Puerto Vallarta Private snorkeling trip at Los Arcos & Majahuitas

Thinking about a day out on the water in Puerto Vallarta? If snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and scenic views sound appealing, then this private tour might just be the right choice. It’s tailored for small groups—up to four people—offering a more personalized experience than many public excursions. From what we’ve seen, travelers love the knowledgeable guides and the chance to explore stunning underwater spots, but it’s worth noting the price is on the higher side for a half-day trip.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the expert guidance from bilingual guides and the beautiful, less crowded snorkeling sites like Los Arcos. Both features mean you’ll get more out of your time in the water and avoid the hustle of larger tour groups. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s a bit of an investment, at $450 for up to four people, but considering the private nature and inclusions, many find it worthwhile. If you prefer a more intimate, customizable day with a focus on wildlife and scenery, this could be a great fit.

One possible consideration is that the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness—snorkeling and boat rides are involved, and the tour isn’t suited for pregnant women or those under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It’s also a daytime activity starting at 9:00am, so those who prefer flexible or later schedules might want to plan accordingly. Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, guided adventure on Puerto Vallarta’s waters with excellent scenery and knowledgeable staff, this tour hits many marks.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a semi-private, well-guided trip that combines snorkeling with sightseeing. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or friends who want a personalized day out, and it can be especially appealing if you’re eager to avoid crowded tours while still exploring top spots like Los Arcos.

Key Points

• Private experience tailored for up to 4 people offers a more personalized adventure
• Expert guides provide invaluable local knowledge and safety assistance
• Snorkeling at Los Arcos is a highlight, with abundant tropical fish and coral
• Opportunity to see wildlife like dolphins, whales (seasonally), turtles, and manta rays
• Tour includes snacks, bottled water, and conservation donations, adding value
• Timing and fitness considerations matter; moderate physical activity involved

In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Early Tour Experience

Your day begins in Puerto Vallarta at the designated check-in point, located at Marina Vallarta, roughly 30 minutes before departure. This early start means you’ll be on the water as the city wakes up, setting a peaceful, anticipatory tone. The boat ride is not just transportation; it’s part of the experience. The boats are described as fast, comfortable, and safe, giving you confidence as you head into the bay.

Within about 10 minutes, you’ll pass the Ameca River, which offers pretty views and the opportunity to spot dolphins—a lovely way to start your day. The crew is known for their attentiveness, and their commentary during this part adds a layer of local insight that makes the journey more engaging.

Sightseeing and Wildlife on the Way Out

As your boat cruises past downtown Puerto Vallarta, the scenery shifts from urban skyline to open ocean. The guides are well-versed in local spots, providing a quick but informative sightseeing tour that sets the context for your day. It’s a good chance to get a sense of the area’s geography and see the city from a different perspective.

One of the standout features here is the chance to see dolphins, whales (during winter), turtles, and manta rays. Travelers have commented on how the wildlife sightings are a true highlight, with one reviewer noting, “you’ll love the views and the wildlife on the way out.” Seeing these creatures in their natural environment adds a special touch to your experience.

The Main Event: Snorkeling at Los Arcos

Reaching Los Arcos National Park is a highlight. This protected marine area is famed for its striking rock formations and vibrant underwater life. The tour provides snorkel gear and life vests, with guides demonstrating how to use them safely and effectively. They are also available to answer questions and offer tips, which is especially helpful if you’re new to snorkeling or want to brush up on your skills.

Snorkeling here is like swimming through an aquarium. The coral formations are impressive, and the tropical fish are abundant. As one guest shared, “The snorkeling was fun and we saw many fish,” which sums up the general sentiment. The calm waters and visibility make it an accessible spot for most skill levels, but the guides will ensure safety and help enhance your experience.

Private Option and Beach Visits

For those opting for the private tour, the boat becomes your personal space for the duration. This means you can customize the itinerary a bit—perhaps spending more time at a favorite spot or visiting a secluded beach if the guide recommends one. The flexibility is a big plus if you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried pace or want to combine snorkeling with some beach time.

While the tour primarily focuses on snorkeling and wildlife, the private option offers the chance to visit a hidden beach and enjoy some downtime. This could be particularly appealing if you’re traveling with a partner or small group who want privacy and a tailored experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $450 per group covers a lot of bases. You get use of snorkeling equipment, life vests, bottled water, snacks (granola bars, fruit, sandwiches), and a donation to conservation efforts—something nice for eco-conscious travelers. Permits for the national park are included, ensuring legal access and protection of the area.

There’s a small government fee of $6 per person, which is standard in many tours. The inclusions mean you won’t have to worry about bringing your own gear or snacks, making it more convenient. Plus, the guides’ knowledge and attentiveness appear to be a recurring theme in reviews, adding to the perceived value.

Duration and Booking Considerations

The tour lasts about three and a half hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure. It starts at 9:00am, giving you most of the day afterward for other activities or relaxation. Booking is typically done about three weeks in advance, which suggests good planning is advised if you want to secure your spot.

Since the tour is private, it’s perfect for those who value exclusivity and personalized service. The small group size allows for flexible, attentive guiding that larger group tours often lack.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This private snorkeling trip is especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized experience in Puerto Vallarta. If you’re comfortable in the water and looking for a combination of wildlife spotting, scenic boat rides, and quality snorkeling, you’ll likely get a lot of enjoyment here.

It’s a good choice for couples, small groups of friends, or families with older children who can handle moderate activity. The private aspect means you won’t be in a crowd, and the guides can adapt to your interests and pace.

However, if your priority is a flexible schedule or you’re on a tight budget, you might want to compare this with other options. The price reflects exclusivity and personalized service, so if that appeals, it’s worth considering.

The Sum Up

This Puerto Vallarta private snorkeling tour at Los Arcos and Majahuitas offers a well-rounded, intimate way to explore the region’s marine beauty. The knowledgeable guides, stunning underwater scenery, and wildlife sightings make it a memorable experience. The private setup enhances the feeling of exclusivity and comfort, especially for small groups or couples.

While the cost isn’t insignificant, the inclusions—snorkel gear, snacks, water, and conservation donations—add to the overall value. It’s clear that the tour focuses on safety, education, and respect for the environment, which many eco-conscious travelers will appreciate.

For anyone wanting to spend a few hours in the water with expert guidance, away from the crowds and with the flexibility to customize, this trip checks a lot of boxes. Just remember to be prepared for some physical activity and to book ahead if you want to secure your preferred date.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this tour is exclusively for your group, up to four people, providing a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers boat ride, snorkeling gear, life vests, bottled water, snacks, a conservation donation, and permits for the national park.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00am.

Can I visit other beaches or just snorkel at Los Arcos?
The private option allows for visiting a beach and spending some time there, in addition to snorkeling at Los Arcos and other scenic spots.

What wildlife might I see?
Dolphins, turtles, manta rays, whales (seasonally), and a variety of tropical fish are all possible sightings.

Is there any government fee?
Yes, a $6 per person fee applies, which is included in the overall pricing.

Is this suitable for children or pregnant women?
Not recommended for pregnant women or travelers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Moderate physical fitness is required.

What should I bring?
Snorkeling gear, if preferred, though the tour provides it; also water, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture underwater moments.

If you’re after a guided, small-group adventure that combines wildlife, snorkeling, and scenic views, this Puerto Vallarta private trip could be just what you need for a memorable day on the water.