THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the stunning marine life and unique geological features of Marietas Island on a boat trip with Shamballa II. Perfect for snorkeling, whale watching, and scenic ocean adventures near Puerto Vallarta.
Discover the stunning marine life and unique geological features of Marietas Island on a boat trip with Shamballa II. Perfect for snorkeling, whale watching, and scenic ocean adventures near Puerto Vallarta.
Book with Puerto Vallarta Net
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Puerto Vallarta Net · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
Marietas Island, located off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, is a must-visit natural wonder known for its unique geological formations and vibrant biodiversity. This protected marine area is famous for the Hidden Beach, a sunken cove accessible through a sea tunnel, and its rich variety of marine life. Shamballa II offers a premier boat-charters experience, combining comfort with expert guidance to unlock the island's secrets.
A typical day with Shamballa II begins early, as the boat departs from Puerto Vallarta and heads toward the archipelago. The cruise often features stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and nearby volcanic islands, setting the stage for adventure. Once at Marietas Island, guests can snorkel in crystal-clear waters among schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even playful rays. The boat crew provides equipment and safety instructions, ensuring an unforgettable yet safe experience. For a more immersive experience, some trips include whale watching, especially during their migration season, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Shamballa II stands out for its commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring that visitors enjoy the pristine environment while helping preserve this ecological treasure. The knowledgeable crew shares insights into the island’s geology, which features limestone formations carved by wave action, and discusses conservation efforts aimed at protecting local wildlife.
Whether you’re captivated by the marine ecosystem, eager to swim into the Hidden Beach, or simply want a scenic day on the water, Shamballa II offers a stand-out adventure that captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal beauty. It’s a memorable way to connect with nature, family, and friends in one of Mexico’s most striking locations.
easy.
4-6 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; swimming ability helpful for water activities
Yes, snorkeling is beginner-friendly, and equipment is provided with guidance from the crew.
Most trips are primarily water-based; some include light snacks or drinks, but check with the operator for details.
Expect to see sea turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and an array of tropical fish.
Absolutely; experienced guides ensure safety while enabling excellent wildlife viewing.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for check-in and safety briefings.
Children aged 5 and up can participate, provided they’re comfortable in the water and supervised by an adult.
Marietas Island was used by the military during World War II before becoming a protected national park.
The area’s conservation efforts focus on reducing human impact and preserving its delicate marine ecosystems.
Puerto Vallarta Net is a tour provider that lists and offers a broad catalog of guided experiences around Puerto Vallarta. The company’s available trips span boat and island excursions, adventure land tours, zipline canopy courses, ATV and RZR off-road adventures, horseback rides, fishing charters, whale watching, and themed cruises. The offering includes multiple Marietas Islands options, such as snorkeling and Hidden Beach visits, as well as catamaran and private island adventures. On land, options range from zipline courses and canopy river experiences to Jorullo Bridge RZR tours, ATV circuits, and mule or horseback rides at El Eden and other ranch locations. Shared departures and private tours are both listed across the catalog. Puerto Vallarta Net’s trip listings name activities like whale watching ecotours, parasailing, pirate ship cruises, dinner cruises, and a variety of half-day and full-day snorkeling and fishing departures. The business presents combinations—such as ATV + canopy + mules—and themed experiences like tequila tastings or waterfall hikes. The catalog also includes city tours, botanical garden walks, and visits to nearby towns such as San Sebastián del Oeste and Sayulita. All descriptions on the site identify activity types, common inclusions (for example breakfast, open bar, or lunch on specific Marietas trips), and the primary destinations served. Content is third-party factual and based on the published trip names and summaries provided for Puerto Vallarta Net.
Book with Puerto Vallarta Net