Sail the wide arc of Banderas Bay on a private six-hour cruise to Los Arcos: snorkel clear reefs, paddleboard in sheltered coves, and soak in coastal mountain views while a professional crew handles the details.
Sail the wide arc of Banderas Bay on a private six-hour cruise to Los Arcos: snorkel clear reefs, paddleboard in sheltered coves, and soak in coastal mountain views while a professional crew handles the details.
The wake opens like a fresh page as the sailboat slips past the marina and into Banderas Bay, mountains receding to serrated silhouettes while the sea reads steady and blue. On a clear morning the wind fills the rigging and the crew eases you into a rhythm: sun on foredeck, the spray daring you to lean forward and breathe salt.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Anamar Sailing Adventures · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
The wake opens like a fresh page as the sailboat slips past the marina and into Banderas Bay, mountains receding to serrated silhouettes while the sea reads steady and blue. On a clear morning the wind fills the rigging and the crew eases you into a rhythm: sun on foredeck, the spray daring you to lean forward and breathe salt.
Los Arcos National Marine Park—the jagged limestone islets you’ll circle—are geological scars carved by waves and uplift, now ringed with coral and schools of reef fish. Once a fishing corridor for local Huichol and coastal communities, the bay became a 20th-century gateway for sport fishing and tourism; today artisanal culture mixes with seafood stalls in Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town. Expect frigatebirds to flank the boat, humpback song in winter months, and fishermen’s boats threading nearshore.
Practical edge: this private, full-day cruise runs about six hours and is customizable—snorkeling, swimming, and paddleboarding are typical stops. Crew provides snorkeling gear, snacks, guacamole and water; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a light cover-up for midday sun. Seas can be calm but choppier in afternoons; morning departures usually offer smoother water and cleaner visibility for snorkeling.
Plan for roughly 6 hours on deck, basic swimming ability for snorkeling, and sun protection. Respect marine-park rules: no touching coral, pack out waste, and keep noise low near wildlife. With a private crew you can tailor pace—explore arches and hidden coves, then drift back toward the city as evening light softens the mountains.
easy.
6 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming ability recommended for snorkeling and paddleboarding
Yes—most private charters provide masks, snorkels, and fins; you can bring your own for a better fit.
Yes—non-swimmers can stay aboard or use flotation aids during shallow snorkel stops; inform the crew in advance.
Children are welcome but must be supervised; infants usually ride on laps and life jackets are available.
Full-sales-final policies often apply; captains monitor conditions and may alter route for safety, but cancellations or refunds depend on the operator’s terms.
Banderas Bay evolved from a series of fishing villages into Puerto Vallarta’s tourism hub during the mid-20th century; Los Arcos has long served as a landmark and marine refuge.
Los Arcos is a protected marine park—follow no-touch rules, use reef-safe products, and avoid anchoring on coral to minimize impact.
Anamar Sailing Adventures operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The wake opens like a fresh page as the sailboat slips past the marina and into Banderas Bay, mountains receding to serrated silhouettes while the sea reads steady and blue. On a clear morning the wind fills the rigging and the crew eases you into a rhythm: sun on foredeck, the spray daring you to lean forward and breathe salt.
The wake opens like a fresh page as the sailboat slips past the marina and into Banderas Bay, mountains receding to serrated silhouettes while the sea reads steady and blue. On a clear morning the wind fills the rigging and the crew eases you into a rhythm: sun on foredeck, the spray daring you to lean forward and breathe salt.
Los Arcos National Marine Park—the jagged limestone islets you’ll circle—are geological scars carved by waves and uplift, now ringed with coral and schools of reef fish. Once a fishing corridor for local Huichol and coastal communities, the bay became a 20th-century gateway for sport fishing and tourism; today artisanal culture mixes with seafood stalls in Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town. Expect frigatebirds to flank the boat, humpback song in winter months, and fishermen’s boats threading nearshore.
Practical edge: this private, full-day cruise runs about six hours and is customizable—snorkeling, swimming, and paddleboarding are typical stops. Crew provides snorkeling gear, snacks, guacamole and water; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a light cover-up for midday sun. Seas can be calm but choppier in afternoons; morning departures usually offer smoother water and cleaner visibility for snorkeling.
Plan for roughly 6 hours on deck, basic swimming ability for snorkeling, and sun protection. Respect marine-park rules: no touching coral, pack out waste, and keep noise low near wildlife. With a private crew you can tailor pace—explore arches and hidden coves, then drift back toward the city as evening light softens the mountains.