Islas Marietas Tour on Catamaran – Departures from Puerto Vallarta

Islas Marietas Tour on Catamaran – Departures from Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for a full-day escape from the busy streets of Puerto Vallarta, this Islas Marietas tour offers a delightful blend of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking views. For about $92 a person, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying good food and lively company. Led by Vallarta Stap Travel, this trip is designed to give you a taste of both the natural beauty and the fun-loving spirit of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the all-inclusive water sports equipment—from snorkel gear to paddleboards—and the unstructured free time that truly allows you to relax at your own pace. The open bar and on-board entertainment ensure you’ll stay refreshed and entertained throughout the day. That said, if you’re not comfortable on boats or prefer highly structured tours, this might not be the best fit for you.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back yet active day with opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the islands. It suits families, couples, or groups of friends eager to enjoy the ocean without the hassle of planning every detail. If you love great views, water activities, and a relaxed vibe, you’ll want to consider this trip.

Key Points

• Comfortable full-day experience blending exploration and relaxation.
• All water sports gear provided for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Delicious meals and open bar included, making the day both tasty and fun.
• Flexible free time to swim, sunbathe, or explore at your own pace.
• Stunning scenery of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline and the Marietas Islands.
• Family-friendly with activities suitable for most travelers.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour begins bright and early at 8:00 am from Puerto Magico, right in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone. The initial part of the journey is aboard a comfortable catamaran, where you’ll enjoy a continental breakfast and hot cakes (including fruit, yogurt, granola, honey, and juice). As you set sail, the Pacific coastline unfurls around you—expect to see sweeping views of Puerto Vallarta’s skyline and mountains.

The highlight of the day is reaching the Marietas Islands National Park, a UNESCO-protected marine sanctuary famous for its unique rock formations and vibrant marine life. Once there, you’ll have the freedom to choose your preferred activities. We loved the way the tour emphasizes unstructured free time—you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, paddle around in a kayak, or simply relax on deck with a drink in hand, savoring the panoramic ocean views.

One of the most talked-about features is the optional visit to Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor)—a secret cove accessible only through a water tunnel or via a small opening in the rocks. While not officially included in every trip, many guests find it to be a memorable highlight. Just keep in mind that access may depend on weather conditions and the tour’s timing.

The water activities are well-supported, with equipment provided, and the calm, clear waters of the islands make snorkeling particularly enjoyable. According to one reviewer, “I got to swim in the ocean and kayak for the first time ever,” which highlights how accessible and friendly these activities are for first-timers.

The Onboard Experience: Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

After your activities, the boat’s open bar kicks in, offering alcoholic drinks as you sail around the islands or relax on deck. The included lunch is hearty and well-prepared, often described as delicious and filling—perfect after some active water fun. Expect a lively atmosphere with music, games, and even karaoke, making the return trip just as entertaining as the morning.

This lively onboard vibe is one of the reasons many travelers rate this tour so highly, with the only minor consideration being that some might prefer a more tranquil experience. But if you enjoy socializing and fun, you’ll love the sense of camaraderie that develops among the group.

The group size can go up to 90 travelers, but the experience feels intimate enough thanks to the thoughtful organization and friendly crew.

The Value of This Tour

At $92 per person, the tour offers a lot of value—combining transportation, activities, meals, drinks, and entertainment into one package. When you compare that to the cost of booking each activity separately or renting water sports gear on your own, it’s quite reasonable. Plus, the convenience of having everything arranged means you spend more time enjoying and less time worrying about logistics.

The inclusion of insurance on board and the government fees ($10 and $3) are typical of tours operating within protected areas, and they’re clearly communicated upfront. The free cancellation policy also adds peace of mind, allowing you to change plans if needed, as long as you do so 24 hours in advance.

The Authentic Experience and Who It’s For

This tour captures a nice balance of planned activities and free time, making it ideal for those who want to explore but also relax. The natural scenery of the islands combined with the lively onboard environment creates a fun, authentic Mexican adventure. As one reviewer put it, “Everything was so amazing,” and the opportunity to snorkel and kayak for the first time made it particularly memorable.

It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate stunning views, enjoy water activities, and want a full day of fun without feeling rushed. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find plenty to love here. Just remember that some parts of the tour, like visiting Hidden Beach, might depend on weather conditions and group size.

The Sum Up

In short, the Islas Marietas Tour on a Catamaran from Puerto Vallarta offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day in a beautiful setting. You get to witness some of Mexico’s most iconic sights while partaking in water sports, relaxing on deck, and indulging in tasty food and drinks. The flexible free time and lively onboard atmosphere make it suitable for travelers who want a mix of adventure and laid-back fun.

For those who value stunning scenery, good company, and the chance to explore the ocean in a hassle-free way, this tour hits many marks. It’s a great option for anyone looking to connect with nature, enjoy the sea, and have a lively day with all the logistics taken care of.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am from Puerto Magico, and you’ll need to arrive a little earlier to check in.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the activities and relaxation.

Are water sports equipment included?
Yes, all water sports gear—snorkel, kayak, paddleboard—is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Is food included?
Yes, a continental breakfast, hot cakes, and a hearty lunch are included, along with an open bar on the return journey.

Can I visit Hidden Beach?
The tour offers an optional visit to Hidden Beach, but access depends on weather conditions and group size.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the activities are family-friendly, but it’s best to consider individual comfort with boats and water activities.

This full-day trip to the Marietas Islands promises a lively, scenic, and memorable experience — just the kind of adventure that makes Puerto Vallarta so special.