Los Arcos, Animas and Quimixto Snorkel Cruise in Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

Experience the Best of Puerto Vallarta with the Los Arcos, Animas, and Quimixto Snorkel Cruise

If you’re seeking a day filled with stunning scenery, lively boat vibes, and accessible adventure, this all-inclusive tour covering Los Arcos National Marine Park, Las Animas Beach, and Quimixto offers a lot for around $76 per person. The trip lasts about 8 hours, beginning in the morning, with options to snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard—plus plenty of delicious food and drinks.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to see Puerto Vallarta’s iconic coastline from the water — especially the famous Los Arcos rock formations — and the all-day open bar and buffet meals that keep everyone happily fueled. Because the boat is large and the trip packed with activities, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a little of everything.

That said, one potential challenge is the variable quality of snorkeling and the busy schedule, which can sometimes feel rushed or disorganized, according to some guests. Still, if you’re the type who loves a lively, full-day adventure with a social atmosphere, this tour can be quite rewarding.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy social boat trips, scenic views, and active water sports, and who don’t mind waiting around or dealing with a crowd at times.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards are included.
• Diverse activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach time.
• Scenic views: Impressive rock formations and coastline vistas from the boat.
• Flexible stops: Options to relax on the beach or hike to waterfalls.
• Group size: Up to 40 travelers, creating a lively environment.
• Mixed reviews: Highlights of friendly guides and beautiful scenery balanced against some logistical frustrations.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Puerto Mágico at 9:15 am, giving you a relaxed start for a full day of exploration. You’ll be on a large catamaran—which can hold up to 40 people—meaning it’s lively but also crowded at times. The trip is designed to maximize your time visiting different spots without feeling too rushed, although some reviews suggest they could improve the timing, especially for snorkeling.

The Journey to Los Arcos

The first stop is Los Arcos, a natural sculpture of towering rocks formed by erosion and a magnet for divers and photographers alike. You’ll love the chance to snorkel in clear waters and admire the spectacular formations, which are home to a variety of marine life. However, several reviews mention that snorkeling here can be limited — sometimes only about 20-30 minutes — and water visibility in some instances has been murky, possibly due to weather conditions or water currents.

Authentic insight: One traveler noted, “The snorkeling sucked though only there like 20 minutes, no guide, water is super murky. They said that’s because of the cold water right now which is also why there are whales all over the place.” It’s worth knowing that weather conditions can impact water clarity, so don’t expect underwater photography to rival the Caribbean.

Las Animas Beach and Waterfall Hike

Next, the boat heads to Las Animas Beach, a lively stretch of sand with a few eateries and vendors. Here, guests can relax or choose to hike to a waterfall—a popular activity that offers a bit of physical activity and a scenic reward. One review enthusiastically mentions, “The hike was hard going up but worth it,” highlighting that the effort can be rewarded with stunning views and a refreshing waterfall swim.

You’ll love the option to stay on the beach or explore the waterfall, but be aware that extra purchases may be required—such as buying a drink to access some waterfall areas or to sit at the restaurant. Also, there are vendor stalls selling souvenirs, but they’re not part of the tour, and no pressure is applied to buy anything.

Quimixto and Waterfall Experience

After Las Animas, the boat takes you to Quimixto, where the highlight is another waterfall and a lovely beach. Several guests mention enjoying the hike to the waterfall and swimming in its pool. One comment notes, “Fun trip overall—seeing whales and stingrays, though snorkeling was disappointing due to visibility.” The waterfall area is free to enter, but some reviewers mention needing to buy a drink at the restaurant to access it.

Water Activities and Free Time

Throughout the trip, you’ll have access to snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards, but reviews suggest that availability and quality can vary. Some guests note that kayaks and paddleboards weren’t always available or usable, mainly due to weather or crowd size. For example, one reviewer said, “Imaginary kayaks, imaginary paddleboards” — indicating that sometimes equipment may not meet expectations.

Music, karaoke, and dancing help keep the mood lively onboard, creating a fun, party-like atmosphere. But others mention that the music can be loud or mismatched, especially on the return trip, which may not suit everyone.

Food and Drinks

The tour excels in offering hearty, all-you-can-eat buffets, featuring fish fillet, chicken fajitas, beef quesadillas, hamburgers, and salads. Reviewers generally praise the quality of the meals, describing them as better than anticipated for a tour of this kind. The open bar on board includes tequila, rum, vodka, beer, soft drinks, juices, and water—a big plus for those wanting to relax with a drink while soaking up the views.

However, one guest pointed out that lunch at the beach restaurant can be limited and sometimes underwhelming, with some extra costs for additional drinks or food. It’s worth bringing some cash for optional extras or tips.

The Overall Experience

Guests’ reviews paint a picture of a fun-filled, lively day with emphasis on the scenery, social atmosphere, and good value for money. The crew is frequently praised for being friendly and attentive, vital in creating a positive vibe—even when some logistical hiccups occur.

Yet, some reviews highlight disappointments with snorkeling duration and water clarity, with complaints about long wait times, equipment shortages, and crowded conditions. The experience can be hit or miss depending on weather, crowd levels, and personal expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best for adventurous travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, scenic boat rides, and active water sports. It’s suitable for those who are flexible and don’t mind some disorganization, as long as they’re looking for a full day of variety, good food, and lively company. If you’re expecting serene snorkeling or quiet beaches, you might find the experience somewhat hectic.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, fun-filled excursions with a splash of local flavor will likely enjoy the mix of activities and scenic stops. But if you prioritize serious snorkeling or tranquil beaches, you may want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This all-inclusive boat tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a balanced mix of scenic sightseeing, active water sports, and hearty meals, making it a compelling choice for those who want to maximize their day on the water. The cost includes food, drinks, and equipment, adding to its perceived value—and the lively atmosphere makes it great for groups, families, or solo adventurers eager to meet others.

The experience shines brightest when you’re ready to relax, enjoy the views, and participate in the various activities. It’s perfect if you’re open to a day of lively fun and scenic splashes, with the understanding that some elements—like snorkeling and equipment—may not always meet high expectations.

If you’re someone who thrives on a combination of sightseeing, socializing, and a little adventure, this tour strikes a decent balance. Just come prepared for some waiting, a crowd, and variable water clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the tour starting point included?
No, ground transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your way to Puerto Mágico at the specified start time.

What time does the tour begin?
The tour departs at 9:15 am, so arriving a little earlier is recommended to settle in comfortably.

How long does snorkeling last?
Snorkeling usually lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, but this can vary depending on weather and crowd size.

Are kayaks and paddleboards available throughout the trip?
They are included, but some reviews suggest that availability and quality may be inconsistent, sometimes limited by weather or crowd.

What is the cost of the dock fee?
There is a MX$32.00 per person fee for the Los Arcos Marine Park, payable on the spot.

Can I stay longer at the stops or skip some?
Yes, you can choose not to participate in certain activities or stay longer on the beach—these decisions are up to you, and the tour is flexible in that regard.

In all, this tour is a lively, well-rounded option for those wanting to see Puerto Vallarta’s coast from the water, enjoy a variety of activities, and indulge in good food and drinks—all packed into a single, action-filled day. It suits travelers looking for fun, social experiences that highlight the natural beauty of the area, even if it’s not the quietest or most tranquil way to explore the region.