Puerto Vallarta: Marietas Island Adventure, Lunch & Open Bar

If you’re headed to Puerto Vallarta and love a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and good food, the Marietas Islands tour is worth considering. For around $106 per person, you’ll spend about six hours sailing aboard a comfortable boat, exploring one of Mexico’s most striking protected marine parks. Imagine swimming in clear waters, discovering a secret beach, and enjoying a leisurely cruise with drinks and a tasty meal—sounds like a day well spent, doesn’t it?

What we like most about this experience is how it balances active exploration with relaxed enjoyment. The chance to snorkel and see a variety of marine life—like dolphins, sea turtles, and even humpback whales in season—is genuine. Plus, the opportunity to visit the famous secret beach at the Marietas Islands is a rare highlight. However, one thing to keep in mind is that weather and sea conditions can impact your day, especially if you’re keen on whale watching. This tour is perfect for travelers craving a fun-filled day with a good dose of nature and comfort.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic marine environments, loves snorkeling, and enjoys a lively yet laid-back vibe, this tour could be just right. It suits those who want to see iconic sights without spending a fortune or too much time on land-based activities. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

Stunning scenery and marine life: Snorkel with dolphins, turtles, and in winter, humpback whales.
Unique visit to the secret beach: Limited access, but unforgettable views and a memorable experience.
Comfortable sailing: The Bora Bora boat offers a smooth ride, with crew attentive to your needs.
All-in-one package: Includes breakfast, lunch, open bar, snorkeling gear, and kayaks.
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Value for money: Combining transportation, activities, and meals at this price is quite reasonable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Out from Puerto Vallarta

The tour departs from either the Maritime Terminal (API) or Puerto Mágico, with meeting arrangements made through Beach Boy company. The boat, named Bora Bora, is spacious enough for a group, and we found that the check-in process was straightforward. The confluence of the sailing adventure and the beautiful bay setting makes for an exciting start. You’ll be aboard for around six hours, mostly in the morning, which means you’re back before the afternoon heat hits hard.

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The Journey to the Marietas Islands

As we cruised northeastward through Bahía de Banderas, our crew provided a friendly welcome, offering a continental breakfast with sweet bread, fresh fruit, yogurt, and granola. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to start the day, especially as you settle into the boat’s relaxed atmosphere. Beverages, including nonalcoholic drinks, are available throughout, and later, you can enjoy alcoholic drinks on the return trip.

The boat ride itself offers a chance to admire the breathtaking scenery—craggy coastlines, rocky outcrops, and the playful splashes of dolphins often accompany the journey. We loved the way the crew shared little stories about the marine life and the significance of the protected park, making the trip both educational and fun.

Exploring the Marietas Islands

Once at the islands, the highlight is undoubtedly the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. Complete snorkeling equipment is provided, so all you need to do is bring your enthusiasm. We were impressed by the variety of marine life—seabirds soaring overhead and schools of colorful fish beneath the surface. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles and stingrays; in winter, you might even spot humpback whales—a truly majestic sight.

The famous secret beach at the islands is a major draw. Access is limited, so it feels exclusive, and the views from there are stunning. The beach is a quiet, hidden spot that rewards the effort of reaching it with a sense of adventure and awe.

The Marine Environment and Conservation

Our guides emphasized the importance of conservation efforts within the park, which is a recognition of how fragile and precious this environment is. We appreciated their insights, which added depth to the experience, especially for eco-conscious travelers.

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Activities at the Islands

Besides snorkeling, the tour offers kayaking—a fun way to explore the coastlines and get closer to the marine life. The crew made sure everyone was comfortable, and we saw families and solo travelers enjoying the activity equally. The boat’s layout and equipment made for a smooth experience, even for beginners.

While most reviews highlight the stunning views and the chance to see marine life, some guests have noted that weather conditions can influence the day’s success—particularly whale sightings. Still, even without whales, the scenery and snorkeling made the trip worthwhile.

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Lunch and Refreshments

After a couple of hours exploring the islands, a delicious lunch is served onboard. The menu is straightforward but flavorful, offering options like grilled fish or chicken, along with salads and fresh fruit. The emphasis is on quality and local ingredients, making the meal both filling and authentic.

The open bar comes into play after water activities, with a selection of beers, margaritas, and soft drinks. It’s a generous touch that adds to the relaxed, celebratory mood of the trip.

Returning and Reflection

As the boat makes its way back to Puerto Vallarta, we enjoyed the last moments of sunshine, reflecting on the spectacular scenery and the memories made. The crew was attentive throughout, ensuring everyone had a good time and felt safe.

This adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a balance between active engagement and relaxing comfort. It suits those interested in marine wildlife, scenic views, and authentic outdoor experiences. If you enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and the thrill of discovering a secret beach, this trip hits the mark.

It’s also a good choice for families or couples who want a fun and memorable day that combines nature, good food, and friendly service. Keep in mind that if whale watching is a priority, winter months offer a better chance, but the overall experience remains rewarding year-round.

The Puerto Vallarta Marietas Islands tour offers a well-rounded day of adventure and relaxation. It balances spectacular scenery with engaging activities and good food, all at a reasonable price. We loved how the tour includes snorkeling gear and kayaks, making it easy to dive into the water and explore at your own pace. The secret beach is a major highlight—an exclusive spot that makes this experience stand out.

While weather can influence wildlife sightings, the natural beauty of the islands and the chance to see marine creatures close up makes it a worthwhile outing. The friendly crew and the informative guides enhance the trip, making it educational as well as enjoyable.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and culturally rich experience that combines sailing, snorkeling, and local cuisine, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those who want a taste of the region’s stunning marine environment without overcomplicating the day.

What is included in the tour? The tour includes a continental breakfast, lunch, open bar (after water activities), snorkeling equipment, and kayaks.
How long is the tour? The experience lasts about six hours, usually available in the morning.
Where do I meet for the tour? You can meet at the Maritime Terminal (API) Puerto Vallarta or Puerto Mágico, with arrangements made through Beach Boy.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the activities like snorkeling and kayaking are generally family-friendly, but parents should consider age and swimming ability.
Will we see whales? You might see humpback whales in winter, but wildlife sightings depend on weather and season.
How is the boat ride? The Bora Bora boat provides a comfortable ride with scenic views and space to relax.
What should I bring? Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera. All snorkeling gear is provided.
Is the food local and fresh? Yes, the lunch features flavorful, local ingredients, and the breakfast includes fresh fruit and granola.

This tour offers a lively, scenic, and rewarding way to experience the beauty of Bahía de Banderas and the famous Marietas Islands—a memorable day for anyone eager to enjoy Mexico’s natural treasures.