Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto Boat Tour

Explore the Vibrant Marine Life and Stunning Coastline of Puerto Vallarta

The Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto Boat Tour offers a full day of adventure for those seeking a mix of marine exploration, scenic views, and relaxing beach time. Priced at $60 per person and lasting 7 hours, this tour departs from the Marina Vallarta and provides an engaging itinerary with stops at three key locations: Los Arcos National Park, Playa Las Ánimas, and Playa Quimixto.

While the tour includes many highlights like snorkeling and visiting a waterfall, it also has some limitations, such as a $32 port fee and potential crowding on the boat. This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded day on the water, with guided activities, good food, and the chance to see Puerto Vallarta from its bay.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $60 per person for 7 hours of fun, with an emphasis on marine life and beach visits.
• Stops Include: Los Arcos National Park, Playa Las Ánimas, and Playa Quimixto with activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and waterfall visits.
• Inclusions: Breakfast aboard, use of kayaks and paddleboards, beachside lunch, and an open bar.
• Additional Costs: A $32 port fee applies; photos are not included.
• Highlights: Vibrant marine ecosystems, scenic boat rides, and the quaint Quimixto waterfall.
• Considerations: The boat can be crowded, and some stops may have limited time or require additional shoes for hiking.

Departing from Marina Vallarta and the Check-in Process

The tour begins at the Marina Vallarta, where you check in at the main entrance on the left side. Here, you pay the $32 port fee and meet the Grupo Naviero staff, identifiable by their gray polo shirts with a white logo. It’s straightforward to complete this process, and only staff members will check your ticket. Any extra payments, such as for photos, are handled directly through the company.

Once check-in is complete, the group boards the boat, ready to set sail across the bay. This initial step is efficient, but travelers should be aware of the port fee and prepare accordingly to avoid delays.

Scenic Boat Ride Across the Bay to Los Arcos

The journey from the marina to Los Arcos National Park takes approximately 35 minutes. During this ride, travelers enjoy breathtaking views of Vallarta’s skyline and the surrounding mountains. The boat ride itself sets a relaxed tone for the day, with ample opportunity to take photos of the coast.

At Los Arcos, the guide explains the snorkeling process and provides all necessary equipment. This stop showcases vibrant marine life in the protected waters, making it an ideal spot for 40 minutes of snorkeling. The experience is well-suited for all skill levels, and the underwater scenery features colorful fish and interesting rock formations.

Snorkeling at Los Arcos National Park

The highlight of the morning is the snorkeling session at Los Arcos, where the rich marine ecosystems thrive. The guide offers instructions and equipment, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the water. Expect to see an array of marine species and enjoy the clarity of the protected waters.

Because the tour is organized in shifts, it’s worth noting that some guests find the snorkeling time limited due to the boat’s capacity and logistical constraints. Still, this stop gives a good chance to observe Puerto Vallarta’s underwater life in its natural environment.

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Relaxing at Playa Las Ánimas with Kayaking and Paddleboarding

After snorkeling, the tour proceeds southward to Playa Las Ánimas, a charming beach with clear waters and soft sand. Here, travelers can relax on the beach or rent kayaks and paddleboards for additional fun. The use of kayaks and paddleboards is included, giving plenty of opportunity for water activity.

A visit to a local restaurant at Playa Las Ánimas is part of the experience, offering a taste of local flavors. Although the exact menu may vary, the restaurant provides a chance to refresh and enjoy the beach atmosphere before heading to the next stop.

Visiting Playa Quimixto and Its Waterfall

The next destination is Playa Quimixto, a secluded beach known for its beautiful waterfall. The guide leads visitors to the Quimixto waterfall, a peaceful spot ideal for photos and relaxation. The waterfall offers a natural setting with lush surroundings and a tranquil ambiance.

A beachside lunch follows at Quimixto, with four different options available (which vary by day). The lunch options are typically simple but satisfying, and the open bar aboard the boat continues to serve drinks throughout the day.

The Boat’s Size and Impact on Activity Duration

Some travelers note that the size of the boat can affect the experience. Due to its capacity, snorkeling at Los Arcos may require shifts, limiting free time in the water. Plus, getting off and on the boat at beaches can involve smaller boats or longer wait times, especially at Playa Las Ánimas.

Despite these logistical challenges, the overall flow of the day remains engaging, with enough time allocated for each activity to enjoy its highlights.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

Arriving prepared with ID is recommended, especially if planning to purchase photos separately, as some reviews mention this detail. The check-in process is straightforward, but travelers should be punctual to avoid missing the tour or the $32 port fee. The live guides speak both Spanish and English, making explanations clear and accessible.

Since the tour is 7 hours long, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and water shoes (for those interested in hiking at Quimixto) enhance the experience. Keep in mind that crowding on the boat can limit individual activity time, particularly during snorkeling.

Food, Drinks, and Overall Value

The breakfast served on board includes scrambled eggs with ham, hotcakes, and fruit, paired with coffee, juice, or water. The beachside lunch offers four options, although some guests feel it may be not enough for the entire group. The open bar is a popular feature, providing drinks throughout the day, which adds value to the tour.

While the price is $60, travelers should remember that photos are not included, and the port fee is extra. Still, the combination of activities, scenery, and food makes for a cost-effective way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s bay.

Evaluating the Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

This tour offers stunning views and a variety of activities, driven by knowledgeable guides and a friendly crew. The scenic boat rides and the chance to snorkel among vibrant fish are definite highlights. The visits to Playa Las Ánimas and Quimixto provide both relaxation and adventure, with options for kayaking and waterfalls.

However, some limitations include the crowded boat, which can restrict snorkeling time and make getting on/off beaches slower. The lack of detailed communication about additional costs or required footwear for hikes has also been noted.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who enjoy marine life, scenic boat trips, and beach relaxation in a guided setting. Visitors should be prepared for a full day with some logistical constraints, but will find plenty of memorable moments in Puerto Vallarta’s bay.

Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto – An Honest Overview

This 7-hour boat tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation at a fair price of $60. It delivers beautiful coastal views, marine encounters, and the chance to explore a waterfall in Quimixto. The included breakfast, kayaking, paddleboarding, and lunch add to the overall value, though the crowd and some logistical issues** have been noted by others.

The tour is best suited for those who prioritize diverse activities and a lively boat experience. Travelers should be prepared for limited snorkeling time due to crowd management and ensure they bring ID and appropriate shoes if planning to hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the port fee included in the tour price?
No, the $32 port fee is paid separately at the marina entrance.

How long is the snorkeling at Los Arcos?
Snorkeling lasts approximately 40 minutes, with explanations and equipment provided.

What activities are available at Playa Las Ánimas?
You can relax on the beach or use kayaks and paddleboards included in the tour.

What is the key highlight at Playa Quimixto?
The Quimixto waterfall is a main attraction, accessible for photos and relaxing by the water.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the open bar is available aboard the boat throughout the day.

What does the breakfast include?
It features scrambled eggs with ham, hotcakes, fruit, and beverages like coffee, juice, or water.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, but families with small children should consider the crowded boat and water shoes needed for hiking.

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

Are photos available to purchase?
No, pictures are not included and are not offered for sale.

How do I find the check-in location?
Check in at the main entrance with the gray polo shirts staff, and make sure to pay the port fee there.

This Puerto Vallarta boat tour offers a lively, activity-packed day that highlights the area’s natural beauty. While some logistical quirks exist, the combination of marine life, waterfalls, and scenic views makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to explore the bay in comfort and style.

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