Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos Snorkeling & Banderas Bay Cruise

Summary

Snorkel Los Arcos swim Banderas Bay fresh ceviche & laughter

You’ll sail along Puerto Vallarta’s coast toward Los Arcos for snorkeling in clear water among colorful fish and rocky tunnels. Enjoy fresh ceviche and fruit on deck as you swap stories with fellow travelers and your local guide shares legends of Banderas Bay. Expect salty hair, easy laughter, and a new view of the city you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the city to look so small from the water. We left Puerto Vallarta’s marina just after breakfast, and right away the boat felt like its own little world — music playing low, everyone squinting at the skyline getting smaller behind us. Our guide, Ana, pointed out where the Sierra Madre mountains just drop into Banderas Bay — she called it “the green wall.” I remember that salty breeze mixing with sunscreen and someone’s pineapple soda. It was warm but not too hot yet.

The boat slowed near Los Arcos — those big stone arches poking out of the sea. I’d seen them in photos, but up close they’re rough and almost blue in the shadows. Ana handed out masks and fins, showed us how to spit in them (gross but it works), and then we were in. The water was colder than I thought, clear enough to see these yellow fish darting around. I got tangled up with my snorkel at first — someone laughed from above, not meanly. There’s this tunnel under one of the arches where the light goes weird and greenish; swimming through it felt like being inside a secret room.

Back on board, they’d set out ceviche (so much lime) and fruit that tasted way better than anything from home — maybe just because we were hungry? People compared what they’d seen: some swore they spotted an eel, others just floated quietly for a while. Ana told stories about why locals think Los Arcos is lucky for fishermen. I tried to repeat her Spanish but probably butchered it; she grinned anyway. The sun started climbing higher and everything on deck got sticky with saltwater and laughter.

I still think about that moment drifting back toward Puerto Vallarta — hair stiff with salt, skin warm, feeling oddly lighter than when we left. Maybe it was just being out there with strangers who suddenly didn’t feel like strangers anymore.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and sightseeing tour

• Sightsee Puerto Vallarta shoreline
• Sail to Los Arcos snorkeling spot
• Snorkel and explore marine life

Top questions

How long is the Puerto Vallarta snorkeling tour?

The tour lasts approximately half a day.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided during the tour.

Are snacks or drinks included on this day trip?

Yes, you’ll get chopped fruit, fish ceviche, paninis, green salad, plus an international bar.

Where does the snorkeling take place?

The main snorkeling spot is at Los Arcos in southern Bahía de Banderas.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome and guides help both amateurs and experienced snorkelers.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Can children join this snorkeling tour?

Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there live commentary during the cruise?

Yes, your guide provides live commentary onboard throughout the cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing from Puerto Vallarta with a professional guide leading live commentary as you cruise along Banderas Bay to Los Arcos; use of all snorkeling gear plus access to kayaks or paddle boards if you want; freshly made snacks like ceviche and paninis; chilled drinks from an international bar; and time to relax before heading back to shore together.