Catamaran Islas Marietas – Snorkel & Open Bar

A Day on the Water: Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Marietas Islands by Catamaran

When you’re in Puerto Vallarta and craving a blend of stunning scenery, water sports, and a bit of carefree fun, a trip to the Marietas Islands via a catamaran offers a tempting escape. For around $92 per person, this full-day adventure promises a boatload of activities—from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to lounging on deck with drinks in hand. It’s a popular choice, often booked 218 days in advance, which says a lot about the appeal.

What we love about this tour: First, the views of Banderas Bay and the Pacific coastline are simply breathtaking—there’s something about sailing along shimmering waters that makes you feel genuinely away from it all. Second, the variety of water activities is fantastic; paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling mean everyone can find a way to enjoy the water, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just dipping your toes in.

However, there are some considerations. One of the biggest complaints has been about crowds—some reviews mention over 100 people on the boat, which can take away from the sense of intimacy. Also, the experience may not match expectations if you’re looking for an authentic catamaran experience; the vessel’s size and the on-board amenities may sometimes fall short of a more boutique or private adventure.

This tour is perfect for those who want a full day of fun with friends or family, enjoy water activities, and appreciate scenic views with lively onboard entertainment. If you’re seeking a relaxing day with good food and drinks in a lively setting, this one might be your match.

Key Points

• Includes all water sports gear for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Offers a comprehensive meal service, featuring breakfast, lunch, and an open bar.
• Ideal for travelers wanting a full day of adventure and scenic sightseeing.
• Crowd levels can be high, sometimes over 100 guests, which could affect the experience.
• The onboard entertainment includes music, games, and karaoke, adding a lively vibe.
• The ability to see local wildlife makes it educational as well as fun.

An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Islas Marietas Tour

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This 10-hour day trip begins bright and early at 8:00 AM at Puerto Mágico, where you’ll meet your crew and hop aboard a sizable catamaran. The journey starts with a delicious breakfast—think hot cakes, fresh fruit, yogurt, and juice—that sets the tone for a day full of indulgence and adventure.

Once sailing, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Banderas Bay and the Puerto Vallarta skyline, setting a scenic tone that’s hard to beat. The first major highlight is arriving at the Marietas Islands, a protected marine park known for its dramatic rock formations and abundant wildlife. Here, you’ll have opportunities to snorkel among vibrant fish, paddleboard around rocky coves, or simply relax on the deck soaking in the ocean views.

The Water Activities

The water sports equipment is provided, making it easy to jump right in. Snorkeling here means swimming in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life—many travelers find it a highlight. Kayaking and paddleboarding around the islands offer a quieter way to explore the secluded coves and rocky arches.

An optional visit to the Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor) is often a memorable part of the trip. However, access to the beach can sometimes be limited or crowded, which is worth keeping in mind, especially during peak seasons.

Food and Drinks

Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy a buffet-style lunch that includes fresh items like hot cakes and other tasty options. The open bar is available on the return journey, offering a range of drinks to toast your day. While some reviews mention the drinks “hardly had any alcohol,” overall, the atmosphere onboard is lively, with music, games, and even karaoke that keep spirits high.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

One of the tour’s downfalls, according to some travelers, is the large group size—over 100 people in some cases. While this can mean a fun, party-like atmosphere, it may reduce the sense of personal connection or serenity for those seeking a more intimate experience.

Wildlife and Nature

A key aspect of this trip is spotting local wildlife—birds, marine life, and possibly even dolphins—adding an educational component. The UNESCO-protected status of the islands underscores their ecological importance, making it a worthwhile visit for nature lovers.

Considerations from Past Travelers

A notable negative review highlights that the description was inaccurate—the trip was not on a true catamaran, and the crowd size was much larger than expected. The guide was predominantly Spanish-speaking, which could be a challenge if you’re seeking an English-language experience. The food was described as “so-so,” and the drinks “hardly had any alcohol,” which suggests that expectations around quality might vary.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

• Meeting Point: Puerto Mágico, with the tour starting promptly at 8:00 AM.
• Duration: About 10 hours—plan for a full day.
• Price: $92 per person, including breakfast, lunch, water sports gear, and open bar.
• Additional Fees: There are government fees of $3 and $10 per person, paid separately.
• Group Size: Up to 90 travelers, so expect a bustling environment.
• What to Bring: Swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, but check for any personal limitations.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re looking for a lively, all-in-one day on the water with plenty of swimming and socializing, this trip fits the bill. It’s a good choice for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a fun, guided experience with good food and entertainment.

However, if you prefer a more intimate or tranquil experience, or if your priority is a more authentic sailing adventure, you might find the large crowds and party atmosphere less appealing. It’s also worth noting that if you’re seeking an experience with a strictly English-speaking guide, the reviews suggest that might not always be guaranteed.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This full-day tour to the Marietas Islands offers a lively, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities to enjoy water sports, delicious food, and panoramic views. For travelers who thrive in energetic environments, love socializing, and want a comprehensive experience that combines nature with entertainment, it’s a solid option.

On the other hand, the crowd size and occasional discrepancies between expectations and reality**—like the actual vessel or language spoken—call for a bit of caution. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind sharing their space with many others and are happy to go with the flow.

Overall, it’s a good value for the price—especially if you enjoy a day full of activity, wildlife sightings, and lively vibes—making it a memorable addition to any Puerto Vallarta adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 AM and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers breakfast, lunch, all water sports equipment (snorkels, kayaks, paddleboards), an open bar on the way back, and insurance onboard.

Are water activities suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s a good idea to bring your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes. Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent for eco-friendly protection.

Is there a visit to the Hidden Beach?
Yes, the tour offers an optional stop at Playa del Amor, but access may depend on crowd levels and weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Are drinks strong?
The open bar includes alcoholic beverages, but some reviews mention the drinks “hardly had any alcohol,” so don’t rely solely on the drinks for your fun.

What is the group size?
Up to 90 travelers, which can be lively but might feel crowded for some.

To sum it up, this catamaran trip to the Marietas Islands offers a lively, scenic, and activity-packed day that highlights the natural beauty and fun spirit of Puerto Vallarta. It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine water sports, wildlife viewing, and good food in a social setting. Just keep in mind the crowd factor and set your expectations accordingly for a memorable day on the water.