Islas Marietas Experience! Catamaran Nature Trip

If you’re dreaming of a day full of sun, sea, and adventure in Puerto Vallarta, the Islas Marietas Experience! Catamaran Nature Trip might just be your ticket. As someone who loves sharing honest insights, I’ll walk you through what this tour offers, what to expect, and whether it’s right for you. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of details from reviews, the itinerary, and the overall vibe to help you decide.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines relaxing boat rides with hands-on activities like snorkeling and kayaking—plus, a lively party atmosphere on the way back. It’s clear the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the day both enjoyable and educational. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the fee for some extras like the bracelets and dock fee, which add up a bit. Overall, if you’re after a balance of nature, fun, and good company, this trip seems to deliver.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a full-day adventure that mixes nature exploration with social fun. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy being on the water, trying different water sports, and relaxing with a drink as the day winds down. Keep in mind, it’s not a secluded, quiet escape—think lively, scenic, and social.

Key Points

• Includes full-day activities with transportation, breakfast, and lunch.
• Variety of water activities: snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking.
• Lively back-deck atmosphere with open bar, music, and karaoke.
• Guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge.
• Additional fees apply for dock and conservation bracelets.
• Perfect for energetic travelers who want both nature and party vibes.

What to Expect from the Tour

The journey begins early, with a check-in at the marina where you’re greeted by friendly staff. The experience kicks off with a welcome talk and safety briefing—nothing too formal but enough to make everyone feel comfortable. Once aboard the spacious two-floor catamaran, you’ll be treated to a continental breakfast with fruit, yogurt, granola, honey, and juice. It’s a decent start, especially if you’re ready for a day on the water.

As your boat sets sail, expect gorgeous views of the Puerto Vallarta coast, which is part of what makes this trip special. The 6-hour round-trip ride allows ample time to relax, chat, and enjoy the sea breeze. The boat itself is well-equipped, offering snorkeling gear—masks, tubes, life jackets—and paddleboards and kayaks to get you closer to the water.

The Highlight: Islas Marietas

After about two hours at the islands, you’ll arrive at the Marietas Islands reef, an area famous for its stunning natural beauty. Here, travelers can opt for snorkeling or kayaking in warm, clear waters, which is a highlight for many. The guides are known to be helpful and knowledgeable, offering insights into the natural environment and history of the islands.

The water activities are straightforward but enjoyable, with equipment provided so you can focus on having fun. Maggie_L’s review captures this well: “Everyone was very helpful and professional… I would gladly recommend them.” That friendly, professional vibe really seems to shine here.

Lunch at Nopalera Beach

After your water adventures, the tour continues with a lunch at Nopalera Beach. The scenery alone makes the meal better—imagine sitting by the water, with the sound of waves in the background. The menu is simple but satisfying: a hamburger with a side of shrimps and a salad bar. It’s plenty filling after a morning of activity and provides enough variety to suit most tastes.

Guides often offer the option for a short tour of the islands, where you can learn more about their nature and history. This adds a nice educational element to the trip, especially for those interested in the ecological importance of the islands.

The Fun Continues on the Return Trip

Once back on the boat after lunch, the atmosphere really heats up. The open bar kicks in, but only after arriving at the islands. Expect music, dancing, and karaoke, transforming the return into a lively party. It’s a chance to unwind, share stories, and enjoy the sea breeze with new friends.

The group size caps at 75 travelers, which helps keep the experience lively without feeling overcrowded. The energetic vibe is part of what makes this tour memorable—if you’re into socializing and celebrating at sea, this is a good pick.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour departs at 8:00 am from the designated meeting point. Arriving early helps you settle in and avoid any last-minute rush.
• Price is $83 per person, which seems reasonable given the full-day itinerary, meals, and water sports equipment included. However, be aware of extra costs like $3 dock fee and $10 bracelets for conservation purposes, payable in cash.
• Remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes. Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment and your skin.
• The activity is accessible to most travelers, but if you’re unsure or have specific needs, check with the provider beforehand.
• The tour is weather-dependent; if cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Authentic Voices: What Travelers Say

The one published review is glowing: “Excellent service! Everyone was very helpful and professional.. Very friendly staff! I would gladly recommend them.” It’s clear that the guides and crew make a real effort to ensure guests feel well taken care of.

Many comments highlight the stunning views of the islands and the fun party atmosphere on the boat. The combination of natural beauty, water sports, and socializing seems to strike a chord with most travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys mixing adventure, scenery, and social fun, then this trip is likely a good fit. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to experience Puerto Vallarta’s marine environment without sacrificing entertainment. It’s a great choice for groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a lively vibe, good company, and a full day of sun and sea.

However, if you prefer quiet, solitary escapes or are on a very tight budget, this might not be the perfect fit. The extra fees and the busy social atmosphere could be less appealing if you’re looking for peace and solitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age for participating in water activities?
Most travelers can participate, and the activities like snorkeling and kayaking are accessible. However, always check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What should I bring?
Pack your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. Comfortable clothes and shoes are also recommended for the boat.

How long is the actual time at the islands?
You’ll spend around 2 hours exploring and enjoying the water activities at the Marietas Islands.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a $3 USD dock fee and a $10 USD SEMARNAT and CONANP bracelet fee are paid in cash per person.

Is food included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included, with a menu featuring hot cakes, fruit, yogurt, a hamburger, shrimp, and a salad bar.

What’s the best part of this trip?
Most reviews mention the friendly guides and breathtaking views as highlights, along with the lively social scene on the way back.

Can I buy alcohol or drinks on board?
Yes, the open bar is available after the island visit, with music and karaoke adding to the fun vibe.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled because of poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or the chance to reschedule.

Final Thoughts

The Islas Marietas Experience! Catamaran Nature Trip offers a well-rounded day out—balancing scenic marine views, water-based fun, and a spirited party atmosphere. It’s especially suited for those who love to be active during the day but enjoy winding down with a drink and music on the way back. The guides seem to be a real asset, blending knowledge with friendliness, which makes the whole experience more genuine.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and memorable day in Puerto Vallarta that combines nature and socializing, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just be prepared for the extra fees and the energetic crowd. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to make the most of their time at sea, with a good chance to relax and have fun in a friendly setting.

In short, whether you’re a solo explorer, part of a group, or a couple looking for a full day of adventure mixed with celebration, this trip offers a chance to enjoy Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective—one filled with stunning views, water fun, and good vibes.