Puerto Vallarta: El Chimo Scuba Diving Expedition

Puerto Vallarta: El Chimo Scuba Diving Expedition
Location: Jalisco, Mexico
Country: Mexico
Price: $189 per person
Supplier Name: Vallarta Undersea

A Quick Look at What You Get
This 1.5-hour scuba adventure in Puerto Vallarta takes you to El Chimo, one of the most captivating underwater spots along the coast. Led by experienced guides like Carlos (if you’re lucky enough to get his attentive service), you’ll explore vibrant marine life and colorful reefs. For $189, you get two tanks, top-notch gear, a delicious box lunch, and the chance to experience diverse sites like Los Arcos or Marietas Islands, depending on the day.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances professionalism with a personal touch. The small group size (limit of 8 participants) means you’ll get plenty of individual attention, which makes a difference if you’re new to scuba or just want a relaxed experience. Another highlight is the rotating dive sites; this keeps the experience fresh, avoiding the sameness of visiting the same underwater scenes repeatedly.

One possible consideration? The tour duration is only 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a quick taste of the underwater world but might leave those craving a longer adventure wanting more. Also, transportation from Nuevo Vallarta is an optional extra, so if you’re staying in that area, plan accordingly.

This experience suits those who want a professional, small-group dive, are okay with a short but unforgettable underwater visit, and appreciate well-organized tours with excellent value for the price. It’s ideal for beginners, families, or seasoned divers looking for a quick sightseeing fix without overcommitting.

Key Points

• Small Group Focus: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Multiple Sites: Rotates between popular spots like Los Arcos and Marietas Islands.
• Inclusion of Gear and Lunch: All equipment and a tasty box lunch included in the price.
• Flexible Options: Choose shared or private boat trips, with vessels equipped for comfort.
• Convenient Schedule: Usually available in the morning, departing at 9:00 am.
• Optional Pickup: From Nuevo Vallarta, with additional fee, for added convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Briefing

Most tours start at 9:00 am from Marina Vallarta, which is a convenient hub if you’re staying nearby. The first part of the morning is dedicated to a thorough briefing and gear setup, guided by your experienced Dive Master. This session is essential, especially if you’re new to scuba, as it ensures everyone understands safety procedures and how to use the equipment properly.

The First Dive

At 10:00 am, you’ll slip into the crystal-clear waters. The marine environment of El Chimo attracts a variety of colorful fish, corals, and sometimes even playful sea creatures like rays or small sharks. Reviewers have commented on the “stunning views” beneath the surface — a phrase that perfectly captures the vibrant underwater life you’ll witness.

Relax and Replenish

After your first underwater adventure, the Dive Master quickly prepares your second tank while you relax on the boat, enjoying the breeze and sunshine. This short break is a good chance to take photos, chat with fellow divers, or simply soak in the scenic coastline.

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The Second Dive

The second stop varies depending on the day’s schedule. Some days you’ll explore Los Arcos, a famous rock formation that’s teeming with marine life, offering more chances to see schools of fish and interesting coral structures. On other days, the Marietas Islands provide a different perspective, including access to snorkel spots and tide pools (access to the hidden beach can be extra).

Lunch and Return

Following the second dive, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared box lunch—think sandwiches, fruit, and snacks—perfect for re-energizing after your underwater activities. The crew’s attention to dietary restrictions and preferences is appreciated, making this a relaxed moment before heading back. The tour concludes with a return to Marina Vallarta, or an optional pickup from Nuevo Vallarta.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $189, this package covers all essential gear, boat transport, two tanks, and a delicious lunch. The small group setting means you’re not just a number, and the personalized attention from guides like Carlos enhances safety and enjoyment. The rotating sites ensure you won’t get bored, and the entrance fees to protected areas are included, which often adds hidden costs elsewhere.

What the Experience Feels Like for Travelers

Many reviewers have shared that the stunning views beneath the water are worth every penny—bright fish darting between coral, the play of sunlight through the water, and the feeling of weightlessness. The professional guides make sure even beginners feel comfortable, sometimes noting how they appreciated the clear instructions and friendly attitude.

If you’re an experienced diver, you’ll value the well-maintained equipment and the option for private trips, which can be tailored to your interests. For families or first-timers, the small group sizes create an intimate atmosphere, reducing the intimidation often felt at larger, busier dive spots.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Bring swimwear, towel, and sunscreen; you’ll want to be comfortable both in and out of the water.
• Extra clothes are handy for after your dives, especially if you plan to explore Puerto Vallarta afterward.
• Cash is useful for souvenirs, tips, or additional expenses, like extra snacks or accessories you might want.
• If you’re staying in Nuevo Vallarta, consider the pickup option; it’s an added convenience but comes with an extra fee.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This scuba adventure is perfect for those wanting a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s underwater world without dedicating a full day. It’s suitable for beginners, thanks to the safety briefing and small group setting, but also appeals to more experienced divers who want a quick, well-organized trip. Families with kids comfortable in the water will appreciate the friendly guides and the safe, controlled environment.

Plus, if you’re short on time but want a memorable ocean experience, this short but sweet tour offers plenty of value and stunning sights. It’s also a solid choice for travelers seeking an authentic, personal connection with the local marine environment, rather than a big, impersonal package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour provides a thorough briefing and has a small group setting, making it friendly for beginners. The guides are attentive and ensure safety at all times.

What is included in the price?
The $189 fee includes two tanks, all scuba gear, a box lunch, boat transportation, guide service, bottled water, life jackets, and entrance fees for protected areas.

Can I choose between shared or private trips?
Yes, you have the option to go on a shared trip with fellow divers or rent a private boat for a more personalized experience.

What sites will we visit?
The tour rotates between Los Arcos, Majahuitas, Marietas Islands, and Los Arcos National Park depending on the day of the week.

Is transportation from Nuevo Vallarta available?
Yes, an optional pickup from Paradise Village public pier at 8:00 am is available for an additional fee. The tour ends back at Marina Vallarta, but transportation to your hotel is not included.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience, from departure to return, is about 1.5 hours of actual diving time, with some extra time for briefing, gear setup, and lunch.

In summary, the El Chimo Scuba Diving Expedition combines professionalism with a personal touch, offering an accessible way to see Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant underwater world. Its small groups, rotating sites, and inclusive amenities make it a great choice for travelers of all experience levels looking for a quick, memorable ocean adventure. Whether you’re new to diving or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the stunning views and the friendly, organized approach of Vallarta Undersea.

You can check availability for your dates here: