Saltwater, sea caves, and a waterfall. I like how this is a private boat trip with a guide who steers you to the best snorkeling spots, and I like the Los Arcos Marine Park scenery paired with a real Yelapa waterfall hike. It’s a full day that feels active, not dragged out.

One thing to consider: this tour runs on the ocean, so it needs good weather, and lunch isn’t included. You’ll want pesos ready for a beach meal (and souvenirs), plus bring snacks if you think you’ll get hungry during the boat ride.

Key things I’d plan around

• Private boat comfort: it’s just your group, so you spend less time waiting around and more time in the water.
• Los Arcos Marine Park snorkel focus: a timed window at the park (with ticket included) for caves, arches, tunnels, and reef views.
• Two beach moments: you get time around Los Muertos and then proper beach time in Yelapa, with restaurant options.
• Short waterfall hike: a quick, easy walk to cool off at the lower falls.
• Gear handled for you: you can borrow snorkeling equipment from the captain, so you don’t need to pack yours.

Why a private boat to Yelapa is worth the money

This is priced at $220 per person, and what you’re really paying for is time on the water with your own boat and your own pacing. That matters in Puerto Vallarta because boat days can get choppy and crowded fast. With a private setup, you’re not stuck waiting while other groups wrangle gear and shuffle schedules.

The itinerary also has a smart “mix” built in. You get marine park snorkeling (Los Arcos), beach time (Yelapa), and a waterfall walk in the same 5.5-hour window. That’s three different vibes in one outing, which is great if you want variety without doing separate tours.

Meeting at Los Muertos and what to expect from a 9:30 am start

You’ll start at Los Muertos Beach Pier, at Francisca Rodríguez 121 in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica area. The start time is 9:30 am, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

A 5 hours 30 minute day sounds short, but on a boat it moves quickly. Plan to be ready to go at the pier on time—your snorkeling and beach windows depend on it. Also, because this is in the ocean, expect the schedule to be sensitive to conditions. The good news: if weather is poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re the type who likes to show up, get your bearings fast, and then relax—this format fits you well.

Stop 1: Playa de los Muertos look-over from the pier area

Right after you depart Los Muertos Pier, you’ll head south for views of the famous Los Muertos Beach. This part is quick and has no admission ticket (it’s free).

Think of this as the warm-up. You’re out on the water, the coastline is right there, and you’re getting an early sense of the route before you hit the more structured marine park portion. It’s also a nice way to make the morning feel like it actually starts immediately rather than waiting around.

If you’re someone who loves coastal views, don’t treat this as throwaway time.

Los Arcos National Marine Park: caves, tunnels, arches, and reef time

This is the main event. You’ll spend about 40 minutes at Parque Nacional Marino Los Arcos de Mismaloya, and the admission ticket is included.

Los Arcos sits out at sea between two beaches—Mismaloya Beach and Las Gemelas—and the scenery is built for underwater exploration. At the park you’ll see caves, deep tunnels, arches, and a striking reef. That mix is exactly why this area gets attention: you’re not just looking at one thing. You’re surrounded by multiple natural shapes and swim-through areas.

Also, this trip is guided, which is key for snorkeling. The guide’s job is to help you find the best spots to swim and snorkel, not just to point at water and wish you luck. Guides who focus on where the water is calm enough for a relaxed swim can make a big difference, especially for people who are new to snorkeling.

From what I’ve seen reflected in guide feedback, the vibe tends to be fun and high-energy—names like Chema and Manuel come up—so you get both information and a good mood. That matters on a marine stop, because you’ll remember how the water feels more than the technical details.

Practical note: 40 minutes goes fast. If you want more time in the water, this tour still stays tight by design, so come prepared to get in promptly when you’re dropped off.

Yelapa beach time: Las Animas energy and meal options

After Los Arcos, you’ll head to Yelapa for about 1 hour 30 minutes. Admission is free for this stop, and you’ll be in the southern zone of Puerto Vallarta.

Yelapa is special because it’s not just a quick drive-by. You can only reach it on foot or by boat, which keeps the feel of the area from turning into a loud, all-inclusive factory. The name Las Animas is tied to this Yelapa beach time, so you’ll likely be spending your shore moment in that general area.

What you’ll love here is the plain, honest beach break. You can choose to snorkel a bit longer if conditions allow, or you can just set up and relax. This is also where lunch becomes the decision you control. Yelapa has restaurants right by the beach, so you can pick something that fits your cravings and budget.

Because lunch isn’t included, I recommend bringing a simple plan:

• Decide whether you want a sit-down meal or a quicker bite
• Bring pesos ahead of time
• If you’re picky about timing, eat close to the end of your beach window so you’re not rushing back

This stop is the emotional reset of the day. It’s where you go from active boat energy to sun, sand, and a slower pace.

Yelapa Waterfalls: a short walk with a cold-water reward

Next up: Yelapa Waterfalls. This stop runs about 30 minutes and is also free.

The hike is described as a short, easy walk from the quaint town of Yelapa to the lower falls. The payoff is the ability to cool off in clear, chilly water.

What makes this stop worth it is that it changes the “wet” factor. Snorkeling gives you water time, sure, but it’s not the same as standing in a waterfall pool and feeling the cold hit your legs. If you’ve been baking on the boat deck, the waterfall moment can feel like the best part of the trip.

Practical consideration: even when hikes are “easy,” they can still be slippery, especially near water. Wear water-friendly sandals or shoes you trust on uneven ground. Also, plan for damp clothes after the swim—dry off as best you can, but don’t count on having a full towel-and-change setup beyond what you bring.

Snorkeling gear, an ice chest, and what to pack

Included in the tour are an ice chest and use of snorkeling equipment. That means you won’t need to pack your own snorkel gear. The overview also notes that you can borrow the captain’s snorkeling equipment, which is a relief—snorkel gear is bulky, easy to lose, and annoying to carry through airports.

You’re also welcome to bring beverages and snacks for the boat ride. If you’ve ever paid for a day trip and then discovered you’re hungry but everything is closed or far away, you’ll appreciate this detail.

Here’s what you should bring based on the tour info:

• Swimsuit
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Mexican pesos (for restaurants, souvenirs, incidentals, and gratuities)

If you’re the type who likes to protect your phone, consider a waterproof pouch, even though one isn’t listed as included. You’ll likely get wet on a snorkeling day, and saltwater plus electronics is a bad combo.

Price and value: $220 for a private, ticketed marine-park day

At $220 per person, this isn’t the cheapest boat option. But value is about what you’re getting for that spend.

Here’s what you’re effectively buying:

• A private boat experience (only your group)
• Guided snorkeling with help finding the best spots
• Los Arcos Marine Park admission included
• Snorkeling equipment included
• An itinerary that hits both sea and shore highlights (park + beaches + waterfall)

Lunch and food/drinks are not included, so budget for at least one meal during the Yelapa time. Souvenirs and gratuities are also on you. Bring cash/pesos so you don’t spend your fun time hunting for an ATM.

If you’re traveling as a couple or small group, private access often makes the math feel more reasonable than it first looks—especially because the schedule is structured and time-efficient. If you hate waiting, share a boat with others, or want control over when you’re in the water, the private format is the big upgrade.

Who this Puerto Vallarta–Yelapa tour suits best

This tour is a good fit if you:

• Want guided snorkeling without packing gear
• Like the idea of seeing marine park features such as caves, arches, tunnels, and reef
• Want both beach time and an “activity” moment (the waterfall walk)
• Prefer a private day over a mixed-group boat

It may be less ideal if you:

• Only want a long, lingering beach day and don’t care about snorkeling or walking
• Are very weather-sensitive (because the trip requires good conditions)
• Hate planning meals (since lunch isn’t included)

Because it’s English offered, it’s also easier to relax and ask questions. When guides can point out what you should watch for in the water, snorkeling stops feel more rewarding.

Should you book this Yelapa boat tour with Estigo Tours?

I’d book it if you want a well-paced day that hits the key Puerto Vallarta region highlights in a single outing: Los Arcos snorkeling, Yelapa beach time, and a quick waterfall cool-off. The private boat setup plus included snorkeling gear and ticket for Los Arcos makes it a strong value for the type of day you’re buying.

I’d hesitate only if you’re traveling during a time when weather is often unstable for the ocean, or if you’re counting on the tour to handle your meals. Bring pesos, bring snacks if you want them, and plan for dampness after the waterfall stop.

If that sounds like your kind of day—this one is likely to land well.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for this tour?

It starts at Los Muertos Beach Pier, Francisca Rodríguez 121, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 9:30 am.

How long does the tour last?

The duration is about 5 hours 30 minutes.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. Only your group participates.

What snorkeling gear is provided?

The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment (you can borrow the captain’s gear).

What are the main stops during the day?

You’ll visit Playa de los Muertos (view area), Los Arcos National Marine Park, Yelapa beach time, and the Yelapa Waterfalls hike.

Is the Los Arcos park admission included?

Yes. Los Arcos National Marine Park admission is included. The other stops listed are free.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch and the price of food and drinks are not included.

What should I bring?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and Mexican pesos. You’re also welcomed to bring beverages and snacks for the boat ride.

What happens if weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is free cancellation available?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.