Marietas Islands Snorkel Cruise from Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive

The big draw is the boat ride to the Marietas Islands, where you can snorkel near the reefs, visit Playa la Nopalera, and watch for whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds along the way. I like the mix of water activities and the friendly entertainment, including music, dancing, and karaoke.

I also like that breakfast and lunch are served aboard, and that kayaks, paddle boards, life vests, and snorkel gear are included. The main catch is that Hidden Beach is not included, despite the all-inclusive wording, and several extra charges can make the final cost higher than the advertised price.

Key points to know before booking

• Playa la Nopalera is the included beach stop: You get off at this small beach, while the famous Hidden Beach requires a separate reservation and extra payment.
• The boat ride takes much of the day: Plan on roughly nine hours, with some accounts describing a total closer to 11 or 12 hours.
• Snorkeling time can be short: The stop may last about 20 minutes, and water clarity changes with conditions.
• The open bar may not operate all day: Several accounts say alcoholic drinks were mainly served on the return trip.
• Extra fees are due at the port: Budget for the MX$32 dock tax and MX$180 Conape and Semarnat charge.
• The crew is a major part of the experience: Names mentioned include Jonathan and Rogelio, along with bilingual hosts who lead games, music, and safety instructions.

The long ride from Puerto Vallarta to the islands

This is a full-day sea outing, not a quick island shuttle. You meet at Puerto Magico on Boulevard Francisco Medina Ascencio at 8:30 a.m., then board a catamaran for the run toward the Marietas Islands.

The listed duration is about nine hours, but I would keep your schedule open for longer. Accounts of the trip describe boat rides of roughly two to three hours each way, with some days lasting 11 or even 12 hours from start to finish. That time matters when you are comparing this cruise with a shorter departure from Sayulita or Punta de Mita.

The ride itself can be pleasant when the sea is calm. You have views across Banderas Bay, breakfast on board, and a chance to spot marine life. Whales, dolphins, and turtles have all been seen during the crossing, though wildlife is never guaranteed.

The boat has more than one level, and music and group activities help break up the ride. The tradeoff is comfort. Some accounts describe older boats, hard or dirty plastic chairs, loud music, and long stretches with little to do on the way out. If you get seasick, sit where the motion feels mildest, bring a light layer, and consider taking your usual motion-sickness precautions before departure.

Breakfast starts the day at sea

Breakfast is included and is described as a continental-style meal with eggs and ham, fruit, and juice. Other food descriptions include eggs and chilaquiles. It is a useful start because the first major activity may not happen for several hours.

Lunch comes later, after the island activities. The meal may include a cold meat baguette, hamburger and fries, salad, ceviche, chips, kabobs, or similar simple boat food. Some people found the food tasty, while others found it plain or served too late. That difference may depend on the day and the meal being offered.

I would eat breakfast even if you are not hungry and carry a small snack. Several accounts describe lunch arriving after 2 p.m., and one particularly delayed outing did not serve lunch until after 4 p.m. Snacks are not clearly included, so bring your own if you need food between meals.

The boat also advertises a national open bar with beer, tequila, rum, vodka, brandy, whiskey, soft drinks, juice, and water. In practice, the timing deserves attention. Some accounts say the alcoholic bar opened mainly during the final hour or 90 minutes of the return ride. Do not book this expecting cocktails while snorkeling or sitting on the beach.

Reaching the Marietas Islands and Playa la Nopalera

The Marietas Islands are protected islands at the mouth of Banderas Bay. Their rocky shapes, arches, caves, and seabird colonies make the approach more interesting than a simple beach transfer.

The included beach stop is Playa la Nopalera. It is small, and you reach it in groups, often using a smaller boat from the catamaran. The beach is attractive and worth seeing, but the time ashore can feel short. Some accounts describe about 20 minutes, which is enough for a quick swim or photos but not enough for a lazy beach afternoon.

You need to follow the crew’s timing closely. The water can have a strong current, and life vests are required. That rule may feel strict if you are a confident swimmer, but it is sensible around rocky shores and boat transfers.

Playa la Nopalera is the part of the tour that matches the basic package. The trip also passes outside several island features, including the Bufadora, the caves, and the Second Crater. You may view these from the main boat or during a guided approach, but you should not assume that every cave or interior area is part of the standard stop.

Hidden Beach is a separate experience

The most important booking detail is the difference between Playa la Nopalera and Hidden Beach, also called Playa del Amor. The famous beach inside a rocky crater is not included in the standard package.

Access requires a separate reservation, an additional payment, and available space. The amount described in the accounts is around MX$1,000, though the exact price and availability may change. Even with payment, entry is not guaranteed if permits or spaces are full.

This is not a small technical difference. If Hidden Beach is your main reason for visiting the Marietas Islands, ask the operator directly before you pay. Confirm three things: that the reservation is available on your date, that the fee includes the boat transfer and entry, and that weather or park restrictions will not prevent access.

The extra trip may involve a small boat transfer and getting into the water. That means more exposure to waves, currents, and jellyfish. One account describes stings during a Hidden Beach transfer. The operation also needs strict timing, since people returning late can delay the whole boat.

Snorkeling near the reefs

The snorkeling stop takes place near the reefs along the Marietas Islands. Equipment and life vests are included, and the crew gives instructions before you enter the water. Kayaks and paddle boards are also available.

The quality of the snorkeling depends heavily on conditions. Some outings have produced plenty of fish, while others had murky, reddish water and little to see. Jellyfish have also caused snorkeling to be canceled on at least one occasion. That is frustrating, but it is better than forcing people into unsafe water.

Time is the bigger concern. Several accounts describe about 20 minutes in the water, with many people sharing a limited number of masks and equipment. A crowded snorkeling area can mean bumping elbows rather than quietly watching fish.

If snorkeling is your top priority, this may not be the strongest choice. You are paying for a broad boat day with food, entertainment, beach access, and water gear, not a long guided reef session. Bring realistic expectations and ask whether the crew uses staggered groups on your departure date.

Check your equipment before entering the water. One account reported a dirty mouthpiece, so I would request clean gear immediately if anything looks questionable. The crew is expected to provide safety support, and some accounts praise the way staff assisted people who were not strong swimmers.

Kayaks, paddle boards, and life vests

The inclusion of kayaks and paddle boards gives you something to do beyond snorkeling. These are especially useful if the water is cloudy or you prefer staying on the surface.

Do not expect unlimited access. The equipment supply is limited, and many people may want a turn. One account described only a few kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkel sets for a large group. You may get a short turn rather than an uninterrupted session.

Life vests are included and required in the water. This is helpful for families and anyone who feels uneasy in open sea. The activity is generally suitable for most people, but pregnant women beyond four months cannot take the tour.

The group size is advertised at a maximum of 40 people. Some accounts describe a much larger number on board, so I would confirm the expected capacity with Live&Travel Tours before booking if personal space matters to you. Crowding affects every part of the day, from seating to beach transfers and water equipment.

Passing the Bufadora, caves, and stone arches

The boat passes outside the Bufadora, the caves, and the Second Crater. These formations are part of the visual appeal of the island trip, even when you do not enter every opening.

The Bufadora is a blowhole area where water can surge through the rock. Seeing it from the boat is weather dependent, but it gives the ride a clear point of interest. The caves and stone arches are also best appreciated from the water, where you can see their shape against the island’s cliffs.

An ecological boat tour may take you closer to the rocks and explain the island’s birds and geology. That option costs extra. A blue-footed booby is one of the most interesting species in the area, and a separate eco tour offers a better chance to see island wildlife up close. One account also noted the value of learning about blue-footed boobies and other birds with yellow or orange feet.

If you want a wildlife lesson, ask about the ecological tour before boarding. Do not assume that the basic cruise includes a close approach to nesting areas.

Crew, music, and the social side

The crew can make or break a long day at sea. The strongest part of this experience is often the human side. Bilingual guides lead safety instructions, explain the activities, organize transfers, and keep the boat moving with music, games, dancing, and karaoke.

Jonathan and Rogelio are names connected with helpful service, and several accounts praise the crew for being friendly, organized, and attentive. One guide was especially good at snorkeling instruction. Another account described the staff as excellent with families and people who did not know how to swim.

The entertainment style is lively and not subtle. Some people enjoy the dancing and games. Others find the music too loud or repetitive, especially during the long crossing. If you want a quiet nature cruise, this is probably not your boat.

The social format suits people who like meeting others and joining group activities. It is less suited to anyone seeking private time, quiet conversation, or a calm luxury setting. Keep personal boundaries in mind as well. Professional conduct matters, and one account described an inappropriate invitation from a host after an otherwise enjoyable day.

Is the $87.04 price a good deal?

At $87.04 per person, the base price is appealing for a nine-hour boat day that includes transportation, breakfast, lunch, basic drinks, snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddle boards, a beach stop, and entertainment.

The advertised price is not the full cost. At the meeting point, you must pay a MX$32 dock tax and a MX$180 Conape and Semarnat charge, for MX$212 per person in listed fees. Hidden Beach and the ecological tour cost extra, and photographs may also be offered for an additional charge.

The value is strongest if you want a social catamaran day with several elements bundled together. You can eat on board, see the islands, use water equipment, and enjoy the return ride without arranging separate activities.

The value is weaker if you mainly want Hidden Beach or serious snorkeling. Those goals require extra money and may still be affected by limited space, water conditions, or park rules. A more expensive operator may offer a better fit if you care most about equipment, quieter service, or a carefully managed island visit.

Who should book this cruise?

I would consider this tour if you want a full day at sea and enjoy a casual party atmosphere. Families can benefit from life vests, bilingual guides, food on board, and several activity choices. Non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat, scenery, and eco options, though all water activities require care.

It also works well for cruise ship passengers because the meeting point is an easy walk from the cruise pier, and the listed return point is the same place where you started. Build in extra time, since sea conditions or delays may extend the day.

I would think twice if you hate long boat rides, need a quiet setting, or are booking specifically for Hidden Beach. I would also compare other operators if you want a large, comfortable boat with generous space around the snorkeling area.

Final verdict: fun island day, but read the fine print

This Marietas Islands cruise offers a lot for the base price: a catamaran crossing, two meals, island scenery, snorkeling, surface gear, Playa la Nopalera, and lively bilingual hosts. The chance to see whales or dolphins on the way is a welcome bonus, though it cannot be promised.

The weak points are clear. The ride can be long, snorkeling may be brief and cloudy, seating and equipment may feel basic, and the open bar may be limited to the return trip. Most important, Hidden Beach and the ecological tour are not part of the standard package.

I would book it for a relaxed, social day with mixed activities, especially if you value the boat ride as much as the water time. I would not book it without first confirming the extra fees, the Hidden Beach reservation, the expected group size, and the timing of the open bar. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, but changes made inside that window are not accepted, and poor weather may lead to a new date or a full refund.

FAQ

Where does the Marietas Islands cruise start?

The tour starts at Puerto Magico, Boulevard Francisco Medina Ascencio, Zona Hotelera Norte, Puerto Vallarta. The scheduled start time is 8:30 a.m., and the activity ends back at the same meeting point.

How long does the tour last?

The stated duration is about nine hours. You should allow extra time because some outings have lasted 11 or 12 hours, and the boat ride can take roughly two to three hours each way.

Is Hidden Beach included?

No. The standard tour visits Playa la Nopalera and passes island features such as the Bufadora, caves, and Second Crater. Hidden Beach requires a separate reservation and additional payment, and space may be limited.

What food is included?

Breakfast is served aboard the catamaran and may include eggs with ham, fruit, juice, or chilaquiles. Lunch can include a cold meat baguette, hamburger and fries, salad, ceviche, chips, kabobs, or similar food.

What drinks are included?

The advertised national open bar includes soft drinks, beer, tequila, rum, brandy, whiskey, vodka, juice, and water. Some accounts indicate that alcoholic drinks were mainly available during the return portion of the trip.

Are snorkeling equipment and kayaks included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment, life vests, kayaks, and paddle boards are included. Availability may be shared among the group, and snorkeling time can be limited.

Can pregnant women join the tour?

Women who are more than four months pregnant cannot take this tour. Most other participants can take part, but the activity requires boat transfers and water activities.