Title: Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Island Adventure

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and considering a day on the water? The Marietas Islands tour on the Shamballa II catamaran offers a chance to see some of the most iconic sights in the area—think whales, dolphins, and vibrant marine life—paired with plenty of relaxation and fun. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a mix of adventure and leisure, and it’s especially appealing if you’re eager to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific coast.

What really makes this experience stand out are the expert guides who share interesting facts and the chance to snorkel in a protected marine park—an opportunity to see colorful fish and coral up close. Plus, the open bar and hot lunch add a laid-back vibe to the day. However, it’s worth noting that this tour might not be ideal if you’re traveling with very young children or pregnant women, given the physical demands and safety considerations.

One potential downside is the additional fees for the Marine Park Conservation and Marina Entrance—these are standard but can catch some travelers off guard if they’re not prepared. This adventure feels like a solid pick for active families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone looking to soak up the stunning scenery while enjoying a day on the water.

If you’re someone who enjoys guided tours, wildlife spotting, and a relaxed party atmosphere on a boat, this experience could really suit your style. Now, let’s break down what you can expect, what others say, and all the details to help you decide if this is the right trip for you.

Key Points

• Wildlife galore: Expect humpback whales (in season), dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds, making it a bird- and marine life lover’s dream.
• Snorkeling in protected waters: You’ll get to swim among colorful fish and corals, with equipment provided.
• Relaxing amenities: An open bar and hot lunch help balance the adventure with downtime.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides share facts about the islands and wildlife.
• Additional costs: Be aware of extra fees for marine park conservation and marina entry.
• Family-friendly considerations: Not suitable for children under 6 or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Day

The Journey Begins: Setting Sail from Puerto Vallarta

Starting your day with a continental breakfast on board sets a friendly, casual tone. Fresh fruit, coffee, sweet bread, and natural juices fuel you for the adventure ahead. As the Shamballa II cuts through the shimmering waters of Banderas Bay, your guide will likely point out notable sights—possibly whales or dolphins, depending on the season—and share stories to get everyone excited.

Wildlife Encounters: Expect Surprises

Many reviews mention how lively the marine life can be. If you’re lucky, you’ll see humpback whales (during their seasonal migration), which is a real highlight for many. Dolphins are also common, often playing around the boat, and some travelers have reported spotting sea turtles or manta rays. The birdlife is equally impressive, with the Blue-Footed Booby being a specific highlight—its distinctive feet make it a rare sight outside the Galapagos, but here it’s a special treat.

Snorkeling at the Islands

Once you arrive at the famous Marietas Islands, it’s time to suit up for snorkeling. The waters around the islands are protected, so the marine life is vibrant and diverse. Expect to see colorful fish darting among corals, and if you’re quick, you might catch a glimpse of a sea turtle or a manta ray. The provided mask and snorkel make it easy to explore without extra cost, though you should be comfortable swimming in open water.

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Cruising and Learning

Throughout the cruise, your guides will share insights into the history and ecology of the islands. Many guests appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable guides, noting how their enthusiasm makes the trip more engaging. The cruise offers stunning views of the islands’ dramatic formations—perfect for photos—and the open bar keeps the mood light and convivial.

Lunch and Relaxation

After snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch, featuring aguachiles, ceviches, and chicken salad. For many, this is a welcome break after some active swimming. While you eat, you can relax and take in the scenery, sipping from the premium open bar—a favorite feature according to reviews.

The Return: Unwinding with a Drink and Great Views

As the cruise winds down, you can keep enjoying your drinks, take photos of the coastline, or just soak up the sun. Many guests comment on the stunning vistas and the overall relaxing atmosphere. The trip finishes after around five hours, leaving you with plenty of good memories and some beautiful photos to share.

What We Love About This Tour

The combination of wildlife viewing and snorkeling really stands out. Watching whales or dolphins in their natural habitat is an experience that sticks with you, and the guided commentary makes it even more meaningful. Plus, the relaxed vibe of the boat, with open bar and good food, means you’re enjoying yourself without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The guides get consistent praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and energy, which can make or break a tour like this. Knowing you’re in capable hands while exploring nature adds a lot to the overall experience.

Things to Keep in Mind

While this tour is packed with fun, it’s not perfect for everyone. The additional fees—around $8 USD for the marine park conservation fee and about $2 USD for marina entry—are standard but should be factored into your budget. Also, it’s not suitable for kids under 6 or pregnant women, due to the boat’s physical demands and safety considerations.

The timing is generally in the morning, which is ideal for wildlife sightings and avoiding the afternoon heat. Make sure to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towels, and biodegradable sunscreen—the environment is fragile, and eco-friendly products are encouraged.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $127 per person, this tour offers a lot. It’s not just about being on a boat; it’s about experiencing the vibrant marine ecosystem, stunning scenery, and a laid-back social atmosphere. The included amenities—breakfast, lunch, and open bar—add value, especially when compared to other tours that might charge extra for food or drinks.

However, the real value lies in the wildlife encounters and the chance to explore the islands’ natural beauty with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re an active traveler who enjoys snorkeling, wildlife, and scenic cruising, this is a solid choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits those who love the outdoors, wildlife, and social atmospheres on boats. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full, engaging day that combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing with drinks. If you’re traveling without very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, you’ll find it a smooth experience, but keep in mind the physical aspects of boat riding and snorkeling.

Those looking for a more relaxed, less active experience might find it a little busy, but overall, it’s a well-rounded option for anyone wanting to see the best of Puerto Vallarta’s marine environment.

FAQ

Is this tour family-friendly?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 years old or pregnant women, mainly because of the boat’s physical demands and safety concerns. It’s best for older kids who are comfortable swimming and being on a boat.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 5 hours, typically in the morning, giving you ample time for wildlife watching, snorkeling, lunch, and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towels, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for the extra fees. Pack light and comfortable for a day on the water.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

What’s included in the price?
You get breakfast, a hot lunch, a premium open bar, life jackets, and snorkeling gear. The extra fees for marine park conservation and marina entrance are paid separately.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included. You don’t need to rent or buy gear elsewhere unless you prefer your own.

Can I see whales?
Yes, humpback whales are often seen during their season, making this a pretty exciting chance for whale watchers.

What’s the dress code?
Casual, beach-friendly attire. Swimsuits are recommended for snorkeling, and don’t forget sun protection.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in your plans.

In the end, this tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife adventure, scenic cruising, and relaxing social time. It’s particularly suited for those who love being on the water, spotting marine animals, and enjoying good food and drinks in a beautiful setting. With friendly guides and a well-organized itinerary, it can make a memorable day out—just be sure to consider the extra costs and your comfort level with water activities.

You can check availability for your dates here: