Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Eco-Discovery

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and a good dose of relaxation, the Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Eco-Discovery tour might be just the ticket. We’ve checked out the details, reviews, and what you can expect, so you can decide if this experience suits your travel style. It’s ideal for those who love being on the water, spotting marine life, and appreciating unspoiled nature – all in a manageable 5-hour window.

Two things we really like about this trip are the opportunity to snorkel amidst vibrant marine ecosystems and the chance to enjoy a delicious lunch and open bar while soaking in the views. One possible drawback? The tour lasts only half a day, so if you’re hoping for a full-on, all-day adventure, this might feel a bit brief.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a taste of the ocean’s treasures without a heavy commitment. It’s also great for those who appreciate good guides, clean equipment, and a well-organized schedule. Keep in mind, children under 6 are not suited for this activity, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery & wildlife: Expect breathtaking views and chances to see whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and more.
• Snorkeling in protected waters: Vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters makes this a memorable aquatic experience.
• Relaxed pace with good amenities: Enjoy a continental breakfast, tasty lunch, and open bar onboard.
• Guided experience: Bilingual guides provide interesting insights while maintaining a friendly vibe.
• Additional costs: Remember the marina fee and marine park conservation fee are not included.
• Duration & timing: Usually available in the morning, perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Eco-Discovery tour kicks off with a light, continental breakfast on the boat as you cruise across Banderas Bay. This is a good chance to get oriented, chat with your guide, and keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins or humpback whales (season permitting). The boat is typically a comfortable, well-maintained vessel, making the journey smooth and scenic.

Once you arrive at the famous Marieta Islands, the real fun begins. These islands are known for their extraordinary beauty, including secluded beaches, hidden caves, and lush landscapes. You’ll anchor in a protected marine park, which means the waters here are teeming with marine life and the environment is carefully preserved.

Snorkeling in Paradise

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the snorkeling. The clear waters bring you eye-to-eye with colorful fish, manta rays, and maybe even sea turtles. The guides are friendly and bilingual, making sure everyone knows how to use the provided masks and snorkels safely. Many reviews praise the vibrant marine ecosystem and the chance to see the Blue-Footed Booby, a rare bird that’s exclusive to these islands and the Galapagos.

If you’re new to snorkeling, don’t worry. The equipment includes life jackets and masks, and guides often give helpful tips. More experienced snorkelers tend to find the waters lively and rewarding. The protected status of the marine park helps keep the waters pristine, which makes the underwater scenery all the more impressive.

Wildlife & Scenic Spotting

While snorkeling, you might spot whales (season-dependent), playful dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays. The guides share interesting facts about this ecosystem, adding a layer of education to the fun. You’ll also keep your eyes peeled for the Blue-Footed Booby perched on the rocks, or soaring overhead.

Lunch & Refreshments

After working up an appetite, you’ll return to the boat for a well-deserved lunch. The meal includes refreshing options like aguachiles, ceviches, and chicken salad—local flavors that are both light and satisfying. Meanwhile, the open bar is a hit, offering drinks to wash down the seafood and to relax as you admire the scenery.

The combination of a delicious meal, drinks, and stunning ocean views makes this part of the trip feel more like leisure than activity. Many guests appreciate the quality of the food and the friendly service.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details

The tour lasts about five hours, usually starting in the morning, which is convenient for fitting into a typical Puerto Vallarta itinerary. You’ll need to bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and some cash for the marina and park fees. The marina entrance fee (around $2 USD) and conservation fee (around $8 USD) are not included, so be prepared.

The tour is not suitable for children under six, mainly due to the water activities and boat time. If you’re traveling with little ones, this might not be the best choice. Otherwise, it’s a great outing for couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy marine environments.

The Value Proposition

At $133 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for those interested in wildlife, scenic beauty, and a bit of adventure. The inclusion of guides, snorkeling gear, breakfast, lunch, and open bar makes it a comprehensive package. However, the additional fees are something to keep in mind when budgeting.

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning views and the friendliness of the guides as highlights. One user noted, “The marine life was incredible, and the guides really knew their stuff,” while another appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and good food.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is really well-suited for nature lovers and water enthusiasts who want a manageable half-day trip. If you’re after a quick taste of the islands’ wildlife and scenery, and you enjoy snorkeling or are curious about marine life, it’s a good pick. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate organized tours with bilingual guides and flexible cancellation policies.

If you’re traveling with young kids under six or looking for a full-day adventure, you might want to consider other options or plan accordingly. But for most visitors wanting a well-rounded, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to enter the marina? Yes, there is a marina entrance fee of about 33 MXN (roughly $2 USD) per person, payable on the day.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear? Yes, masks and snorkels are provided, along with life jackets, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

Are food and drinks included? Lunch on the boat and a premium open bar are part of the package, so you can enjoy tasty seafood and drinks during the trip.

How long does the tour last? The whole experience typically takes around 5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning.

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

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 6 due to water activities and boat time.

What makes the Marieta Islands special? Their protected status, vibrant marine ecosystem, and the chance to see rare birds like the Blue-Footed Booby make this a unique destination.

What if I don’t snorkel well? The guides are friendly and helpful, and the water is calm and clear, making it a good experience even for beginners.

Is the tour bilingual? Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring everyone stays informed and comfortable.

Taking all this into account, the Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Eco-Discovery tour is a solid choice if you want a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and relaxed fun. It’s a well-organized trip that offers authentic encounters with marine life and gorgeous views, all within a manageable timeframe. Just remember to bring your essentials, budget for the fees, and be ready to enjoy one of the most scenic parts of the Puerto Vallarta area.

You can check availability for your dates here: