Marietas turns a boat ride into a mission. I like this tour because you get an all-day open bar plus serious time in the water with snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboards, and more. The trade-off is you’ll need to be comfortable wearing a life jacket and getting in and out of the water the park way, even if it’s not always graceful.

The vibe is half party, half marine-adventure. The boat cruises out from the Bay of Banderas with breakfast and snacks onboard, then anchors near the protected Marietas Islands for guided swim/play time. If you’re hoping for zero physical effort, this isn’t that day; bring swim-ready energy.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• Open bar that runs all day, from coffee and soda to beer, tequila, wine, champagne, and mixed drinks
• Real water time with snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and float gear included
• Guided approach to Playa la Nopalera, with the chance to see coral, tropical fish, and sea birds
• Optional Hidden Beach permit, limited access and dependent on conditions and timing
• Crew-led whale/sea-life scanning, with the boat stopping when nature puts on a show
• Photographer support onboard, with action and candid photos you can purchase if you want

Why Marietas Islands feels different from other PV boat days

Marietas Islands National Park is protected, so the experience isn’t just about swimming. You’re anchored in a protected marine setting, and the rules shape how boats and people interact with the islands.

I also like that you’re not locked into one single activity. You can bounce between snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, floating, and guided swims. That flexibility helps if your group has mixed comfort levels in the water.

The boat setup: open bar, slides, and staying comfortable

This is an all-in-day experience on the water. Breakfast hits early, and the premium open bar keeps going through the day, including classics like margaritas and pina coladas, plus beer, tequila, wine, and champagne.

Onboard, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the ride itself. There’s a mix of shady and sunny seating, clean bathrooms, and included water fun like waterslides and floating gear (mattresses and tubes). One practical thing: this tour runs with a maximum group size of 66, so you’re not stuck in a sardine can, but you should still expect it to feel like a lively boat day.

One more useful note: a photographer is onboard, and the crew introduces the photographer along with the cruise director and staff. Even if you don’t pre-book a photo package, the photographer can assist and follow your day for action and candid shots.

Bay of Banderas morning: breakfast + cruise pace that sets the tone

The day starts promptly with a direct cruise toward Marietas Islands. Before you’re deep in the fun, you get breakfast-style fuel: fresh fruit (in season) plus pastries. Drinks run right away too, with water, coffee, juices, and sodas, and then the bar expands into the full premium menu.

As you head toward the islands, there’s also a snack moment: guacamole with chips. That helps you avoid the crash when you’re busy getting towels, sunscreen, and swim gear sorted.

If you’re going for wildlife, here’s the seasonal context that matters: from December to April, the waters are inhabited by humpback whales. All year, you may still spot sea turtles, rays, and tropical coastline scenes while cruising north along the shore.

Marietas anchor time: guided water activities at Playa la Nopalera

By late morning, you arrive within the park’s boundaries and anchor for the afternoon. This is the core of the day: you swim, explore, and choose your water play with guidance.

Your main water destination is Playa la Nopalera, and the park setting is the point. With a guide, you can swim, kayak, paddleboard, or snorkel your way through clear water zones where coral and tropical fish are part of the show. Sea birds and the feeling of being in a protected marine environment add extra “why this place matters” energy.

A realistic expectation: conditions can change. Snorkeling can be clearer on some days than others, and water visibility can affect how satisfying it feels. If you care most about snorkeling, go in ready to pivot to kayaking or guided swimming if the water isn’t as clear as you hoped.

Hidden Beach: the permit, the swim, and the “conditions decide” reality

Hidden Beach is the star option, but it’s not automatic. Access requires a limited hidden beach permit booked in advance, and you pay the permit fee in pesos when you check in. The number of people allowed is strictly limited by park rules, and it depends on daily access conditions.

Here’s why timing matters: if the day’s schedule shifts due to weather, engine timing issues, or sea conditions, Hidden Beach access can become impossible even if you paid for the addition. That’s not the fault of anyone on the boat; it’s how tightly the park regulates safe entry.

Also, plan for a more physical version of beach time. Hidden Beach is reached by swimming to shore, and the return also involves more water movement than a normal “sit on the sand” day. If your group is short on endurance or comfort in choppy water, consider whether Hidden Beach is worth the added challenge.

Getting in and out of the water: life jackets, stairs, and what to plan for

This is the big decision point for your comfort. You are required to wear a life jacket at all times while in the water, even for activities like jumping off the boat. Some people find the life jackets uncomfortable or hard to adjust, but the rule comes from the park authorities and applies across operators.

Expect water entry that can involve jumping into ocean waves. While a ladder may be available, you may still be asked to jump in rather than use it every time. If your legs, ears, or balance are sensitive, this is something to take seriously before you book.

One small but smart trick: protect your phone from water. There’s plenty of swimming involved, and a waterproof pouch or phone-protection method can save a lot of stress.

Lunch + the floating fun factory on the return cruise

When you head back to the boat, lunch is served with the classic Mexican spread: fajitas, rice, beans, and tortillas. Lunch is not the only food break, either—you’ll keep grabbing snacks during the day, including guacamole and chips earlier.

After lunch, the party shifts again. The open bar stays going, and you’ll likely get more time for ocean play and wildlife watching. Many boats run the second half as a relaxed hang. This one adds what they call a floating fun factory, paired with music and your favorite drinks.

On the return cruise, the energy turns into dancing-and-sunbreeze mode for many people. Your cruise director acts as the master of ceremonies, and the crew keeps communication with other boats while scanning for whales and sea life. If something comes up, the boat can stop so everyone has a shot at seeing it.

How $110 adds up: all-inclusive math that’s actually worth checking

At $110 per person, you’re not paying for just a boat ride. You’re paying for a full day’s setup: breakfast plus lunch, snacks, and a premium brand-name open bar. You’re also getting water-activity equipment, including snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, and floating mattress/tubes. Clean bathrooms are included too.

That matters because many PV-area “cheap boat days” charge extra for the good stuff: beverages, equipment, and decent meals. Here, your biggest variable cost is the optional Hidden Beach permit, plus gratuities and any photo package you choose to buy.

You also get food options. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and gluten-free options are mentioned as well. Still, early breakfast can be light, so if you’re prone to getting hungry before lunch, consider eating something beforehand on your own day.

Who this tour suits best (and who should think twice)

This is a strong match for groups who want variety: snorkeling + kayaking + floating + a lively onboard vibe. It also tends to work well for families because the day is activity-packed and the crew runs it with lots of attention and interaction for kids.

It’s less ideal if you need a gentle, low-impact day. If jumping into waves isn’t your thing, life jacket rules plus water entry style can be a deal-breaker. If snorkeling is your only goal, be aware that water conditions and timing can affect what you see.

If you’re traveling with kids, note that kid-size snorkeling gear is not guaranteed. It can be smart to bring your own if you know your child needs a specific fit. Also, music can be loud on the boat, so if you’re sound-sensitive, plan for that.

Practical packing list for a 6-hour ocean day

Pack like you’re going to be wet, sun-kissed, and a little salty:

• Sunscreen, a towel, and a hat
• Something you’re okay getting wet and rinsing off
• Phone protection (waterproof pouch or case)
• If you have a small snorkel-gear need, bring your own

And mentally: arrive ready for a full water day, not a casual cruise. You’ll be moving around the boat, getting equipment, and spending time in and around the water.

Should you book this Marietas Islands tour?

If you want a single-booking day that mixes open bar, guided marine time, and big wildlife potential, this is a solid choice. The value is in the package: meals, drinks, and gear are built into the price, and the day is designed to keep you active rather than waiting around.

I’d think twice if you:

• are not comfortable with jumping into the ocean and wearing a life jacket in the water
• need a guaranteed Hidden Beach visit regardless of conditions
• expect snorkeling to be perfect every day

One last tip for confidence: if Hidden Beach is important to you, treat the permit as valuable, not guaranteed. Conditions and timing can decide access.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so you can book and still adjust if plans shift.

FAQ

How long is the Marietas Islands tour?

The tour runs about 6 hours total.

What does the all-inclusive price cover?

It includes premium all-inclusive food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks at the open bar. You also get snorkeling gear and water activities like paddleboards, kayaks, and floating items, plus breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

Is Hidden Beach included in the main tour price?

Hidden Beach access is not included. It requires a very limited hidden beach permit, booked in advance, with an extra fee paid in pesos when you check in.

Do I have to wear a life jacket?

Yes. You’re required to wear a life jacket at all times while in the water, even for activities like jumping off the boat.

How old do you need to be to drink alcohol on this tour?

The minimum drinking age is 18.

Are drones allowed?

No. Drones are prohibited on this tour due to federal regulations and to protect the flight path of endemic birds.

Do they pick you up from your hotel, and can you cancel for free?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, and you must choose your meeting place before submitting your reservation. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.