PUERTO VALLARTA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Sail, Snorkel, and Beach the Marietas: A 7½‑Hour Marine Safari from Puerto Vallarta
A small‑group day sail that combines guided snorkeling, a stop on the natural Playa Nopalera, and on‑water wildlife watching—practical guidance on what to expect and how to prepare.
Sail, Snorkel, and Beach the Marietas: A 7½‑Hour Marine Safari from Puerto Vallarta.
Set at the entrance to Bahía de Banderas, the Marietas Islands National Park is a compact marine sanctuary of cliffs, caves, natural arches and two principal islands. Designated a national park on April 25, 2005, the protected area covers roughly 1,380 hectares (about 5.3 square miles) and concentrates spectacular shoreline geology with coastal reefs and offshore islands that host abundant marine life and seabirds.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Dolphins, Mantas, Turtles—and Whales in Season
Along the transit to the Marietas expect to look for Pacific bottlenose dolphins, giant manta rays and sea turtles; humpback whales are also possible during the Dec–Mar season.
Guided Snorkel on Protected Reefs
Experienced guides lead a supervised snorkeling section (approximately 45 minutes) to show reef life and provide instruction and assistance for safety and maximum enjoyment.
Playa Nopalera: A Brief Natural Beach Stop
The trip includes a beach stop at the natural Playa Nopalera where groups relax for about 30 minutes, take photos of rock formations and watch for rare seabirds along the rugged shoreline.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The outing unfolds as a small‑group sail from Puerto Vallarta that blends active, guided snorkeling with leisurely sightseeing. After a continental breakfast onboard and a sail out of the bay you’ll scan the water for wildlife, drop in for a guided 45‑minute snorkel, and spend roughly 30 minutes ashore at Playa Nopalera. The operator provides lunch and beverages—an open national bar is available after leaving the park—while the crew handles sailing and bird‑ and whale‑watching narration.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pack a beach towel, biodegradable sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, comfortable clothes and a change of clothes; bring spending money for fees or gratuities.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 7 1/2 hours.
When and where do we meet?
Departures run Tuesday through Sunday: 8:00 AM from Puerto Vallarta (Opequimar Marina, across from the Hotel Westin) and 9:00 AM from Nuevo Vallarta (public dock next to Paradise Village, behind Paradise Village Yacht Club); directions are provided with confirmation. Note: a marina fee of 90 pesos per person applies at Opequimar.
What is included in the price?
The outing includes a continental breakfast, lunch, beverages (including an open national bar after departure from the National Park) and activities such as a guided snorkeling session (approximately 45 minutes), a beach stop at Playa Nopalera (approximately 30 minutes), bird watching and sailing; whale watching is seasonal.
Are there additional fees I should know about?
Yes. The Marietas National Park fee of 220 pesos per person and, where applicable, the Opequimar marina fee of 90 pesos per person are not included. Transportation to the marina and crew gratuities are also not included.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not refundable and will not be accepted. Cut‑off times use the experience’s local time.
Can children join the tour?
Yes—children are allowed, but participants must be at least 5 years old and able to climb a four‑rung ladder to board and disembark.