Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta by Speedboat

Discover the Excitement of Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling by Speedboat

The Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta offers a lively and scenic half-day adventure for $107 per person, lasting approximately 3 hours. This tour, operated by Los Veranos Canopy Tour, takes you on a speedboat ride to explore the charming fishing village of Yelapa, snorkel in a vibrant marine environment, and visit the iconic Arches of Mismaloya for perfect photo opportunities. It’s ideal for those looking for a mix of cultural sights, marine life, and stunning coastal views, all within a manageable timeframe.

A key highlight of this tour is the expert guides who lead a well-organized journey, ensuring safety and entertainment throughout. While it does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, it offers a convenient meeting point and all necessary equipment. The snorkeling experience is particularly praised for the variety of marine fauna, making it a rewarding choice for underwater enthusiasts. For those who enjoy a lively pace and scenic stops, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience.

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Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Price: $107 per person
• Includes: Speedboat transportation, snorkeling gear, local snacks, drinks, and guided tour
• Highlights: Explore Yelapa, snorkel in a paradisiacal spot, visit the Mismaloya Arches, and enjoy Madagascar Beach
• Physical Requirements: Suitable for ages 8 and up, but not for pregnant women or wheelchair users
• Meeting Point: Muelle E at the hospital La Joya parking lot, just across from the Hard Rock Hotel

Starting Your Adventure on a Speedboat from Puerto Vallarta

This tour departs from either Nuevo Vallarta or Puerto Vallarta, depending on the selected option. The speedboat, known as Apex, provides a 35-minute ride southward across the bay, setting a lively tone for the trip. The boat ride offers great views of the coastline and prepares travelers for the day ahead.

The departure process is straightforward, with travelers advised to arrive 15 minutes early at the designated meeting points. Meeting in front of the Hard Rock Hotel or at Dock E in Paradise Village Marina ensures smooth boarding onto the Apex.

Exploring Yelapa’s Charm and Natural Beauty

Once in Yelapa, visitors have about 50 minutes to explore the village’s main sights. The town’s waterfall and narrow alleys provide a glimpse into traditional life in this fishing community. The guided visit highlights the village’s most important attractions, while free time allows for walking, shopping, or taking photos. The walk through Yelapa’s streets reveals colorful houses and local markets, giving a taste of local culture.

The waterfall is a highlight, offering a refreshing backdrop for photos and a chance to see natural splendor close up. The short visit allows for a good overview without feeling rushed, making it suitable for those who enjoy scenic towns with relaxed atmospheres.

Snorkeling in a Vibrant Marine Environment

Next, the tour heads to a designated beach south of the bay for the snorkeling activity. The exact location may change depending on weather conditions, but the emphasis remains on providing an optimal underwater experience. Expect to see lobsters, turtles, starfish, octopuses, and a wide array of colorful fish.

The snorkeling spot is complemented by the opportunity to use kayaks and floating mats, adding fun options for water-based relaxation. The guided setup ensures safety and maximizes the chance to observe marine life, making it an attractive part of the tour for nature lovers.

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Enjoying Local Flavors at Madagascar Beach

After snorkeling, the tour takes you to Madagascar Beach for a delicious meal and drinks. The included sandwich and ceviche fish showcase local flavors, offering a satisfying break in the day’s activities. The beach’s tranquil setting makes it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the coastal scenery.

This stop is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to relax and take in the ocean views while savoring fresh seafood and cold beverages like soda, water, or beer. It’s a laid-back scene that rounds out the active portion of the tour nicely.

Visiting Mismaloya Arches for Photos and Scenic Views

On the return trip, the boat makes a brief stop at the Mismaloya Arches, a well-known natural formation along the coast. This photo stop lasts just a few minutes but provides excellent opportunities to capture the striking landscape. The Arches of Mismaloya are a popular scenic spot, perfect for snapping memorable pictures of your day’s adventures.

This quick visit adds a scenic highlight to the tour and offers a final coastal view before heading back to the port.

Practical Details: Logistics and Inclusions

The tour includes Apex speedboat transportation, expert guides, and safety equipment. Travelers receive a sandwich, ceviche, and a bottle of water, soda, or beer, ensuring they stay refreshed throughout the trip. The port fee of 32 pesos ($2 USD) is also included, so there are no hidden charges for the activity.

It’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so travelers should plan to meet at the designated location. The meeting point in Puerto Vallarta is store 5 in Chedraui, while in Nuevo Vallarta, it’s Dock E at Paradise Village Marina.

Physical Requirements and Safety Considerations

This tour is suitable for children 8 years and older. It is not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to activity and accessibility limitations. Travelers should bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel. Items like weapons, drones, glass objects, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited, and all visitors pass through airport-style security for safety.

The tour is conducted in English and Spanish, with live guides leading the experience, ensuring clear explanations and assistance during activities.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

At $107 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that combines scenic boat rides, cultural visits, marine snorkeling, and scenic photo stops. The inclusion of snacks and drinks adds to the value, and the guided tour ensures a smooth, informative journey.

While it lacks hotel pickup, the well-organized itinerary and the variety of activities make it a compelling choice for those seeking a lively half-day adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and marine encounters.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This tour is perfect for families with children over 8, water enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates scenic coastal views and local culture. The snorkeling component is especially praised for its marine diversity, making it a highlight for underwater lovers. Those seeking a quick, active, and scenic escape from Puerto Vallarta will find this tour rewarding and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Travelers need to meet at the specified locations.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel to enjoy the activities comfortably.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children aged 8 and older can participate; younger children are not suitable.

Can I use kayaks and floating mats?
Yes, during the snorkeling stop, kayaks and floating mats are available for use.

How long is the boat ride to Yelapa?
The boat ride takes approximately 35 minutes each way.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see while snorkeling?
Expect to see lobsters, turtles, starfish, octopuses, and a variety of colorful fish.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a sandwich and ceviche fish are included, along with drinks such as soda, water, and beer.

How much is the port fee?
The port fee is 32 pesos, or about $2 USD per person.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or wheelchairs?
No, it is not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

In which languages are guides available?
Guides lead the tour in English and Spanish.

This Yelapa Escape & Snorkeling by Speedboat offers a lively, scenic, and aquatic adventure with a good balance of cultural sightseeing and marine exploration. It’s a flexible, enjoyable way to experience some of Puerto Vallarta’s most beautiful coastal sights in a compact timeframe.

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