Private Boat, Local Guide, 3 Hours

Overview

A local guide from the Punta de Mita area meets you at the cooperativa on Av. El Anclote, and from there the whole trip runs on one private boat. The crossing to the Marietas Islands takes about 15 minutes by speedboat, which leaves the bulk of the three hours, roughly two and a half, inside the national park itself. Once there, the guide leads snorkeling over the reefs and points out the birdlife the islands are known for.

The listing describes calm, clear water over reefs with a wide range of fish and corals, and says no snorkeling experience is required, which makes this a workable option for beginners and mixed-age families. Between the water sessions there is time to relax on Playa Nopalera, a white sand beach on the islands. Gear and hydrating drinks are provided, and port and park package taxes are covered in the price.

The tour is sold as a guided outing rather than a self-directed day. The guide stays with the group on land and in the water, and the whole thing wraps up back at the same cooperativa where it started. Anyone wanting the famous hidden beach at Playa del Amor should read the exclusions carefully before booking.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Punta de MitaMeet your guide at the Cooperativa Punta de Mita on Av. El Anclote, Punta Mita. There is no hotel pickup on this tour.
2. Speedboat to the islandsBoard the private boat for the crossing, which takes 15 minutes.
3. Islas Marietas National ParkSpend 2.5 hours in the park: guided snorkeling over the reefs, time at Playa Nopalera, and bird watching. Entry to Playa del Amor, the hidden beach, is not included.
4. Speedboat returnRide back by speedboat, another 15 minutes.
5. Arrive backThe tour ends at the Cooperativa Punta de Mita where it began.

What To Expect From The Tour

Here is what to sort out before you go, based on the listing and traveler feedback.

• What to bring. The listing recommends beachwear. Since this is an outdoor sightseeing tour, sunscreen is also advised. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you do not need your own.
• Pace and fitness. No snorkeling experience is required, and the listing calls the trip safe and reliable for all ages. The water time is broken up with a beach stop, so it is not a sustained swim.
• Snorkel time. One reviewer felt the snorkeling portion was a little short and would have liked more time in the water. If long snorkeling is your priority, set expectations accordingly for a three hour outing.
• Drinks on board. Hydrating drinks are included. Alcoholic beverages are not, and alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour.
• Getting there. There is no pickup included. You make your own way to the meeting point at the Cooperativa Punta de Mita on Av. El Anclote in Punta Mita, so plan transport in advance.
• Skip the hidden beach. Admission to Playa del Amor, the hidden beach, is excluded from this tour. The beach stop included is Playa Nopalera.

Common issues. The main practical limit is that the hidden beach at Playa del Amor is not included, so anyone booking expecting that specific sight will be disappointed. One reviewer wanted more snorkeling time within the itinerary. There is no hotel pickup, so the tour only suits people who can reach the cooperativa in Punta de Mita on their own. Alcohol is neither provided nor permitted, and tips are not included in the price.

Common Questions