Full Day Boat Tour Animas and Quimixed Arches

Exploring Puerto Vallarta can feel overwhelming with countless options for sightseeing, but a well-rounded boat tour like the Full Day Boat Tour Animas and Quimixed Arches stands out as a fantastic choice. This tour promises a bit of everything—snorkeling, relaxing beaches, waterfalls, and lively boat rides—all packed into a 9-hour adventure that’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with fun activities, all at an accessible price point of $65 per person. The knowledgeable guides and lively crew make the day both informative and entertaining, while the multiple stops ensure everyone gets their fill of sightseeing and relaxation. The only consideration? With so much packed into one day, it’s a long trip that might not be ideal for travelers seeking a slower, more laid-back experience.

This tour is great for those who want a full, engaging day in Puerto Vallarta without worrying about logistics. It’s especially suited for families with kids, adventure seekers, or anyone eager to see diverse sights—from underwater reefs to waterfalls—without having to organize separate excursions.

Good To Know

• Diverse itinerary includes snorkeling, beach time, and waterfall visits in one day.
• Excellent value for the price with inclusion of meals, drinks, and activity equipment.
• Lively guides enhance the experience with humor and local knowledge.
• Family-friendly with activities suitable for all ages, including children and grandparents.
• Beautiful views from the boat and stops that showcase Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty.
• Weather dependency means the tour is canceled or rescheduled in poor conditions.

What to Expect from the Full Day Boat Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour kicks off at Puerto Mágico at 9:00 am, setting the scene for a lively day on the water. Expect a relaxed but energetic atmosphere from the outset, with music, drinks, and a crew that’s quick to crack jokes and keep everyone entertained. The boat itself is spacious enough for 140 travelers, but you’ll likely find it comfortably lively rather than crowded.

The Itinerary: A Well-Designed Mix of Activities

The tour is carefully structured to balance adventure and leisure, making the most of Puerto Vallarta’s natural gems.

Stop 1: Los Arcos de Mismaloya (Snorkeling)
The first stop is at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, famous for their striking rock formations and vibrant marine life. With 25 minutes allocated for snorkeling and equipment provided, this is a chance for everyone to dip into the crystal-clear waters and see colorful fish swimming among the rocks. One traveler mentioned that the “snorkeling was great — the guides pointed out many species, and the water was surprisingly calm.” The admission ticket to this area is included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Stop 2: Playa Las Ánimas
Next, around 2 hours are spent at Las Ánimas Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for relaxing, swimming, or trying out the provided kayaks. There’s a beachside restaurant where you can grab a meal or cold drink—some reviews note that the food and drinks are reasonably priced, adding to the overall value. One guest appreciated that the guides suggested the best spots to relax and gave tips on kayaking, making it easy for even beginners to enjoy.

Stop 3: Quimixto
The final stop takes you to the charming fishing village of Quimixto, where you can hike to see a stunning waterfall—a highlight especially for nature lovers. The 1 hour and 10 minutes here is enough for a quick walk to the falls and some memorable photos. Several travelers raved about the scenery, with one mentioning, “the waterfall hike was surprisingly easy, and the view was worth every step.” Admission to the waterfall is included, so you only need to enjoy your time there.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Breakfast and lunch—both are buffet-style and cater to a variety of tastes, keeping guests energized all day.
• National open bar—offerings include beer, margaritas, and other cocktails, all served above the boat.
• Snorkeling gear and kayaks—free to use, making it easy to get in the water without extra cost.
• Guides and crew—friendly professionals who keep the energy high and ensure safety.

Not Included:

• A port tax of MX$33 per person, which is a small additional fee.
• Tips—as always, appreciated but optional.
• Extra costs for soda, pop, or beach drinks, which are available but paid separately.

Transport and Group Size

The meeting point is conveniently located at Puerto Mágico, a well-known area in Puerto Vallarta. The tour’s maximum group size of 140 means it’s lively but not overly crowded, offering a good balance of social atmosphere and space to relax.

Duration and Pacing

Long enough to explore each spot comfortably, the 9-hour duration ensures you’re not rushing. However, it’s a full day, so be prepared for a lot of activity and some time in the sun.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer expressed that the guides are very knowledgeable and made the trip fun with a lot of humor and local tips. They also appreciated the stunning views from the boat, describing it as a “beautiful ride with plenty of photo opportunities.” Another traveler noted that the snorkeling equipment was in good condition, which isn’t always the case in tour setups.

Some mentioned that the water at Los Arcos and Las Ánimas was calm enough for beginners, making it suitable for first-time snorkelers or kids. The waterfall hike at Quimixto, while short, offers a rewarding view without requiring intense physical effort.

Practical Tips for Your Day Out

• Bring sunscreen and a hat—the sun can be intense, especially during the longer beach stops.
• Wear comfortable shoes if planning to hike to the waterfall.
• Carry a waterproof phone case for photos during snorkeling and at the waterfall.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• Tip your guides if you enjoy their service—they work hard to keep the day fun and safe.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for families because of its mix of gentle activities and relaxed pace. It’s also perfect for couples and groups who want to see multiple sights without multiple bookings. Adventure seekers will love snorkeling and kayaking, while those wanting to unwind will appreciate the beach time and scenery. Travelers on a budget will find the value impressive given the inclusion of meals, drinks, and all activities.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Boat Tour Animas and Quimixed Arches offers a well-rounded, engaging day in Puerto Vallarta that balances adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of the region’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

For families, it provides safe, fun-filled activities for all ages. For adventure lovers, the snorkeling, kayaking, and waterfall hikes deliver just enough thrill. And for those simply craving a day out in nature with good food and drinks, it’s hard to beat the value.

This tour is a fantastic way to spend a day exploring Puerto Vallarta’s most beautiful spots with a lively crew and an itinerary designed for enjoyment. Just remember to pack sunscreen, arrive ready for a fun-filled day, and tip your guides for making it all so memorable.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Puerto Mágico, located at Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio in Puerto Vallarta, at 9:00 am.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, ending back at the meeting point.

Are meals included?
Yes, both breakfast and lunch are included in the price, providing a convenient way to stay energized throughout the day.

Is alcohol available?
Yes, a national open bar is included, offering beer, margaritas, and other drinks, but only above the boat.

What activities are included?
Snorkeling, kayaking, and visits to Los Arcos, Las Ánimas Beach, and Quimixto Waterfall are part of the itinerary.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as perfect for all ages, including children and seniors.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, a hat, waterproof phone case, comfortable shoes for hiking, and cash for extra drinks or tips.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much does the port tax cost?
The port tax is MX$33 per person and is paid on the day of the tour.

This full-day adventure promises a lively, scenic, and varied experience that captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta. Whether you’re seeking underwater wonders, beach relaxation, or a scenic waterfall, this tour delivers it all with a friendly crew and great value.