Islas Marietas Tour on Catamaran – Departures from Puerto Vallarta

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and craving a way to escape the busy city life, a full-day tour to the Islas Marietas on a catamaran might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally done this exact trip, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken to travelers who have. It sounds like a well-rounded mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and laid-back fun.

What really draws people in are the beautiful water activities—snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding—plus the chance to relax on deck with an open bar. Two things I love about this tour are its flexible, unstructured free time and the spectacular views you’ll get of Puerto Vallarta from the water. That said, one thing to consider is the government fees; they add a few extra dollars, which can sometimes catch travelers off guard.

This tour is likely best suited for those who love being on the water, enjoy water sports, or simply want a scenic, full-day escape. It’s a good pick for solo travelers, couples, or groups looking for a mix of activity and downtime. If you’re after a relaxed day with a bit of adventure in a beautiful setting, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• All water sports equipment is provided, making it easy to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding without bringing your own gear.
• Unstructured free time means you can relax as you please, whether that’s swimming, sunbathing, or exploring.
• The tour includes meals and an open bar, offering good value and convenience for the day.
• Expect stunning ocean views and a chance to see Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective.
• The drop-off and pick-up are straightforward, starting at Puerto Mágico.
• This experience is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate.

Setting Sail for the Marietas Islands

The adventure begins early, with departure at 8:00 am from Puerto Mágico. From there, you’ll board a comfortable catamaran, and the journey itself is part of the fun. We loved the way the boat ride offers panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline—it’s a pretty spectacular way to start the day.

The boat features a delicious breakfast consisting of fruit, yogurt, granola, honey, and juice, which is a nice touch to fuel your morning. Plus, there’s plenty of space on deck to relax, chat, or simply soak up the sun. The trip lasts roughly 10 hours, so you definitely get your money’s worth.

Water Activities and Free Time

Once at the Marietas Islands National Park, the fun truly begins. The tour provides snorkel gear, so you can swim among vibrant marine life in clear waters that are perfect for underwater discovery. Many travelers mention that the waters are crystal-clear, making snorkeling especially rewarding.

If you prefer being above water, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available. This gives you plenty of options to see the coves and rock formations at your own pace. One traveler shared, “I got to kayak for the first time ever, and it was a wonderful experience,” which shows how accessible these activities are even for beginners.

You can also opt to visit the famous Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor), a secluded spot that’s well worth a mention—all included in your day’s adventure. The tour allows unstructured free time, so you can choose whether to lounge on the boat, explore the rocky coastlines, or take a dip in the water.

Lunch, Drinks, and Entertainment

The onboard menu includes a fresh lunch, and there’s an open bar for the return trip, making it easy to enjoy drinks and relax without worrying about extra costs. The music and games onboard add to the lively atmosphere, with opportunities for dancing or karaoke as the boat sails back to Puerto Vallarta.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the lunch is well-received, with many travelers noting the quality and variety. The open bar is also a highlight, with guests appreciating the casual, fun vibe it creates.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs around $92 per person, which offers a fair value considering the food, drinks, water sports equipment, and the chance to explore a protected marine area. Keep in mind, there’s an additional government fee of $10 (SEMARNAT bracelet) and $3 for other fees, so set aside a few extra dollars.

The trip is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 90, ensuring you won’t feel cramped. It’s worth noting that travelers should wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring swimsuits, towels, and extra clothes, and use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment.

The timing is convenient, with departure at 8:00 am and returning in the evening. Since most of the activities are outdoors, good weather is a must—be sure to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

What the Travelers Say

The single review available so far is glowing: “Everything was so amazing! I got to swim in the ocean and kayak for the first time ever! It was a wonderful experience,” says Chris B. This highlights how even beginners can enjoy the water activities, thanks to the provided equipment and the relaxed atmosphere.

Travelers also seem to appreciate the stunning views and the chance to unwind in a beautiful setting. Some mentioned that the free time is a real plus, allowing for spontaneous swimming or lounging. The overall vibe is described as fun and laid-back, perfect for those who want to escape the city but still have plenty of activities.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic ocean views, water sports, and relaxed leisure, this Islas Marietas tour on a catamaran offers a compelling package. The combination of quality food, drinks, and flexible free time makes it a good value, especially if you enjoy being on or near the water.

While the extra government fees are a small added cost, they are worth considering for the access and experience provided. The tour’s moderate group size and variety of activities make it suitable for most travelers, whether you’re new to water sports or someone who just wants a beautiful day out.

In all, this tour balances adventure and relaxation in a way that many will find appealing—particularly if stunning coastal views and the chance to snorkel or kayak are high on your list. It’s a great choice for those who want to see the Marietas Islands without the hassle of planning each activity separately.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who have never gone snorkeling before?
Yes. The water is clear, and the snorkeling equipment is provided, making it accessible even for beginners.

How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The entire trip lasts about 10 hours, including the journey, activities, and free time.

Are meals included?
Yes. The tour offers a continental breakfast and hot cakes in the morning, plus a lunch onboard.

What is the cost?
It’s $92 per person, plus additional government fees of $10 and $3, which are paid separately.

Is there alcohol onboard?
Yes, there’s an open bar for the return trip, including alcoholic drinks.

Can I visit the Hidden Beach?
Yes. The tour includes an optional visit to the famous Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor).

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be comfortable in water activities and with boat travel.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent.

What time does the tour start?
It departs at 8:00 am from Puerto Mágico and returns in the late afternoon or early evening.

How many people typically take this tour?
The maximum group size is 90 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable experience.

If you’re looking for a day filled with stunning views, water adventures, and laid-back fun, this tour offers a balanced experience that’s hard to beat. Just remember to come prepared and ready to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific coast and the Marietas Islands.