A waterfall, a yacht, and unlimited drinks. What makes this cruise fun is how much is included from the moment you step aboard: an onboard open bar plus breakfast, snacks, and fajita lunch, with water toys built in. You also get a real Yelapa experience, including the short hike to the waterfall for a refreshing swim. The one caution: snorkeling time can be limited, and conditions like visibility can vary.

I like that the day is set up for “do what you feel like” pacing—jump in for water play, chill in the shade, or focus on the town and waterfall. Even the vibe can be flexible, with some decks feeling more lively and others quieter. The trade-off is that you should expect a busy, social atmosphere rather than a calm, slow sightseeing cruise.

Key highlights at a glance

• All-day open bar with brand-name drinks, served continuously
• Water toys included: snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and more
• Yelapa time + waterfall walk with a chance to swim
• Food that’s actually part of the plan: breakfast, guacamole, and fajitas
• Small-to-medium group feel (maximum 115), depending on your departure

Checking in at Puerto Mágico: The smooth start (and the security reality)

Most departures begin with check-in at the Chica Locca Tours office at Puerto Mágico Cruise Ship Terminal. You’ll be directed onto the yacht after a quick check-in process, and then you’re off down Banderas Bay. The tour notes also say you must pick your meeting place before you reserve, which matters because this is one of those experiences with multiple start points.

One thing to plan for: the cruise terminal is a federal maritime port, so you go through security. Keep your carry-on simple. The rules include a strict no-drug policy, and they specifically mention electronic cigarettes, vapers, and any liquids you might bring. If you want the day to feel easy, pack light and treat security like it’s the first checkpoint of your vacation.

On board, the vibe is built to get going quickly. You’ll have breakfast early while you cruise along the coastline south of Puerto Vallarta, so you’re not waiting around hungry.

All-inclusive food and drinks: Why this price feels fair

At $117.60 per person for about 6 hours, the big value is that you’re not piecing together meals and drinks one stop at a time. Breakfast is included with seasonal fruit and pastries. Snacks include fresh guacamole and chips, plus potato chips. Lunch is a hot fajita meal with beans, rice, tortillas, salsa, and options featuring chicken or beef.

Then there’s the drinks. The open bar runs all day with water, coffee, juices, sodas/mineral water, and a full lineup of alcohol like margaritas, piña coladas, beer, tequila, wine, and champagne. If you’re the type who usually spends extra on boat day “extras,” this structure can genuinely keep the cost under control.

I also like that you’re not forced into one seating style. The yacht has comfortable seating with shaded options, so you can manage sun exposure without spending half the day standing in line.

Playa Chica Locca in Quimixto: Waterslides, sea toys, and real hang-time

About an hour into the cruise, you reach the first stop at Playa Chica Locca in Quimixto. This is where the day’s energy ramps up. You can jump off the second deck, use the waterslides, and then switch modes to something calmer like snorkeling, kayaking, or standup paddleboarding.

Snorkeling equipment is included, and the water activities are set up as part of the flow, not an add-on you have to chase. In practice, snorkeling time can still feel like a shorter window (water conditions can also change), so I’d treat this as your main chance to swim and look around—then be ready to enjoy the other toys if visibility isn’t perfect.

A quick note that matters: one issue raised in feedback is that the boat can run short on snorkels if there’s a lot of demand. If snorkeling is your top priority, go up when they set equipment out, not at the very end of the stop.

Also expect occasional onboard entertainment. Some departures mention a cruise host and DJ energy (names like Ricky Ricardo and DJ David show up in feedback), and that fits the character of this stop: playful, social, and movement-heavy.

Between water play sessions, you’ll have snacks like guacamole and chips, and there’s often time to relax. Massage is listed as something you can enjoy onboard—think of it as an available experience rather than a guaranteed “everyone gets it” moment, so if it’s on your must-do list, ask early.

Yelapa Beach and the waterfall trail: Town time plus a swim reward

After the first stop and some time back on board, you head to Yelapa Beach. This part of the bay is known for shelter, which makes it a comfortable place to anchor for the afternoon. You’ll dock at a pier, and from there you can choose your own mix: hang out on the beach, explore the village, stay on the boat, or do the waterfall walk.

The waterfall option is one of the most compelling parts of the day. The walk is described as about 15 minutes on a trail and is accessible for most people, and the reward is a refreshing cascade where you can swim. If you want photos, this is also where the “wow” moments happen.

The village itself is part of why this is worth doing. You’re not just passing through a stop—you get time to look around, soak up the atmosphere, and decide whether you want to be in the water or on land.

The practical drawback here is physical effort. A feedback point calls out that there’s a hill involved on the way to the waterfall, which can be tough if you’re older, dealing with mobility limits, or just want an easier day. If that’s you, consider using the beach time instead of the hike.

Banderas Bay wildlife on the way back: What to watch for

On the return trip, the cruise description includes the chance for dancing on the water, sharing memories, and even whale watching when conditions align. The bay is described as an important breeding ground for humpback whales every year, and that’s a big reason this route feels more special than a quick out-and-back.

You might also spot dolphins. One recurring theme in feedback is that people leave seeing marine life, even if they didn’t plan for it.

There’s also a photo element: a photo team may capture action shots during the day. Those souvenir photos aren’t included automatically—you typically reserve or buy them during the experience. One caution from feedback: photo delivery can sometimes take time, so don’t assume you’ll get everything instantly at the dock.

Snorkeling expectations: Great fun, not a full-on training session

This cruise is best viewed as a day of water fun with a snorkeling highlight, not a long, slow underwater program. The stops are time-boxed, and that’s why the day still includes Yelapa village and the waterfall.

One feedback point says snorkeling wasn’t as much as hoped, especially if you want extended time in the water. Another says water clarity can affect the experience, so you may not always get the crystal-clear look you’re hoping for.

If you’re a stronger swimmer or you want longer water time, plan to fill gaps with the other included activities: kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and repeated short snorkeling sessions when equipment is available.

If you’re more of a casual snorkeler, you’ll still likely enjoy it. The key is to accept that the ocean is part of the schedule—some days it’s perfect, some days it’s just good, and either way you still get a satisfying “Yelapa plus water toys” day.

What to pack for a hot boat day in Yelapa

This is a sun-and-water day. Based on feedback from past riders, I’d pack these basics:

• A hat (it gets hot fast)
• Sunscreen and a towel
• Your bathing suit and a spare dry top for later

If you’re doing the waterfall hike, comfortable footwear can matter, because trail surfaces and heat can make a short hike feel longer than you’d expect. Also bring a way to keep your phone safe if you’re moving between boat decks and water play zones.

And don’t bring anything that could trip security. The terminal rules are strict enough that it’s not worth the gamble.

The best match: Who should book this cruise?

This tour fits best if you want a mix of adventure and easy comfort. I’d recommend it for:

• People who like an all-inclusive boat day where the food and drinks are handled
• Anyone who wants snorkeling plus extras like kayaks and paddleboards
• Families or groups who want shared energy, not quiet “museum pace” travel

If you’re mainly chasing a long snorkeling session, this might feel short. If you’re mainly chasing a gentle, fully accessible waterfall trip, you’ll want to think carefully about the hike and hill to reach the falls.

And there’s one serious consideration to take into account. One booking reported extremely unprofessional conduct by a cruise director. I can’t confirm whether that reflects typical service, but if professionalism and personal comfort are high priorities for you, it’s worth factoring that kind of report into your decision and comparing options.

Should you book the Mega Yacht Yelapa Waterfall and Snorkeling Adventure?

If your ideal Puerto Vallarta day is: drink well, eat well, play in the water, then end with a waterfall swim and Yelapa village time, this cruise is a strong fit. The best reason to book is value through inclusion—open bar, meals, and multiple water activities—so you don’t spend your day trying to manage costs or logistics.

I’d book it especially if you want a fun, social atmosphere and you’re okay with snorkeling time being “enough” rather than “forever.” If your top priority is long snorkel immersion, or you’re worried about the physical hike to the waterfall, you’ll likely be happier with an option that focuses more narrowly on one goal.

FAQ

How long is the Mega Yacht Yelapa Waterfall & Snorkeling Adventure?

It runs about 6 hours (approx.), with time built in for a sea stop at Playa Chica Locca, an afternoon in Yelapa, and a return cruise.

Where do I check in for the tour?

Check in is at the Chica Locca Tours office at the Puerto Mágico Cruise Ship Terminal.

Is the open bar included?

Yes. The tour includes an all-day open bar with soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (with a minimum drinking age of 18).

What meals are included?

Breakfast is included onboard, and lunch is included as fajitas. Snacks like guacamole and chips are also included.

What water activities are included?

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with kayaks and standup paddleboards, plus water toys like waterslides at the first sea stop.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?

No. Snorkeling equipment is included as part of the tour.

Are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals available?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available if you request them at booking.

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Are souvenir photos included?

No. Souvenir photos are not included. A photographer is onboard, and you can reserve or purchase photos during the tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.