfall and beach time. Plus, with delicious food and an open bar, it’s easy to see why many consider it good value for the price. On the flip side, some reviews highlight issues with organization and certain expectations not being fully met, which is worth keeping in mind.

This tour could be a great fit if you’re after a full-day adventure with multiple water activities, tasty meals, and scenic stops. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or private experience without the crowds or potential logistical hiccups, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it ideal for water activity lovers.
• Good value for the price, with meals, drinks, and equipment included.
• Yelapa Waterfall is a highlight, but water flow may vary depending on season and rainfall.
• Group size up to 99 travelers, so it’s more of a social, organized experience.
• Some reviews mention organizational issues and delays, so patience may be needed.
• Food is generally well-liked, with options for breakfast and lunch, and the open bar is a nice perk.

The Basic Format: What the Tour Offers

This 7 to 8-hour tour kicks off at Puerto Magico, where you’ll check in and board your catamaran around 9:30 am. The day unfolds with a series of stops designed to give you a taste of both the natural beauty and local charm of the area. It’s a fairly comprehensive package, combining water activities, delicious meals, and scenic exploration.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Puerto Magico

The journey begins at the Maritime Terminal, giving you a chance to get familiar with the process of boarding and security checks. The check-in is straightforward, but travelers have noted that arriving earlier than 9:30 am helps avoid feeling rushed or missing parts of the experience.

Water and Snorkeling at Majahuitas

Your first stop is Majahuitas, approximately two hours in. Here, you’ll enjoy a breakfast with options like yogurt and fruit, or chilaquiles, along with juice. This is a nice way to fuel up before hitting the water.

Once you’ve finished breakfast, you get to explore the clear waters with your included snorkeling gear. The reviews often mention that the water here is beautiful, and the calm, transparent conditions make it a nice spot to relax and see some marine life. However, be aware that water activities are subject to sea conditions — if waves are rough or the water is not ideal, some activities might be limited.

Yelapa and Its Charm

After the boat ride from Majahuitas, you’ll arrive at the fishing village of Yelapa, a car-free spot surrounded by lush green mountains. You’ll have about three and a half hours to enjoy this authentic slice of Mexico.

In Yelapa, you’ll find a local restaurant serving five meal options, including shrimp cocktail, fajitas, fish fillet, or a burger. Guests generally appreciate the quality and portion sizes of the food, with some reviews calling it “amazing” and “good value.” The beach here is a peaceful place to relax, take photos, or stroll.

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Yelapa Waterfall. While some reviews mention a hike or ATV ride to get there, others note that water levels can vary depending on the season. A reviewer pointed out that the waterfall might not be a full-flowing waterfall during dry spells, which could impact your experience if this was a primary goal.

Water Activities and Beach Time

Back on the boat, you’ll have two more hours of fun on the high seas, with a chance to kayak, paddleboard, or just enjoy the open bar. The boat ride itself offers spectacular views, according to travelers, with some mentioning that the crew was friendly and accommodating.

What the Experience Really Feels Like

Many reviews highlight the friendly guides and staff, who are often praised for their helpfulness. One traveler mentioned that their tour guide, Alberto, was “great,” making the day more enjoyable despite some organizational hiccups.

Water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking are a highlight, especially given their included gear and equipment. But a few reviews mention issues like foggy goggles or life jackets with missing clips, so if you’re planning to spend significant time in the water, you might want to bring your own gear for a more comfortable experience.

The meals and drinks are generally well-received. The breakfast options are simple but tasty, and the lunch menu offers enough variety to satisfy most appetites. The open bar is a definite plus, with beers, margaritas, and spirits readily available, adding to the festive, relaxed vibe.

The Pros and Cons: What to Keep in Mind

Pros

• Variety of activities keeps the day interesting — water sports, sightseeing, hiking, and relaxing.
• Good value, with meals, drinks, and equipment included.
• Beautiful scenery and water clarity make for great photos and memorable moments.
• Friendly crew and guides can enhance the overall experience.
• Flexible options for water activities depending on sea conditions.

Cons

• Some organization issues: delays, long check-in lines, and timing inconsistencies have been noted by travelers.
• Waterfalls may not always flow as expected, especially during dry periods.
• Crowded atmosphere: with up to 99 travelers, it’s a more organized, group experience rather than private.
• Beach landing can be rough, especially for those with mobility issues.
• Sea sickness might be a concern on the smaller boat, so bring medication if you’re prone.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re after a full day of fun with a mix of water activities and cultural sights. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate good value — the meals, drinks, and equipment are included, making it less stressful than booking everything separately.

It’s also great for groups or families who don’t mind sharing the experience with other travelers, and for those wanting to explore Yelapa’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple activities on their own.

However, if you’re looking for a more secluded or private experience, or if you have mobility issues, you might find this tour a bit hectic or limited in certain aspects. Also, those seeking a waterfall experience during peak flow season should confirm the water levels beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for check-in?
Arriving before 9:30 am is recommended to avoid feeling rushed, especially since some reviews mention long lines and late departures.

Are the water activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are included and usually suitable for beginners. Just be aware that sea conditions can vary, and some reviews mention foggy goggles or missing gear.

What is the food like on this tour?
You’ll enjoy breakfast options like yogurt and fruit or chilaquiles, and a variety of lunch choices, including shrimp cocktail, fajitas, or fish. The food has generally been rated good, and portions are satisfying.

Is there an open bar?
Yes, the tour offers beer, margaritas, rum, vodka, tequila, and whiskey as part of the open bar, which many guests find a nice perk.

How much free time do we get at Yelapa?
About three and a half hours, giving you time to explore, relax, swim, or hike to the waterfall if water conditions permit.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
Beach landings can be tricky, especially with waves, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues. The hike to the waterfall involves stones, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
It’s approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel, stops, meals, and water activities.

What are the main complaints from travelers?
Some travelers felt the organization could improve with timing and delays, and a few were disappointed with the waterfall experience or the beach landing process.

Final Thoughts

This Catamaran Yelapa Beach Tour offers a well-rounded day out that combines scenic sailing, water sports, and culture in the charming fishing village of Yelapa. It’s a solid choice for those who want to enjoy multiple activities without the hassle of organizing each one and who appreciate good food and drinks as part of the fun.

While it’s not perfect — with some logistical hiccups and variable waterfall flows — many guests walk away pleased, especially those who enjoy lively group outings and scenic views. Just remember to arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and go with the flow if delays happen.

If you’re after an adventurous, social day with plenty of water-based fun and a taste of authentic Yelapa, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. For those seeking a more exclusive or private experience, it might be worth exploring other options or small-group tours.

Happy travels, and enjoy your Puerto Vallarta adventure!