Half-Day Snorkeling Tour

Thinking about booking a snorkeling trip in Puerto Vallarta? This half-day tour from Mike’s Fishing & Tours has been highly rated, with a perfect 5-star score based on 160 reviews, and a lot of folks recommending it. It’s designed to give you a taste of the bay’s vibrant marine life, stunning views, and some fun water activities—all in about four hours.

What we really love about this experience is how well-rounded it is. You get to sail along the coast with picturesque vistas of Puerto Vallarta and the Sierra Madre mountains, then dive into the clear waters of Los Arcos. Plus, the included lunch and open bar make it a relaxing, all-in-one outing.

One consideration? The tour’s 4-hour length might feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to spend more time snorkeling or exploring. It’s definitely best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and scenic views without staying out all day. If your goal is an easy, enjoyable intro to the bay’s marine world or a family-friendly excursion, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money, combining activities, food, and drinks in one package.
• Knowledgeable guides and crew who get high praise for their friendliness and professionalism.
• Beautiful scenery and marine life, especially at Los Arcos de Mismaloya.
• Flexible water sports options like kayaking and paddleboarding, suitable for all skill levels.
• Good for families and casual travelers, with a relaxed vibe and kid-friendly activities.
• Potential for a rushed snorkeling experience, depending on currents and group size.

Why This Tour Stands Out

First off, the location can’t be beaten. Puerto Vallarta’s coastline and the iconic Los Arcos are stunning and worth seeing from the water. The boat cruise provides not just a chance to snorkel but also an opportunity to enjoy the city’s coastal views and the Sierra Madre mountains—something that makes the trip feel scenic and peaceful.

The snorkeling at Los Arcos is often highlighted as a highlight, with natural tunnels and arches creating a mysterious, almost secretive underwater landscape. Several reviews mention the chance to see marine life and explore the natural rock formations up close, making it more than just a typical snorkeling trip. One reviewer shared, “Enjoyed swimming through the cave at Los Arcos and taking part in water sports,” which captures the variety of options available.

The Itinerary in Detail

Shoreline Sightseeing and Departure

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with check-in around 8:45 am (though some travelers noted a slight delay at check-in). This early start is perfect for maximizing your time on the water while avoiding the afternoon crowds. As you set sail, you’ll enjoy a scenic view of Puerto Vallarta from the water, which is a lovely way to get a sense of the city’s layout and natural surroundings.

Stop 1: Los Arcos de Mismaloya (30 Minutes)

This is the main snorkeling stop, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The crystal-clear waters and natural rock formations make it a fantastic site. The tunnels and arches create a sense of adventure, and the marine life here is lively enough to make snorkeling fun even for beginners.

One reviewer noted, “The snorkeling was rushed and currents were strong so I didn’t really enjoy that part,” highlighting that conditions can vary. But most reviews agree that the experience is worthwhile, especially with the professional guides who are attentive and helpful.

Water Sports and Relaxation

If snorkeling isn’t your thing or you simply want some variety, equipment for kayaking and paddleboarding is available. Travelers mention that these options are suitable for all, with many appreciating the opportunity to relax and enjoy the water at their own pace. The crew is praised for their friendliness and assistance, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

Lunch and Drinks

After the water activities, fresh snacks and a hearty lunch are served. The menu includes chopped fruit, fish ceviche, ham and cheese paninis, and green salad—offering a good mix of flavors. The open bar with international drinks helps everyone unwind and share stories from the day.

One reviewer raved, “The food and drinks were great,” emphasizing how well the food complements the trip. The included alcoholic beverages also add a social, festive vibe that many travelers enjoy.

The Beach Club and Additional Activities

Some reviews mention a visit to Mikes Beach Club, where you can continue enjoying the ocean, sand, and water sports. The beach stop is appreciated for its incredible sand and relaxed atmosphere. There’s also a mention of optional horseback riding, which, while not included in the main package, is available at a reasonable extra cost.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a lot of value with everything from snorkeling equipment, professional guides, snacks, and drinks, to the boat cruise itself. Plus, the lunch and live commentary create an engaging experience.

However, a few things to keep in mind: souvenirs like photos are available for purchase, and transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included. Also, port fees are an extra expense. Still, most find that the overall package delivers great value, especially considering the variety of activities and the quality of the staff.

The Real Experience from Travelers

Many who took this tour highlight the dedication and friendliness of the crew. One review states, “The crew was incredible. The food and drinks were great. Boat was spacious and clean.” Others point out that the views are stunning, and the water sports add a playful touch to the day.

Several families and groups of friends mention how kid-friendly the tour is, with children loving the boat rides, water sports, and the chance to see whales and dolphins if you’re lucky. One review noted, “This was such a fun excursion! The whole crew on the boat was friendly and thorough,” which sums up the general sentiment.

On the flip side, some reviews mention that snorkeling can feel rushed, especially if currents are strong. It’s worth being aware that conditions may vary, and not every moment will be perfect. But most guests agree that the overall experience makes up for it.

Practical Details You Should Know

• The tour starts at 9:00 am, with check-in around 8:45 am.
• It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it an easy half-day outing.
• The cost is $99 per person, which many see as good value given the included food, drinks, water sports, and sightseeing.
• The tour can accommodate up to 120 travelers, so it’s quite popular but still manageable.
• Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18.
• The activity is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate. The crew is multi-lingual, helping non-Spanish speakers enjoy the experience.
• Cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility if plans change.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an affordable, relaxed, and scenic water adventure in Puerto Vallarta, this tour hits many marks. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a taste of the marine life and coastline without the pressure of a full-day commitment.

The friendly guides and crew make it especially appealing if you prefer a more personable experience, and the included food and drinks elevate it from just a snorkeling trip to a full mini-vacation moment. It’s also a solid choice if you want the convenience of multiple water activities—snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding—in one outing.

However, if you’re avid snorkeler or diver looking for a more immersive experience, or if you prefer undisturbed time in the water, you might find the 30-minute snorkeling stop a little brief. Still, for most travelers, this trip offers a well-balanced, memorable day on the water.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, which is close to public transportation.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and maybe a towel. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and water sports gear, but you might want to bring cash for souvenirs or optional extras.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are available, and you can choose to relax on the boat or at the beach.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, and many reviews mention kids loving the water sports and boat ride. Just note that the minimum drinking age is 18.

How long is the snorkeling stop?
Approximately 30 minutes, but it can feel rushed depending on water conditions and group size.

What’s the quality of the food and drinks?
Most guests find the food delicious—fresh ceviche, fruit, paninis—and the drinks are plentiful with an open bar. The staff is praised for their friendly service.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this half-day snorkeling tour offers a balance of scenery, marine adventure, and relaxation. With friendly guides, good value, and plenty of water activities, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a memorable, fun experience in Puerto Vallarta’s bay.