Jalisco: Scuba Diving at Los Arcos for Certified Divers

Thinking about diving in Jalisco? If you’re a certified diver eager to explore vibrant marine life, this tour could be a great fit. I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, but I’ve looked into what it offers, and it seems to promise a pretty memorable underwater outing. What I particularly like is that the tour keeps things intimate with a small group—up to 8 people—which usually means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. Plus, the boat ride to Los Arcos sounds like a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery before hitting the water.

On the flip side, the price of $196 for a three-hour experience might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, especially considering the additional costs for photos or snacks aren’t included. But for those who value quality, safety, and an expert guide, it’s likely worth it. This tour is best suited for certified divers comfortable with a boat trip and looking to see some of the best underwater sights in the area.

If you’re experienced and ready for a relatively short diving session that combines underwater beauty with coastal views, this could very well be the adventure you’re after. It’s particularly good for travelers who prioritize safety, personalized service, and a well-organized experience. So, let’s break down what makes this tour tick.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring more personalized attention.
• Vibrant Marine Life & Coral Reefs: Dive into a colorful underwater world at Los Arcos Mismaloya.
• Boat Ride Included: Enjoy the scenic coastal views en route to the dive site.
• Comprehensive Briefing & Equipment: All necessary gear and guidance are provided.
• Duration & Flexibility: About 3 hours, typically in the morning, with flexible booking options.
• Additional Costs: Photos, videos, and snacks are extra, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This scuba adventure kicks off at the meeting point in Puerto Vallarta, where the friendly staff from Mismaloya Adventures will greet you and introduce you to your dive master. They’ll handle the gear, go over your dive plan, and make sure everyone’s comfortable before heading out. It’s clear that safety and clarity are priorities here, which is essential for peace of mind underwater.

Once geared up, you’ll hop onto a boat that whisks you away to Los Arcos Mismaloya. The boat ride itself is a highlight; you’ll enjoy sweeping coastal views that set the scene for an underwater spectacle. The scenery along the coast is stunning, with rugged cliffs and lush surroundings framing your journey.

Underwater Highlights

Los Arcos is known for its dramatic rock formations and vibrant marine life. Once underwater, you’ll have the chance to see colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and possibly some larger creatures like rays or small reef sharks. The guided experience ensures you won’t miss the key sights, and your dive master will point out interesting features and marine species along the way.

From the reviews and descriptions, we know that the marine environment here is lively and visually captivating. Many divers appreciate the clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life, making every minute underwater worthwhile.

The Dive Experience

While the tour is aimed at certified divers, the focus is on quality rather than quantity. You’ll likely do one or two dives, each lasting a reasonable amount of time, giving you enough opportunity to explore without feeling rushed. The briefing beforehand is detailed, ensuring everyone knows what to expect and how to stay safe.

You should come prepared with your own gear, though the tour provides all necessary equipment. It’s a good idea to bring your own mask and snorkel if you prefer, but everything else like wetsuits, tanks, and weights are included. Bottled water is provided to keep you hydrated, and the bathrooms and showers at the meeting point add a layer of comfort.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The small group limit of 8 divers is a real plus. It tends to foster a more relaxed environment, where you can ask questions and get tailored attention. Many reviewers mention how the guides are friendly and professional, making the experience smooth and enjoyable—even for those who might be a little nervous.

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Pricing & Value

At $196 for the group, which can include up to 8 people, you’re paying roughly $24-25 per diver. Considering this includes boat transportation, equipment, guide, and some water, it feels reasonable—especially if you’re after a high-quality, guided experience. However, if you’re interested in photos or videos, those come at extra charges, which might bump up the overall expense.

Since the tour lasts about 3 hours, it’s a fairly compact experience. For divers who want a quick but impactful underwater adventure, this timing is perfect. Longer dives might be better suited to gear rentals or multi-day packages, but for a single outing, it hits the sweet spot.

Practical Tips for Divers

• Remember, you shouldn’t dive within 24 hours before flying, so plan accordingly if you’re coming from or going to an airport.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay comfortable on the boat and at the meeting point.
• Wear your swimwear under comfortable clothes for easy transition from beach to boat.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, it might be wise to take precautions beforehand.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness—so plan wisely.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits certified divers eager to explore Los Arcos in a safe, guided manner. It’s ideal if you prefer small groups and want to avoid the crowds that larger tours might attract. It’s also good for travelers who value scenic boat rides, underwater beauty, and professional guidance. Non-divers or beginners should look elsewhere, as this tour requires certification, but experienced divers will find it offers a solid snapshot of the area’s marine environment.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this scuba experience at Los Arcos offers a well-organized, intimate way to explore some of Jalisco’s most beautiful underwater scenery. From the friendly guides to the spectacular marine life, it seems like a reliable choice for certified divers who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. The scenery and marine biodiversity are definitely standout features, making it a worthwhile addition to your Puerto Vallarta itinerary.

If you’re after a straightforward, quality diving outing with little fuss, this tour ticks many boxes. Just keep in mind the extra costs for photos or snacks if those are on your wish list, and plan your schedule around the 24-hour no-dive rule before flights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
No, this tour is specifically for certified divers, as it involves actual diving with professional guidance.

What is included in the price?
The price includes all necessary diving equipment, a guide, boat ride, bottled water, and access to bathrooms and showers at the starting location.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 3 hours long, usually available in the morning.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes for the day.

Are photos or videos included?
No, those are extra and not included in the base price.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Paseo del Río 125, Playa de Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Not really—it’s designed for certified divers, so it’s best suited for those with diving experience.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.

If you’re a certified diver looking for a well-organized, scenic underwater adventure, this trip to Los Arcos might just become one of your favorite memories in Jalisco. It combines the thrill of diving with stunning coastal views, all in a friendly and manageable group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: