Islas Marietas & BBQ lunch at Majahuitas

A morning boat ride that can turn into wildlife time. I like how this tour mixes real ocean time with hands-on water activities, plus a BBQ stop that actually feels like a payoff. You get a guided look at dolphins and whales in season, and you can paddle, snorkel, or SUP, not just sit and watch. The main watch-out for me is that it runs long and you spend a lot of it on the water, so seasickness planning matters.

Here’s the practical appeal: you’re out of Puerto Vallarta early, you get fed, and you’re not stuck doing one shallow stop after another. You’ll also jump off the boat at places with no docks and climb back aboard with metal ladders, so it helps if you’re comfortable with that. If you’re hoping for a guaranteed Hidden Beach style visit, this isn’t that kind of itinerary, and the snorkel visibility can also shift with conditions.

Key points before you go

• Dolphins, plus possible whales: You’re on the Bay of Banderas looking for bottlenose, spotted, and spinner dolphins, and whales can show up in season.
• Pick your water activity: Kayak, snorkel, or SUP, with eco-guides watching safety as you move through the Marietas area.
• Majahuitas BBQ lunch is a real highlight: Food and drinks are included, and lunch at the beach is commonly the best meal of the day for many people.
• No docks, ladder boarding: Expect boat jumps and ladder climbs back on board during stops.
• Timing can feel fast: Water time and shore time are scheduled, and snorkeling or beach time may feel short if you want more.
• Rain can cut snorkel visibility: Conditions can be murky in rainy season, even when wildlife spotting is still great.

Ocean time with wildlife odds: Islas Marietas and Majahuitas in plain terms

This is the kind of tour that fits people who love being on the water more than people who love sitting in a bus. The day is built around movement: sail out, scan the ocean, then switch to an activity mode at the islands, and finally finish with beach time and BBQ.

I like that the focus stays simple and physical. You’re not just touring viewpoints, you’re actually in the water with equipment and guidance. At the same time, you should know you’re committing to a full day. Even if you do multiple activities, there’s no way to escape the reality that a lot of the day is spent aboard the boat.

What wildlife spotting can realistically look like

The wildlife part is the big reason people book. Out on the Bay of Banderas, you’re watching for bottlenose dolphins, plus spotted and spinner dolphins. The guides call out what you’re seeing as you sail, so you’re not guessing.

Once you’re near the northern end of the bay and the Marietas area, the mix can get even better. In season, whales are possible, and you might also see giant manta rays. Birds are part of the show too, including the blue-footed booby and red-billed tropicbird.

A useful way to set expectations: I treat this as a wildlife scouting mission, not a guaranteed checklist. Some days you’ll get close-up action like whales breaching or manta rays showing in the water. Other days the ocean might be quieter, and you’ll still come home with dolphins and island scenery, just less dramatic.

Stop by stop: Bay of Banderas, Marietas Islands, then Majahuitas Beach

This tour runs on three main stages, and each one feels different.

Bay of Banderas: the ocean scan

This is where the day usually starts turning from travel into adventure. You’re sailing on a stylish vessel out of Puerto Vallarta and spending time looking for dolphins. This section matters because it sets the tone and gives you that early payoff without waiting until after lunch.

If you’re prone to seasickness, this is also the part where you may feel the boat most. The ride can be choppy, and you’ll be spending time on deck while scanning the water.

Marietas Islands: activity time on rugged waters

The Marietas stop is the heart of the tour. You’ll explore the rocky habitat area while choosing an aquatic activity, either kayaking, snorkeling, or SUP. The eco-guides are on hand for safety and help you feel confident with the equipment and timing.

One reality check: underwater visibility can swing. In rainy season, snorkel conditions can get murky, even though you might still spot interesting marine life. If you’re used to crystal-clear Caribbean-style snorkeling, you may need to adjust your expectations.

Majahuitas Beach: BBQ lunch and relaxed shoreline time

Majahuitas is where the day slows down. You’ll stop for a BBQ lunch with refreshing drinks, and you’ll have time on the beach at the end of your island segment.

I love this ending because it balances the morning’s effort. You’re not just jumping back on the boat and repeating the same thing. You get food, shade, and a chance to recover your legs and settle in.

Snorkeling vs kayaking vs SUP: choosing what fits your body and your day

You get to choose among snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). That choice matters, because each activity scratches a different itch.

If you want the easiest entry, snorkeling is usually the move. You’ll get snorkel gear provided, and you can focus on watching fish and the underwater environment while the boat crew and eco-guides keep things running safely.

If you want more movement, kayaking can be satisfying. It can also feel more hands-on because you’re paddling through the area during the active window. One tip that saved time for me in similar tours is to move efficiently when they switch you between activities.

If you want a mix of fun and balance, SUP can be great when conditions cooperate. It also takes a bit more physical effort. If you’re not steady on your feet, consider whether you’d rather snorkel first and paddle later.

Now the big caution, based on how the day is scheduled: water windows can be short. If you’re the type who wants long, slow sessions, you may feel rushed. The upside is that the day is structured so you still get multiple shots at the experience.

Boat time, ladder boarding, and seasickness: what you should prepare for

This tour spends a lot of time on the boat. That sounds obvious, but it changes how you pack, how you dress, and how you decide if this is your kind of day.

No docks at the stops

There isn’t a dock at the locations you visit. Instead, you jump off the boat and then climb back on using small metal ladders. That means:

• You should wear shoes you’re comfortable getting wet, and that grip well.
• Be ready to step carefully when boarding.
• If you have mobility limits or balance concerns, think carefully before booking.

Seasickness can be a deal-breaker

If you suffer from seasickness, this might not be the best adventure for you. The morning ride can be choppy, and you’ll also spend time out on deck watching for wildlife.

My practical suggestion is to plan ahead. If you know you’re sensitive, consider speaking with a pharmacist before your trip and bring what you usually rely on. Also, having a light meal before you go can help some people, even though food options onboard may vary.

The BBQ lunch at Majahuitas: why it feels like value, not just included food

After all the water work, lunch becomes the emotional reset. This tour includes a BBQ lunch at Majahuitas with drinks, and it’s consistently described as one of the best parts of the day.

What I like about this setup is simple: you’re not stuck eating a sad snack far from the action. You’re fed onshore at the beach. That turns the lunch from a filler into an actual break.

You’ll likely notice a few details that make people happy. Some trips include a small breakfast-like start onboard before the first water activity, and the crew tends to keep drinks flowing during the sail. One review even pointed out that alcohol may not be served until after snorkeling, which is smart if you think about timing and safety.

Bring a towel and water with you if you can. Even when they provide gear, having your own towel can make the shore portion more comfortable. Also, plan to relax after lunch, because you will still have return travel time.

Price and value: what $99 covers, plus the cash fees

The advertised price is $99.00 per person for about 7 hours, booked on average about 21 days in advance. For me, the value question comes down to what you get for that money: guided wildlife viewing, equipment access, and not one but several water activities.

However, you should budget for extra fees that are not baked into the main price:

• Port fee: MX$40.00 per person, paid in cash at the port.
• Conservation admission fee: $20.00 per person, paid at check in.

The day also starts with a small dock fee paid in Mexican cash. So even if you pay the tour price online, you still need Mexican pesos on hand for the on-the-ground costs.

If you’re deciding between this and another Puerto Vallarta boat trip, I treat this as value if you’ll actually use the equipment and do at least one water activity. If your plan is to mostly watch from the boat, you might feel like you paid for a smaller payoff.

Who this tour fits best, and who should skip it

This works best for active travelers who want water time and wildlife scanning, and who are comfortable sharing the day with a larger group. The tour has a maximum of 100 travelers, and it’s offered in English.

It’s a good fit if you:

• Love the idea of dolphins and possible whales in season.
• Want to snorkel and also have the option to kayak or SUP.
• Enjoy guided commentary rather than flying blind.
• Don’t mind a fast day with multiple scheduled stops.

It might not be for you if you:

• Get seasick easily.
• Want long, unhurried beach time.
• Prefer quiet, private pacing. This is more of a lively group outing.
• Are taking a cruise. This option is not suitable for cruise ship passengers due to time conflicts.

Also, if you’re the type who brings gadgets, note the rules: drones are prohibited due to federal regulations protecting endemic birds’ flight paths. And ports operate a strict No-Drug Policy, which includes electronic cigarettes and vapers. You can’t count on being able to bring those items “just in case,” and access denial can affect refunds or rescheduling.

Final call: should you book this Islas Marietas and Majahuitas tour?

I’d book it if you’re aiming for a classic Puerto Vallarta day where the ocean actually matters and you plan to get in the water. The combination of dolphin and whale-in-season odds, plus snorkeling or paddling, plus a solid BBQ lunch at Majahuitas is a strong package for the money.

I would pause before booking if you are seasickness-prone, uncomfortable with ladder boarding, or you’re expecting a guaranteed long snorkel session with perfect visibility. Conditions and scheduling can change how it feels, especially in rainy season.

If you want, tell me your travel month and whether you get seasick, and I’ll help you decide if this is the right day trip for your specific comfort level and expectations.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and how long is it?

The tour starts at 7:00 am and runs about 7 hours (approx.). It ends back at the meeting point.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You’ll meet at Puerto Magico Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

What’s included in the tour price?

Included are the BBQ lunch at Majahuitas with refreshing drinks, use of snorkel and kayak equipment, and stand-up paddle boarding.

What fees are not included and how do I pay them?

Port fees are not included and must be paid in cash at the port (MX$40.00 per person). There is also a conservation admission fee to cover at check in ($20.00 per person).

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?

No. This option is not suitable for cruise ship passengers due to time conflicts with the local schedule.

Do I need to worry about docks at the stops?

Yes. There isn’t a dock at the locations you visit, so you jump off the boat and use small metal ladders to get back on board.

Can I bring a drone or vape/e-cigarettes?

No. Drones are prohibited on this tour, and Mexico’s federal maritime ports operate a strict No-Drug Policy that includes electronic cigarettes and vapers.