Marietas Sail, Snorkel and Beach

If you’re thinking about a day out on the water near Puerto Vallarta, the Marietas Sail, Snorkel, and Beach tour might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see the famed Marietas Islands, enjoy some snorkeling, and unwind on secluded beaches. While it’s not perfect for everyone, it offers a good balance of adventure and relaxation—especially if you love being on the water and spotting wildlife.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with marine encounters and a laid-back vibe. The knowledgeable guides seem to make a real effort to keep guests entertained and comfortable, and the inclusion of a delicious onboard lunch and drinks adds a nice touch. However, it’s worth mentioning that some reviews highlight issues with reservations and boat size, which can be a concern if you’re a perfectionist about your plans.

This tour appears best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities for snorkeling and wildlife spotting, but aren’t necessarily looking for a high-end luxury trip. If you’re after a memorable, fun-filled day with good company and natural beauty, it could be a solid pick — just keep in mind some of the logistical hiccups others have experienced.

Key Points

• Highlights include snorkeling amidst colorful fish, spotting marine creatures like sea turtles and rays, and enjoying the scenic cliffs and coves.
• Small group size (max 7 guests) helps create a more intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer a more personal touch.
• Food and drinks onboard are included, giving you a relaxing break with delicious, well-reviewed meals.
• Some reviews mention issues with reservation confirmation and boat size, so be prepared for potential last-minute surprises.
• Whale watching is possible from December to March, which adds an extra layer of excitement during those months.
• The tour is reasonably priced at $99 per person, offering a good value for a day of adventure and scenic beauty.

A Full Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

We appreciate that the tour starts conveniently at the Paradise Village Public Pier in Nuevo Vallarta. The whole trip lasts around 7 hours, which gives you plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Being part of a small group—up to 7 people—means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the crew can cater to your interests a bit more than on larger boats.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Marietas Islands
The first major stop is the famed Marietas Islands, a small and photogenic place north of Vallarta. You’ll spend about 2 hours here, which is enough time to enjoy some snorkeling, relax on the beaches, or explore the caves and rock formations. The island is a favorite for birdwatchers, with over 100 species of birds, and its rugged cliffs make it a photographer’s dream.

Snorkeling and Marine Life
The snorkeling gear is sanitized and well-maintained, so you can expect a good experience in the clear waters. You’ll likely see a variety of tropical fish, and there’s a chance to witness octopus, spotted rays, seahorses, and even turtles. Several reviews highlight the abundance of marine life, with one guest mentioning “lots of fish to see,” and many appreciating the crew’s knowledge about the surroundings.

Beach Relaxation and Scenic Views
The tour offers time to lounge on the secluded beaches, which are part of the islands’ appeal. One reviewer called the “hidden beach” spectacular, which is a common sentiment—this secluded spot is definitely a highlight. The cliffs, caves, and rock formations give you plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the scenery.

Wildlife and Whale Watching
From December to March, there’s a chance to see whales, which can be a real thrill. Some guests have reported close encounters with whales and dolphins during their trip, adding an extra wow factor to the day.

Onboard Experience

Food and Drinks
The tour includes a continental breakfast and a deli-style lunch, plus an open bar (alcoholic drinks only after water activities). The food is generally well-reviewed, with guests mentioning that the onboard meal was delicious. The inclusion of paddleboards and snorkeling gear adds to the fun.

Boat and Crew
The boat is smaller than some larger tours, which many travelers appreciate for the intimacy and less crowded vibe. The crew is noted for being attentive, entertaining, and helpful. One reviewer specifically praised the crew for involving all guests and making the trip enjoyable.

Transportation and Fees
You’ll need to cover a port tax of MX$35 and an island conservation fee of MX$85. These are standard park fees and should be taken into account when planning your budget. The tour doesn’t include transportation to the marina, so you’ll need to arrange that separately.

What Could Be Better?

While many guests enjoyed their day, some reviews highlight issues that are worth considering. A notable complaint was about reservation confirmation: one person mentioned their tour was canceled at 10 pm the night before, leaving little time to rebook. This kind of last-minute change can throw a wrench into your plans, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.

Plus, some found the boat to be smaller than expected, which could mean a more crowded or less stable ride depending on conditions. The port tax and conservation fee also add extra costs on top of the ticket price, so factor those in when budgeting.

Practical Tips

• Book early and confirm your reservation if possible to avoid last-minute cancellations.
• Prepare for some extra costs: port tax and conservation fee.
• If whale watching is a priority, go between December and March.
• Bring your own snacks or drinks if you prefer something specific, although the onboard meal is generally good.
• Dress comfortably for water activities, and don’t forget a waterproof camera or phone in a secure case.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach lounging in a small-group setting. It’s ideal if you value knowledgeable guides, good food, and the chance to see marine life without the crowds—though be aware of the potential reservation hiccups. It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a luxury experience or need guaranteed whale sightings, but for a fun, scenic day with friends or family (if they’re okay with the boat size), it can be a memorable outing.

In short, if you’re after a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation in beautiful surroundings, this tour offers a solid option. Just stay flexible, and you’ll have a good time exploring Puerto Vallarta’s marine side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves water activities like snorkeling and boat rides, so it’s best suited for older children and teenagers comfortable with water. Check with the operator for specific age restrictions.

Is the tour canceled if the weather is bad?
Yes, this experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll get a continental breakfast and a deli-style lunch. The food is well-reviewed and adds to the overall value of the trip.

How much extra will I need to pay?
You should budget for the MX$35 port tax and MX$85 conservation fee, both payable on the day. The snorkeling gear and paddleboards are included, but you can buy new snorkeling tubes onboard if desired.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect tropical fish, octopus, rays, seahorses, and turtles. During whale season (Dec-Mar), whale sightings are also possible.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is about 7 hours, giving plenty of time for activities, sightseeing, and relaxing on the beaches.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 guests, making it more personal than larger tours.

How do I get to the meeting point?
You’ll need to arrange transportation to the Paradise Village Public Pier in Nuevo Vallarta, the designated start location.

Final Thoughts

The Marietas Sail, Snorkel, and Beach tour offers a good mix of scenic vistas, wildlife viewing, and beach relaxation. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate smaller groups, good food, and Marine life encounters. While some logistical issues have been reported, many guests leave feeling they’ve had a memorable day exploring one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural spots.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day, this tour could fit the bill, especially if you’re visiting during whale season or want to enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Just remember to confirm your reservation early and prepare for some extra fees, and you’re likely to have a fun, scenic outing in Puerto Vallarta.