Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Islands Boat Tour and Snorkeling

Situated along Mexico’s picturesque Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta beckons adventure-seekers with its Los Arcos Islands Boat Tour and Snorkeling excursion. This 3-hour guided journey transports visitors to the captivating Los Arcos National Marine Park, where they’ll enjoy a vibrant underwater realm teeming with diverse marine life. From colorful schools of fish to intricate coral formations and even the occasional sea turtle, the snorkeling experience promises to enchant participants of all ages. With knowledgeable bilingual guides on hand to share insights into the area’s history and ecology, this tour offers a truly memorable way to explore the wonders that lie beneath the waves.

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided boat tour and snorkeling excursion to explore the picturesque Los Arcos National Marine Park near Puerto Vallarta.
• Opportunity to observe vibrant underwater life, including colorful fish, seabirds, and thriving coral formations.
• Tour includes transportation from Puerto Vallarta via public bus, snorkeling gear, and knowledgeable English and Spanish-speaking guides.
• Not suitable for children under 8, individuals with mobility issues, or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities.
• Tour can be booked with a reserve now, pay later option, and provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Los Arcos Islands Boat Tour and Snorkeling activity is a popular 3-hour excursion in Puerto Vallarta. Priced from €39.74 per person, the tour takes visitors to explore the Los Arcos National Marine Park.

The activity is likely to sell out, but travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. A reserve now and pay later option is also available.

The tour includes guided exploration of the five islands, snorkeling to observe marine life, and visits to iconic historical locations.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users. Travelers should bring necessary items like towels and sunscreen.

Experience Highlights

Tourists embark on a guided journey to explore the stunning Los Arcos National Marine Park, snorkeling in the bay’s best spot to discover a vibrant underwater world.

They’ll observe an array of marine life, including colorful fish, seabirds, and thriving coral.

The tour also offers the chance to visit iconic historical locations and learn about the local flora and fauna from the knowledgeable live guide, who provides commentary in both English and Spanish.

With the included snorkeling gear and life vest, visitors can safely enjoy the warm waters and witness the natural wonders of this protected marine environment.

Itinerary Details

Participants meet in old Puerto Vallarta and take a public bus to Mismaloya, located 25 minutes south of the city.

After a short walk, they board the boat to Los Arcos, a group of five small islands and natural caves.

Once on the water, they’ll have the chance to snorkel in the warm, clear waters and observe the vibrant marine life below.

The tour guide, fluent in both English and Spanish, will point out the iconic historical locations within the national marine park before the group returns.

Inclusions and Restrictions

The tour includes a guided experience, with transportation provided via public bus to the departure point.

Guests will receive snorkeling gear and life vests to explore the marine life at Los Arcos.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

Participants should bring a towel, sunscreen, and water to make the most of the snorkeling adventure.

While the public bus ride to the excursion has received some concerns about crowding, the overall package offers great value for money and a chance to discover the natural wonders of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Ratings and Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Los Arcos Boat Tour and Snorkeling excursion, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 101 reviews.

The transportation received a 4.2/5 rating, while the value for money was scored at 4.5/5.

Positive comments highlight the guides’ knowledge and the snorkeling experience.

However, some reviewers expressed concerns about the crowded public bus ride to the excursion.

Getting to the Tour

Visitors meet in the heart of old Puerto Vallarta and then take a 25-minute public bus ride south to the seaside town of Mismaloya. This short journey provides a glimpse of the local landscape and culture.

Upon arrival, participants take a short walk to the boat launch, where they board the boat destined for the stunning Los Arcos National Marine Park. The public transportation is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach the starting point of the tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the Puerto Vallarta experience.

Once aboard the boat, the adventure truly begins as participants set out to explore the five islands and snorkel in the warm, vibrant waters.

What to Expect Underwater

Snorkelers enjoy a vibrant underwater realm teeming with diverse marine life. As they descend beneath the surface, schools of brightly colored fish dart past, their scales shimmering in the sunlight that filters through the clear waters.

Intricate coral formations, some resembling vibrant gardens, others reaching up like towering structures, provide a home for a myriad of creatures. Curious sea turtles glide gracefully, while vibrant sea stars cling to the rocks.

The tranquil environment allows visitors to observe the delicate balance of this marine ecosystem up close, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the underwater world.

Additional Notes

This boat tour and snorkeling excursion in Puerto Vallarta also offers a few additional perks.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility with their plans. Those who prefer to pay later can utilize the reserve now & pay later option, making it easier to fit the activity into their budget.

Beyond the snorkeling experience, the tour also includes a boat trip to explore the picturesque Los Arcos islands and observe the diverse marine life and natural landscapes.

With knowledgeable guides providing commentary in both English and Spanish, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the area’s unique ecosystems and cultural significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

You can bring your own snorkeling equipment, but the tour includes the necessary gear. Using the provided equipment is recommended to ensure proper fit and safety during the snorkeling activity.

Is There an Option for a Private Boat Tour?

While there’s no mention of a private boat tour option, private tours may be available upon request for an additional fee. Guests should inquire directly with the tour operator about private tour options and pricing.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Camera I Can Bring?

There are no explicit restrictions on the type of camera visitors can bring. Guests are welcome to bring their cameras, including waterproof or underwater models, to capture the snorkeling experience and scenic views during the boat tour.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?

Guests don’t need to know how to swim to participate in the boat tour and snorkeling experience. The tour provider supplies life vests, and the snorkeling is done in calm, shallow waters suitable for both swimmers and non-swimmers.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour operator recommends packing light and avoiding large coolers, as space on the boat is limited.

Recap

The Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Islands Boat Tour and Snorkeling offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Los Arcos National Marine Park. Guests can explore vibrant underwater ecosystems, teeming with diverse marine life. With knowledgeable bilingual guides and transportation included, the tour provides an immersive experience that delights participants of all ages. Whether seeking a glimpse of sea turtles or simply admiring the breathtaking natural beauty, this excursion is a must-do for visitors to the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: