Marietas Islands Boat Tour: Snorkel, Kayak, Playa Nopalera - An In-Depth Look at the Marietas Islands Boat Tour

6 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In La Cruz De Huanacaxtle (With Prices)

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle stands out as a prime spot for boat tours and cruises due to its prime location in Bahia de Banderas and its access to both vibrant marine life and luxurious vessels. Whether you’re eager to snorkel among colorful fish at the Marietas Islands or relax aboard a sleek private yacht, this town offers a wide range of options. We particularly like the Marietas Islands Boat Tour for its combination of snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and stunning coastal scenery. Plus, the fully equipped water toys and the chance to enjoy a fajita lunch make it both fun and filling. For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Private Luxury Yacht Chica 55′ VIP offers top-tier comfort with its all-inclusive service, jet skis, and plush lounges.

La Cruz’s boat tours cater to all interests—from families wanting waterslides to adventure lovers craving marine exploration. The variety means you can choose a casual half-day sail or a full luxury cruise with all the bells and whistles. This diversity makes La Cruz an excellent base for anyone eager to experience the sea in style or with a bit of adventure.

1. Marietas Islands Boat Tour: Snorkel, Kayak, Playa Nopalera

Marietas Islands Boat Tour: Snorkel, Kayak, Playa Nopalera

This 6-hour boat tour from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle takes you out to the famous Marietas Islands, a protected marine reserve known for its astounding biodiversity. You’ll start your day with breakfast on board, then enjoy an open bar as you cruise across Banderas Bay, taking in the stunning coastal views. What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive nature — you’ll snorkel among tropical fish, paddle kayaks, and lounge at Playa la Nopalera, famous for its hidden beach. The boat itself is fully equipped with waterslides and water toys, making it perfect for families or groups that want active fun.

The tour includes a guided visit to the Islas Marietas National Park, where you can marvel at the unique volcanic formations and spot marine life. Lunch is a fajita feast, served after snorkeling and kayaking, giving you energy for more water adventures or relaxing at Playa la Nopalera. Reviews highlight the lush scenery and the variety of marine activities, with an average rating of 4.5/5 based on 31 reviews, making this an excellent value at $130 per person.

Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a full day of wildlife, water fun, and scenic views in a compact package.

2. La Cruz Marina: Private Boat Tour on ChicaSAILING Adventure

For those who prefer a tailored experience, the ChicaSAILING Adventure offers a luxurious 41-foot sailboat perfect for cruising along the Puerto Vallarta coast. This private tour lasts about five hours and is all-inclusive, meaning you can relax without worrying about additional costs. It’s a great choice for romantic getaways or small groups who want a quiet, intimate day on the water. The boat features sun and shade options, plus a premium open bar, so you can enjoy the scenery in comfort while sipping on your favorite drink.

The crew provides personalized service, making this trip feel more like a yacht experience than a commercial tour. You can choose to anchor for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. Since it’s private, you can customize your stops and activities, making it perfect for those with specific interests or celebrating special occasions. The tour’s reviews aren’t listed, but the ship’s size and all-inclusive approach suggest excellent value for a relaxed, luxury day.

Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a private, comfortable cruise with premium service.

$1,089 per group up to 8

3. Private Luxury Yacht Chica 55′ VIP All Inclusive + Jet Ski

If your idea of a perfect day includes luxury cruising, water toys, and top-notch service, the Chica VIP delivers. This Italian-built 55-foot Azimut yacht is designed for up to 10 guests, offering ample lounge seating on multiple decks. The all-inclusive package features a premium open bar and includes jet skis and water toys, making it ideal for thrill-seekers and those who want a touch of glamour.

This tour offers a flexible itinerary, with options for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying regional cuisine onboard. It also includes a “secret stop” for a break in the day, giving you a unique experience away from the crowds. The 4-hour cruise provides plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and party on the water. With the boat’s luxurious amenities and attentive crew, this trip is perfect for celebrating special occasions or just indulging in a high-end day out.

Reviews are not specified, but given the vessel’s size and all-inclusive luxury, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want comfort and exclusivity. Expect to pay around $3,267 for this VIP experience, which is a good value considering the size, amenities, and service level.

Bottom Line: For luxury lovers who want privacy, high-end amenities, and plenty of water toys, this yacht Tour is a standout.

$3,267 per group up to 10

4. Private Mega Yacht Limousine of the Sea 1: Puerto Vallarta

If you’re dreaming of the ultimate luxury experience, the Mega Yacht Limousine is the top of the line. With space for up to 65 people, this private mega yacht offers a 4-hour cruise with all the bells and whistles. As you’d expect, it comes with a premium open bar, water activities, and a highly personalized service — your own captain and crew make it a true custom experience.

The itinerary includes a 30-minute yacht cruise, stops for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and regional dining. The boat’s size allows for a dance show or sunset viewing, making it perfect for larger groups celebrating milestones or corporate events. The boat’s spacious decks and luxury features provide a VIP feel. Although specific reviews aren’t listed, the high capacity and customizable nature make it a flexible option for big groups.

Price is $6,262, which reflects the scale and luxury level. It’s best suited for large groups or those wanting to splurge on an unforgettable day at sea.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for big celebrations or corporate outings wanting luxury, privacy, and plenty of space.

$6,262 per group up to 65

5. Private Yacht Charter Chica Fun 1 Waterslides all inclusive

The Chica Fun 1 offers a lively, family-friendly option with waterslides, water toys, and an all-inclusive premium open bar. At 65 feet, this yacht can comfortably host up to 15 guests for a four-hour cruise. It’s perfect for families or groups looking for a fun-filled day on the water, combining adventure with relaxation.

The itinerary features a secret stop for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying regional snacks, with a focus on active fun for all ages. The yacht is equipped with two waterslides, paddleboards, and kayaks, making it easy for everyone to get in the water. The all-inclusive package ensures you don’t need to worry about extra costs while enjoying drinks, meals, and entertainment.

Guests have praised the boat for its fun family atmosphere, and the water slides are a highlight. The price of around $2,178 for a group of 15 offers good value, considering the amenities offered. The trip is ideal for families or groups looking for a lively day with plenty of water activities.

Bottom Line: Perfect for families or groups wanting a fun, active day with waterslides and all-inclusive drinks.

$2,178 per group up to 15

6. Private Yacht Charter Chica Fun 3 Waterslides all inclusive

This Chica Fun 3 offers a 4-hour private cruise with two waterslides and all the water toys you could want. Similar in size to its sibling, it is designed for up to 15 people and features the same lively atmosphere, ideal for families and friends. The boat includes a jumping deck, giving it a playful vibe.

The itinerary features swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and regional snacks, with a focus on active fun. The all-inclusive service covers drinks and meals, making it a hassle-free day at sea. The boat’s size and features make it particularly appealing for those wanting a playful, family-friendly experience.

While specific reviews aren’t available, the consistent inclusion of slides, water toys, and high-capacity layout suggest good value and lots of fun. With the price at $2,178, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a lively day on the water.

Bottom Line: Great for active families or groups looking for a fun, play-filled cruise with waterslides and inclusive amenities.

$2,178 per group up to 15

How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

Choosing among these options depends largely on your budget, interests, and group size. For a full-day, active adventure with snorkeling and wildlife, the Marietas Islands Tour offers an excellent balance of adventure and value. If you want a luxury experience with privacy and water toys, the Chica VIP Yacht or the Mega Yacht Limousine are top picks. For families or groups seeking fun and active water play, the Chica Fun 1 with its waterslides matches perfectly.

When booking, consider the length of the tour, whether you prefer an all-inclusive package, and if privacy or group size is your priority. Many tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so early booking is recommended.

In summary, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle offers a wide array of boat experiences, from wildlife-packed day trips to luxurious private yachts. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or celebration, there’s a perfect cruise waiting. For most travelers, booking in advance and choosing a tour that matches your interest and budget will ensure a memorable day on the water.