PUERTO VALLARTA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A two-level catamaran to the Marietas: seven hours of reef, birds and calm Pacific surf
A seven-hour guided catamaran cruise with Vallarta Tours & Rentals that visits the protected Marietas Islands—this guide explains the flow of the day, what’s included, and how to prepare.
A two-level catamaran to the Marietas: seven hours of reef, birds and calm Pacific surf.
Embark on a serene seven-hour cruise aboard a two-level catamaran to the protected Marietas Islands off Puerto Vallarta. A naturalist guide interprets the bay and its marine ecosystem, and the day is built around water-based exploration—snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding—interspersed with meals and time to relax on deck.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A concentrated reserve of seabirds and reef life
The Marietas are a protected marine reserve where guides point out seabirds such as blue-footed boobies, brown boobies and frigatebirds, and marine species under the surface including needlefish, pufferfish, octopus and sea turtles.
Two-level catamaran comfort
The trip is run aboard a two-level catamaran that provides space to relax between activity stops, with food and a national open bar served on board.
Snorkel, kayak and paddleboard the reserve
After arrival at the park, guests can snorkel, swim, kayak or paddle board in protected waters—equipment for snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding is included in the package.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Morning boarding leads into a relaxed cruise punctuated by a naturalist’s commentary; the boat anchors at the reserve and the day opens into a sequence of short, active windows—snorkel, kayak, paddleboard—framed by meals and downtime on deck, all over the course of seven hours.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits and important participant notes.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full excursion lasts seven hours; the transit to the islands is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, hat and sunglasses, closed sandals or tennis shoes, a camera and extra cash for activities not included in the program.
The trip includes a continental breakfast, lunch served on board (beef hamburger with green salad, cold soup and french fries) and a national open bar.
Snorkel equipment, kayaks and paddle boards are provided as part of the package.
Gratuities are not included. The package does not include the semartap tax per person or the port authority tax, which applies to persons older than 8 years.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The excursion is seven hours in duration.
What activities are included?
The trip includes snorkeling, swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding at the Marietas marine reserve.
Is equipment provided?
Yes—snorkel equipment, kayaks and paddle boards are included.
Are meals included?
A continental breakfast and a lunch served onboard (beef hamburger with green salad, cold soup and french fries) are included, along with a national open bar.
Are there extra fees to plan for?
Tips are not included; the package also excludes the semartap tax per person and a port authority tax (the latter applies to persons older than 8 years).
How long does it take to reach the islands?
The transit to the islands is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.