Yelapa and Majahuitas Snorkeling Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

Experience the Charm of Puerto Vallarta with the Yelapa and Majahuitas Snorkeling Cruise

Looking for a day filled with stunning scenery, aquatic adventures, and authentic Mexican charm? This Yelapa and Majahuitas snorkeling cruise offers a comprehensive escape in Puerto Vallarta, costing around $100 per person for approximately 8 hours of fun. Led by friendly guides, the trip takes you on a beautiful catamaran ride along the coast, stopping at picturesque spots like the hidden waterfalls of Yelapa and the tranquil beaches of Majahuitas. Expect a mix of snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural exploration wrapped in a lively, all-inclusive package.

What makes this tour really shine are the delicious onboard meals and generous open bar, which keep spirits high throughout the day. Plus, the chance to swim with marine life and explore a charming, car-free Mexican village makes for a truly authentic experience. On the downside, some travelers mention that the water visibility for snorkeling can be unpredictable—sometimes murky, especially after storms. Nonetheless, if you’re a beach lover or adventure seeker, this trip is tailor-made for you.

This cruise suits those who enjoy a balanced mix of relaxation and activity. If you appreciate good food, lively guides, and scenic boat rides, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see a less touristy side of Puerto Vallarta while enjoying water-based fun and local culture.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with food, drinks, and activities included
• Scenic boat ride on a comfortable catamaran with live music
• Authentic cultural stops in Yelapa with waterfalls and crafts
• Variety of water activities: snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding
• Delicious onboard meals and an open bar for a lively atmosphere
• Potential water visibility issues for snorkeling, depending on weather conditions

A Scenic Day on the Water: What to Expect

This tour kicks off early, with a meet-up at Puerto Magico in Puerto Vallarta, around 9:15 am. From there, you board a beautiful catamaran that becomes your floating lounge for the day. A continental breakfast gets everyone energized, and the national open bar—featuring tequila, rum, vodka, beer, soft drinks, and fresh juice—sets a festive tone. The boat’s lively atmosphere, complete with music, encourages good conversation and dancing as you cruise along the coast, soaking in views of the green mountains and sparkling sea.

The first major highlight is the stop at Yelapa, a car-free fishing village famous for its natural beauty. Here, the highlight is the Cola de Caballo waterfall, which involves a short but lush walk through jungle terrain leading to a beautiful cascade. Many reviews rave about this hike, calling it “a walk you will never forget,” and offering a refreshing escape from the beach into the jungle.

Yelapa’s long beach, where the river meets the ocean, provides a perfect spot to relax, swim, or explore native crafts sold by local artisans. You might encounter lively markets, handmade jewelry, or traditional textiles. Several reviews call Yelapa “beautiful” and note the town’s laid-back, authentic vibe—a welcome change from busier resort areas.

Next, the trip continues to Majahuitas, where snorkeling is on the menu. You’ll get snorkeling gear, and many travelers appreciate the opportunity to swim with marine fauna. However, water clarity can vary; some mention murky waters or less-than-ideal visibility, especially after storms. Still, the chance to paddle around in kayaks or on paddle boards keeps the water fun alive.

The Waterfall Adventure

One of the tour’s signature moments is the visit to the Cola de Caballo waterfall. Guided by bilingual guides, you’ll hike through lush jungle, listening to bird calls and feeling the spray of the waterfall. Several travelers compare this to “a walk through a natural wonderland,” and many find it a peaceful, memorable part of the day. After the hike, you can cool off in the natural pools or simply enjoy the scenery.

The waterfall visit is often praised for its natural beauty and the chance to escape into nature, offering a stark contrast to the boat’s lively vibe. It’s suitable for most ages, though some reviews mention the terrain can be a bit uneven.

Culinary Delights and Refreshments

Back on the boat, you’re treated to a hearty lunch at Vela Roja, a local restaurant along the coast. The menu offers fish steak, beef fajitas, chicken quesadillas with shrimp, and beef burgers, as well as fish ceviche and shrimp cocktail. Many reviewers note the quality and freshness of the food, describing it as “delicious” and “generous.” The onboard continental breakfast includes bread, seasonal fruits, yogurt, and granola, giving a healthy start.

Complementing the meals is the all-you-can-drink open bar, which keeps the energy lively. Rum, tequila, vodka, beer, and soft drinks are available throughout the trip, making it ideal for those looking to celebrate or just relax in good company.

Water Activities and Entertainment

For the more active, the snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and paddle boards are included, offering plenty of ways to enjoy the water. The boat also provides life vests and insurance for peace of mind. Several travelers highlight the friendly crew, like Jorge, who helped make the journey enjoyable and engaging.

Music and games are part of the entertainment, helping keep the atmosphere upbeat, especially during the return leg. Some reviews mention that snorkeling can be hit or miss—with murky waters sometimes limiting what you can see. One reviewer even noted being stung by a jellyfish but appreciated the crew’s quick help.

The Realities: Pros and Cons

While most travelers find this tour enjoyable, it’s important to consider some practical points:

• Water visibility for snorkeling can be inconsistent. If you’re hoping to see vibrant marine life, it might depend on the weather conditions that day.
• The timing can be a bit flexible, especially if you’re on a cruise, and some mention that the schedule might run late, so be prepared for a longer day.
• The quality of the water at Majahuitas has been described as “murky,” with some reviewers feeling the snorkeling was “not very good” or “grossed out” by the water.
• English-speaking guides are available, but some reviews note that communication could be improved, especially when explaining activities or safety procedures.
• The additional tax fee of MX$32 per person at piers and reefs is an extra expense to budget for.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those eager to experience local culture. If you enjoy scenic boat rides with lively company, delicious food, and water activities, this tour hits the mark. Families and groups looking for a full-day escape will appreciate the mix of exploration and relaxation. However, if you’re primarily interested in snorkeling and want crystal-clear visibility, you might find the waters less predictable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $100, this all-inclusive day trip offers a lot—scenic views, cultural stops, water activities, and tasty meals. The friendly guides and lively atmosphere make it particularly appealing, especially if you’re looking for a fun, social adventure. The hike to Yelapa’s waterfall is often highlighted as a highlight, giving you a chance to connect with nature in a peaceful setting.

However, the water clarity issues and some perceptions of disorganization suggest it’s not a perfect, seamless experience. It’s best suited for travelers who can roll with minor hiccups and prioritize a fun-filled, authentic day on the water over a perfectly curated tour.

This cruise offers good value for money and a genuine taste of Puerto Vallarta’s charming coast and culture, making it a memorable addition to your vacation.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
You get a catamaran ride, continental breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddle boards, and an open bar with various drinks. On-board insurance and music are also provided.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:15 am and returning to the meeting point in Puerto Vallarta.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a MX$32 per person fee for taxes at piers and reefs, which is payable on the day of the tour.

Is snorkeling worth it?
Many travelers enjoy snorkeling, but some mention water clarity can be murky or less than ideal, especially after storms. It’s a fun activity, but don’t set your expectations too high for seeing abundant marine life.

Can I participate if I don’t swim well?
Yes, life vests are provided, and if you’re comfortable in the water, you’ll enjoy the snorkeling and kayaking. Guides typically help and supervise if needed.

What’s the food like?
The onboard meals are described as delicious and generous, with options like fish steak, beef fajitas, and shrimp quesadillas. Many reviewers enjoyed the quality and freshness.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially if your family enjoys water activities, scenic hikes, and good food in a relaxed setting.

How’s the group size?
Most trips have a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Puerto Magico in Zona Hotelera Norte, easily accessible from most Puerto Vallarta accommodations.

In short, this Yelapa and Majahuitas snorkeling cruise offers a lively, scenic, and culturally rich day out in Puerto Vallarta. With friendly guides, delicious food, and plenty of water fun, it’s a worthwhile choice—just be prepared for variable water visibility and a flexible schedule. Perfect for those looking to combine adventure with authentic local charm in a relaxed, all-inclusive setting.