Luxury Yacht & Snorkel with All inclusive Open bar and lunch

If you’re considering a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta, the Luxury Yacht & Snorkel experience is one you’ll want to know about. It’s a popular choice, especially given its high rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 700 reviews, and it’s booked multiple times weekly. This tour promises a combination of scenic cruising, marine adventure, and all the good stuff—great food, unlimited drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.

What we really like about this experience is the small group size—capped at 40 travelers—which keeps it intimate and personal. Plus, the all-inclusive open bar and delicious Mexican lunch elevate it from a simple boat ride to a proper luxury outing. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the admission fee of $40 per person for the Bay of Banderas, which isn’t included in the ticket price but is a common extra for most tours.

This excursion suits travelers who want a comfort-focused, social experience with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, paddleboard, and relax in style. It’s especially good if you’re after a well-rounded day that balances adventure and leisure, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or on a romantic getaway. Families with older children (minimum age 10) will also find it suitable, but it’s not necessarily geared toward very young kids.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures a more personal experience onboard.
• All-inclusive food and drinks make it a stress-free day with no worries about extra costs.
• Snorkeling and paddleboarding gear are included, offering versatile water activities.
• The scenic cruise covers key sights like Los Arcos and the Malecon from the water.
• The secluded Majahuitas Beach offers a peaceful beach break away from the crowds.
• The well-rated crew and attentive service are often highlighted as a big plus.

The Itinerary Explained

Navigating the Bay of Banderas

The cruise begins with a scenic ride along Puerto Vallarta’s coast. We loved the way the boat glided smoothly, offering a chance to settle in and soak up the views. The route is flexible, depending on the sea conditions, which adds a bit of unpredictability but also ensures safety and comfort.

Passing by Los Arcos and the Malecon

While many of these iconic spots are best seen from land, being on the water provides a fresh perspective. Several reviews mention how beautiful and impressive the views are—Amanda_E even called it a “gorgeous boat ride,” and you’ll agree when you see the rocky formations and coastline from the deck.

Majahuitas Beach

The highlight for many is the stop at Majahuitas Cove. Surrounded by tropical rainforest, this spot is perfect for dipping into the water, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach. The tour allocates around 1 hour and 20 minutes here, giving plenty of time to relax, explore, or snap some photos. Reviewers such as Loretta_H rave about the snorkeling, seeing various fish, and having a terrific photographer on board to capture moments.

Water Activities

Snorkeling and paddleboarding are included, and you’ll be provided with gear. Multiple guests, like Christine_G, mention how attentive the crew was—catering to everyone and making sure they had fun in the water. Plus, some reviews highlight the energetic banana boat rides, which add an extra splash of fun.

Lunch & Drinks

The Mexican lunch features a deli-style spread with seafood, fruit, chips, and guacamole. Several guests, including Michelle_H, note the food was tasty and satisfying. The unlimited premium open bar is a standout feature, with reviews praising the quality of the drinks and the friendly service. Amanda_E and Annie_B especially appreciated the plentiful drinks and the lively atmosphere created by the crew and fellow travelers.

What to Expect from the Experience

Comfort and Group Size

With a cap at 40 travelers, you won’t find yourself in a crowded, chaotic scene. The boat itself is a deluxe Leopard catamaran, spacious enough to comfortably accommodate everyone, with plenty of shaded and open-air areas. The smaller group size helps foster a friendly, relaxed vibe.

Crew and Service

The crew gets glowing reviews for their friendliness and attentiveness. They’re helpful with water activities, serve drinks continuously, and even take photos to help remember the trip. Several reviews mention crew members by name, highlighting their positive attitude and good humor, which really enhances the experience.

Duration & Timing

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 8:00 am. The timing is ideal for avoiding the midday heat, and the day is well-paced, balancing cruising, water activities, and relaxation. Be aware, you’ll need to plan your transport to the meeting point, as hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included.

Cost & Value

The $129 per person price includes most of what you’d want—food, drinks, snorkel gear, paddleboards, and the scenic cruise. The additional $40 Bay of Banderas entrance fee is a bit of an extra, but considering all the inclusions, many reviews say it’s good value. Amanda_E notes, “highly recommend this one,” especially for the money spent.

Highlights Based on Guest Feedback

Many travelers praise the stunning views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline and the marine wildlife—dolphins, turtles, and even whales. The snorkeling comes in for high marks, with guests seeing colorful fish and enjoying the clear waters.

The food and drinks are another consistent highlight. Guests love the delicious, plentiful snacks and the unlimited premium bar, which keeps the atmosphere lively and social. The photography offered onboard is also appreciated, helping guests remember the trip with professional-quality shots.

Considerations and Downsides

A few reviews point out some minor frustrations, such as the discrepancy between promotional images and the actual experience—the boat is not a luxury yacht where you lounge all day, but rather a well-maintained vessel with plenty of space. Plus, some guests were disappointed that the island stop has limited activities outside of the banana boat ride and a basic beach setup.

Another point raised was the timing of the cruise—the boat travels for nearly an hour before any activity begins, which some might see as a bit slow if they’re eager to get straight to the water. Also, the $40 Bay of Banderas fee is an extra expense, so budget that into your plans.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who want a comfortable, social experience with lots of water fun and good food. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic views, snorkeling, and lively atmospheres, making it perfect for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking for a friendly vibe.

It may not be the best fit for travelers seeking a full-day adventure with more land-based activities or those who prefer a luxury yacht experience that’s more exclusive and private. If you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a very relaxed day (without paddleboarding or snorkeling), some guests might find it a bit packed.

Final Thoughts

The Luxury Yacht & Snorkel tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic cruising, water activities, and a lively social atmosphere. The small group size, quality food and drinks, and friendly crew make it a memorable outing, especially if you’re after a good mix of relaxation and adventure.

The value is generally seen as high, considering what’s included, and the positive reviews tend to emphasize the stunning views, excellent service, and fun activities. Just keep in mind the extra fee for the bay entrance and that the boat isn’t a luxury lounge—more of a comfortable, well-equipped vessel designed for fun.

If you enjoy being on the water, snorkeling, and lively social settings, this trip will probably hit the mark. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a fun, scenic, and well-catered half-day escape in Puerto Vallarta.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, the tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point at Vallarta Adventures in Puerto Mágico.

What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age for this tour is 10 years old, making it suitable for older kids and teenagers.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling and paddleboarding gear are provided, so you can enjoy both water experiences at your leisure.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience is approximately 5 hours, starting at 8:00 am, including cruising, beach stop, water activities, and lunch.

What is the extra fee for?
Guests need to pay a $40 per person fee for the Bay of Banderas entrance, which is not included in the ticket price.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While it’s family-friendly for kids 10 and older, it involves some water activities and a boat ride, so consider your children’s comfort with these elements.

This tour offers a nice balance of scenic beauty, fun water activities, and relaxed social vibe. It’s best suited for those looking to enjoy Puerto Vallarta from the water with good food, drinks, and a friendly crew, making it a memorable part of any trip to the area.