Dolphins, snorkeling, and a BBQ beach stop. What makes this day special is the Islas Marietas wildlife-and-water mix, plus a proper BBQ lunch at Majahuitas. I especially like that you’re not just watching from the boat, and I like how the crew keeps the day moving with clear help in the water. The main drawback to plan for: it’s a boat-heavy 7 hours, and you’ll be in open water a lot, so seasickness is a real consideration.

Onboard, I’ve seen how a fun, organized crew approach can turn the ride into part of the adventure—especially when guides like Poncho (and other crew members) keep the energy up while you scan for marine life. One practical note: there’s no dock at the stops, so you jump in and out of the water and climb back aboard using small metal ladders.

Key things that make this tour worth your time

• Dolphin and whale odds in season while you cruise the Bay of Banderas
• Real “in-water” time with snorkel, kayak, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
• Majahuitas BBQ with drinks gives you a beach break, not just a quick stop
• Bird spotting like blue-footed boobies and red-billed tropicbirds
• Small boats, big crew attention, with up to 100 travelers
• No-dock logistics means quick jumps and ladders—bring the right mindset

Why Islas Marietas and Majahuitas click as a Puerto Vallarta day

This tour pairs two very different vibes: wildlife time out on the water, then a beach-and-lunch stop that actually feels like a getaway. If you love ocean days—where you’re constantly looking up for wildlife and also getting hands-on with the water—this is the kind of outing that scratches that itch.

Islas Marietas is all about rugged, protected marine habitat. You’re going for a mix: Pacific dolphin sightings, chances at larger marine life in season (including whales), and time in the water with snorkel or a paddle. Then Majahuitas Beach turns the dial toward comfort: shade, swimming, and a BBQ lunch with drinks that make the day feel full instead of rushed.

A big reason I think this combination works is that it balances effort. You get active options (snorkeling, kayaking, SUP), but you also get a shore meal that gives you time to dry off, reset, and eat something that feels like a real lunch.

Cost breakdown: $99 plus the cash fees you should plan for

At $99 per person, the headline value is clear: you’re paying for a full-day ocean outing with multiple water activities and a BBQ lunch. The included items are what most people care about: BBQ lunch at Majahuitas with refreshing drinks, plus snorkel and kayak equipment and SUP.

But there are a few add-on costs you’ll want to budget so there are no surprises at the dock:

• Port fees: MX$40.00 per person, paid in cash at the port
• Conservation fee: $20.00 per person, paid at check-in
• A small dock fee in Mexican cash is also mentioned as part of getting started

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so factor in getting yourself to the meeting point on time.

When I look at value, I treat this as a “package for water time.” If you’re the type who would otherwise pay separately for snorkeling gear, a guided boat trip, and beach time with lunch, this bundled day can be a good deal—especially with the included drink setup and the fact that you can do more than one activity.

Dock-free stops and the 7-hour schedule you should expect

Start time is 7:00 am, and the tour runs about 7 hours. It ends back at the meeting point, so you’re not dealing with a long, confusing return.

One logistics detail changes everything for first-timers: there isn’t a dock at the locations you visit. Instead, you jump off the boat and climb back up with small metal ladders. That’s not scary, but it does mean you’ll want confidence in wet, moving situations—and you should wear footwear you’re comfortable getting wet.

Also, the day is mostly on the boat. That’s part of the wildlife experience, but it’s also why this tour is not ideal if you’re prone to seasickness. In fact, the tour info specifically calls out that most of the duration is spent on the boat, so plan accordingly.

The early start matters too. You’ll be in the water during cooler morning conditions at times, and some snorkeling sessions can feel chilly. If you tend to run cold, plan for that and pack for it.

Wildlife spotting from the Bay of Banderas boat ride

This part of the trip is built on scanning: slow cruising, guide commentary, and lots of time for you to look for motion on the horizon.

From the Bay of Banderas, you can expect a real chance at marine mammals. The tour’s wildlife focus includes:

• Bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and spinner dolphins
• Whales in season (when conditions and timing line up)
• Giant manta rays
• Birds like blue-footed boobies and red-billed tropicbirds

What I like about this setup is that it’s not just a “pass by and hope” experience. The day is structured so you’re actively looking as you travel to the island area. When whales are around, you may see big moments like breaching and dramatic surface behavior.

There’s also a seasonal reality check: your best underwater views can change with weather. In rainy periods, visibility can be murky, which affects snorkeling. You’re still likely to see marine life, but don’t expect crystal-clear Caribbean-style water every single day.

Marietas Islands activities: snorkel, kayak, or SUP under eco-guiding

Once you reach the Marietas Islands area, you switch from “watching” to “doing.” You choose among:

• Snorkeling
• Kayaking
• Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)

The tour includes snorkel and kayak equipment, and the SUP is included too. You’ll also have eco-guides around to help with safety, especially since you’re working in a real marine environment and getting on and off the water where there’s no dock.

What this means for you: pick the activity that matches your comfort level. If you want to see what’s under the surface, snorkeling is the simplest route. If you want a quieter pace while staying on the move, kayaking can feel more controlled. If you want the full workout plus ocean views, SUP does that.

Now, a key expectation-setting point: the itinerary packs in multiple stops, and a few people feel the water-activity windows can feel short—especially snorkeling in colder or choppier conditions. So if you’re the type who wants long, slow sessions, go in ready to make the most of the time you get.

Also, the tour notes you should have a moderate physical fitness level. That doesn’t mean “athlete only,” but it does mean you’ll be handling active water steps and getting comfortable with wet movement.

Majahuitas Beach BBQ lunch, drinks, and the end-of-day show

Majahuitas is where the day cools down. This is the beach stop with a BBQ lunch and refreshing drinks included, and it’s generally the meal most people remember.

I like how the food doesn’t feel like a tiny snack stop. The lunch is described as substantial, and the scenery at the beach stop adds to the “vacation mode” feeling. You’ll also have time on shore to swim, relax, and enjoy the vibe while the rest of the day catches up.

One pattern that comes through again and again is how the crew adds fun onboard. You might find choreographed dancing or a silly performance segment toward the end of the trip. It’s not the reason to come, but it helps the day feel like more than a checklist of activities.

One practical point for the beach portion: some people mention lines around food timing, and at least one person noted you may have a bit of a hike as you move around the food area. So if you like to paddle around first and eat later, that can help you avoid the busiest moments.

Weather, water temps, and seasickness reality checks

This is a Pacific outing. Conditions can shift fast, and that’s the biggest variable in your experience.

• Rainy season can reduce snorkeling visibility. If you’re booking during wetter months, adjust expectations: you might still see fish, but water clarity may not be great.
• Cold water can catch you off guard. Even with snorkeling, the morning can feel chilly. A wetsuit can make a big difference if one is available or you can bring one.
• Choppy boat rides happen. If you get seasick, don’t tough it out. The tour info directly warns that the boat time is a major chunk of the day, and if seasickness hits you easily, this may not be the best choice.

Packing tips that actually help:

• Bring a towel (some people say towels aren’t provided)
• Bring water and some simple snacks if you’re sensitive to long stretches
• Wear clothes and shoes you’re okay getting wet
• Have Mexican cash (pesos) for any fees or small expenses like port charges, plus tips if that’s your style

Also, a safety and rules note: drones are prohibited on this tour to protect endemic birds, and there’s a strict No-Drug Policy (including electronic cigarettes and vapers). This matters because security denial can affect your access and refunds.

My booking call: should you book this Islas Marietas & Majahuitas tour?

If you want a full ocean day—with dolphins and birds from the boat, plus hands-on snorkeling/kayaking/SUP, then a real BBQ lunch at Majahuitas—this is a strong pick. It’s especially good for people who don’t mind boat time and like active experiences.

I’d think twice if any of these are you:

• You’re very prone to seasickness
• You expect long, unhurried snorkeling sessions
• You want a simple, dock-easy beach day (this has dock-free jumps and ladders)
• You’re a cruise passenger trying to match tight schedules (it’s not suitable for cruise ships)

If you go in knowing it’s a guided marine adventure with some wet, ladder-style logistics, you’ll likely feel like it was worth the morning alarm.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and how long is it?

The tour starts at 7:00 am and lasts about 7 hours.

Where do I meet the group?

You meet at Puerto Magico Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What’s included in the $99 price?

You get a BBQ lunch at Majahuitas with refreshing drinks, use of snorkel and kayak equipment, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

What fees are not included?

Port fees are MX$40.00 per person, paid in cash at the port. There’s also a conservation admission fee of $20.00 per person at check-in.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkel equipment is included.

What water activities can I do?

You can do snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

Are there any restrictions on drones?

Yes. Drones are prohibited on this tour.

Is it suitable for people who get seasick?

If you suffer from seasickness, this might not be the best adventure because most of the trip is spent on the boat.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.