Puerto Vallarta: Private Boat Trip to Yelapa with Snorkeling

Imagine cruising along Mexico’s Pacific coast in a sleek private boat, with your own guide sharing stories of the local flora and fauna. For around $762, your group of up to 10 can spend six hours exploring Yelapa—its beaches, underwater life, and a waterfall hike included. The trip promises stunning coastal views, vibrant marine ecosystems, and authentic village charm without the crowds.

Two things we especially love about this experience are the personalized attention from your naturalist guide and the chance to snorkel in calm, clear waters teeming with colorful fish and even a sea turtle or two. Plus, the opportunity to hike to a waterfall and take a refreshing swim adds a satisfying adventure element.

One possible consideration is the need to be comfortable entering and leaving the boat with a ladder; if mobility is a concern, this might not be the best fit. Still, for active travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and discovery, this trip hits many marks. It’s perfect for those who want a private, flexible experience that combines marine life, scenic views, and local culture in one seamless package.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour for up to 10 guests ensures flexibility and attention.
• Snorkeling in calm, clear waters reveals a vibrant underwater world of tropical fish and sea turtles.
• Guided hike to Cascada de Yelapa provides a scenic, refreshing escape from the beach.
• Authentic village exploration offers a glimpse into local fishing life.
• All-day adventure balances relaxation with active exploration.
• Cost includes snorkeling gear, naturalist guide, and insurance, but expect to pay additional for lunch and the dock fee.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Yelapa Private Boat Trip Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your journey begins at Ecotours de Mexico, conveniently located at the entrance of the EcoTours Vallarta, next to the marina ramp. From here, a speedboat whisks you away on a roughly one-hour scenic ride along the coastline. As you leave Puerto Vallarta behind, you’ll instantly notice the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean—the shimmering waters, rugged cliffs, and lush hillsides all contribute to the sense of adventure.

The boat ride itself is a highlight. It’s quick enough to keep your energy high and offers plenty of photo opportunities. We loved how the boat’s speed kept the trip lively without feeling rushed, and the open-air design allowed us to soak in the ocean breeze and sunshine.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Once in Yelapa, the first major highlight is the snorkeling stop. With provided equipment, you’ll hop into calm, clear waters to observe the marine environment. From the reviews, it’s clear that this snorkeling spot is notable for its vibrant fish and the chance to spot a sea turtle—something that delighted many travelers.

Your naturalist guide will point out various tropical fish and share insights about the underwater ecosystem. This is especially appealing for those who enjoy marine life but don’t want to spend hours on a complicated dive. The calm waters make for easy swimming, and the underwater visibility is generally good.

What stands out here is the personalized attention. According to a review, guides like Cynthia and Rafael made the experience memorable by sharing their knowledge and even taking photos at no extra charge, which is rare in tour experiences.

Exploring Yelapa Village

After snorkeling, you’ll move into the heart of the trip: the quaint fishing village of Yelapa. It’s a place where time seems to slow down. The village, accessible only by boat or foot, offers a look at traditional Mexican life. You can stroll along the shore, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the relaxed pace.

Your guide may take you on a short walk along the beach or through the village, where you’ll see colorful houses and meet friendly locals. It’s a genuine slice of life away from Puerto Vallarta’s tourist-heavy areas.

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Hike to Cascada de Yelapa

One of the trip’s most acclaimed features is the guided hike to Cascada de Yelapa, a waterfall tucked into the lush hillside. The roughly one-hour walk involves uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. The trail winds through tropical foliage, and the payoff is the chance to cool off in the natural pool beneath the waterfall.

Many travelers, like the reviewer who described the experience, appreciated the opportunity to combine outdoor activity with breathtaking scenery. The swim in the cool water is a perfect refreshment after the hike, and the setting makes for fantastic photos.

Beach Relaxation and Lunch

Following the waterfall adventure, you’ll have ample time to relax at Yelapa Beach. For about 2.5 hours, you can swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This part of the tour is appreciated for its flexibility—many choose to simply unwind in the sand or take a stroll along the shore.

Lunch is available at your own expense, and while the tour doesn’t include it, you’ll find options at local eateries or bring your own snacks. The relaxed pace here is ideal for soaking in the scenery and preparing for the return journey.

Return Trip and Final Thoughts

After a leisurely afternoon, you’ll hop back onto the speedboat for the roughly one-hour ride back to Puerto Vallarta. The return provides more chances for photos and soaking up the last views of the coast.

The entire experience is designed to be a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exposure. It’s clear that the guides’ knowledge and friendliness elevate the trip—many reviews emphasize their professionalism and care.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat trip suits active travelers who enjoy a mix of water activities, hiking, and cultural exploration. It’s ideal for small groups seeking a personalized experience without the crowds. If you’re comfortable swimming and entering the boat via a ladder, you’ll have no trouble enjoying the entire itinerary.

It’s especially recommended for those who want to see marine life close-up and explore a traditional Mexican village with authentic charm. Families, couples, or friends looking for a flexible, scenic day out will appreciate the balance of guided adventure and free time.

Price and Value Considerations

While $762 for a group of up to 10 might seem steep at first glance, the price includes private transportation, snorkeling gear, a naturalist guide, and insurance. Comparing this to other tours in the area, the personalized, intimate nature of a private experience adds substantial value—no crowded boat or noisy group.

Extra costs include a $50 dock fee per person (cash paid on-site) and your own lunch, but these are reasonable for such a tailored experience. Given the positive review praising the guides’ professionalism and the ability to take photos, many find the price justified.

FAQs

• How many people can join this tour? Up to 10 guests per group, making it intimate and flexible.
• What is included in the price? The tour includes the private boat, snorkeling equipment, naturalist guide, purified water, ice, cooler, and travel insurance.
• Are meals provided? No, lunch is not included, but there are options at the village or you can bring your own.
• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras.
• Can children participate? This tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, and participants should be able to swim and enter/exit the boat with a ladder.
• Is there a cancellation policy? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• What happens in bad weather? The tour is weather-dependent and will be rescheduled if conditions are adverse.
• Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues? It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchairs.
• What language is the tour in? Guides speak both Spanish and English.
• How long does the tour last? Approximately 6 hours, usually in the morning.

Final Thoughts

For travelers craving a personalized, active day in Puerto Vallarta, this private Yelapa trip offers a fantastic blend of scenic boat rides, vibrant snorkeling, and authentic village charm. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to escape the crowds and experience a local side of Mexico that few travelers see.

The guides’ expertise and friendly approach make all the difference—many reviewers praise their knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile, whether by sharing wildlife facts or snapping photos for you. The combination of underwater discovery and mountain hike offers a well-rounded adventure that appeals to outdoor lovers and culture seekers alike.

If you enjoy small-group, flexible tours that respect your pace and curiosity, this experience delivers genuine value. Perfect for couples, friends, or families who want an authentic, memorable day on the coast of Jalisco.

In essence, this private boat trip to Yelapa is a fantastic way to see a side of Puerto Vallarta that’s often hidden—full of natural beauty, local color, and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: