Scuba Diving Puerto Vallarta Undersea Arcos or Marietas

This is a scuba diving outing from Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, and where you dive depends on the day of the week: either Los Arcos and Majahuitas, or the Marietas Islands. Trips leave every day at 9 am, with check-in starting at 8:30 am. The operator sells them as all-inclusive outings, with a fast boat, a guide, two tanks and a full set of gear.

The schedule in the listing works like this. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays the boat goes to Los Arcos and Majahuitas, and beginners are welcome. Tuesday to Sunday is listed for the Marietas Islands, which are for certified divers only, and you must show your certification card. Those day ranges overlap in the listing, so confirm which site is planned for your date when you book. The operator also says the site can change with local conditions: they look for the best combination of visibility, currents and waves.

The day starts around 9 am at Marina Vallarta. Only about 10 minutes out, the area near the Ameca river offers good views and is described as a place where you can often spot dolphins. After roughly the first hour you reach the islands. In winter the crossing can bring more wildlife, with dolphins, turtles, manta rays and whales mentioned. Once you arrive, the crew hands out snorkel gear, shows you how to use it and the life jackets, and shares tips to improve your in-water skills.

There is an optional Hidden Beach visit, described as one of the top ten beaches in the world. It costs an extra US$25, paid as a cash deposit at check-in. According to the operator, if you cannot get in because of availability or weather, the deposit is returned, and about 99% of visitors do get in. On the southern dives you go to Los Arcos National Park, which suits both beginners and experienced divers: depths start at about 20 feet for practice and certification, and there is a wall that reaches 1,600 feet for technical divers.

This outing suits certified divers who want the Marietas, and first-timers on the Los Arcos days. The recommended minimum age is 10, and a moderate level of fitness is expected. It is not recommended if you have heart disease, back, spine or knee problems, poor cardiovascular health or are pregnant, and nobody under the influence of alcohol or drugs may take part.

On the practical side, the price covers national park permits, the federal CONANP fee, a conservation donation to Bahía Unida, SCUBA equipment, a life vest, the boat ride, bottled water and a box lunch. Gratuities, a beginner scuba class and government fees are not included. Because the description calls the tour all-inclusive but lists government fees as an extra, ask what is covered before paying.