Private Marietas Islands Tour

A Private Trip to the Marietas Islands: A Close-Up Look at Puerto Vallarta’s Hidden Gems

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring one of Mexico’s most fascinating natural sites, the Private Marietas Islands Tour offers a tailored experience that balances adventure and comfort. For around $850 per group (up to 4 people), you get approximately five hours of exploring, snorkeling, and possibly fishing, all aboard a well-equipped 34-foot Neptune boat. With pickup included and the option to customize the trip with 6 or 8-hour options, this tour emphasizes flexibility and privacy—perfect for families, friends, or couples seeking an intimate escape.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to get close to the Marietas Islands, known for their stunning wildlife, hidden caves, and incredible scenery. The boat itself is a highlight—spacious, shaded, with a stereo for your favorite tunes, and equipped with a bathroom and ice chest to keep drinks cold. Two standout features are the snorkeling gear included, allowing you to dip into clear waters teeming with marine life, and the chance to try recreational fishing, which adds an extra layer of activity for those wanting a more hands-on adventure.

A potential consideration is the extra fees for visiting the Cave of Love or purchasing island access bracelets. These are not included in the base price and require additional planning and cost, which might surprise some travelers. Also, the $5 USD port fee per person is a small but necessary expense to keep in mind.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a personalized, relaxed environment and are eager to enjoy the natural beauty of the bay and islands. It’s a great choice for those who value privacy, good equipment, and flexible itineraries that can be tailored to your group’s interests.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience for groups of up to 4, ensuring personal attention.
• Includes snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks, making for a convenient day without bringing a lot of extras.
• Flexible trip lengths (4, 6, or 8 hours), with options to visit the Marietas Islands and fish along the way.
• Comfortable boat with shaded and sun areas, a bathroom, and stereo sound system.
• Extra fees apply for visiting certain sites like the Cave of Love and for island bracelets.
• Excellent for small groups seeking a relaxed, intimate day on the water with professional guides.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The core of this tour is the private boat—a 34-foot Neptune vessel that strikes a good balance between comfort and agility. The boat is designed for up to 14 passengers but is usually enjoyed more intimately with just your group of up to four. It’s equipped with snorkeling gear to explore the rich underwater life, which is a highlight for many travelers. The inclusion of snacks like ceviche and bottled water means you can relax and focus on the scenery without worrying about bringing along refreshments.

Starting from Marina Vallarta, the guide will meet you at the designated point—an easy location near public transport—and then it’s onto the water. We loved the way the boat’s shaded areas kept us cool during the midday sun, while the stereo system allowed us to enjoy our playlist. The boat’s bathroom is a practical addition, especially during longer trips, and the ice chest ensures your drinks stay cold.

The itinerary varies based on your selected duration. For the 4-hour trip, you might stick closer to the shoreline, getting an overview of the bay’s beauty, while the 6 and 8-hour options open up the possibility to visit the Marietas Islands more thoroughly. The islands are famous for their hidden caves and abundant birdlife, making them a magnet for nature lovers. You can also opt to go fishing—either recreationally or around the islands—adding a fun, active element to your day.

One of the most popular features is snorkeling around the islands. Many travelers comment on the clarity of the water and the vibrant marine life. As one reviewer pointed out, “We rented an all-inclusive 5hr excursion with TB Tours for 8 people. The captain, Pacco, and first mate, BamBam, were exceptional. They showed all around the shoreline of Jalisco and the islands.” It’s clear that the guides add a lot of value with their local knowledge and friendly service.

However, visiting the Cave of Love requires an extra fee of about $900 pesos per person, and access is subject to availability. If you’re eager to see this particular site, planning ahead and budgeting for this additional expense is wise. The island access bracelet also costs 120 pesos per person and is necessary to enter certain areas.

The experience is well-suited for travelers who want a private, flexible day on the water. Those craving a guided adventure that can be customized to their interests—whether snorkeling, fishing, or just relaxing—will find this offering a great fit.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour provides a personalized, hassle-free way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s gorgeous coastline and the famous Marietas Islands without the crowds or generic group outings. The all-inclusiveness of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear makes it a convenient choice, especially for those who dislike bringing a lot of gear or planning every detail themselves.

The small group size ensures a quiet, intimate atmosphere—perfect for couples or small families wanting quality time together. The flexible itinerary allows you to choose how long to spend exploring, and the guides’ local knowledge can turn a simple boat ride into a memorable adventure.

Pricing might seem steep compared to larger, group tours, but when you consider the private setting, the quality of equipment, and the personalized service, many travelers find it offers excellent value for a special day on the water. If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience with the ability to customize your day around your interests, this tour is a very appealing option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You will have use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, ice, snacks like ceviche, and soda. The boat is equipped with stereo sound, a bathroom, and an ice chest for your convenience.

How many people can join the tour?
The boat can accommodate up to 14 passengers, but for this private tour, your group is limited to 4 people, ensuring personalized attention.

Are there additional fees I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a $5 USD port fee per person. Visiting the Cave of Love requires an extra 900 pesos per person, and island access bracelets cost 120 pesos per person.

Can I fish during the trip?
Yes, recreational fishing is offered as part of the experience, either around the islands or during the boat ride itself.

What is the duration of the tour?
You can select from approximately 4, 6, or 8 hours. The base tour is about 5 hours, with longer options allowing more time to explore the islands or enjoy additional activities.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Tb ToursQuilla in Marina Vallarta and ends back at the same location.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the private setting makes it good for families, couples, or small groups. It’s especially appealing if you value a tailored experience rather than a large tour.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, towels, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera for photos. The boat supplies snorkeling gear, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer personal equipment.

Final Thoughts

This Private Marietas Islands Tour offers a well-rounded package for those seeking a personalized and comfort-focused day on the water. The combination of snorkeling, fishing, and exploring makes it versatile enough to appeal to a wide range of travelers. The small group size and professional guides ensure a relaxed atmosphere, while the modern boat amenities keep everyone comfortable.

It’s a particularly good option for anyone who enjoys independent planning but prefers the safety and ease of guided activities. While the extra fees for certain sites add a layer of planning, they also let you customize your adventure and avoid overcrowded tourist spots. If you value privacy, flexibility, and the chance to experience Puerto Vallarta’s coastline in a more intimate way, this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

For those on a tight schedule or budget, it’s worth considering whether the added comforts and customization justify the cost. But overall, this tour strikes a great balance between value and exclusivity, especially for travelers eager to make the most of their time on the water.