Marietas Islands: Snorkeling, Kayak & All-Inclusive Trimaran

Summary

Marietas Islands day trip with snorkeling kayaking food drinks

You’ll board a trimaran from Puerto Vallarta or nearby towns for a full day exploring Marietas Islands with guides who actually make you laugh. Expect snorkeling over volcanic reefs, kayaking to hidden beaches, and fresh Mexican food served right on deck. Between wildlife sightings and music drifting across the water, there’s always something happening — but it never feels rushed.

What’s the experience like?

It hits you as soon as you step onto the trimaran — that mix of sunscreen, sea air, and someone’s coffee drifting by. We’d barely found a spot to sit before the crew started handing out fresh fruit and pastries. I was still half-awake but our guide, Martín, was already cracking jokes about how we’d all look in snorkel masks. He pointed out the coastline slipping past as we left Puerto Vallarta behind. There were people from Sayulita too, everyone sort of shuffling around with that “is this real?” look you get at the start of something new.

The first time I tried to say “guacamole” with a proper accent, one of the crew — Luisa — laughed and handed me an extra scoop anyway. The water was this wild blue-green I’ve only seen in Mexico, and when we finally reached the Marietas Islands it felt like the boat just paused for a second so everyone could take it in. You could hear birds somewhere above us and there was this hush before everyone jumped into action — grabbing snorkels or paddleboards or just standing there not quite believing it. My mask kept fogging up but I didn’t even care; seeing those fish darting around volcanic rocks made me forget everything else for a bit.

Lunch was fajitas right on deck — tortillas warm enough to burn your fingers if you weren’t careful. Someone spilled their margarita when the boat rocked (nobody minded). After eating we all sort of drifted between water tubing, floating mattresses, or just lying back listening to music while the sun did its thing overhead. On the way back Martín kept an eye out for whales (not our season but he swore he saw something) and people started dancing near the bar. I’m still thinking about that light on the water as we headed home — you know how sometimes you wish you could bottle up a feeling? It was like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Marietas Islands full day tour

• Begin cruise with continental breakfast
• Enjoy premium drinks and onboard service
• Cruise along North Shore to Marietas Islands
• Snack on fresh guacamole and chips
• Arrive and anchor at Marietas Islands
• Swim, kayak, paddleboard, or snorkel to Playa la Nopalera
• Explore and enjoy marine environment
• Return to boat for Mexican fajitas lunch
• Continue water activities and relax on floating mattress
• Enjoy drinks, music, and dancing on return cruise
• Watch for whales and marine life on way back

Top questions

How long is the Marietas Islands day trip?

The tour lasts most of the day, starting in the morning and returning by late afternoon.

Is lunch included on this Marietas Islands tour?

Yes, a fajitas lunch is served onboard along with snacks like guacamole and chips.

Are drinks included during the trip?

Yes, there’s an open bar with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available all day.

Can I join from Sayulita or Nuevo Vallarta?

Yes, pickup options are available from Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, or Sayulita.

What activities are offered at Marietas Islands?

You can snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, swim to Playa La Nopalera, or relax on floating mats.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, all necessary gear for snorkeling is included in your booking.

Are vegetarian or vegan food options available?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available if requested at booking.

Do I need to book Hidden Beach access separately?

Yes; permits are limited and must be reserved in advance for Hidden Beach entry.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting point pickup from Puerto Vallarta or nearby towns (just choose when booking), all snorkeling gear plus kayaks and paddleboards ready to use at Marietas Islands, unlimited drinks from coffee to cocktails thanks to an open bar (minimum age 18 for alcohol), breakfast snacks like pastries and fruit right after boarding followed by a hot fajitas lunch later on deck—plus plenty of time for swimming or just relaxing under Mexican sun before heading back in the afternoon.