Puerto Vallarta: Private Yelapa Beach & Snorkel Tour on a Yacht

If you’re dreaming of a day where adventure meets comfort on the water, this Private Yelapa Beach & Snorkel Tour on a yacht in Puerto Vallarta might catch your eye. It promises a mix of snorkeling, scenic cruising, and exploring a quiet beach village—all served with personalized touches and a laid-back vibe. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but after digging into reviews and details, it’s clear this experience hits on quite a few marks for travelers craving a premium day out on the Bay of Banderas.

One of the biggest draws is the luxury yacht experience, complete with an open bar, snacks, and a crew that seems genuinely attentive. Plus, the chance to snorkel in protected waters teeming with tropical fish and then relax at Yelapa’s peaceful beaches makes this a compelling option. On the flip side, the price tag — over $1,100 per person — is on the steep side, so it’s worth considering whether the all-inclusiveness and exclusivity justify the cost.

This tour is best suited for those who want a personalized, stress-free day on the water—whether you’re celebrating, traveling with friends or family, or just looking for a memorable splurge. If you’re after a more independent, budget-friendly outing, you might find other options but for a private, all-inclusive experience, this tour delivers plenty of value.

Key Points

• Luxury and comfort: Private yacht with an attentive crew, air-conditioned amenities, WiFi, and an open bar.
• Snorkeling in prime spots: First at Los Arcos Marine Park, then possibly at Majahuitas Beach if weather requires.
• Secluded Yelapa village: Explore, hike to waterfalls, or relax on the beach with plenty of dining options.
• Flexible schedule: Customizable timing, with around 7 hours to enjoy at your own pace.
• All-inclusive perks: Snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and onboard amenities make for an easy, relaxing day.
• High customer ratings: All reviews give this tour a perfect 5-star rating, citing excellent service and unforgettable sights.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on This Yacht Tour

Starting out from Marina Vallarta, you’ll be greeted by a bilingual captain and crew ready to make your day seamless. The cruise kicks off with a relaxed sail down the coast, giving you your first taste of the views and perfect photo ops—think the Puerto Vallarta skyline and the iconic church of the Malecon. It’s a gentle way to transition into vacation mode and take in the sights.

First Stop: Los Arcos de Mismaloya

The first highlight is Los Arcos National Reserve, famous for its towering rock formations and caves. Here, you’ll get a chance to snorkel in clear waters filled with tropical fish, thanks to the use of snorkeling equipment provided on board. This spot is often praised for its beauty and the chance to see underwater life right in the calm, protected waters. Several reviews mention how fantastic the snorkeling was, with one reviewer noting, “We did some snorkeling… and were served excellent drinks and delicious snacks by the crew”—a sign that comfort and fun are top priorities here.

Weather-Dependent Snorkeling

If weather or water conditions aren’t ideal at Los Arcos, the crew might suggest heading to Majahuitas Beach instead. While this isn’t explicitly a snorkeling spot, the cruise offers flexibility, ensuring you still get a scenic and enjoyable experience even if the original plan has to shift.

Cruising to Yelapa

After snorkeling, it’s approximately a half-hour boat ride to Yelapa. This small, quiet beach village is a real gem—completely removed from the busy tourist scenes. As you arrive, you’ll get free time to explore, relax, or grab a casual lunch on the beach at one of the local restaurants (lunch is not included, but options abound). Many guests mention how Yelapa’s charm is in its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, perfect for unwinding.

Activities in Yelapa

For those feeling adventurous, you can hike or ride horses or ATVs to a jungle waterfall—a favorite among reviews for its scenic beauty. The tour doesn’t include these activities, but they’re easy to arrange locally for around $20-$30 USD. If you prefer just to relax, the beaches are idyllic, with sunbathing and exploring the small, colorful shops.

The All-Inclusive Experience

The onboard amenities are a big selling point. The open bar features water, soda, juices, beer, and cocktails, making it easy to toast your day or just keep refreshed. The snacks—chips and guacamole—are simple but tasty, and the WiFi and restroom onboard add a layer of comfort that’s often appreciated during a full-day trip.

Service and Atmosphere

From reviews, it’s clear the crew is attentive without being overbearing. Guests often mention how “the crew made sure we had plenty of food and drinks” and that the captain “slowed down and let us watch the whales,” highlighting the personalized service. The yacht’s air-conditioned interior is a welcome reprieve from the sun, and the music and sea breezes help create relaxed, picturesque moments.

Is It Worth the Price?

At over $1,100 per person, this tour is definitely on the luxury end. However, the reviews suggest that the experience largely lives up to the expectations of a high-end, all-inclusive day. The boat is private, so you won’t be stuck with strangers, and the flexibility in timing means you can tailor the day to your pace.

This is not a casual, budget outing—it’s a curated, premium experience designed for those who want to indulge and enjoy a stress-free day with family, friends, or a special someone. Many reviewers have raved about how “splendid” and “outstanding” their day was, with multiple mentioning the “friendly and accommodating crew.”

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended—most trips are booked about 3 weeks ahead.
• The tour runs from 11/1/2024 to 10/5/2026, with departures at 10:00 AM.
• The meeting point is Mástil 267, Marina Vallarta.
• Children over 4 years old are welcome, making it suitable for families with older kids.
• The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to relax, snorkel, and explore.
• Cancellation policy is flexible—full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a private, all-inclusive yacht experience, this trip offers a lovely blend of relaxation and adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized service and are willing to pay a premium for comfort, flexibility, and quality snorkeling. The clear ocean waters, scenic stops, and the vibe of Yelapa make it a memorable day, perfect for celebrating special occasions or just treating yourself.

That said, be ready for the cost—this isn’t the tour for budget travelers. It’s best for those who want a luxurious, stress-free day on the water with thoughtful touches, stunning views, and good company.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting with a cruise from Marina Vallarta and including snorkeling, exploring Yelapa, and relaxing onboard.

Is food included?
No, lunch in Yelapa is not included, but there are many beachside restaurants. Snacks like chips and guacamole are provided on the yacht.

What amenities are onboard?
You’ll find an open bar with water, soda, juices, beer, and cocktails, plus snorkeling equipment, WiFi, and restroom facilities.

Can I snorkel at Los Arcos?
Yes, snorkeling at Los Arcos is the first stop, given acceptable conditions. If weather prevents snorkeling there, the crew might suggest an alternative spot like Majahuitas Beach.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 4 years old can participate, making it family-friendly. Keep in mind, the experience involves boat time and snorkeling, so it’s best for older kids comfortable with water activities.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, and the tour is weather-dependent with options for rescheduling or full refund if canceled.

How do I book?
Book early—most trips are booked about 3 weeks in advance. Contact details and the meeting point are provided, and it’s best to confirm your reservation well ahead of your trip.

Whether you’re craving a day of snorkeling, exploring a peaceful village, or simply relaxing with a cocktail on deck, this private yacht tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a lavish way to enjoy the bay. It’s a good pick if you’re after a personalized, all-inclusive escape with stunning scenery and attentive service. Just be sure it fits your budget and travel style—this is an experience to savor, not rush.