Marietas Islands Boat Tour: Snorkel, Kayak, Playa Nopalera

Discover the Marietas Islands Boat Tour with Water Fun and Marine Wildlife

This 6-hour boat tour from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle offers an exciting way to explore the Marietas Islands in Jalisco, Mexico. Priced at $130 per person, it features snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing at Playa la Nopalera, all aboard a well-equipped boat with unlimited premium drinks and delicious Mexican food. With a 4.5-star rating from 31 reviews, this tour shines for its friendly guides, scenic cruising, and abundant water activities.

While the trip is packed with fun and scenic highlights, it is best suited for those comfortable with water-based activities and who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere. Note that mobility impairments are not accommodated, and bringing waterproof gear for photos is recommended. This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and spectacular views in a tropical marine setting.

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Key Points

• Full-day adventure: 6 hours of cruising, snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing at Playa Nopalera
• Includes all-you-can-drink premium beverages: margaritas, beers, wines, spirits, and more
• Tasty Mexican lunch: Fajitas with rice, beans, and tortillas
• Unlimited water activities: snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, water mattress
• Scenic marine reserve: chance to see sea turtles, rays, and whales (Dec-Apr)
• Professional onboard photographer: captures action shots available for purchase

Departure Locations and Check-In Options

The tour begins at three different meeting points: Chica Locca Marina, Chica Locca Tours Head Office, or Chica Locca Tours Carlos Co y usa, providing flexibility depending on where travelers are staying. The exact meeting point varies based on the selected option and is arranged during booking.

The Scenic Cruise Along Banderas Bay

The journey to the Marietas Islands takes place along the North Shore of Banderas Bay, offering spectacular coastal scenery. During the cruise, travelers can enjoy views of the tropical coastline, and from December to April, humpback whales are often visible. The cruise also includes marine wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see sea turtles, rays, and Booby birds soaring alongside the boat.

Water Fun on a Fully Equipped Yacht

The boat is designed for effortless adventure, featuring waterslides and all water toys. Unlimited use of snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and water mattresses are included, giving plenty of options for ocean play. Water guides supervise activities to ensure safety and fun, while the boat’s space allows everyone to spread out comfortably.

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Breakfast and Snacks to Start the Day Right

The tour kicks off with a fresh breakfast of seasonal fruit, muffins, and juices, served on board. During the cruise, a snack of guacamole and chips is provided, adding a tasty touch before arriving at the islands. The all-day premium beverage service includes water, coffee, juices, sodas, and alcoholic options like margaritas, pina coladas, beer, tequila, wine, and champagne.

Exploring Playa la Nopalera and Marine Wildlife

Once at the Marietas Islands, a guided swim, kayak, or snorkeling session takes you to Playa la Nopalera, a stunning marine reserve. Here, you’re free to explore the biodiversity of the protected area, which teems with marine wildlife. The wet landing on the island is exhilarating but can be tricky for those with mobility issues, as bringing waterproof gear for photos is advisable.

Delicious Mexican Fajitas Lunch

After your marine adventures, the boat returns to the islands for a tasty Mexican fajitas lunch. Options include beef, chicken, or vegetarian filling served with rice, beans, and local corn tortillas. The meal is hearty and satisfying, perfect after some active water time, and is complemented by more drinks and ocean views.

Relaxing and Socializing on the Return Trip

The journey back offers a chance to unwind, with drinks, dancing, and beautiful views. The boat’s professional photographers will have captured countless action shots during the day, available for purchase. It’s a lively, relaxed ending to a day full of marine exploration and water fun.

Practical Logistics and Booking Options

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travel plans. It is typically available in the morning, making it a great choice for those wanting a full day of adventure. Languages spoken onboard include English and Spanish, ensuring smooth communication.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. Travelers should bring swimwear and towels for water activities and are encouraged to wear waterproof gear if they wish to preserve photos during the wet landing. The tour maintains a lively, social atmosphere, with plenty of space for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Overall Value and Who Will Love This Tour

Priced at $130 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the full-day experience, unlimited drinks, delicious food, and multiple water activities included. The friendly guides and scenic marine wildlife viewing make it especially appealing for those who enjoy nature, water sports, and a vibrant atmosphere onboard.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for Water Enthusiasts

The fully equipped boat with water slides and toys ensures everyone can have fun in the water, while the marine reserve offers a chance to see sea turtles and rays. The guided activities and professional photography add value, capturing memories of your tropical adventure.

Those looking for a social, lively day with scenic cruising, marine wildlife, and great food and drinks will find this tour highly satisfying. It also suits families and groups who enjoy lots of water play and relaxed exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $130 per person price includes food, beverages, water activities, and guided tours at the islands.

Is there a vegetarian option for lunch?
Yes, the Mexican fajitas lunch can be prepared with vegetarian filling.

Are water slides and toys available all day?
Yes, the boat features waterslides and all water toys available for unlimited use during the tour.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see sea turtles, rays, and marine birds like Booby birds. From December to April, humpback whales are often visible during the cruise.

Can I purchase photos taken during the trip?
Yes, the professional onboard photographers will showcase images for purchase, though photos are not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, especially those comfortable with water activities, but mobility impairments are not accommodated.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and towels. Waterproof gear for photos is recommended because of the wet landing.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, typically starting in the morning.

Are hotel pickups available?
The tour begins at designated meeting points, which vary depending on booking options.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, English and Spanish are spoken during the tour, ensuring clear communication.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby