Chasing fish in Majahuitas Cove feels like a vacation shortcut. This 5-hour Puerto Vallarta cruise keeps it to a small 40-person group and layers in two big perks: unlimited premium open bar and time at Majahuitas Beach for snorkeling and paddleboarding. The one thing to plan around is that sea conditions can get bumpy, so motion sickness is a real possibility on some days.

I like that the day is flexible. The boat route and even whether you pass landmarks like Los Arcos depend on what the ocean is doing, which means your experience stays realistic, not over-promised. One practical note: there’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll want to show up early and get yourself sorted at the port.

Key highlights before you go

• Leopard catamaran day cruise capped at 40 travelers, so it feels more personal than the big-boat scenes
• Majahuitas Cove time for snorkeling plus paddleboarding gear included
• Unlimited open bar during the cruise and onboard service, with lunch that includes guacamole, fruit, and shrimp cocktails
• Route adjusts to the day’s sea conditions, so you might pass Los Arcos and always get Bay of Banderas views
• A photo team is often on board, and the pictures become a big part of the “VIP” feel

Luxury yacht vibes vs. real logistics on a 40-person boat

Let’s talk straight about what “luxury” means here. You’re on a nicer-than-average catamaran (a Leopard model) with crew members who work hard to keep things moving and drinks circulating. The big value is the size: a max of 40 travelers. That smaller headcount often turns what could be chaotic into something calmer—no cattle-call scramble at every stop.

That said, you’re still on a working boat. Space for bags and belongings can be tight, and you’ll be close to other people at times. If you like to spread out, pack light. Bring what you need for water time and lunch, and keep the rest minimal.

One more practical point: there’s no hotel pickup. Your day starts at Vallarta Adventures | Terminal Marítima N Puerto Mágico. If you’re the type who loves easy mornings, build in extra time before the 8:00am departure so check-in doesn’t stress you out.

Price, fees, and how to judge the value

The base price is $119 per person for a half-day cruise (about 5 hours). That includes the boat experience, snorkeling equipment, paddleboard use, and a lunch-style meal.

Two fees are worth understanding so you don’t get surprised at the port:

• A Bay of Banderas admission fee is not included (listed as $40 per person in the tour details).
• Some riders have also reported a separate port fee in pesos before departure.

Now, here’s how I’d judge the value. You’re paying for three things you can’t easily DIY:

1) a set boat route along the Bay of Banderas, including views from sea level

2) the snorkeling setup and instruction/support on the water

3) the “no-thought” meal and drinks while you’re out there

If you’re the kind of traveler who always ends up buying bottled drinks at tours, the open bar component can tip this into good deal territory. If you’re mostly there for the water and you don’t drink much, it can feel like you’re paying extra for the party side of the day.

Also, a few people have noted that the on-island bar can be more limited than the full open bar vibe onboard. If that matters to you, treat this as: expect lots of drink service, but don’t assume every moment on land equals the same mix of cocktails.

Getting started at 8:00am without losing your morning

This tour starts at 8:00am and returns to the same meeting point. Plan to arrive early. Port areas can feel messy at first glance, but once you’re inside the check-in flow, the process is usually straightforward.

Because there’s no pickup, you’ll want to think through how you’re getting there:

• If you’re using a taxi or rideshare, give yourself buffer time for traffic and drop-off quirks.
• If you’re walking, set a specific meetup landmark so you don’t wander around the port.

Bring cash for small port payments and keep an eye on what you’re asked to pay on arrival. One reviewer noted paying a local fee early at the port before heading to Vallarta Adventures—same idea, different amount can happen depending on the day.

The Bay of Banderas cruise: Los Arcos and Malecón from the water

Once onboard, your route runs along the Bay of Banderas toward the south side of Puerto Vallarta. What’s nice is that the captain adjusts based on sea conditions, so the experience stays safer and smoother rather than pretending the ocean always cooperates.

You may also:

• Pass by Los Arcos if conditions allow.
• Enjoy views of Malecón Boardwalk from the water as you cruise through the bay.

This matters more than it sounds. Viewing the shoreline from sea level changes how the whole city clicks into place. Instead of patchwork sightseeing, you get a single moving panorama—coastline, rock formations, and the coastline’s curves. It’s the kind of time that feels like it should be “bonus,” but it’s actually part of the value.

If you’re hoping for lots of wildlife sightings, keep your eyes peeled. The tour highlights include potential sightings like dolphins and turtles, plus iconic rock formations.

Majahuitas Beach: snorkeling time, paddleboards, and what to do with your towel

Majahuitas Cove is the anchor stop. You’ll spend about 1 hour 20 minutes at Majahuitas Beach, and the admission ticket for that stop is included.

Here’s the core rhythm you should expect:

• You cruise to Majahuitas.
• You get snorkeling time with the gear provided.
• You can also use stand-up paddleboards (also provided).
• Then you relax on the beach area before heading back.

Two practical considerations can make or break your comfort:

1) You may need to swim to reach shore

Some people have said you can’t just hop off with a towel and stay perfectly dry. If that’s how your stop plays out, you’ll want to travel light and accept that your towel plan might be awkward.

If you hate wet waiting time, bring a small change of clothes in a sealed bag, and consider wearing water shoes if you have them.

2) Life vests are required in the water

At least some groups have reported needing to wear life vests any time they’re in the water. That’s not a dealbreaker—it’s just a reminder to treat this as an activity first, not a lounge-and-sunbathe-only day.

Snorkeling reality check

Snorkeling can be fantastic, but it’s still an ocean variable. Some people find lots of fish; others say the marine life felt lighter or coral wasn’t that noticeable. If you’re a “glass-perfect reef” snorkeler, adjust expectations and focus on the experience of being in the water and seeing what you can.

A smart tip from the feedback: if you’re prone to motion sickness, take precautions. Sea conditions can be choppy, and once you’re bouncing, it can affect snorkeling comfort.

Lunch on board: guacamole, shrimp cocktails, fruit, and the sandwich debate

Lunch is included and it’s described as a deli-style meal. The menu you can count on includes:

• guacamole
• shrimp cocktails
• fresh fruit
• plus chips and other lunch items

Some riders also mention sandwiches being part of the meal, and a few feel the sandwich side of lunch is fairly ordinary for what’s advertised as gourmet.

So how should you think about lunch value?

• If you’re happy with Mexican comfort food plus fruit and snacks while you’re on the water, you’ll likely feel good about it.
• If you’re very food-driven and need a seafood-forward main every time, you might find lunch a little inconsistent by day.

Either way, you’re getting fed while you’re still enjoying the boat. That alone can save you from spending more money or hunting for food afterward.

Open bar service: unlimited drinks, but not always the same everywhere

The tour lists unlimited premium open bar. In plain terms, that usually means you’ll have lots of drink service onboard during the cruise and around the meal.

One of the most praised parts of the day is how attentive the crew is about keeping drinks coming. Multiple people highlight that you don’t have to go looking for a refill.

A few notes to keep your expectations realistic:

• Some people report that the on-island bar doesn’t match the onboard drink variety. In those accounts, it leaned toward simpler options like beer, water, or juice.
• For anyone who cares deeply about specific cocktails, ask what’s available onboard versus on shore when you’re there.

If you love the “all-in” feel of a boat day, this is still one of the biggest reasons to pick this over cheaper snorkeling options.

Wildlife and the photo moment that sells the story

This tour promises wildlife possibilities like dolphins and turtles. You may also see rock formations as you cruise along the bay.

A few people have even mentioned whale sightings on the ride to and from Majahuitas, with the boat slowing when whales are spotted. Even if it doesn’t happen every day, it’s a good sign that the captain and crew pay attention to real wildlife rather than sticking to a rigid schedule.

Now let’s talk photos. There’s often a photographer on board, and it becomes part of the experience. Many people say the photo service is impressive and worth it, especially if you want a set of high-quality images without editing your own “action shot” attempts.

One feedback detail to file away: some trips have a digital package cost around $100 USD. If you’re budget-conscious, decide ahead of time if you want photos, or be ready to politely pass.

Names you’ll hear on the crew (and why that matters)

Part of what makes this tour feel smooth is the crew’s energy. People repeatedly name specific staff members, which is a good clue that service isn’t robotic.

In the feedback, I saw names like:

• Diego Chihuahua (guide support during snorkeling)
• Captain John Luis and Captain Victor (captains)
• crew members like Alex, Daniel, Juan Luis, Pablo, Charlie, Jennifer, Felipe, George, Sylvino, and Judy

Even if you don’t get the exact same group, you’ll likely feel this same pattern: clear guidance, frequent attention, and a “keep it fun” attitude.

Who should book this yacht-and-snorkel day

This is a great fit if you want:

• a small-group boat day (max 40) instead of a packed mass excursion
• snorkeling plus paddleboarding, with gear handled for you
• a lunch and drinks setup so you can relax and stop thinking about logistics

It also works well for couples and families—especially if everyone wants to share the same day on the water without splitting into separate activities.

Two groups should think carefully:

• If you’re very sensitive to motion sickness, take precautions. The sea can be rough depending on the day, and snorkeling comfort can suffer.
• If you have strong expectations about a specific level of “luxury” onboard, readjust your mental picture. It’s a nice catamaran with VIP-style service, but it’s not a floating hotel suite.

If you have dietary restrictions, mention them at check-in if the operator asks. The lunch includes shrimp and related items, so shellfish concerns should be handled directly with the team.

Should you book this Luxury Yacht & Snorkel tour?

I’d book it if you want a Puerto Vallarta day that blends sightseeing, water time, and a crew that keeps things moving—without the big-boat crowd. The mix of Bay of Banderas cruising, Majahuitas Beach time, and included snorkeling/paddleboarding is the sweet spot, and the open bar factor is a strong value add.

I’d skip it (or look at an alternate operator) if:

• you’re chasing long, deep snorkeling sessions or guaranteed reef-level coral
• you’re very strict about luxury standards and need a consistent, high-end food experience
• you know you get seasick fast and don’t want to manage it

If you’re flexible on ocean conditions and you’re okay with an active half day, this one is a solid pick.

FAQ

How long is the Puerto Vallarta luxury yacht and snorkel tour?

It runs for about 5 hours (approx.).

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 8:00am.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Vallarta Adventures | Terminal Marítima N Puerto Mágico, at Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio 30-G1, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, hotel pickup and drop off are not included.

What’s included in the price?

You get the day cruise on a luxury yacht, unlimited premium open bar, a deli-style lunch, snorkeling equipment, and stand-up paddleboards.

What fees are not included?

A Bay of Banderas admission fee is not included (listed as $40.00 per person).

What is the maximum group size?

The tour has a maximum of 40 travelers.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is 10.

Are drones allowed?

No. Drones are prohibited under federal regulations.

Is it possible to cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund.

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