Islas Marietas Experience! Catamaran Nature Trip

This is an eight-hour catamaran day to the Marietas Islands, off the coast of the Banderas Bay area near Puerto Vallarta. The boat is a two-floor catamaran and the trip mixes time in the water, meals on board and a party atmosphere on the way back. The source puts about six hours of the day on the round-trip boat ride and around two hours at the islands.

The day starts at the marina with a check-in with the staff. Once you are on the boat, the crew welcomes you and explains the safety measures. A continental breakfast with hot cakes, fruit, yogurt, granola, honey and juice is served on board while you sail toward the islands.

At the reef you can choose your activity: paddleboarding, kayaking or snorkeling, all with full equipment provided. The snorkel gear covers mask, tube and life jacket. The guides also offer an optional island tour to learn about the nature and history of the Marietas.

Lunch is served at Nopalera Beach: a hamburger with a side of shrimp and a salad bar. On the way back the party starts, with an open bar (available only after Marietas), music, dancing and karaoke.

The trip suits groups of friends and travelers who want a mix of nature and social time. It is listed as suitable for all physical fitness levels, but not recommended for pregnant travelers, for people with spinal injuries or for those with poor cardiovascular health.

Two payments are not included and must be made in cash: a dock fee of 3 USD per person and the SEMARNAT and CONANP bracelet, 10 USD per person. The operator recommends wearing comfortable clothes and shoes, and bringing a swimsuit, towels and extra clothes. Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent. The source gives no meeting point, so confirm it after booking.