Full Day Tour Isla Marietas with Meals and Open Bar

Discover the Magic of Isla Marietas: Full Day Tour with Meals and Open Bar

A day trip to Islas Marietas National Natural Park offers a truly memorable escape into one of Mexico’s most stunning marine environments. Priced at $115 per person, this tour lasts around 6 to 7 hours, giving you a well-rounded experience packed with snorkeling, kayaking, and plenty of fun. Led by an enthusiastic crew, this trip is designed for travelers eager to see vibrant fish, dolphins, and even humpback whales during the right season.

What we love about this tour is how it combines adventurous water activities with generous meals and an open bar—great for those who want more than just sightseeing. The catamaran ride to the islands offers fantastic views, and the chance to explore caves and caverns makes this a visually stunning outing. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the length of the boat ride—about two hours each way—which might be tiring for some.

This tour appeals most to active travelers and nature lovers who enjoy both water-based exploration and having a lively atmosphere with good food and drinks. If you’re comfortable swimming and want a full day of fun in a beautiful setting, this could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Marine Diversity: You’ll see abundant fish, dolphins, and, seasonally, humpback whales.
• Activities Galore: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a scenic catamaran ride.
• All-Inclusive: Meals and an open bar on the boat contribute to great value.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Tours are limited to 80 guests, balancing social and intimate experiences.
• Timing & Duration: Starts early at 8:15 am for a full day of adventure.
• Considerations: Long boat ride and some reviews mention logistical issues or varying experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Isla Marietas Full Day Tour

We’ll take a detailed walk through what you can expect from this full-day adventure to the Islas Marietas, from the boat ride to the island’s hidden treasures, and the practicalities you should consider to get the most from your trip.

Starting Point & Departure

The tour begins promptly at 8:15 am at the Terminal Maritima API in Puerto Vallarta. The meeting point is on the second floor at the Beach Boy Agency, so arriving a little early can help ease any last-minute stress. You’ll be greeted by a friendly team, and from there, it’s a short walk through the lively Puerto Vallarta waterfront to board the catamaran.

One important note from travelers is that timing matters. If you’re on a cruise or have tight schedules, keep in mind that the tour has a fixed start time and an approximate length of 6-7 hours. The boat ride itself takes about two hours each way, so prepare for a somewhat lengthy transit. Some reviews mention this as a drawback, especially for those with tight cruise schedules. However, the scenic ride provides a chance to relax and enjoy the views of the bay and islands.

The Catamaran Trip: Scenic and Comfortable

Once underway, the catamaran offers a comfortable ride with plenty of space to relax, drink, and take photos. The crew is generally friendly and attentive, ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy an open bar—but be aware, this is only available during the return trip, not throughout the day, as some reviews point out.

The view of the coast and the approaching islands is a highlight, setting the stage for the adventures ahead. Keep your cameras handy because the sea spray, blue waters, and rocky formations make for stunning photos. Expect plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins if you’re lucky, as many travelers have noted dolphin sightings during the tour.

Exploring the Marietas Islands: Cave, Hidden Beach, & More

Upon arrival at the Marietas Islands, the crew will guide you through a variety of activities. The main attraction is the famous Playa del Amor, or “Hidden Beach,” accessible only by swimming through a cave or via a kayak. According to reviews, swimming proficiency is recommended, as the water can be choppy, and the entrance to the cave is not very forgiving for non-swimmers.

One reviewer highlighted: “You’ll need to be a strong swimmer to get to hidden beach. It was worth the effort and swimming through the cave was cool.” Conversely, a few travelers noted that access is limited and not included in the standard price, with a hefty additional fee of MXN 1000 if you want to visit the beach itself.

Apart from the hidden beach, you can explore sea caves and caverns around the islands by kayak or paddleboard, which are included in your package. The guided assistance makes it easier for beginners to enjoy the experience without worry.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to snorkel in vibrant waters teeming with multicolored fish. Fins, vests, and snorkels are provided, and many reviews mention the beautiful underwater scenery as a major plus.

A frequent comment from travelers: “The underwater world was colorful and lively, and it was easy to see why snorkel gear is so popular on this tour.” Kayaking and paddleboarding are also available, giving you options to explore at your own pace.

However, some reviews warn that water conditions can be rough, with choppy seas and strong currents. If you’re not comfortable swimming or snorkeling, this might limit your enjoyment, so consider your experience level.

Food, Drinks, & Relaxation

This tour offers breakfast and lunch, with the food being generally well-received. Expect salads, sandwiches, and local Mexican dishes, making it a satisfying meal after a morning of activity. Several reviewers appreciated the quality and variety of the food, calling it “delicious” and a good value.

Drinks are served on the boat and include soft drinks, juices, water, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. The open bar, however, is only available during the return trip. Some travelers felt that the limited variety of alcohol and timing affected their experience, while others simply enjoyed the flowing drinks and lively atmosphere.

Return & Reflection

The boat ride back is a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy the coastal views. The crew is attentive, often offering additional drinks and snacks as you unwind. Many travelers find this a perfect way to cap off the day.

A few reviews pointed out logistical hiccups, such as delays or confusion about additional fees. The admission fee for the park itself is MXN 33, paid at the entrance, so be prepared for that extra expense.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you’re particular about equipment, though the provided gear is generally adequate.
• Wear comfortable swimwear and a hat, and bring sunscreen, as you’ll spend a lot of time in the sun.
• Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress, and be prepared for the long boat ride—bring a book or music if you’re prone to seasickness.
• Book in advance, as the tour is popular and often booked 27 days ahead.
• Consider a private tour if you want more control over schedules or have specific needs, especially given some reviews mentioning group size and communication issues.
• Plan for extra costs if you want to visit Playa del Amor or participate in optional conservation activities like the Sermarnat bracelet.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a great pick for adventurous travelers comfortable with swimming and boat rides, who want a full day of marine exploration plus meals and drinks included. It suits those who enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and scenic boat rides, and who appreciate local Mexican cuisine.

However, if you’re sensitive to long transit times or prefer more relaxed, less activity-heavy excursions, you might find the boat ride exhausting or the included activities somewhat limited. Particularly, those who want to visit Playa del Amor should be prepared for additional costs and logistical considerations.

Final Words

This tour to Isla Marietas offers a balanced mix of adventure, nature, and good food, delivering a full day of memorable marine encounters. The scenic boat ride, snorkeling, and caves truly showcase the beauty of this protected area, making it a worthwhile choice for those eager to explore Mexico’s sea life.

That said, it’s not without its quirks—lengthy boat rides and some logistical hurdles have been mentioned by travelers. Still, if you’re prepared for a full day of activity and like the idea of all-inclusive meals and drinks, this tour provides excellent value and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

For those who thrive on active outdoor experiences and want a fun, social atmosphere, this tour is a solid option. Just remember to read the fine print, plan for extra costs if visiting the hidden beach, and enjoy the vibrant marine world of Isla Marietas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the open bar available all day?
No, the open bar is only available during the return trip on the boat, not throughout the entire day.

How much does the park admission cost?
It’s MXN 33 per person, paid upon arrival at the park.

Can I visit Playa del Amor?
Yes, but it costs MXN 1000 extra, and access is not included in the standard tour price.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride takes about two hours each way, so be prepared for a long transit—which some travelers find tiring.

What activities are included?
Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a scenic catamaran trip are included in the package.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Swimmers will enjoy snorkeling and cave exploration, but non-swimmers might find some activities challenging unless they are comfortable in the water or have assistance.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and possibly your own snorkeling gear. The tour provides equipment, but personal gear can be more comfortable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 27 days in advance, as the tour is popular and tends to fill up early.