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Puerto Vallarta Water Sports Excursions

 
Marietas Islands Snorkel and Kayak Tour

Snorkel, kayak and swim at a secluded beach amidst the island oasis of Las Marietas.

Cruise the crystal-blue waters off Puerto Vallarta aboard a comfortable and sleek sailing catamaran, and journey through Banderas Bay as you make your way to the Marietas Islands. Located northwest from the mainland and made famous by Jacques Cousteau, the Marietas Islands are comprised of four large rock formations which act as a sanctuary for numerous species of birds, marine mammals and tropical fish. Revel in the sprawling seaside views as your guide relays fascinating stories about the area and keep an eye out for dolphins, manta rays and other marine life which are known to call these sparkling blue waters off the coast of Mexico home.

After your 90-minute journey, take in a 10-minute bird-watching trip around the islands and behold — if you're lucky — the rare Blue Footed Booby which is only found in one other place in all the world. Then, drop anchor and immerse yourself in 90-minutes of fun in the sun amidst this tropical sanctuary. Snorkel in the water and behold a fantastic array of aquatic flora, fauna and ocean life under the sea. Paddle a kayak through the serene ocean currents and revel in the shadow of a nearby island before savoring the flavor of a light lunch back onboard the boat. After lunch, journey to a secluded beach and lose yourself to the sprawling coastal spectacle of golden sand and crystal blue sea. Sunbathe amidst the warm ocean breezes and take in the tranquil sounds of the ocean waves, lapping in the distance. Set out on a nature walk and explore the sprawling shoreline or make a splash and swim some more. After approximately 90 minutes of beachside bliss, embark on your 100-minute return trip back to the ship.

Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 7 hours
Price: Adult: $75 (ages 10 and up); Child: $40 (ages 5-9)
Ages: 5 And Up
 
 
Additional Information
  • Lunch (deli sandwiches, cheeses and pasta salad) and beverages (bottled water, sodas, fruit juices and alcoholic beverages) are included. Alcoholic beverages will be served after snorkeling.
  • Wheelchairs need to be standard size and collapsible; no electric wheelchairs permitted. Snorkeling and kayaking is done front the boat. However, the beach stop is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Snorkeling and kayaking may be affected by water and/or weather conditions at the islands.
  • Snorkel, mask and flippers are provided. Guests should bring towels from the ship.
  • Guests are encouraged to wear swimming attire under clothing if wishing to swim at the beach.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, additional clothing, cameras and/or backpacks.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.

Scuba Diving Marietas Islands (For Certified Divers Only)

Immerse yourself in the waters off the Marietas Islands during a scuba diving adventure and discover paradise below the surface of the sea.

Set sail for the translucent blue waters off Puerto Vallarta aboard a comfortable and sleek sailing catamaran, and make your way through picturesque Banderas Bay on a journey to the Marietas Islands. Awash with dramatic undersea canyons and reefs that provide a home for a vast array of tropical and subtropical fish, the waters surrounding the Marietas Islands are considered to be one of the best diving locales on Mexico's Pacific Coast. Revel in the sprawling seaside views as your excursion guide relays stories about the area during your sailing and keep an eye out for dolphins and manta rays, which are known to call these sparkling blue waters home.

After your 90-minute journey, board a 25-foot diving speedboat and take off to your first dive site, basking in the cool ocean breezes and the warm Mexican sun along the way. Upon your arrival, plunge down into the breathtaking blue and explore an underwater wonderland teeming with colorful and curious marine life. Explore a hidden ocean cave — at a depth of 60 feet — and marvel at a school of putterfish, regal king angelfish and Moorish idols swimming only inches from where you wade. Behold the unique coral formations of the sprawling reef and see for yourself why this was a favorite haunt of famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. After your approximate 40-minute dive, ascend from the depths and sail to a second snorkel site where you're invited to explore the wonders of the sea some more. Following your 40-minute exploration, enjoy a delectable Mexican lunch back on the catamaran. Then, travel to a secluded beach at the north shore of the bay for some sightseeing, sunbathing and swimming and lose yourself to the tranquility of this oasis amidst paradise. Finally, after your hour long beach visit, embark on a picture-perfect 90-minute trip back to the ship.

Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level: Active
Duration: 7 hours
Price: Adult: $115 (ages 12 and up); Child: N/A
Ages: 12 And Up
 
 
Additional Information
  • Lunch (deli sandwiches, cheeses and pasta salad) and beverages (bottled water, sodas, fruit juices and alcoholic beverages) are included. Alcoholic beverages will be served after diving.
  • Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted.
  • This excursion is for certified divers only. Guests must provide a valid certification and photo ID onboard and on the day of the dive, and have completed at least one dive in the past 12 months.
  • Guests under medication or with any medical conditions are not permitted to dive.
  • Prices include wetsuit, BCD, regulator, mask, flippers, snorkel and weights. Guests should inform the ship's shore excursion desk as to what size of equipment is required (S, M, L, or XL) so that all gear can be prepared in advance.
  • Maximum scuba diving weight is 250 lbs.
  • Please note that dive knives are strictly prohibited on this excursion due to current weapons laws.
  • Guests must be physically fit to participate. For safety reasons, expectant mothers, Guests with heart and respiratory conditions and those with back/neck injuries cannot participate.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, additional clothing, hats, cameras and/or backpacks. Guests should bring towels from the ship.
  • Guests will travel on the same boat as the Marietas Island Snorkel excurison.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.

Dolphin Kids

Make a splash in an up-close and personal dolphin encounter at the Dolphin Adventure Center — for kid's only!

Sit back, relax and take in the city sights as you and your child enjoy a 30-minute air-conditioned motor coach drive from the ship — past sloping hills, distant coastal views and the Ameca River — to the Dolphin Adventure Center. Located in Nuevo Vallarta, the Dolphin Adventure Center is one of the few marine mammal centers in the world to offer people of all ages the unique opportunity to partake in "hands-on" experiences with dolphins, and is committed to the conservation and protection of marine mammals. Upon your arrival, your child will meet and greet the dolphin trainers and take in an informative introduction, including a discussion on dolphin anatomy, physiology and natural history. Then, delight in a poolside introduction to these gentle creatures of the deep, where your child will be invited to meet some Pacific Bottlenose dolphins and watch as the trainers demonstrate several techniques they use to communicate with the dolphins.

Following the introduction, your children will have the unforgettable opportunity to get up close and personal with these amazing mammals. Under the supervision of one of the facility's experienced dolphin trainers, your child will enjoy 15 minutes of touching and interacting with the dolphins in a specially-designed shallow maternity pool. Your child will experience the thrill of a lifetime as he or she gets the special opportunity to pet, hug and even kiss the dolphins during this amazing exchange. Experience a sense of wonder as both of you behold the Dolphin Adventure Center's recently-born baby dolphins as they swim alongside their mothers — a special highlight of this Dolphin Kids excursion. At the conclusion of your encounter, marvel as the dolphins show off their spectacular jumps. Then, visit the sea lions and get a glimpse of the tropical Macaws before savoring the flavor of a delectable lunch. Finally, make your way back to the ship during a scenic 5-minute walk.

Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 3 hours
Price: Adult: N/A; Child: $105 (ages 4-9)
Ages: 4 To 9
 
 
Additional Information
  • Lunch (salads, Mexican dishes, sandwiches and burgers) and a sparkling soda are included.
  • Wheelchairs need to be standard size and collapsible; no electric wheelchairs permitted. Guests must be able to enter and exit the water on their own.
  • This excursion is stroller accessible. However, some portions of the tour may require Guests to fold accompanying strollers. In addition, lightweight strollers are recommended.
  • Parents and guardians must book the Dolphin Observer excursion in order to accompany their children during this excursion. Additionally, because children are supervised at all times by a nanny and instructor during this excursion, parents and guardians are invited to participate in another Dolphin experience at the same time as their children partake in this excursion.
  • Parents and guardians will watch the dolphin interaction from the observation area. Please note that cameras are not allowed in the observation area.
  • Guests should note that this is not a "swim with the dolphins" excursion.
  • Guests should note that the actual excursion time may vary because Guests are invited to stay for lunch and souvenir shop before returning to the ship at their own leisure. The motor coach transport is available every 30 minutes to take Guests back to the ship.
  • Guests should note that cameras and jewelry are not allowed in the pool areas. Photos can be taken from the educational area and viewing platform. In addition, for the continued well-being of the dolphins, Guests are not permitted to wear sunscreen in the water.
  • Complimentary lockers for personal belongings and changing rooms are available.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring sunglasses, additional clothing, hats, cameras and/or backpacks.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring cash or credit cards to purchase optional extras, such as pictures and souvenirs.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.

Banderas Bay Luxury Sailing Adventure

Put the wind in your sails and escape via private boat to the emerald-blue waters of Banderas Bay for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure brimming with fantastic marine life.

Behold a stunning panorama of sprawling ocean views, rolling green hills and rocky bluffs as you cruise along the verdant coast of Puerto Vallarta during a sailing expedition into the heart of paradise. Board a luxurious, 45-foot sailboat — reserved exclusively for you and your traveling party — and take in an introduction and demonstration on the sport of sailing from your friendly guide. Learn the basics — such as how to grind a winch and trim a sail — and prepare for your exciting excursion amidst the breathtaking blue. If you've never sailed before, this is your opportunity to learn. Then, cast off in a northerly direction across the Pacific Ocean and begin an adventure you'll surely never forget.

As you make your way, feel the warm sun on your back and the cool sea breezes wash all around you as you raise the sails and practice the sailing techniques you learned only moments before. Revel in the sights — where the blue of the sky mingles with the blue of the ocean — and keep an eye out for manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins who love to swim and splash alongside gliding sailboats. After your approximate two hour journey, arrive at a picturesque cove in Banderas Bay, where you are invited to swim, snorkel or sightsee along the secluded beach. Skim the sea surface and marvel at the magnificent marine life or dive down into the cool water and take a closer look at the extraordinary coral formations. Sunbathe on the white sands and bask in the cool tropical breezes. Wander this lush oasis amidst paradise — boasting picturesque palm trees and hidden bluffs — and surrender to the serenity that surrounds you at every turn. After approximately two hours, sit back, relax and take in the stunning seaside sights once more as you begin your 90-minute return trip back to the ship, where you are invited to raise the sails and handle the boat once more.

If you're already booked on a Disney Cruise Line® Mexican Riviera Cruise, and would like to learn more about this exciting excursion and reserve a private vehicle in Puerto Vallarta, please:

  1. Download the special Private Vehicle Request Form and fill it out on your computer
  2. Save the form to your desktop
  3. Attach the form to an email and send it to DCL.SHORE.EXCURSIONS@disney.com
After your Private Vehicle Request Form is received, Disney's Special Services department will contact you to confirm your private request by telephone. Please allow up to seven days for confirmation.
Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level:Moderate
Duration: 6 hours
Price: Adult: N/A; price based on boat; Child: N/A; price based on boat
Ages: 5 And Up
 
Additional Information
  • When Guests reserve this excursion, they are booking the boat exclusively for their traveling party. No other Guests will be onboard. The maximum number of Guests per boat is 16.
  • Deli-style gourmet lunch (imported cheeses, cold cuts, shrimp cocktail and smoked salmon) and beverages (white wine, beer, tequila, margaritas, piña coladas, bottled water, juices and sodas) are included. In addition, a fruit platter will be served in the morning.
  • Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted.
  • This excursion includes a Captain and Mate. The Mate will serve as a guide during the sailing.
  • Due to the possibility of lights winds during the first leg of the journey to Banderas Bay, the motor may be used instead of the sails. However, the sails will be raised during the trip back to the ship.
  • Guests must be physically fit to participate in the act of sailing. For safety reasons, expectant mothers, Guests with heart and respiratory conditions and those with back/neck injuries cannot participate. Please note, however, that Guests are not required to participate in the physical activity of sailing and are encouraged to enjoy the trip as they wish.
  • Snorkel, mask and flippers are provided.
  • Life vests are provided upon request.
  • Please note, although very likely, fish and dolphin sightings cannot be guaranteed.
  • The tour sites may vary based on weather conditions.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, additional clothing, hats, cameras and/or backpacks.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.

Pirate Boat Sail and Snorkel Adventure

Sail the turquoise blue waters off Puerto Vallarta for a "p-arrg-ty" at Majahuitas beach.

Voyage along Mexico's picturesque coastline — past rocky perches, scenic shorelines and hidden coves — aboard the "Marigalante," a rollicking pirate ship, and make your way 13 miles south of Puerto Vallarta to the secluded beachside hideaway of La Manzanilla. During your swashbuckling adventure, join your friendly Captain and pirate crew for a fun-filled, bon voyage fiesta where you and your family are invited to indulge in a delightful buffet-style breakfast. Be a part of the fun as you help your band of scalawags set the sails before movin' and groovin' to a high-energy dance show awash with fun-filled surprises.

After your approximate 90-minute journey, drop anchor in La Manzanilla, a breathtaking oasis in the Pacific Ocean where white sands and crystal-clear water mingle with palm trees and lush flora. Once there, kayak across the tranquil turquoise water or skim the surface and behold an underwater wonderland of tropical marine life. Hold on tight during a banana boat ride or boogie board across a crashing wave. Compete in a game of volleyball with family and friends or soak up the sun as you sprawl out on the beach. Kids can enjoy a fun tug-of-war with adults or exercise their creative muscles during a sand sculpture contest. Then, savor the flavor of a delectable lunch before thrilling to a pirate show where your proud Captain and crew fend off an enemy battalion of pirates in a fantastic exhibition of swordsmanship and acrobatics. Experience the fun of another pirate party and enter to win a special pirate prize before it's time to raise the sail on your two-hour visit. Finally, sit back and relax — and spend some final moments with your pirate crew — during your approximate 90-minute trek back to the ship.

Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 5.5 hours
Price: Adult: $75 (ages 10 and up); Child: $60 (ages 3-9), under 3 free
Ages: All Ages
 
 
Additional Information
  • Breakfast (coffee, juice, milk, bottled water, sweet bread, fruit cocktail, eggs and chilaquiles), lunch (chicken, ribs, rice, salad, corn on the cob and buttered bread), and beverages (beer, mixed drinks and soft drinks) included.
  • Wheelchairs need to be standard size and collapsible; no electric wheelchairs permitted. Guests must be able to climb five steps to board and debark the boat.
  • This excursion is stroller accessible. However, some portions of the tour may require Guests to fold accompanying strollers. In addition, lightweight strollers are recommended.
  • Guests are encouraged to wear swimming attire under clothing if wishing to swim.
  • Snorkel, mask and flippers are provided. Beach volleyball is provided. Guests should bring towels from the ship.
  • Water sports rentals (banana boat rides, kayaking, boogie boarding) are available at an additional cost.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, additional clothing, hats, cameras and/or backpacks.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.

Sunset Sail

Experience the beauty of a sunset sailing through Banderas Bay.

Behold a stunning panorama of scenic ocean views, sprawling rocky climbs and pristine sandy beaches as you begin your dusky voyage through the crystal blue waters of picture-perfect Banderas Bay aboard a luxurious 50-foot sailboat. Experience a captivating sense of calm as you lose yourself to the breathtaking sight of the sun beginning its steady descent into the sea from your marina position in the middle of the bay. Savor a sip of a cocktail over relaxing music to commemorate the event and witness a kaleidoscope of color as the sky changes from deep red to light pink before your eyes. Then, hold your breath as the blazing sun slowly cascades into what looks to be the end of the world.

Feel the wind race across your face as you make your way along the coastline near the waterfront boulevard — the Malecón — to marvel at the colors of the fading sunset as they illuminate a local coastal town. Snap a picture before dusk fades into night, and then revel beneath the glow of a spectacular fireworks show from your seaside position. Savor a delicious dinner and experience an unforgettable feeling of tranquility as you breathe in the fresh ocean air. Finally, sit back and surrender to the starry night as you embark on your 30-minute return trip back to the ship.

Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level: Mild
Duration: 3 hours
Price: Adult: $69 (ages 12 and up); Child: N/A
Ages: 12 And Up
 
 
Additional Information
  • This tour is only available on the Eastbound Transatlantic Cruise, August 20, 2008.
  • Deli-style gourmet dinner (imported cheeses, cold cuts, shrimp cocktail and smoked salmon) and beverages (champagne, white wine, beer, tequila, margaritas, piña coladas, bottled water, juices and sparkling sodas) are included.
  • Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted.
  • This tour is not recommended for Guests with limited mobility.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.

Sea Safari

Retreat to a secluded paradise of white sand, turquoise blue water and sweeping coastal views of Puerto Vallarta's tropical coves.

Set sail south for a scenic 45-minute adventure along the Mexican coastline via a state-of-the-art powerboat — past rocky bluffs, verdant forest patches and pristine golden beaches — and journey across the sparkling Pacific Ocean past the traditional Mexican fishing villages of Quimixto and Yelapa to Puerta Vallarta's picturesque South Bay. Boasting a geography and climate similar to Tahiti, Vallarta's South Bay area is a tranquil sun-kissed oasis amidst paradise that is only accessible by boat. Upon your arrival, enjoy a stop and embark on a guided hike through the abundant flora and make your way to the world-famous waterfalls in Tecomata. Snap a picture of this majestic natural wonder, which stands nearly 100 feet high, before taking some time to soak up the sun on the wide sandy beach and swim in the protected waters of the picturesque bay.

Following your visit, continue your journey by sea to yet another hidden gem of Mexico: the small coastal village of Pizota. Brimming with a spectacular golden-sand beaches and crystal-blue waters, Pizota is a hidden gem for Guests looking to relax and discover the natural beauty of Mexico. Upon your arrival, snorkel or swim and discover an underwater world awash with tropical fish and unique coral formations. Sit back and sunbathe on the warm sands and experience a sense of calm as you listen to the waves gently break in the distance. Kayak in the sparkling ocean or embark on a nature hike through the verdant forest landscape via a windy backwoods path. Savor the flavor of a delicious picnic lunch and bask in the cool tropical breezes that wash over you in every direction. After approximately 90 minutes, wind down during a 45-minute powerboat trip back to the ship.

Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level: Active
Duration: 5 hours
Price: Adult: $95 (ages 10 and up); Child: $75 (ages 8-9)
Ages: 8 And Up
 
 
Additional Information
  • Picnic-style lunch (baguettes, fruit and cookies) and beverages (bottles water and sparkling sodas) are included.
  • Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted.
  • This tour is not recommended for Guests with limited mobility.
  • Life vests are included and compulsory for all Guests.
  • Snorkel, mask and flippers are provided. Snorkel instruction is available upon request.
  • Kayak equipment provided. Kayaks fit up to two persons. Maximum kayak weight limit is 250 lbs. per person.
  • Guests must be physically fit to participate. For safety reasons, expectant mothers, Guests with heart and respiratory conditions and those with back/neck injuries cannot participate.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, additional clothing, hats, cameras and/or backpacks.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.


Banderas Bay Snorkeling Treasure Hunt

Search for clues during a snorkeling adventure amidst spectacular Banderas Bay.

Soak up the sun as you sail along the captivating coastline of Puerto Vallarta — past rocky perches and hidden coves — aboard a comfortable 68-foot schooner. Along the way, journey through Banderas Bay and revel in the seaside sights of Vallarta town as you travel to your excursion destination: the magnificent rock formation known as Los Arcos, considered one of the best snorkeling sites in all of Mexico. Before your arrival, learn about the fascinating history and culture of Puerto Vallarta from your friendly guide, receive your snorkeling gear, and discover the clues you'll be expected to collect and decipher during your open water treasure hunt. Following your 75-minute trip, arrive at a special spot amidst Los Arcos and immerse yourself in the breathtaking blue, where a wondrous world below the surface of the sea awaits.

During your adventure, skim the turquoise water and marvel at the magnificent marine life that surrounds you everywhere you look. Plunge into the cool water and take a closer look at the extraordinary coral formations and arching underwater vistas. Reach out to the curious fish that surround you at every turn — including parrot, angel, butterfly and goat fish — and gather the ocean clues to solve your treasure hunt puzzle. Sunbathe back on deck and bask in the cool tropical breezes, or simply sip on a refreshing beverage and snap a picture of the nearby coast. After your approximate 45-minute adventure, take part in a fun-filled awards ceremony honoring those who found the hidden treasure and those who participated. Finally, sit back, relax and surrender to the seaside views once again as you embark on a 40-minute return trip back to the ship.

Activity Type: Water Sports
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 4 hours
Price: Adult: $62 (10 and up); Child: $52 (ages 5-9)
Ages: 5 And Up
 
 
Additional Information
  • A light snack (quesadillas, fruit, chips and salsa) and beverages (bottled water, sparkling sodas, coffee and bottled beer) are included. Alcoholic beverages will be served after snorkeling.
  • Wheelchairs need to be standard size and collapsible; no electric wheelchairs permitted. Guests must be able to ascend and descend a four-rung ladder with handrails. Please note that wheelchairs must remain at the pier.
  • Guests must walk approximately 300 meters from the ship to the yacht.
  • Snorkel, mask and flippers are provided. Guests should bring towels from the ship.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, additional clothing, cameras and/or backpacks.
  • Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early.

 


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