Puerto Vallarta: All-inclusive cruise-ship passenger snorkeling beach and waterfall

If you’re considering a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta, this all-inclusive cruise adventure might just be worth your attention. It offers a mix of snorkeling, beach time, and a guided visit to the stunning Quimixto Waterfall—all packaged into a 7-hour trip for around $79 per person. Our review is based on detailed descriptions, traveler feedback, and what you can expect to get out of this experience.

Two things we really like about this tour are the well-rounded itinerary—covering multiple highlights in one day—and the inclusive nature, especially the free drinks while on the boat, which can make the day feel more relaxed and enjoyable. One potential consideration is the long day; with a 7-hour schedule, it’s a pretty full-on experience, which might be tiring for some.

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, mixing water activities, scenic stops, and a bit of adventure. If you’re someone who appreciates guided tours, enjoys meeting other travelers, or is looking for a good value with most expenses covered, this could be a fit. It’s less suited if you prefer a very laid-back, flexible day, or if you have mobility issues that make some stops difficult.

Key Points

• Affordable and inclusive: For $79, you get breakfast, lunch, drinks, water gear, and guided excursions.
• Diverse activities: Snorkeling, boat tour, water tour, and waterfall visit all in one trip.
• Scenic stops: The arches of Mismaloya, Las Animas Beach, and Quimixto Waterfall are highlights.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides help you navigate the stops and safety measures.
• Family-friendly: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those with back problems.
• Flexible cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, adding peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at what you can expect

Starting your day at the Puerto Vallarta maritime terminal, you board the boat after a brief safety briefing—don’t worry, it’s straightforward, and the crew is friendly. You’re provided with a vest and will be welcomed aboard with breakfast. This is a nice touch, giving you a relaxed start to your day while the boat begins its journey.

The first stop is the famous Arches of Mismaloya. These are three small islands tucked in the bay, offering a great spot for water activities. We loved the way this stop combines striking scenery with the opportunity for snorkeling. The waters here are calm enough for most skill levels, and the provided water gear makes it easy for everyone to jump in. In reviews, travelers mention that guides were super helpful and attentive, making sure everyone was comfortable.

Next, the tour heads to Las Animas Beach, a lively stretch of sand lined with beachside restaurants and bars. Here, you’ll enjoy a free lunch at a beach restaurant, which is a major plus for those who want to avoid carrying their own food or dealing with extra costs. The food is typical Mexican fare—fresh, simple, and satisfying. Since all drinks are free only on board, this is a good point to hydrate and refresh after some water activities.

After lunch, the journey continues to Quimixto, a small town near Las Animas that’s perfect for a quick break from the beach scene. The real highlight here is the guided tour to Quimixto Waterfall. Travelers love this part, as it combines a scenic walk through lush surroundings with the reward of swimming in the waterfall pool and snapping some photos. The guided aspect ensures safety and enriches the experience with insights about the area.

Once the waterfall visit concludes, you’ll hop back on the boat for the return trip. On the way back to Puerto Vallarta, there’s a live show that adds entertainment to your day—an unexpected but welcome bonus.

What’s included and what to bring

The tour generally provides everything you need for a smooth experience: breakfast on board, lunch at the beach restaurant, water activity equipment, and a guided tour to the waterfall. The only essentials are cash (for souvenirs or extra drinks), a towel, and a bathing suit—especially since swimming and water activities are central to this trip.

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s worth noting that the water activities and waterfall hike might be challenging for those with back problems or mobility issues. The boat itself is designed for comfort and accessibility, but some stops involve walking or water entry.

The value of this experience

At $79 per person, this tour offers a pretty good bang for your buck. The price covers most essentials—meals, drinks, gear, and guided stops—which saves you the hassle and extra costs of organizing these separately. Travelers frequently comment on the good value for money and the knowledgeable guides, which enhance the overall experience.

One reviewer mentioned, “The guides made the difference—they were super friendly and helpful, making us feel safe and relaxed.” This kind of feedback suggests that the quality of guiding is a highlight, especially for those new to snorkeling or water excursions.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a full, engaging day without the hassle of planning each activity. It’s perfect if you enjoy meeting other travelers, like guided tours, and want to maximize your time in the bay with multiple highlights. The inclusion of meals and drinks makes it especially attractive for those who prefer an all-in-one package that takes care of the logistics.

If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates water adventures, scenic views, and cultural stops all in one day, this could be a great fit. However, if your priority is a more relaxed or spontaneous day, or if you have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options.

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Final thoughts

This Puerto Vallarta all-inclusive cruise offers a well-rounded adventure with a focus on water fun and scenic beauty. The mix of snorkeling, beach time, and waterfall visits keeps the day varied and engaging. The knowledgeable guides and inclusive meals and drinks add significant value, making it a very appealing option for travelers looking for a convenient, fun-filled day.

It’s best suited for those comfortable with a structured day and eager to explore multiple aspects of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty. If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable trip that combines water activities and scenic stops without breaking the bank, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is accessible and family-friendly in general, the waterfall hike and water activities might be challenging for younger children or those with back problems.

Does the tour include transportation to the marina?
Pickup is included at Puerto Muelle los Muertos, with instructions to go to the left side of the Puerto Magico plaza and look for the stairs to the second floor of the Beach Boy company.

What should I bring for the trip?
You should bring cash, a towel, and a bathing suit. The tour provides water gear, but personal items like sunglasses and sunscreen are also recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with various stops along the way. Check specific start times based on availability.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though some stops may require walking or water entry.

Are drinks included?
All drinks are free only while you’re on the boat. Drinks at lunch or souvenirs are not included.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the tour accessible to most travelers.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, water activities equipment is included, making it easy to enjoy the snorkeling without bringing your own gear.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic stops, water adventures, guided waterfall visit, and inclusive meal/drink package makes this a comprehensive day out in Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re after a lively, varied day on the water with friendly guides and good value, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. Just consider your comfort with long days and water activities, and you’ll likely find it a memorable part of your Puerto Vallarta trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: