Puerto Vallarta: Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta with stunning scenery, lively marine life, and some well-earned relaxation, the Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto boat tour might catch your eye. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who have experienced this trip firsthand, and it’s clear this tour offers a solid mix of nature, adventure, and local flavor—though it’s not without a few caveats.

What we love about this experience is the chance to snorkel among vibrant fish and coral, the opportunity to paddleboard or kayak at Playa Las Ánimas, and the visit to the picturesque Quimixto waterfall. The included breakfast and open bar also add a touch of comfort to a full day on the water.

A possible consideration is that some guests have found the boat a bit crowded or slow-moving, which can affect how much time you actually get for certain activities. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, especially those happy to share space on a larger boat.

If you’re after a day that combines marine discovery, scenic beaches, and some local culture, this tour could work well—just manage expectations about the pace and crowd levels.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary: Snorkeling, beach time, waterfall visit, and lunch.
• All inclusive: Food, drinks, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkel gear are included.
• Group size considerations: The boat can be crowded, affecting activity time.
• Authentic experience: Visit to local beaches and waterfall adds local charm.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with pay later options.
• Tour duration: About 7 hours, usually in the morning, ideal for a full-day adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at Marina Vallarta, where check-in involves settling the port fee of $32 pesos for guests over 8 years old. Once aboard the boat, you’ll be greeted with a breakfast spread that includes scrambled eggs with ham, hotcakes, and fresh fruit—an unexpectedly hearty start that keeps energy up for the day ahead. Coffee, juice, and water round out the meal, giving early sustenance to those ready for a full day on the water.

The boat departs from the marina, offering beautiful views of Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding mountains during the 35-minute cruise southward. As you glide across the bay, your guides will explain what’s to come and set the tone for an engaging day.

Los Arcos and Snorkeling

Your first major stop is Los Arcos National Park, famous for its striking rock formations and abundant marine life. The boat anchors here for around 40 minutes of snorkeling. According to reviews, guides do a good job explaining the process and providing necessary equipment, which is a relief for those new to snorkeling. One guest, Ana, appreciated the “extremely friendly crew” and the effort they made to make everyone comfortable.

However, some guests have noted that they had limited time snorkeling due to large crowds and boat traffic, which can make the experience feel rushed. It’s worth noting that the size of the boat and the number of people onboard can impact how quickly you rotate in and out of the water.

Playa Las Ánimas: Relaxation and Water Sports

Next, the group heads to Playa Las Ánimas. Here, the focus shifts from underwater to the shoreline, offering plenty of options for unwinding or getting active. You can lounge on the sand, rent kayaks or paddleboards, or simply soak up the sun. Multiple reviews mention the well-organized kayak and paddleboard rentals, making it easy for beginners to try out these activities.

Guests typically visit a local restaurant at the beach, where the options vary but tend to include fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes. Having a break here is a perfect pause to enjoy the scenery and recharge before heading to the next stop.

Quimixto and the Waterfall

The boat then makes its way to Playa Quimixto, a charming village with a lush waterfall nearby. The waterfall is a favorite highlight, especially for those wanting a scenic photo opportunity or a peaceful spot to relax. Reviewers like Ana appreciated the “beautiful Quimixto waterfall,” and it’s easy to see why—its cascading waters and jungle backdrop make for a memorable visit.

The tour includes a beachside lunch with four options (which can vary), giving travelers a taste of local cuisine. The food gets decent reviews, with many noting that the drinks and open bar aboard the boat make the long day more enjoyable.

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Final Notes on the Experience

Throughout the day, guides are praised for their effort and friendliness, with one review specifically mentioning “Edgar (Papi Chulo)” and the crew working hard to keep everyone happy. The group’s size can be a factor—large boats mean more people, which might limit individual activity time, especially snorkeling and beach visits.

Some guests, like Fatima, pointed out that certain activities or gear (like kayaks) were not always available or apparent, and that some parts of the schedule felt rushed. Also, the slow boat transit means nearly half the time is spent traveling, which can be a consideration if you prefer more active or time-efficient tours.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The meeting point is the main entrance to Marina Vallarta, where you’ll pay the port fee and meet the staff. Be sure to arrive on time to avoid missing the boat, as some guests have experienced difficulties with communication or missed departures.

Pricing and Value: The $60 per person price covers most activities—snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayak use, breakfast, lunch, and drinks. The additional $32 port fee is a small extra cost, but it’s important to budget for it beforehand. The inclusion of food and drinks makes it a good value for a full day of fun.

Duration and Timing: The tour lasts about 7 hours, usually in the morning. This timing suits travelers who want a full day but prefer to avoid afternoon heat or late afternoon fatigue.

Group Size and Pace: Expect a sizeable group, which can influence activity timing. If you’re someone who prefers a more intimate experience, this might feel crowded. Conversely, if you’re a social traveler, you’ll likely enjoy the lively atmosphere.

What to Bring: Towels, a hat, sun protection, and waterproof sunscreen are essentials. You might also want to bring your ID (as some reviewers noted it’s needed for the port fee) and a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the scenery.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Ana from the US highlighted the crew’s friendliness and effort, which made her experience memorable despite some small inconveniences. She appreciated that the guides worked hard to ensure everyone was satisfied—especially during snorkeling.

Fatima from Canada had more reservations, mentioning a lack of clear communication about activities like kayaking and the long wait times at certain stops. She noted that the drop-off on beaches sometimes took hours, which might not suit travelers in a hurry.

Anna’s review pointed out the crowded boat and limited snorkeling time, as well as the need for specific shoes to hike to the waterfall—something not clearly explained beforehand. Her experience underscores the importance of managing expectations regarding activity flexibility and crowd levels.

Cesar’s review was brief but highlighted the importance of clear meeting instructions, especially regarding the payment of the port fee.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a packed day of water-based activities, scenic views, and social environments. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate good food and drinks, and don’t mind sharing space with others.

If you’re a first-time snorkeler, the guided instruction can be a bonus, but if you’re seeking a quiet, intimate experience, this might feel a bit hectic. The inclusion of waterfalls, beaches, and local eats makes it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive Puerto Vallarta water tour without the hassle of planning all these stops independently.

The Sum Up

The Los Arcos, Ánimas, and Quimixto boat tour offers a well-rounded experience of Puerto Vallarta’s coastal beauty. With snorkeling among vibrant marine life, paddleboarding at peaceful beaches, and a scenic waterfall, it delivers plenty of memorable moments. The generous inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and drinks adds good value, especially for a full-day adventure.

However, the large boat size and busy schedule mean some guests might find the pace a bit rushed or crowded. If you’re looking for a lively, social outing with opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying local flavors, this tour ticks many boxes.

For travelers who want a flexible, fun-filled day with professional guides and stunning scenery, this tour provides a practical and enjoyable way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s famed coastline.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Guests over 8 years old are subject to a port fee of $32 pesos, and the tour is suitable for most ages, provided they are comfortable on a boat and in water activities.

What’s included in the price?
The $60 fee covers breakfast, snorkeling gear, kayaking, paddleboarding, the visit to Playa Las Ánimas and Quimixto, a waterfall stop, a beachside lunch with four options, and an open bar.

Are there any extra costs besides the tour price?
Yes, the port fee of $32 pesos per person applies and must be paid at the marina before boarding. Photos are not included, so if you want pictures, bring your own camera.

How long does the whole tour last?
The experience runs about 7 hours, typically starting in the morning to maximize your day.

What should I bring with me?
Sun protection (hats, sunscreen), swimming attire, a towel, waterproof case for electronics, and ID for the port fee are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the boat crowded?
Reviews indicate the boat can be quite full, which might limit activity time at some stops. If you prefer a quieter experience, be prepared for potentially larger groups.

Can I hike to the waterfall?
Hiking to the Quimixto waterfall is possible but requires suitable shoes. Some guests missed out because they didn’t have the right footwear, and this wasn’t clearly communicated beforehand.

What if I don’t like snorkeling?
Even if snorkeling isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of other activity—beach relaxation, kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying the scenery—making it still worth the trip.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, the tour is offered in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication throughout the day.

This Puerto Vallarta boat tour offers a lively, scenic, and activity-packed way to enjoy some of the best highlights of the bay. With honest feedback and thorough details, travelers can decide if it’s the right fit for their vacation style.

You can check if your dates are available here: