Tour Yelapas and Mahahuitas in Catamaran with Lunch and Open Bar!

Discover the Charm of Yelapa and Mahahuitas with a Catamaran Tour

If you’re planning a day trip in Puerto Vallarta, a tour that takes you to Yelapa and Mahahuitas by catamaran might just be what you’re looking for. This experience offers a blend of scenic sailing, cultural exploration, and beach relaxation, all wrapped into one roughly 7-8 hour adventure. It’s especially appealing if you want to see some of the more secluded spots along the bay, soak up the local atmosphere, and indulge in good food and drinks.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances relaxation with activity. You’ll get to enjoy the beauty of the coast from the water and on land, with opportunities for snorkeling and exploring charming towns. Plus, the crew’s lively show and open bar add a fun, social vibe that makes the day memorable.

However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The tour is popular and bookable well in advance—about 25 days ahead on average—so planning ahead is essential if you want to secure your spot. Also, although it’s advertised as family-friendly, some of the activities like hiking or water sports might be more appealing to older children or adults.

All in all, if you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and relaxed fun, this tour is likely to suit travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and chill time. It’s particularly good for people looking to see the quieter side of Puerto Vallarta while enjoying some lively social atmosphere on the boat.

Key Points

• Scenic Catamaran Ride: Beautiful views of the bay from the water, with a lively crew and open bar.
• Two Distinct Stops: Yelapa offers cultural charm and hiking, while Mahahuitas is perfect for beach relaxation and water activities.
• Inclusion of Food and Drinks: Breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, and unlimited drinks create a full-day, hassle-free experience.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 35 travelers, so it feels more intimate than some larger tours.
• Cultural and Natural Exploration: Visit a fishing town, admire local art, and snorkel in marine-rich waters.
• Pre-Booking Necessary: Book about 25 days ahead on average to secure your spot.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour begins early at the Puerto Vallarta terminal, with a 9:00 am start that makes for a full day of adventure. The trip is designed to give you a taste of the coastal life, with an emphasis on both exploration and relaxation. A key highlight is the catamaran ride itself—soaring across the water with the wind in your hair and drinks in hand, all set against the backdrop of stunning coastline.

Stop 1: Yelapa and Mahahuitas Playa

Once you arrive in Yelapa, the options are plentiful. You can lounge on the beach or explore the town on foot. We loved the way the guide described Yelapa: a small town that feels like a hidden gem, where colorful artwork adorns the streets and the scenery offers a picturesque mix of beach, mountains, and river. The walkable pathways and staircases make the town charming but also mean comfortable footwear is a good idea.

The four-hour window here is enough to soak in the vibe, snap photos of the scenery, and maybe grab a quick snack from a local shop. One reviewer mentioned the town’s unique look, where “views that combine the beach, the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains, and the Yelapa river” make for great photo ops.

Stop 2: Majahuitas Beach Club

After exploring Yelapa, you’ll hop back on the boat and head to Majahuitas, a beach that feels almost private. Its laid-back, hippie-chic vibe makes it perfect for unwinding. The beach is equipped with simple furnishings, and the calm waters invite snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

The three-hour stay here is sufficient for a relaxed afternoon, whether you want to float in the sea, soak up the sun, or participate in water sports. You’ll also find that the natural beauty here is worth the trip—the water is clear, and the surroundings are peaceful.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

Throughout the day, you’re treated to breakfast and lunch, all included in the price. The open bar on the boat is a hit, adding a festive edge to the sailing experience. The crew’s lively show, as mentioned by some travelers, keeps the mood upbeat, making this more than just a scenic cruise.

One reviewer pointed out that the “lively atmosphere upon your return” makes it a fun social experience, especially if you enjoy good company and a relaxed party vibe. There are extra costs to keep in mind: tips, drinks at the restaurant, and a small port tax of MX$30 per person.

Considerations from Real Travelers

While many reviews praise the tour, some highlight limitations. For example, a reviewer noted frustration with kayak availability—only singles are provided, and if you’re hoping for a tandem kayak experience, you might need to plan ahead or look for alternatives. The review stated, “I only had 4 minutes as our time was up,” illustrating how water activities can sometimes be limited by equipment availability, especially during busy times.

What’s the Value?

At $120 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value. It includes transportation, guided exploration, meals, snorkeling gear, and unlimited drinks—all in one package. Compared to booking separate activities or transportation, it simplifies planning and ensures you won’t miss out on key sights.

The small group size (max 35) means you’ll generally get more personalized attention, and the scenic views combined with cultural stops make it a comprehensive experience. The price seems fair, considering the included amenities and the memories you’ll make.

Who Is This Tour Ideal For?

This trip is excellent for adventurers and those seeking a laid-back day immersed in local scenery. It caters well to travelers who enjoy a social, lively atmosphere but also want some quiet time on the beach. Families with older children and groups who appreciate a mix of activities and relaxation will find it appealing.

If you’re someone who loves boat trips, snorkeling, and exploring small towns, this might be your perfect day out. However, if you’re very particular about water sports equipment or seeking a more exclusive experience, you might find the kayak situation a bit limiting.

The Sum Up

This catamaran tour to Yelapa and Mahahuitas offers a well-rounded day of maritime adventure, culture, and beach relaxation. The combination of scenic sailing, exploring a genuine Mexican town, and unwinding at a secluded beach makes it suitable for those wanting to experience more than just the typical tourist spots.

The lively crew, included meals, and open bar amplify the fun, making it a memorable outing. Although some minor inconveniences like kayak availability have been noted, the overall experience delivers good value and a chance to see the coast from a different perspective.

If you’re ready for a day of sunshine, beautiful scenery, and relaxed fun, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly fitting if you’re after a balanced mix of exploration and chill time, and don’t mind a lively vibe during your trip.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
It’s recommended to book about 25 days in advance since it’s popular and tends to fill up quickly.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes a bilingual guide, travel insurance, snorkeling equipment, breakfast and lunch, the catamaran ride, and open bar on board.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, tips are not included, and drinks at the restaurant as well as a port tax of MX$30 per person are extra.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 to 8 hours, with about four hours in Yelapa and three hours at Majahuitas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate and it’s generally family-friendly, activities like hiking and water sports might be more suitable for older children or adults.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather—if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the water activities?
Water sports equipment like snorkeling gear is provided, but kayak availability may be limited during busy times, so planning accordingly is wise.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Terminal Maritima API, located at Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Las Glorias, Puerto Vallarta, with the tour starting at 9:00 am.

This experience offers a relaxed yet engaging way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s coast, especially if you’re looking to combine scenic sailing, cultural sights, and good old beach lounging. It’s not perfect, but it’s a solid choice for those who want a taste of local life with plenty of fun along the way.