One cool way to spend a Puerto Vallarta day is chasing the water. This private Yelapa boat tour mixes snorkeling at Los Arcos with beach time and a short hike to a waterfall, guided so you’re headed to the best swim spots. My only watch-out is that the whole plan depends on good weather, and the water at the falls can feel properly chilly.

What I like most is how the tour handles the details for you: snorkeling gear is included, and you’re not stuck hunting for equipment right before you go. I also like that you get time to actually enjoy Yelapa on your own terms, with the option to grab lunch there and then cool off at the waterfall. The one potential drawback is that you’ll want a bit of comfort with a short walk and getting in and out of the water a few times during the day.

This is offered in English, it runs about 5 hours 30 minutes, and it’s priced at $220 per person for a private experience for your group. With a 4.9 rating from 21 ratings and 100% recommendation, it’s clearly hitting the right notes for people who want a mix of sea and land without a long, complicated day.

Key things I’d book this for

• Private setup for your group on a boat day that’s built around your pace
• Snorkeling gear handled for you, including the captain’s equipment
• Los Arcos National Marine Park time for arches, tunnels, caves, and a reef
• Two beach stops, including Playa de los Muertos for views and Yelapa for real downtime
• Yelapa waterfall hike with a short, easy walk and a refreshing swim
• Ice chest + bring snacks/drinks, so you’re not stuck buying everything on the water

Puerto Vallarta’s Private Yelapa Boat Day: The Value in a 5.5-Hour Mix

$220 per person sounds like real money until you look at what you’re buying: a private boat experience that stacks multiple highlights into one smooth day. You get cruising time, snorkeling at a protected marine area, a beach break in Yelapa, and a waterfall hike—without the hassle of coordinating separate tours.

The timing helps, too. At about 5 hours 30 minutes, this day trip doesn’t eat your whole vacation, and it’s long enough to feel like more than a quick stop. You start at 9:30 am and end back where you started, which keeps logistics simple.

One more thing I’d take seriously: this tour requires good weather. That’s not just fine print. It affects the ride and the snorkeling conditions, so it’s smart to treat the day as weather-dependent from the start.

From Los Muertos Beach Pier at 9:30 am to Playa de los Muertos Views

You’ll meet at Los Muertos Beach Pier at 9:30 am (Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico). The pier area is also near public transportation, which is handy if you’re not using a taxi.

After departure, you head south for a view of the famous Playa de los Muertos. This isn’t a long stop, but it’s a nice warm-up: you get the iconic coastline moment before the day shifts into snorkel-and-swim mode.

If you’re the type who likes a little control, this tour gives you room to bring your own basics. You’re welcome to pack beverages and snacks for the boat ride. If you do, think practical: something easy to eat, a bottle of water, and items you can manage while you’re moving around on a boat.

Los Arcos National Marine Park: Snorkeling Around Arches, Tunnels, and Reef

The main sea stop is Parque Nacional Marino Los Arcos de Mismaloya. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, and the admission is included. It’s set out at sea between Mismaloya beach and Las Gemelas, which helps explain why it feels like a real marine park instead of just another coastal swim.

What you’re looking at isn’t just open water. The park features caves, deep tunnels, and arches, plus a striking reef. That mix is what makes the snorkeling feel more like exploring than just floating above sand.

The guide component matters here. You’ll be traveling with a guide who helps you find the best swimming and snorkeling spots during the stop. Even if the water looks great from above, the good spots can change with conditions, so having someone steer you to the right areas is a real advantage.

If you’re bringing your own comfort setup, keep it simple: swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. Snorkeling itself is handled for you with borrowed equipment, so you can travel lighter.

Yelapa Beach Time: Lunch Options and a Slower Southern Pace

After the marine park, you head to Yelapa, with about 1 hour 30 minutes on the beach side. Yelapa sits in Puerto Vallarta’s southern zone, and access is either by boat or by foot—so it has that slightly off-the-main-road feeling even when you’re just visiting for the day.

This is where you can set your own rhythm. You can eat, swim, relax, or just wander a bit before the waterfall hike. The day includes free time here, and it’s also one of the few points where you’ll likely want a little cash.

Restaurants are available along the beach, but lunch isn’t included, and you’ll want Mexican pesos for food, souvenirs, and any small incidentals. This is a practical place to decide what kind of day you want: a quick bite or a more relaxed sit-down lunch before the hike.

A good tip: if you plan to buy snacks on land, consider grabbing them before you fully commit to walking paths or water time. You don’t want to chase food after you’re already committed to swimming and drying off.

Yelapa Waterfall Hike: A Short Walk to a Chilly Swim

Next comes the Yelapa waterfalls segment. Expect about 30 minutes total for the walk to the falls and time down at the water. The walk is described as short and easy from the town area, which makes it a good match for people who want a nature break without a long trek.

The reward is the lower falls, where you can cool off in clear water. The catch is right there in the vibe: the water is described as clear and chilly. So go in prepared for that first cold shock, then settle in once you get used to it.

Even with an easy hike, treat this part as a genuine swim plan, not just a photo stop. Wear your swimsuit, use sunscreen earlier than you think you need, and bring a towel so you’re not trying to dry off with limited options.

What the Boat Setup Means: Borrowed Snorkel Gear and an Ice Chest

This is a tour that reduces stress. Snorkeling equipment is included, and you don’t need to pack your own gear. The equipment is described as the captain’s—so the setup is already built for day-of snorkeling.

The tour also includes an ice chest, which is practical if you’re bringing drinks and snacks. On a hot day on the water, having chilled water or beverages makes a big difference in how comfortable you feel during the ride.

A private boat setup also tends to make getting in and out feel smoother. You’re not fighting for your turn in a crowded group, and the guide can spend more time with your group on the snorkeling side—where it really matters to have clear guidance.

In terms of what to bring, the simple checklist works best:

• Swimsuits
• Towels
• Sunscreen
• Mexican pesos for food and small spending
• Optional: beverages and snacks for the ride

Guides, Pace, and Keeping the Day Fun (Chema and Manuel)

One of the clearest themes around this experience is the energy of the guide team. In particular, Chema and Manuel are mentioned for making the day genuinely fun while still keeping the snorkeling and timing on track.

That combo matters. Snorkeling around a marine park is only good if you’re in the right spot at the right time, and waterfall time is only relaxing if you’re not rushed or confused about what to do next. When the guides keep things light and practical, the whole day feels easier.

If you care about having a trip that doesn’t turn into a stiff lesson, this is a positive sign. You get expert direction without turning it into a lecture.

Weather, Timing, and Who Should Book This

This tour runs about 5 hours 30 minutes, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point. That schedule works well for people who want a full highlight day but still want downtime later.

It also helps that the pace is flexible in the key way: you’re spending real blocks of time at sea, on the beach, and at the falls. The snorkeling stop is brief enough to stay manageable, the Yelapa time gives you breathing room, and the waterfall walk is described as short and easy.

Who it suits best:

• People who want a private day without the planning headache
• Snorkel lovers who want a guided shot at the best spots
• Folks who want beach time plus a quick nature moment
• People who prefer a day trip that’s not all-day transit and transfers

Who might reconsider:

• If you dislike chilly water, be ready for the waterfall swim to feel cold
• If your group can’t handle short walks and frequent water steps, this may feel like more movement than you want
• Anyone traveling on a day with unstable weather should expect the operator may adjust plans or cancel based on conditions

Should You Book This Private Yelapa Tour?

I’d lean yes if you want an organized, sea-and-shore day that hits multiple highlights in one go: Los Arcos marine snorkeling, beach time in Yelapa, and a short waterfall walk. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, the ice chest, and the guide support all reduce the usual frictions that make tours feel stressful.

It’s also the kind of booking that can be a good value if you’re traveling with others who will share the private setup, since the price is listed per person and there are group discounts.

The main reason to hesitate is simple: it’s weather-dependent. If you’re visiting during a time when conditions can be shaky, build in flexibility with your schedule.

If you’re looking for a fun, guided private boat day that doesn’t require you to bring a snorkel bag and doesn’t leave you bored between stops, this is an easy choice.

FAQ

What is the price for this tour?

The price is $220.00 per person.

How long is the private boat tour?

It runs for about 5 hours 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?

It starts at Los Muertos Beach Pier (Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico).

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 9:30 am.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and you can use the captain’s snorkeling gear.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch and the price of food and drinks are not included. You can eat at restaurants in Yelapa if you choose.

Is Los Arcos National Marine Park admission included?

Yes. Admission for Los Arcos is included.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as long as you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. The operator also requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.