Puerto Vallarta: Catamaran Cruise With Snorkeling and Lunch

Imagine a day spent gliding over shimmering waters, stopping at pristine beaches, and savoring fresh local food—all for just over a hundred dollars. That’s exactly what you get with the Puerto Vallarta Catamaran Cruise. Starting from the lively port, this 7-hour adventure takes you around the highlights of Cabo Corrientes Bay, including snorkeling in Colomitos Beach and a tasty lunch at the Predator Beach Club. The experience is rated 4.4 stars, which is quite respectable for a tour that blends sightseeing, relaxation, and activity.

What we love are the stunning views of Los Arcos de Mismaloya—a natural wonder—and the well-organized mix of activities, from snorkeling to beach volleyball. The unlimited drinks and onboard entertainment make the journey lively, with plenty of opportunities to relax or join in. A small drawback might be the marina fee of 90 pesos per person, which adds a minor extra to the overall expense, but it’s a common practice in the area.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, water activities, and good food. If you’re eager to see iconic sights from the water and enjoy a full day of beachside fun, this experience offers excellent value and authentic moments.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Puerto Vallarta and Los Arcos.
• Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters at Colomitos Beach.
• Delicious lunch options at Predator Beach Club.
• Multiple beach activities including volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Onboard entertainment and unlimited drinks create a lively atmosphere.
• Visit to Quimixto Waterfall, with an optional scenic hike.
• All-in-one experience perfect for active, fun-loving travelers.
• Additional marina fee of 90 pesos per person is extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Detailed Look

The Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins in the morning (or afternoon, depending on your booking) aboard the “Predator of the Sea” catamaran, a vessel built for comfort and stability. The cruise provides a chance to see Puerto Vallarta’s skyline and coastline, with the chance to spot iconic landmarks along the way. The boat’s large, stable deck makes for excellent viewing and socializing, and the crew keeps the vibe upbeat with music and games.

One of the standout moments is the stop at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, a protected marine park famous for its dramatic rock formations that rise out of the water. These formations are a photographer’s dream and a great spot for some quick photos. According to reviews, “The views of Los Arcos are truly spectacular, and it’s worth just for that alone,” which many travelers echo.

Next, your boat anchors at Colomitos Beach, a small, secluded cove known for its crystalline waters—perfect for snorkeling. You get about an hour to splash around, float, and explore the underwater world. The water quality is praised by many, with one reviewer noting, “The snorkeling was surprisingly vibrant, and we saw some colorful fish swimming right beneath us.”

Following this, you’ll head to Quimixto Beach, where you can relax, play volleyball, kayak, or paddleboard. For those feeling energetic, there’s an excursion hike to Quimixto Waterfall, which adds a scenic outdoor element to the day. The trail is not overly strenuous, making it accessible to most; one guest mentioned, “The hike to the waterfall was surprisingly doable and rewarded us with a lovely cascade and a peaceful spot for a quick swim.”

Lunch at Predator Beach Club

After a busy morning of activity, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal at the Predator Beach Club, a popular spot known for its relaxed vibe. The menu includes options like fish fillet (breaded or grilled), quesadillas with guacamole, and grilled chicken—all well-prepared and satisfying. Many reviews highlight the good quality of the food for the price as a real plus, especially after a morning of swimming and exploring.

Beach Activities and Onboard Fun

Post-lunch, the fun continues with beach volleyball, kayaking, or paddleboarding, giving everyone a chance to get active or just soak up the sun. The boat’s crew keeps the atmosphere lively with music, games, and unlimited drinks, making it a party on the water.

The open bar is a big hit, and the drinks flow freely, ensuring nobody feels left out of the fun. Some guests mention that the onboard entertainment is simple but effective, with a good playlist and friendly crew members. It’s an ideal setup for travelers who want to socialize and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts around 7 hours, so packing sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel are essential. You’ll also want your waterproof camera or phone to capture the views. The meeting point varies, so double-check your booking details, and plan to arrive about 10 minutes early.

The marina fee of 90 pesos per person is an additional expense not included, so bring cash for that. This fee helps cover some marina services and is quite common in Mexico, but it’s worth knowing upfront to avoid surprises.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring beaches, and trying snorkeling. Couples or small groups looking for a relaxed yet engaging day will find it perfect. It’s also well-suited for those wanting a mix of sightseeing, beach time, and good food without the hassle of organizing individual activities.

However, it might not be suitable for pregnant women or travelers with mobility issues, especially if they want to hike to the waterfall or engage in strenuous activities. Also, if you prefer a more luxury-focused or secluded experience, this might feel a bit lively and busy.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

For $109 per person, this tour packs in a lot: scenic views, snorkel time, beach activities, a hearty lunch, and lively onboard entertainment. The multiple stops give you a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty—especially the iconic Los Arcos—and the chance to get your feet in the sand or splash in the water. The unlimited drinks add to the relaxed, party-like atmosphere, which many guests seem to enjoy.

The balance of activity and relaxation makes it suitable for those who want a full day of outdoor fun but don’t want to spend a fortune or overcomplicate their day. The included hike to Quimixto Waterfall is a bonus for nature lovers eager for a little adventure.

While it’s not a quiet, contemplative experience, it offers authentic sights and sounds of Puerto Vallarta’s coast with a good dose of fun. The tour’s positive reviews suggest it’s a well-organized, enjoyable way to spend a day, especially if you love being on the water and soaking up the sun.

FAQs

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $109 per person, with an additional marina fee of 90 pesos per person payable at the start or end of the trip.

How long is the tour?
Expect about 7 hours, from departure to return, including stops, lunch, and activities.

What does the tour include?
It includes a scenic cruise, stops at Los Arcos and Colomitos Beach for snorkeling, beach activities, lunch at Predator Beach Club, and onboard entertainment with unlimited drinks.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the waters are clear and calm, making it accessible for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
There’s an optional hike to Quimixto Waterfall, which is manageable for most but not recommended for those with mobility issues or pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for water activities and sun protection is best.

What about the drinks?
Unlimited drinks are included on board, with a selection likely including juice, soda, and alcoholic beverages.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point varies based on your booking, but plan to arrive 10 minutes early.

To sum it up, this Puerto Vallarta catamaran cruise offers a lively, enjoyable way to see the coast, snorkel in beautiful waters, and relax with good food and drinks. It’s perfect for active travelers craving a full day of sun, sea, and fun—especially if you appreciate stunning scenery and a sociable atmosphere. While not a quiet escape, it’s a well-rounded, value-packed experience that captures the spirit of Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here: