Puerto Vallarta:Exclusive Voyage to Los Arcos and El Paredón

Thinking about adding a boat tour to your Puerto Vallarta trip? This private 4-hour adventure offers a chance to see some of the most iconic sights of Bahía de Banderas with the comfort of a tailored experience. If you’re someone who appreciates a bit of everything—scenic views, a splash of adventure, and personalized service—this tour could be a good fit.

What really stands out for us is the private nature of the trip, which means fewer crowds and more flexibility. Plus, the chance to combine fishing and snorkeling with sightseeing makes it more dynamic than many standard excursions. The only thing to consider is the price point; at $681 for up to 8 people, it may seem steep for some, but the exclusivity and amenities can justify the cost if you’re traveling with a group.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort and custom experiences without sacrificing the essentials—great scenery, underwater exploration, and some fun fishing thrown in. If you’re a family, a couple, or a small group of friends wanting a semi-private day on the water, this would probably match what you’re after.

Key Points

• Private charter offers an intimate experience with personalized attention.
• Multiple activities—fishing, snorkeling, and sightseeing—pack into just four hours.
• The boat’s amenities include a sound system, large bathroom, and shaded seating, ensuring comfort.
• The experience begins at Marina Vallarta, with a flexible start in the morning.
• Expert guidance from bilingual crew helps tailor the tour to your preferences.
• Price reflects exclusivity and the all-included setup, offering solid value for groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This 4-hour private boat tour starts from the picturesque Marina Vallarta, a convenient and scenic launching point. From there, the vessel—a 33 ft. Albin Model with two Mercury outboard motors—sets out along the coast with plenty of space for your group. The journey’s core highlight is exploring Los Arcos and El Paredón, two of the area’s most breathtaking coastal formations.

The Route and Sightseeing

As you cruise past landmarks like the Hotel Zone, Downtown, Malecon, and Romantic Zone, you’ll get a fresh perspective of Puerto Vallarta’s lively shoreline. The views are stunning, with the city’s skyline meeting the shimmering sea. It’s a great chance to snap photos and get a real sense of the city’s layout from the water.

Fishing for Fun

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the fishing opportunity with artificial bait. Even if you’re not seasoned anglers, casting lines and trying your luck makes for a fun addition. Expect to possibly catch species like bullfish or Spanish mackerel—which can be exciting even for beginners. This element adds a laid-back, interactive touch, perfect if you’re curious about local marine life.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos or El Paredón

After some fishing, you’ll likely want to cool off with some snorkeling. The guide can suggest the best spots, and the crew provides snorkeling equipment. The Los Arcos formation is renowned for its vibrant undersea life, so you’ll get to see colorful fish and perhaps even some interesting rock formations up close. If you’d prefer a customized experience, the captain is happy to adjust the plan based on your interests, making this tour feel personalized rather than rigid.

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The Boat and Comfort

The boat itself is well-equipped with modern amenities. With a sound system, you can enjoy your favorite tunes, while the large bathroom adds convenience, especially for a tour involving water activities. The shaded seating area is a nice touch, providing relief from the sun while still enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. Plus, a cooler with bottled water and ice keeps everyone hydrated.

What You Might Not Love

While the tour is generally well-received, some reviews mention that the price might seem high for a 4-hour excursion, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. It’s a shared experience for up to 8 people, which helps justify the cost, but it’s worth considering whether the activities included match your budget expectations.

Also, since the tour doesn’t include meals or additional drinks, if you’re planning a longer day or want a full meal on board, you’ll need to bring your own or plan to eat afterward. The meeting point at Calle Popa near the El Velero monument is straightforward, but it’s a little outside the main tourist zones, so plan your transport accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private voyage is ideal for small groups or families seeking a flexible, personalized day on the water. If you want to combine sightseeing with some active elements like fishing and snorkeling, it hits the right notes. The tour is especially suitable for travelers who appreciate comfort, bilingual guides, and a tailored experience rather than a crowded, generic boat trip.

The Value of the Experience

At $681 for up to eight people, this tour offers a fair amount of value if you’re traveling as a group. You’re paying for exclusivity and the convenience of a private vessel, which makes a difference when compared to larger group tours. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, fishing rods, and refreshments adds to the overall package, reducing the hassle of organizing these separately.

On the flip side, if you’re more budget-conscious or seeking a full-day adventure, this might feel a little pricey. But for those wanting a luxury feel with personalized attention, it’s quite a good deal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and customizable boat trip around Puerto Vallarta, this private voyage to Los Arcos and El Paredón checks many boxes. The combination of spectacular views, underwater exploration, and the chance to fish makes it a well-rounded experience. The boat’s amenities and the bilingual crew add to the comfort and ease of the day.

However, keep in mind the cost and the fact that you won’t be provided with meals or additional drinks, so plan accordingly. It’s best suited for travelers who want a bit of everything—sightseeing, adventure, and comfort—in a small, private setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, the activities like snorkeling and fishing can be enjoyable for older children if they’re comfortable with water. Always check with the provider if you have younger kids or specific needs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private charter, captain and deckhand service, bilingual crew, bottled water, ice, and docking fees for each person. Snorkeling equipment, fishing rods, and a cooler are also provided.

Are meals available on this tour?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the Oxxo in Calle Popa, near the El Velero monument. It’s a straightforward spot, but consider transportation since it’s outside the main tourist areas.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, usually in the morning.

Can I customize the experiences during the tour?
Yes, the captain can provide recommendations to tailor the experience to your preferences, whether that’s more snorkeling, fishing, or sightseeing.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and activity-packed day on the water, this Puerto Vallarta private tour offers a great combination. It’s a solid pick for small groups wanting to enjoy the coast with comfort and flexibility, all while soaking in some of Mexico’s best marine sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: