Puerto Vallarta: Private Yelapa Beach & Snorkel Tour on a Yacht

A Luxurious Day on the Bay of Banderas: Private Yelapa Beach & Snorkel Tour

Imagine a day spent aboard a sleek, private yacht, cruising along the Puerto Vallarta coastline, with the sun warming your face and the sea breeze in your hair. For around seven hours, you’ll explore some of the most scenic spots around the Bay of Banderas, including snorkeling at Los Arcos Marine Park and visiting the secluded village of Yelapa. This tour, offered at approximately $1,147 per person, isn’t your run-of-the-mill boat trip. It’s a tailored, all-inclusive experience, perfect for families, couples, or friends craving comfort, personalized service, and authentic encounters.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of adventure with luxury. You get to snorkel in protected waters teeming with tropical fish, then relax on a sun-kissed beach while enjoying snacks and drinks on a well-equipped yacht. Plus, the flexible schedule means your group can choose whether to spend more or less time at each stop. The second highlight? Visiting Yelapa, a remote village largely untouched by mass tourism, where you can hike to a waterfall or simply soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

One thing to consider is that, at this price point, this experience leans toward those seeking a private, premium outing rather than a budget-friendly group adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and a mix of snorkeling, beach time, and cultural discovery. If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic, and slightly indulgent day on the water, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private luxury experience with a bilingual captain and crew for a personalized touch
• Snorkeling in Los Arcos Marine Park, one of the top natural attractions in Puerto Vallarta
• Flexible itinerary allows extra time at Yelapa or optional activities like hiking or ATV rides
• All-inclusive with open bar, snacks, WiFi, and restroom onboard for maximum comfort
• Ideal for families, couples, friends looking for a relaxed, authentic day with stunning coastal views

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Scenic Departure from Puerto Vallarta

Your adventure begins with a relaxed cruise down the coastline. From the deck of your private yacht, you’ll enjoy views of the iconic Puerto Vallarta church corona and the bustling Malecon. It’s a picture-perfect way to start the day, capturing sweeping vistas and the vibrant cityscape. We loved how the crew ensures a smooth, comfortable departure, setting the tone for the rest of your trip.

First Stop: Los Arcos de Mismaloya

The highlight of the snorkel stop is the Los Arcos National Marine Park, famous for its stunning rock formations and clear waters. Here, you’ll have a chance to snorkel among tropical fish in a protected environment, with the cave tunnel providing an excellent backdrop for photos. Several reviews highlight how memorable this snorkeling experience is, with Jeff noting, “We did some snorkeling… and were served excellent drinks and snacks by the crew.”

If conditions aren’t ideal at Los Arcos, you’ll cruise over to Majahuitas Beach as a backup spot, where snorkeling is also available. This flexibility means you won’t miss out even if weather or water conditions aren’t perfect, which is a smart feature for any outdoor adventure.

Cruising to Yelapa: A Hidden Gem

The journey from Los Arcos to Yelapa takes about half an hour, giving everyone ample time to relax on deck, sip drinks from the open bar, and enjoy the sea breezes. Yelapa itself is a secluded village accessible only by boat or hiking, offering a rare glimpse into unspoiled coastal life.

Yelapa: Beach, Waterfall, and Local Charm

Once ashore, you can explore the village at your own pace. The tour typically allows around two hours here, enough time to enjoy a casual lunch at a beachfront restaurant, which is not included in the price. Many travelers appreciate this flexibility—some choose to hike to the nearby jungle waterfall, while others prefer lounging on the beach. You might also opt for a short ride on ATVs or horses, with costs around $20-$30 USD for those activities.

Recent reviews highlight how magical this part of the trip is. Connie describes her experience as “the most fabulous time,” emphasizing how the attentive crew catered to every need, making the day feel special and stress-free.

Return Voyage and Scenic Views

After your time in Yelapa, you’ll cruise back along the coast, enjoying the stunning vistas and calming sea sounds. We loved the way the crew keeps the mood lively with music and ensures everyone’s needs are met. The yacht’s amenities, including WiFi and a restroom, contribute to a fuss-free experience.

What’s Included and What To Budget For

This tour offers quite a bit for the price—an open bar with water, soda, juices, beer, and cocktails, plus snacks like chips and guacamole. Use of snorkeling equipment is provided, and you’ll travel in air-conditioned comfort with onboard WiFi and restroom facilities.

However, note that lunch in Yelapa is not included, so planning for a meal or snack onshore is wise. Shore activities like ATV or horse rides are additional, costing about $20-$30 USD. These extras can enhance your day but are optional, giving you flexibility in planning.

Value Analysis

For over a thousand dollars, this experience is a splurge, but it’s packed with personalization, comfort, and authentic touches. Several reviews praise the crew’s attentiveness and the quality of drinks and snacks, which elevate the experience beyond a typical boat ride. If you’re looking for a memorable, hassle-free day with stunning scenery and premium service, the cost is justified.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private yacht adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, relaxed day that combines adventure with comfort. Families with children over 4 years old will enjoy the safe, calm waters and the flexibility in activities. Couples looking for a romantic escape or friends wanting a memorable group outing will find the personalized service and stunning views appealing.

It’s less suited for budget travelers or those who prefer large group tours or more active, adventure-heavy excursions. The focus on comfort, flexibility, and quality makes it a premium choice for special occasions or those wanting to indulge a bit while exploring Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

This private yacht tour offers a splendid mix of snorkeling, cultural discovery, and coastal scenery. The crew’s attentive service, combined with the yacht’s comfort, turns a fun day into a genuinely memorable experience. You’ll love the chance to see the underwater world at Los Arcos, then unwind in the peaceful village of Yelapa, all while enjoying drinks and good company.

While it’s a significant investment, the value comes from the exclusivity, flexibility, and quality of experience. It’s best suited for those who appreciate personalized service, scenic luxury, and a laid-back pace—an ideal way to make the most of your Puerto Vallarta visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children older than 4 years can participate. The relaxed pace and calm waters make it a good choice for families, especially if your kids enjoy snorkeling and beach time.

How long is the snorkeling at Los Arcos?
The snorkel stop at Los Arcos generally lasts around 30 minutes, giving you enough time to see tropical fish and explore the underwater scenery.

What should I bring for the Yelapa stop?
It’s wise to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. If you plan to hike or do activities like ATV riding, bring appropriate footwear and some cash for additional activities.

Is the lunch onshore included?
No, lunch is not included. You can choose to enjoy a meal at one of Yelapa’s beachside restaurants or bring snacks and drinks to enjoy on your own.

What amenities are available onboard?
The yacht features WiFi, a restroom, air conditioning, and an open bar. The crew takes care of your drinks and snacks, making the trip very comfortable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

This yacht tour from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa combines scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxed luxury—perfect for travelers wanting a memorable, stress-free day on the water. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a bit of pampering, it’s an experience that promises stunning views and personal touches you’ll cherish long after the trip ends.