Puerto Vallarta: Yelapa Waterfall & Snorkeling Mega Yacht Tour

Summary

Yelapa waterfalls by mega yacht plus snorkeling and all-day open bar

You’ll board a mega yacht in Puerto Vallarta for a day trip packed with swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding in Banderas Bay before heading to Yelapa’s car-free streets. There’s a guided walk to its waterfall (bring sandals), lunch delivered by boat, plus an open bar all day long. It’s relaxed but lively — you’ll leave sun-kissed and probably still humming someone else’s playlist.

What’s the experience like?

The second we stepped onto the mega yacht in Puerto Vallarta, I realized this wasn’t just another boat trip. There was that salty morning air mixing with the smell of fresh coffee — not fancy, but real — and people already chatting like they’d known each other for ages. Our guide (I think his name was Luis?) handed out pastries while joking about how he’s never on time for breakfast at home. We drifted out into Banderas Bay, sunlight bouncing off the water. Someone pointed out a dolphin — or maybe it was just a shadow? Either way, everyone leaned over the rail, laughing.

First stop: Quimixto. I’m not usually brave about jumping from high places but there I was, egged on by strangers-turned-friends, launching off the second deck into water that felt cooler than I expected. The snorkeling gear was included (thank god — I always forget mine), and under the surface it was all flickers of silver fish and muffled voices above. Back onboard, guacamole appeared out of nowhere — blue corn chips too — and someone convinced me to try a piña colada before noon. No regrets.

Yelapa itself is sort of dreamy in that way small beach towns can be when cars aren’t allowed and everything feels slower. Our local guide led us through sandy paths lined with bright laundry flapping between houses. The walk to the waterfall wasn’t hard but it was humid; sweat mixed with sunscreen and I kept stopping to watch kids chase chickens through puddles. The waterfall was louder than I thought it’d be — cold spray on my face while some folks swam right under it. Lunch showed up by boat: hot fajitas with beans and rice, eaten sitting on rocks with wet feet dangling in the river.

On the way back across Banderas Bay, there was music (someone’s playlist, nothing official) and more drinks if you wanted them. A couple from Guadalajara started dancing near the bow while others watched for whales — apparently they’re around this time of year but honestly I missed them because I got caught up talking to one of the crew about growing up in Vallarta. I still think about that view coming back into port: sunburnt faces, hair tangled from salt air, everyone kind of quiet but smiling anyway.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mega yacht cruise and Yelapa visit

• Check in and board luxury yacht
• Enjoy breakfast and open premium bar
• Cruise along Banderas Bay
• Arrive at Playa Chica Locca in Quimixto
• Jump from deck and use waterslides
• Snorkel, paddleboard, or kayak
• Enjoy unlimited open bar and guacamole
• Relax with onboard massage
• Dock at Yelapa pier
• Explore Yelapa or relax on beach
• Take guided walk to Yelapa Waterfall
• Swim and soak in waterfall
• Eat hot Mexican fajitas lunch
• Return trip with dancing and whale watching
• View and purchase photos from tour
• Arrive back and disembark

Top questions

Is food included on the Yelapa Waterfall & Snorkeling tour?

Yes, fresh Mexican fajitas with sides are included for lunch along with snacks like guacamole and fruit throughout the day.

Does the tour provide snorkeling equipment?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided as part of your tour inclusions.

How long does this Puerto Vallarta Yelapa tour last?

The full tour lasts approximately 6 hours from departure to return at port.

Are drinks really unlimited on this mega yacht cruise?

Yes! There’s an open premium bar all day including cocktails, beer, wine, juices, coffee and more.

Do you need to hike far to reach Yelapa waterfall?

No—it's a short guided walk from where the boat docks in Yelapa village.

Can vegetarians or vegans join this tour?

Yes! Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available if you mention them when booking.

Is whale watching possible during this trip?

If you visit during whale season in Banderas Bay you may spot humpback whales along the route.

Is hotel pickup included for this mega yacht tour?

No hotel pickup is provided; you choose your meeting point at Puerto Mágico or Paradise Village marina when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting at either Puerto Mágico or Paradise Village marina for boarding; breakfast pastries and fruit; unlimited drinks from an open premium bar; use of snorkel gear plus kayaks and paddle boards; freshly made guacamole with blue corn chips; lunch of hot Mexican fajitas delivered by boat; a guided walk through Yelapa village to its waterfall; free time for swimming or relaxing; plus music and photos captured by crew before returning in the afternoon.