Catamaran Arches, Animas Beach, Quimixed Waterfall and Food Tour

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Puerto Vallarta, the Catamaran Arches, Animas Beach, Quimixed Waterfall, and Food Tour might catch your eye. Offered by Monkey Adventures México, this roughly 7-8 hour experience promises a mix of stunning sights, fun activities, and good food—all at a decent price point around $68.63 per person. It’s a pretty popular option, booked about 20 days in advance on average, which suggests it’s worth considering if you’re planning ahead.

What we find appealing are a couple of standout features: first, the all-inclusive nature with breakfast, lunch, and an open bar on board, and second, the opportunity to explore three different spots—each with its own vibe—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. On the downside, some reviews hint at rushed moments and murky waters for snorkeling. That’s worth considering if you’re counting on the water activities being a highlight. This tour tends to suit travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of food, drinks, and sightseeing—ideal for those who like a mix of lounging and exploring.

Key Points

• Includes breakfast, lunch, and open bar, making it easy to relax without extra costs.
• Three destinations — Los Arcos, Las Animas, and Quimixto — offering varied scenery and activities.
• Snorkeling and water-based activities are part of the experience, but water conditions may vary.
• Roughly 7-8 hours overall, so it’s a full day but not overly long.
• Group size capped at 99 travelers, keeping things lively but manageable.
• Family-friendly options available, with kid-specific meals and activities.
• Some reviews mention a rushed feel or murky waters, so expectations should be realistic.
• Cost includes most meals and activities, but be prepared for extra expenses like beach activities or souvenirs.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This tour kicks off at the Puerto Magico and starts bright and early at 9:00 am, with check-in around 9:10 am. From there, you’ll board a catamaran that sets sail along the bay of Puerto Vallarta, giving you scenic views of the coastline and the chance to settle into the day with a continental breakfast. The breakfast offers eggs with ham, hot cakes, fruit, coffee, and juice—simple but satisfying enough to fuel your adventures ahead.

Stop 1: Los Arcos de Mismaloya

The first highlight is the famous Los Arcos, a natural marine reserve known for its impressive rock formations and vibrant sea life. The boat stops here for about two hours, giving you time to snorkel and observe marine creatures in their habitat. We loved the way the guides shared interesting tidbits about the area’s history and traditions, making the experience more engaging. The water here tends to be calm, ideal for snorkeling, although one reviewer pointed out that the water can sometimes be rough, which might limit the use of equipment.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos is often praised, with many travelers mentioning the abundance of fish and the tranquility of the spot. However, a reviewer recalled that the water was too murky for proper snorkeling and that they weren’t allowed to use all the gear they requested. So, if snorkeling is your main goal, it’s worth being aware that conditions may vary.

Stop 2: Playa Las Animas

Next up is Las Animas Beach, a lively stretch of sand perfect for relaxing and grabbing a bite. Here, you have about three hours—plenty of time to unwind, try some beach activities like jet skiing, or hike to see the nearby Quimixto Waterfall if you wish. The beach is generally well-liked, with travelers appreciating the food options and the friendly atmosphere.

The lunch served here is a highlight, with options like hamburgers, beef burritos, fish fillet, or quesadillas. Children can enjoy nuggets or quesadillas—making it a family-friendly stop. The reviews are mixed on the meal timing; some note it takes a while to be served, but the food generally hits the spot. The views of the bay from the beach are lovely, and the overall vibe is relaxed, with plenty of options to keep everyone entertained.

Stop 3: Quimixto Waterfall & Extra Time on the Beach

Depending on your preferences, you might choose to explore the Quimixto Waterfall or stay longer on the beach. The waterfall hike isn’t included but is an available optional activity, offering a chance to venture inland and see lush scenery. It’s not guaranteed, though, and some travelers might prefer to just lounge on the sand, enjoying the scenery and the food.

Return to Puerto Vallarta and Onboard Fun

After spending time at Animas and Quimixto, the boat heads back to Puerto Magico for a couple of hours of onboard entertainment. The crew organizes games, dances, and raffles—adding a lively touch to the return trip. It’s a good way to wind down, share stories with fellow travelers, and enjoy the views from the water one last time.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Cost & Value: For around $68, this tour includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, an open bar, snorkeling equipment, and transportation. Considering the number of stops and the all-inclusive setup, it offers fair value, especially if you’re looking to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about extra costs.

Timing & Group Size: The tour begins at 9:00 am, with check-in at 9:10 am, and wraps up after about 8 hours. Group sizes are capped at 99 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, but still lively enough for a social vibe.

Weather & Water Conditions: One of the key factors impacting the experience is the weather. If the water gets rough, snorkeling might be affected, and some reviews mention murky waters that hinder marine visibility. It’s worth being flexible and knowing that conditions can vary day to day.

Family & Accessibility: The tour offers kids’ meal options and welcomes children, making it suitable for families with young ones. However, if your kids are very young or not comfortable on boats, it’s something to consider.

Additional Expenses: Extra costs could include port taxes (around MX$33), optional beach activities, souvenirs, or additional food and drinks at the restaurant. Be prepared to carry some extra cash if you want to participate in more activities or buy photos.

What the Reviews Tell Us

With only six reviews giving a 3.5-star average, opinions are mixed, but they offer useful insights. One reviewer found the experience quite standard, noting that some activities felt rushed and that the water was too rough for snorkeling, which was disappointing. Another raved about the peaceful snorkeling at Los Arcos and seeing whales, calling the trip unforgettable. A third was lukewarm about the overall experience, citing only two stops instead of three and slow service at lunch.

This variation shows that while some travelers enjoy the scenery and amenities, others might leave feeling their expectations weren’t fully met—especially if the weather isn’t cooperative or if the timing feels tight.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience seems best suited for travelers wanting a relaxed day on the water with easy access to multiple scenic spots and good food. It’s a solid choice if you enjoy socializing, beach lounging, and snorkeling in calm waters. Families with young kids will find it accommodating, given the meal options and onboard entertainment.

However, those with high expectations for extensive snorkeling or multiple stops may want to look further, as some reviews suggest the experience can feel somewhat rushed or limited by weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Catamaran Arches, Animas Beach, Quimixed Waterfall, and Food Tour offers a decent blend of sightseeing, eating, and fun on the water. It’s a straightforward, all-inclusive way to see some of Puerto Vallarta’s most popular spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The included meals and drinks add good value, and the stunning views of the bay make this a memorable experience for many.

That said, it’s important to keep your expectations realistic—snorkeling conditions can vary, and some guests might find parts of the day rushed or less vibrant than hoped. If you’re seeking a laid-back, social outing with family or friends, this tour can fit the bill. Just remember to pack some cash for extras and be prepared for a day that’s as good as the weather allows.

FAQs

Is breakfast included? Yes, the tour provides a continental American breakfast with eggs, ham, hot cakes, fruit, coffee, and juice.

What’s the main activity at Los Arcos? Snorkeling and marine observation are the highlights, with guides sharing interesting stories about the area.

How long do we stay at Las Animas Beach? About three hours, giving plenty of time to relax, eat, or try activities like jet skiing.

Can I hike to the Quimixto Waterfall? The waterfall hike is an optional activity, and the tour stops at Quimixto Beach, allowing you to explore if you choose.

What meals are offered? Lunch at the beach includes options like hamburgers, beef burritos, fish fillet, or quesadillas, with kid-friendly options also available.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, you can use the snorkeling gear included with your tour, but water conditions may affect visibility.

Are there any extra costs? Yes, port tax (around MX$33), additional beach activities, souvenirs, or extra food outside the provided meals may incur charges.

Is this tour family-friendly? Yes, with kids’ meal options and a generally relaxed vibe, it’s suitable for families, though young kids on boats should be considered.

How can I cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund; cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

If you’re after a straightforward, fun-filled day with plenty of eating, drinking, and sightseeing, this tour could be a good pick. Just keep in mind the weather and water conditions might influence your experience, and manage your expectations accordingly.