Planning a trip to Jalisco and wondering if a boat tour to the Marietas Islands is worth it? This popular excursion from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle offers a full day of water fun, wildlife sightings, and scenic views. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gone through all the details and reviews, and I think it’s a solid option for anyone wanting a lively, well-rounded day on the water.
What I really like about this experience? First, the variety of activities — snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more — mean you’re never bored. Second, the inclusive food and drinks, especially the unlimited premium bar, add real value and comfort. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the group size and boat layout, which might not appeal if you prefer a more intimate setting or quieter vibe.
This tour feels especially suited for those who want a lively, all-in-one day in Banderas Bay. Whether you’re a family with kids (the staff’s attentiveness is praised), a couple looking for fun, or a group of friends seeking adventure, it covers a lot of bases. Just keep in mind that if you’re after a calm, low-key experience, this might be more high-energy than you prefer.
Key Points
- Full-day adventure: Expect around 6 hours of water-based fun, sightseeing, and excellent food.
- Water activities galore: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even water slides keep everyone engaged.
- Unlimited drinks: From water and coffee to margaritas, beer, and champagne — all included.
- Beautiful scenery: Scenic views of Banderas Bay and marine wildlife, including whales (Dec-Apr) and sea turtles.
- Well-rated guides: Many reviews highlight knowledgeable, attentive staff making the experience memorable.
- Good value: At $130 per person, the all-inclusive nature makes it a competitive choice for a full-day tour.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
Starting Points and Logistics
The tour offers three convenient meeting locations, including Chica Locca Marina and their main office. This flexibility can help if you’re staying nearby or prefer a specific pickup spot.
The cruise departs in the morning, giving you plenty of time to explore the islands and enjoy all the activities planned. The total duration is about 6 hours, a good chunk of time that balances adventure with relaxation.
The Scenic Voyage
As you cruise along the north shore of Banderas Bay, you’ll get a taste of the local coastline and marine life. The reviews mention whale sightings (especially between December and April), which is a fantastic bonus if you’re lucky. Even outside whale season, you’ll see sea turtles, rays, and the vibrant coastline—making the boat ride itself quite enjoyable.
Onboard Amenities and Water Fun
The boat is described as a “floating fun factory” — and that’s no exaggeration. It’s fully equipped with all the water toys you could want: snorkels, kayaks, paddleboards, water mattresses, and even water slides. This means for those who love being in the water, there’s no shortage of options to stay entertained.
The onboard crew ensures safety and supervision, especially for less experienced swimmers or families with children. One reviewer even noted how the staff took very good care of kids, making it family-friendly despite not being explicitly marketed as such.
More Great Tours NearbyBreakfast and Lunch Highlights
Start your day with a fresh breakfast featuring seasonal fruit, muffins, and coffee — perfect fuel for a day on the water. Midway through, you’ll enjoy a hearty Mexican fajitas lunch with rice, beans, and tortillas, offering a taste of local flavors.
The included fresh-made guacamole with blue corn chips adds a nice touch, and the drinks flow freely. The all-day premium bar includes everything from soft drinks and water to margaritas, beers, wines, and champagne. Many reviews highlight how generous and plentiful the drinks are, contributing to a lively, celebratory atmosphere.
Playa la Nopalera and Marine Reserve
The highlight is the visit to Playa la Nopalera, a stunning beach within the marine reserve. With a guide, you’ll swim, snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard to explore this protected area full of marine wildlife. The reviews repeatedly mention how clear and lively the waters are, making it a true highlight of the trip.
The wet landing on the island can be a bit tricky with gear, so waterproof cases for your camera are advisable if capturing photos is important to you. Still, a professional photographer is onboard to take candid shots and action photos, which you can purchase afterward. Many reviewers say these pictures are worth it, especially if you want to remember your day vividly.
Relaxing and Returning
After the exploration and beach time, you can lounge, sip more drinks, dance, or simply enjoy the ocean views. The crew keeps the vibe fun and relaxed, with many reviews praising their service and friendliness.
On the return trip, the scenery continues to impress, and the boat often spots marine creatures along the way. The experience is as much about soaking up the views and relaxing as it is about active water play.
What Do the Reviews Say?
Most travelers are highly satisfied, with many giving a perfect 5-star rating. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who are attentive and friendly, making an otherwise busy day smooth and enjoyable. The scenery and wildlife sightings are often highlighted as top moments; many see whales, sea turtles, and seabirds.
Several reviews mention the quality of the food and drinks — plentiful, tasty, and well-presented, making the experience feel luxurious. The unlimited bar is a favorite among guests, especially since it includes premium options.
Some critiques include the fact that the “hidden beach” isn’t always part of the tour unless you pay extra, but even without it, most say the experience is still worthwhile. A note about the group size: the boat can get lively, which suits those who want a social and energetic vibe but might be less appealing if seeking solitude.
A Few Additional Details
- The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, mostly due to the physical nature of the activities and boat landing.
- Photos are not included but can be purchased after the trip; reviewers recommend bringing waterproof gear if capturing your own shots.
- Cancellation is flexible up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind when booking.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This boat tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day of active water fun with scenic views, wildlife sightings, and hearty Mexican cuisine. It’s especially good for those who enjoy social atmospheres, as the boat’s lively environment and unlimited drinks keep the energy high.
If you’re traveling with family or friends who are comfortable in the water, you’ll appreciate the variety of activities and attentive staff. However, if you’re after a quiet, peaceful escape, this might be a bit more energetic than you’d prefer.
It’s also perfect for anyone who values good value for money, considering the all-inclusive drinks, food, and wide range of activities packed into one day.
FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, usually starting in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the activities and scenery.
Where does the tour start?
You can choose from three meeting points: Chica Locca Marina, Chica Locca Tours Head Office, or Chica Locca Tours Carlos Co. This helps you pick the most convenient location.
What’s included in the price?
You get breakfast, a Mexican fajitas lunch, unlimited premium drinks (including alcohol), and all water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Are the water toys suitable for everyone?
Yes, the boat is fully equipped with water gear and has water guides for supervision. Kids are welcomed, and staff are attentive to safety.
Can I see whales during the tour?
Yes, from December to April, humpback whales are often spotted. Even outside whale season, expect sea turtles, rays, and marine bird life.
Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for children, reviews note attentive staff and suitability for some kids, especially with safety oversight. Check your family’s comfort with water activities.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, waterproof camera if desired, and sun protection are recommended. The boat provides most amenities.
Are there optional extras?
The “hidden beach” is not included unless you pay extra. Photos are also available for purchase after the trip.
What if I want to cancel?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before departure, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is this tour suitable if I want a quiet, relaxing day?
Probably not. The experience is lively, social, and packed with activities, fitting better for those wanting a fun, high-energy outing.
Marietas Islands Boat Tour: Snorkel, Kayak, Playa Nopalera
Final Thoughts
The Marietas Islands Boat Tour with Chica Locca Tours offers a lively, value-packed way to experience the natural beauty of Banderas Bay. With its combination of wildlife, water activities, and generous food and drink offerings, it caters well to travelers seeking a full, enjoyable day in the sun.
The high praise from previous guests, especially regarding guides and scenery, suggests that most will leave with happy memories. While it’s not a quiet retreat, if you’re after excitement, stunning views, and a taste of Mexico’s vibrant coastal life, this tour hits the mark.
In short, it’s best suited for adventurous spirits, water lovers, and anyone wanting to celebrate their time in Mexico with a splash. Just prepare for a fun, active day that’s as much about good company and good times as it is about the scenery.
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