On a catamaran day, the ocean does the entertaining. This full-day trip to Marietas Islands National Park (a UNESCO-protected marine sanctuary) mixes time on deck with water activities you can only do from the water. You’ll be out near the coast of Puerto Vallarta, with chances for snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and even an optional stop tied to the famous Hidden Beach.

I especially like two things. First, you get the full “day on the water” package: continental breakfast with hot cakes plus lunch served onboard, and equipment set up for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Second, the return ride isn’t just sit-and-stare; there’s music and onboard fun, including karaoke on the way back, and the crew keeps the energy rolling (names you may hear include David, Charly, and Alan).

One possible drawback to know: this is a shared cruise with up to 90 people, so some water-time activities can feel a bit tight, especially for kayaking and paddleboarding. Also, the onboard music can lean Spanish and run long for people who want shorter, more activity-focused segments.

Key highlights worth your attention

• Marietas National Park by boat: you’re seeing protected coastlines and rock areas only accessible from the water
• Breakfast + lunch onboard: hot cakes in the morning, then a proper lunch during the day
• Snorkel, paddle board, and kayaks included: you get multiple ways to enjoy the water without extra rentals
• Open bar on the return only: alcoholic drinks are during the trip back to Puerto Vallarta
• Onboard entertainment on the way back: music, games, and karaoke keep the late portion fun
• Hidden Beach may be optional: plan for it, but treat it as a bonus rather than a guarantee

Why Marietas feels different than a typical PV boat day

If you’ve done a standard “ride + a quick stop” tour in Puerto Vallarta, Islas Marietas can feel like a step up. The reason is simple: Marietas Islands National Park is a UNESCO-protected marine sanctuary, and a big part of the appeal is that the best views and the best water access happen when you’re out on the water.

You’ll also be in an area where you can connect with the place beyond just scenery. This outing includes time that lines up with bird-watching, and it’s the kind of coastline where you often spot what’s going on in the air and on the water at the same time. Even if you’re not a strict “nature person,” it gives your day more shape than just cruising around.

One more thing I like about this format: the tour doesn’t force everything into one single activity slot. You’re not stuck doing only snorkeling for hours. You get a mix that helps if your energy levels change during the day.

The 8:00 am start and onboard breakfast that actually helps

Most catamaran tours start early, but this one uses that morning time well. The meeting point is at Puerto Mágico Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, and you start at 8:00 am. It runs about 10 hours total and ends back at the same meeting place.

Before you get into the water gear, you’re served continental breakfast with hot cakes, plus fruit, yogurt, granola, honey, and juice. That matters more than it sounds. When you’re about to snorkel and paddle, you don’t want to start the day hungry, and you don’t want to wait until later for food. Breakfast onboard is one of those “small” inclusions that makes the day feel smoother.

Practical note: you’ll want to be ready with your swimsuit and a plan for changing. The tour asks you to bring a swimsuit, towel, and extra clothes, so you can stay comfortable when you move between deck time and water time.

On the water: snorkeling where the park rules apply

The main reason people choose Islas Marietas is snorkeling. This tour includes snorkel equipment, and it’s timed around the park experience you came for. In plain terms: you’re going to spend meaningful time in the water near the islands where the marine sanctuary protections help preserve the underwater environment.

You’re also doing more than one water style. Along with snorkeling, you’ll have paddle board and kayak equipment. That means you can choose how you want to experience the coastline:

• Snorkeling is best if you want to watch what’s around you underwater.
• Kayaking and paddleboarding are best if you want a slower pace that keeps your eyes up for rock formations, birds, and the shoreline.

Because this is a shared cruise, the pace can vary depending on how many people take part in each activity slot. Keep expectations flexible: some sessions may feel organized with everyone taking turns, not like a private boat where you get endless uninterrupted water time.

Paddleboarding and kayaking near coves and rocky arches

A standout feature here is the combination of paddleboarding and kayaking with time around rocky formations and secluded coves. That’s where the catamaran format helps. You’re not just snorkeling from a fixed spot; you’re using small craft to move with the coastline and explore the edges of the islands.

Now for the reality check. One review concern was that the kayak/paddle area can feel like there isn’t much room during certain moments. Translation for you: bring patience. If you’re someone who hates waiting for a turn, you may feel a little boxed in at peak times.

What you can do to make it better:

• Keep your gear organized and simple so you’re not juggling items when it’s time to go in.
• If you want more space, try to be ready quickly when the crew calls your group.
• Wear comfortable swim shoes if you have them. The tour asks for comfortable clothes and shoes, and in practice, it’s easier if your feet are protected.

Even with that drawback, the payoff is the mix. When you combine snorkeling with a slower craft like a kayak, you get two different “views” of the same place—underwater life and shoreline movement.

Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor): an optional moment, not a guarantee

The tour includes an optional visit to the famous Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor). That optional label is important. It means you should see it as a potential bonus that depends on conditions and what the day allows.

If you’re set on seeing Hidden Beach, plan to be flexible. The value of the overall day doesn’t depend on it, because you’re still getting park access, snorkeling, and small-craft time. But if you do get the chance, it’s the kind of stop that people remember because it’s linked to the park’s dramatic coastline story.

Lunch, open bar on the way back, and the crew’s energy

You’re not left to snack your way through the day. Lunch is served onboard, and it’s part of the all-in feel of this trip. Having food on the boat keeps the schedule from collapsing, which you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever been stuck waiting on shore.

Then comes the return, which is also where the fun factor shows up most clearly. The tour includes an open bar with alcoholic drinks on the way back. So if you want a piña colada, a beer, or something similar to go with the final stretch, you’re covered—just remember it’s during the return, not all day.

The onboard entertainment is also a big part of why this tour works for many people. There can be music and games on the ride back, and karaoke is specifically mentioned. One set of compliments called out the crew by name—David, Charly, and Alan—plus the fact that they work hard to keep the vibe going.

A fair warning: one review also complained about Spanish music running too long compared with the time spent doing activities. So if you’re music-sensitive, bring a light tolerance for the longer playlist during the return portion.

Price and value: what $92 covers and what you should budget for

At $92 per person, this trip is priced like a full-day activity with a lot included. That matters, because you’re not just paying for the boat ride. You’re paying for:

• Breakfast with hot cakes
• Lunch onboard
• Insurance on board
• Snorkel equipment plus paddle board and kayak gear
• Open bar on the way back
• Onboard entertainment (music and karaoke)

That package is the value story. Buying a snorkel tour plus equipment rentals plus a separate lunch plan usually adds up quickly.

Then there’s the small extra you should plan for: government fees not included in the base price. The tour lists:

• SEMARNAT bracelet fee: $10 USD per person
• Another government fee: $3 USD per person

So you should budget about $13 more per person on top of $92 to account for those listed fees. I like to think of it as: the $92 is a strong base, and the fees are a predictable add-on you can plan for.

Also note the tour is capped at 90 travelers. That’s not tiny, but it can help keep operations from becoming chaotic if the crew manages well.

What to bring so the day stays comfortable (and not chaotic)

This tour gives you a clear list of what to pack, and you’ll be happier if you actually follow it:

• Bring your swimsuit
• Towels
• Extra clothes for after you get out of the water
• Comfortable clothes and shoes for walking to/from the meeting area and moving around the boat
• Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent

A couple more practical suggestions based on how these days usually feel:

• If you have them, use a waterproof pouch for phone and keys, so you’re not constantly worrying about wet gear.
• Keep your towel and extra clothes in one bag you can grab fast. When you’re switching from deck to water, small delays stack up.

And one more: the tour uses a mobile ticket, so have your confirmation ready on your phone.

Who should book this catamaran day trip

This one fits best if you want a full, mixed day on the water rather than a short boat ride with one stop. You’ll likely enjoy it if you:

• Like snorkeling but also want a second activity (paddleboarding or kayaking)
• Want breakfast and lunch handled for you
• Prefer a lively return with music and karaoke
• Want a trip that feels like a real day from start to finish, with the day ending back where you started

You might want to skip it if:

• You hate shared-group experiences and want lots of personal space for every activity moment
• You’re very sensitive to loud music or long music segments
• You’re hoping for a schedule with zero waiting for gear turns

One important rule: there’s a pregnancy boarding restriction. The provider reserves the right to refuse boarding to any passenger who is pregnant due to safety risks related to maritime activities and vessel navigation.

Should you book Islas Marietas on this catamaran?

I think this is a good choice if you want maximum “water time per dollar,” with meals and key equipment included. The combination of snorkel + paddle board + kayak, plus onboard breakfast/lunch and an open bar on the way back, is a solid value plan for a day trip from Puerto Vallarta.

It’s not perfect for everyone. The shared size and the possibility of limited room during water activities can be a letdown if you’re expecting a spacious, private feel. The music length can also be a mismatch if you want the day to be more strictly activity-driven.

My practical call: book it if you’re excited about the Marietas National Park experience and you’re fine with a lively shared cruise atmosphere. If you’re sensitive to crowds or music, choose your expectations carefully and pack for comfort. With that mindset, this is the kind of day that leaves you thinking about the water long after you’re back on land.

FAQ

What’s the tour duration?

It runs about 10 hours.

Where is the meeting point in Puerto Vallarta?

The start is at Puerto Mágico Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

What time does it start?

The start time is 8:00 am.

Is Hidden Beach included?

Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor) is listed as optional.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are insurance on board, continental breakfast with hot cakes, lunch, snorkeling equipment, paddle board and kayak equipment, onboard music, and an open bar on the way back (alcoholic drinks).

Are government fees included?

No. Government fees are listed separately: $10 USD per person for SEMARNAT (bracelet) and $3 USD per person for another government fee.

Is the open bar available all day?

No. The open bar is included on the way back to Puerto Vallarta.

What languages are offered?

The tour is offered in English.

How big is the group?

The tour/activity has a maximum of 90 travelers.

Can I cancel for free?

Yes. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.