Puerto Vallarta: Catamaran to Arcos, Colomitos and Animas

Discover Puerto Vallarta’s Best Coastal Spots by Catamaran

This $93 per person tour offers an engaging 7.5-hour adventure along the southern coast of Puerto Vallarta, operated by Puerto Vallarta Net, which holds a solid 4.4 rating. It’s perfect for those looking to combine scenic sea views, active water sports, and lively onboard entertainment all in one day. The tour departs in the afternoon and is suitable for travelers eager to explore notable sites like the Arches of Mismaloya, Colomitos Beach, and Las Animas Beach.

What makes this experience stand out is the variety of activities included: snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life, kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing on a beautiful beach. As a full-day excursion, it balances adventure and leisure, with the added bonus of an open bar and live entertainment aboard. The inclusion of lunch on the beach and practical gear such as helmets and gasoline rentals enhances convenience, making it an appealing choice for active groups and families.

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Key Points

• 7.5-hour coastal tour exploring Puerto Vallarta’s southern bay
• Includes snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing on Las Animas Beach
• Open bar and lively entertainment onboard create a festive atmosphere
• Lunch on the beach features grilled chicken, roast beef, chorizo, and green salad
• Stops at Mismaloya Arches, Colomitos, and Las Animas Beach offer diverse experiences
• Practical gear provided: helmets and gasoline included for water activities

Starting Point: A Scenic Catamaran Departure in Puerto Vallarta

This tour begins with a catamaran cruise departing from Puerto Vallarta, heading south of the bay. The boat is equipped to comfortably host the group, providing an open bar and live music or entertainment for a lively atmosphere. The duration of 7.5 hours makes it a substantial day trip, usually available in the afternoon, giving travelers plenty of daylight to enjoy each stop.

The boarding process is straightforward, with a small additional fee of 32 Pesos (around $1.50 USD) for marina entrance. The tour includes practical gear like helmets for water activities and gasoline for the rental of watercraft, making participation easy and hassle-free. The multi-language guide (English and Spanish) ensures clear explanations throughout the day.

Exploring the Mismaloya Arches: Bird Watching and Photo Opportunities

The first stop on the tour is at Mismaloya’s famous Arches, dramatic rock formations rising from the sea. Here, birdwatching is popular, with many avian species visible in the area. The stunning natural landscape offers perfect photo opportunities, especially for those who appreciate scenic coastal views.

This spot provides a chance to stretch your legs and take in the breathtaking scenery. Guides often point out notable features of the rock formations, making it a highlight for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. It’s an ideal place for a quick photo break before heading to the next water-based adventure.

Water Activities at Colomitos Beach: Snorkeling, Kayaking, and Paddleboarding

The second stop is at Colomitos Beach, a small, secluded cove renowned for its vibrant marine life. Guests can enjoy snorkeling amidst colorful fish and coral reefs, with equipment provided. For those who prefer active water sports, kayaks and paddleboards are available, enabling exploration of the calm waters.

During your time here, a chef prepares a grill onboard the boat, serving chicken, roast beef, chorizo, and green salad, turning this water stop into a delicious picnic. Water activities are included in the tour package, and the tranquil setting makes it perfect for both energetic exploration and relaxing sunbathing.

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Las Animas Beach: Relaxation, Swimming, and Beachside Fun

The final stop is at Las Animas Beach, a lively stretch of sand with a beach club and plenty of space to relax or swim. Visitors can cool off again in the clear waters or simply unwind on the soft sand. The beach offers a casual environment, perfect for enjoying the parties and contests that are often part of the lively atmosphere.

This segment is a great way to wrap up the day, giving participants time to soak up the sun, enjoy more swimming, or explore local vendors and beach amenities. The beach club makes it easy to rent chairs, buy drinks, or just enjoy the scenery before heading back on the boat.

Onboard Dining and Open Bar: A Festive Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, a full open bar keeps the energy high with cocktails, sodas, and water. The lively entertainment onboard adds to the festive vibe, making the trip suitable for celebrating with friends or family. The lunch served on the beach offers a hearty grilled menu, including chicken, roast beef, chorizo, and green salad, complementing the day’s activities perfectly.

The food and drink offerings are designed to cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and energized. It’s a well-organized setup that balances active water sports with relaxed lounging.

Practical Gear and Additional Costs

Helmets and gasoline are included in the rental package, helping guests participate in water activities without concern. There is also a small marina entrance fee of 32 Pesos (about $1.50 USD) per person, which is payable on site.

Travelers should bring essentials such as a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Extra cash is recommended for tips, photos, or any additional purchases at the beach or souvenir stalls.

Pacing, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour’s pacing balances active water adventures with leisure time on beaches, making it suitable for most fitness levels. It generally starts in the afternoon, providing ample daylight for all activities. The group size is not explicitly stated but is managed to ensure a lively yet intimate experience.

While specific details about accessibility are not provided, the tour’s focus on water activities and beach stops suggests some physical mobility is needed, especially for swimming and kayaking. Participants should be comfortable in the water and able to handle light outdoor exertion.

Comparing This Tour with Similar Experiences

This Puerto Vallarta catamaran tour is comparable to other full-day boat adventures listed on platforms like GetYourGuide, which include stops at islands, beaches, snorkel spots, and water-based activities. However, its inclusion of lunch, an open bar, and practical gear makes it stand out as a well-rounded and value-packed option.

The tour’s rating of 4.4 reflects consistent satisfaction, especially among travelers who appreciate the mix of scenic views, water sports, and lively onboard atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on the Puerto Vallarta Catamaran Adventure

This 7.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive day exploring the best of Puerto Vallarta’s southern coast. It combines nature, adventure, and relaxation with the convenience of included gear, lunch, and an open bar. The stops at Mismaloya’s Arches, Colomitos Beach, and Las Animas Beach cover diverse landscapes and activities suitable for most travelers.

While the experience is lively and active, it also provides enough downtime to enjoy the scenery and unwind. This tour is particularly suited for those who want a full-day excursion with varied water sports and a festive atmosphere, ideal for families, friends, or couples looking to make the most of a day in Puerto Vallarta.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $93 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon.

What stops are included on this tour?
The tour includes stops at Mismaloya’s Arches, Colomitos Beach, and Las Animas Beach.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are included in the tour package.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a lunch on the beach with grilled chicken, roast beef, chorizo, and green salad is part of the experience.

What amenities are onboard?
Guests enjoy an open bar and live entertainment.

Are gear and equipment included?
Yes, helmets and gasoline are included for water activity rentals.

Is there an entrance fee to the marina?
Yes, a 32 Pesos (~$1.50 USD) fee per person applies.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and a camera.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the watersports and beach stops make it appropriate for families comfortable with water activities.

Is there a guide during the tour?
Yes, live guides speak both English and Spanish to assist and inform throughout the trip.

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