THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Set sail from Puerto Vallarta for a six‑hour catamaran journey to the protected Marietas Islands. Snorkel vibrant reefs, paddle around rock arches and — when permitted — visit the famous Hidden Beach on this active, social day at sea.
Set sail from Puerto Vallarta for a six‑hour catamaran journey to the protected Marietas Islands. Snorkel vibrant reefs, paddle around rock arches and — when permitted — visit the famous Hidden Beach on this active, social day at sea.
The catamaran eases from Puerto Vallarta’s marina and the Pacific opens wide—salt on the air, the hull whispering rhythm against a slow chop. Guests spread on deck, eyes tracing layered rock and restless waves as the Marietas Islands grow from the horizon: compact volcanic knuckles worn smooth by wind and tide.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by vallarta stap travel ¡¡¡¡¡ · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
The catamaran eases from Puerto Vallarta’s marina and the Pacific opens wide—salt on the air, the hull whispering rhythm against a slow chop. Guests spread on deck, eyes tracing layered rock and restless waves as the Marietas Islands grow from the horizon: compact volcanic knuckles worn smooth by wind and tide.
These small isles are volcanic remnants shaped by explosive eruptions and relentless surf; they were later used for military target practice and are now a protected national park managed by SEMARNAT. The islands’ battered cliffs host seabird colonies while reefs off the shore cradle coral and tropical fish—places where currents test your balance and birds challenge your binoculars.
On a typical full-day catamaran trip you’ll mix active time and downtime: continental breakfast on departure, guided snorkel stops in clear, fish-filled water, paddleboard or kayak laps around rock arches, and an optional pangas ride for birdwatching or a visit to Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach) when access is permitted. Lunch and an open bar bring the social side of the trip to life; expect music, games and the chance to drift on the sunlit deck.
Practical notes: the excursion runs about six hours, includes snorkel and paddle equipment, and requires a short boat-to-panga transfer to access some coves. Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, motion-sickness medicine if you get queasy, and a light wind layer for the return. A small SEMARNAT conservation fee (bracelet) is collected on-site. Plan morning departures for calmer seas and clearer snorkeling; respect wildlife distances and avoid touching coral to keep this marine sanctuary healthy for the next visitors.
moderate.
6 hours.
Comfortable on-deck mobility and basic swimming ability recommended for snorkeling and boarding pangas.
Basic swimming ability is recommended for snorkeling; flotation vests are typically provided and guides stay close during in-water activities.
Access to the Hidden Beach is regulated by park authorities and can be closed depending on conservation rules or sea conditions; operators offer alternative visits or panga options when beach access is restricted.
Yes—this tour usually includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and an open bar on the return, as listed in the itinerary.
A SEMARNAT visitor bracelet fee (around USD 10) is commonly collected locally; operators often note this in advance but bring cash just in case.
The Marietas are former volcanic formations later used for mid‑20th century military practice; they were later declared a protected marine park to allow recovery of wildlife and reefs.
Visitor numbers, beach access and snorkeling routes are regulated to protect fragile reefs and bird colonies; use biodegradable sunscreen, minimize plastic, and follow guide instructions to reduce impact.
vallarta stap travel ¡¡¡¡¡ operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The catamaran eases from Puerto Vallarta’s marina and the Pacific opens wide—salt on the air, the hull whispering rhythm against a slow chop. Guests spread on deck, eyes tracing layered rock and restless waves as the Marietas Islands grow from the horizon: compact volcanic knuckles worn smooth by wind and tide.
The catamaran eases from Puerto Vallarta’s marina and the Pacific opens wide—salt on the air, the hull whispering rhythm against a slow chop. Guests spread on deck, eyes tracing layered rock and restless waves as the Marietas Islands grow from the horizon: compact volcanic knuckles worn smooth by wind and tide.
These small isles are volcanic remnants shaped by explosive eruptions and relentless surf; they were later used for military target practice and are now a protected national park managed by SEMARNAT. The islands’ battered cliffs host seabird colonies while reefs off the shore cradle coral and tropical fish—places where currents test your balance and birds challenge your binoculars.
On a typical full-day catamaran trip you’ll mix active time and downtime: continental breakfast on departure, guided snorkel stops in clear, fish-filled water, paddleboard or kayak laps around rock arches, and an optional pangas ride for birdwatching or a visit to Playa del Amor (Hidden Beach) when access is permitted. Lunch and an open bar bring the social side of the trip to life; expect music, games and the chance to drift on the sunlit deck.
Practical notes: the excursion runs about six hours, includes snorkel and paddle equipment, and requires a short boat-to-panga transfer to access some coves. Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, motion-sickness medicine if you get queasy, and a light wind layer for the return. A small SEMARNAT conservation fee (bracelet) is collected on-site. Plan morning departures for calmer seas and clearer snorkeling; respect wildlife distances and avoid touching coral to keep this marine sanctuary healthy for the next visitors.