Sailboat: Explore & snorkeling, sunset and romantic sailing.

Exploring Vallarta by Boat: A Practical Look at the Marinus Experience

If you’re thinking about adding a boat day to your Puerto Vallarta trip, the Marinus sailboat tour offers a solid mix of adventure, relaxation, and romance. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and whether it might fit your travel style.

What immediately caught my attention are two standout features: first, the fact that it’s tailored to your preferences, meaning you get a personalized experience rather than a one-size-fits-all tour. Second, the opportunity to enjoy a sunset cruise with gourmet dining sounds like a seriously memorable moment to share with a partner or close friends. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour might not suit everyone—particularly if you’re prone to seasickness or need special accommodations, as it’s not wheelchair accessible. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, some adventure, and a touch of romance—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a relaxed yet engaging day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized experience: The tour adapts to what you want to do and see.
• Stunning views: Iconic landmarks like Los Arcos are part of the journey.
• Snorkeling fun: Great for exploring marine life in clear waters.
• Secluded beaches: Access to quieter spots beyond typical tourist spots.
• Romantic sunsets: Ideal for couples looking to celebrate or create special memories.
• Cost and inclusions: Priced at $657 for a group of up to 10, with food, drinks, and activities included.

What the Tour Offers: An Honest Breakdown

The Marinus sailboat experience seems designed with flexibility and comfort in mind. Starting at the emblematic lighthouse of Marina Vallarta, you’ll meet your crew and set sail on a journey that lasts around four hours—an ideal length to pack in a good mix of sights and activities without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Sailing from Timón 1 to Mismaloya (about an hour) gives you a warm-up and the chance to take in the coastal scenery. We love the way this initial stretch sets the tone—relaxing with the gentle motion of the boat and panoramic views of the coastline. The route then takes you to the main yacht section, which lasts about three hours, giving plenty of time for snorkeling, exploration, and enjoying the surroundings.

Iconic landmarks like Los Arcos are part of what makes this tour special. These towering rock formations are a must-see and perfect for photos. You’ll cruise past them and other notable coastal features, marveling at how nature carved out such dramatic shapes.

Snorkeling is a highlight—equipment is provided, and the waters are described as crystal-clear, making it easy to spot vibrant coral reefs and marine life. As one review notes, “the snorkeling was excellent, with plenty of colorful fish.” If you enjoy exploring underwater, this part of the trip adds a nice touch of adventure.

Secluded beaches like Playa Las Animas and Yelapa are among the tour stops, offering a chance to relax on soft sand or explore a local village. These spots tend to be less crowded, giving you a more authentic and peaceful experience away from busy tourist crowds.

The sunset cruise is often highlighted as the most romantic part of the experience. Imagine watching the sky turn gold and pink, with gourmet food served onboard. It’s the kind of moment that can turn a good trip into a truly memorable one.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers some tasty bites—guacamole with chips and ceviche—plus water, ice, and 12 beers. You can also enjoy paddleboarding and exploring at various stops, adding a bit of active fun. The tour provides snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and a live guide who speaks both English and Spanish, which helps make the experience accessible and relaxed.

However, keep in mind that towels and transportation from your hotel are not included, and there’s a modest port tax of 69 pesos per person. It’s worth budgeting a little extra for these extras. Also, since beverages are included but the menu is limited, you might want to bring your own drinks or inquire about beverage packages when booking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Group Size and Price

At $657 for a private group of up to 10, this experience gives you a good deal per person—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. It’s an intimate setting, allowing for personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Bring essentials: Towels, comfortable clothes, beachwear, sunscreen, and a hat are must-haves.
• Cash is handy: For tips or extras not included.
• Prepare for the weather: The boat has restrooms and shaded areas, but it’s wise to have plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Seasickness considerations: The tour might not be suitable for those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

The Overall Experience: What You’ll Love (and What to Keep in Mind)

What we love: The chance to see Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective, with the opportunity for quiet moments on secluded beaches or vibrant reef explorations. The sunset cruise with gourmet food seems particularly special—think of catching the sunset with a glass of wine or a cold beer in hand, watching the sky change color as the boat gently rocks beneath you.

What could be better: The tour duration, while generally sufficient, might feel a little quick if you’re keen on exploring more or indulging in longer snorkeling sessions. Some reviews mention that the experience is tailored but doesn’t go into detail about specific stops or activities, so if you’re looking for an in-depth cultural tour or extended water activities, you might want to plan additional adventures.

Worth mentioning: The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with severe seasickness, and extra costs like the port tax and transportation aren’t included. So, plan accordingly and consider these factors if traveling with someone with special needs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailboat tour is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of adventure. Couples celebrating a special occasion will find the sunset cruise romantic and memorable. Small groups or friends can enjoy the shared experience and the chance to customize their stops and activities.

It’s a good fit for those comfortable with boats and outdoor water activities, and who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots without spending an entire day on the water. If you’re traveling with kids, check the age and comfort level, as the tour might be better suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a boat ride and snorkeling.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other adventures.

What is included in the price?
The price covers food (guacamole and ceviche), water, ice, 12 beers, snorkeling gear, paddleboarding, and exploration at stops. Beverages are included but limited, so you might want to bring extra drinks.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is at the emblematic lighthouse of Marina Vallarta. The exact dock will be communicated, or you can expect a contact from the provider upon booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly mentioned, but since it involves snorkeling, boat rides, and water activities, it’s probably better suited for older kids and teens comfortable on boats.

Are there any hidden costs?
Yes, a port tax of 69 pesos per person applies, and transport from your hotel isn’t included. Towel and tip are also extras to consider.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

Final Thoughts

For anyone looking to experience Puerto Vallarta from the water in a flexible, intimate setting, the Marinus sailboat tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, fun activities, and romantic moments. The possibility of customizing your stops, snorkeling marine life, and ending the day with a stunning sunset makes it a well-rounded choice. While it’s not the cheapest activity around, the inclusions and private nature help justify the price for many travelers who want a special day out.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure that combines iconic views, some active water fun, and memorable sunsets, this could be just what you need. Just remember to consider the physical requirements and extras, and you’re set for a pretty fantastic day on the water.

Let me know if you have any questions or want tips on making the most of your Vallarta trip!

You can check availability for your dates here: