Planning a day out on the water in Mexico? This full-day Marietas Islands boat tour from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle promises a combination of wildlife spotting, water activities, and good food—all aboard a well-equipped yacht. With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 29 reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a lively, all-inclusive adventure in Banderas Bay.

Three things we really like about this tour are its enthusiastic guides, the variety of water activities included, and the delicious, fresh Mexican lunch. Also, the unlimited premium drinks mean you can sip margaritas and cold beers all day long. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour involves some swimming from a smaller boat, which might be tricky for travelers with mobility issues. This tour suits those who love a mix of adventure, scenery, and good company, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family looking for a fun, stress-free day on the water.

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Key Points

All-Inclusive Experience: Food, drinks, water toys, and guided activities make this a hassle-free day.
Wildlife and Scenic Views: You’ll see marine life, whales (Dec-April), and stunning coastal vistas.
Water Activities Galore: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and water slides keep boredom at bay.
High-Quality Equipment & Service: Snorkels, kayaks, and professional guides ensure safety and fun.
Very Good Value: For $109, you get a full day of activities, meals, and drinks—hard to beat.
Suitable for Most: While not ideal for those with mobility challenges, it’s perfect for active, adventurous travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Full-Day Tour

The Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins early at the Chica Locca Marina in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. Check-in is at 7:30 am, with transport to the marina provided from Sayulita, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby. The group size is typically manageable, and the boat, called Chica Locca, is known for its spacious, comfortable layout. Expect a smooth ride along the North Shore of Banderas Bay, with plenty of scenic views en route.

The Scenic Cruise and Marine Watching

As the boat departs, you’ll cruise past Banderas Bay, famous for its marine biodiversity. The waters are often inhabited by humpback whales from December to April, and you might catch glimpses of sea turtles, rays, and tropical coastline scenery all year. Many reviewers mention the thrill of spotting whales or booby birds soaring overhead—it’s a perfect way to get into holiday mode. The boat’s crew is experienced in wildlife spotting, and a professional photographer is onboard to capture those spontaneous moments, which you can purchase later.

Breakfast and Refreshments

The tour kicks off with a delicious breakfast of fresh in-season fruit, muffins, and coffee—just enough to energize you for the day ahead. Throughout the trip, there’s an all-day premium beverage service including water, juices, sodas, margaritas, pina coladas, beer, wine, tequila, and champagne. Reviewers note that the drinks are plentiful, and many appreciated the relaxed, party-like atmosphere.

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Arrival at the Marietas Islands

Once at the Islas Marietas National Park, the guide introduces you to a guided tour of the islands. The highlight is the chance to snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, or swim to Playa la Nopalera, a pristine beach inside the reserve. The island’s marine life and the chance to explore a protected environment make this stop memorable. Some mention that the wet landing—entering the beach from the boat—requires a bit of swimming from a smaller vessel, which might be physically demanding for some.

Exploring Playa la Nopalera

Here, you’re free to enjoy the quiet beauty of the beach, with abundant marine wildlife visible just offshore. Reviewers comment that the 20-minute time at the beach is enough for photos and exploration—just enough to get a feel for the place without feeling rushed. Equipment like snorkels and kayaks is available, and many appreciate the quality of gear provided.

Lunch and Relaxation

Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy a Mexican fajitas lunch served with rice, beans, and crispy tortillas. The food is described as “tasty” and authentic, with some reviewers mentioning that the fajitas—beef, chicken, or vegetarian—hit the spot after all the water activities. The lunch is complemented by more drinks and plenty of ocean views, making it a relaxing and convivial part of the day.

Free Time & Water Fun

Post-lunch, you’ll have time for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply lounging on the deck. The crew encourages fun with unlimited use of water toys like water mattresses, snorkels, and paddleboards. It seems many guests find this part of the trip to be the most enjoyable—some even mention that the crew is attentive in supervising water activities, especially for families with kids.

The Return Journey & Additional Entertainment

As the boat heads back toward La Cruz, the atmosphere becomes lively. Guests are encouraged to dance, enjoy more drinks, or relax with a view of the coast. Some reviews mention that photographers onboard capture action shots, which can be viewed and purchased afterward, adding memorabilia to the experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Chica Locca Marina with check-in and transport from Sayulita, departing around 8:00 am.
Cruise along Bahia de Banderas, with wildlife and scenic viewing, including whale sightings from December to April.
Enjoy breakfast with fresh fruit and muffins before heading to the islands.
Arrive at the Islas Marietas, with a guided tour focusing on marine wildlife and snorkeling opportunities.
Explore Playa la Nopalera, taking in the marine reserve’s natural beauty.
Indulge in a Mexican lunch of fajitas, rice, and beans.
Participate in water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the boat.
Return journey with scenic views, drinks, and a lively, fun atmosphere.
Arrive back at Chica Locca Marina around 2-3 pm, ending the day.

Highlights & Insights from Reviews

Many guests commend the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, who make the day smooth and enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned that the guides took very good care of everyone, especially noting the attentiveness to safety during water activities like the wet landing. The unlimited drinks and food were repeatedly praised, with guests saying it added to the relaxed, party vibe of the trip.

The quality of water equipment—snorkels, kayaks, paddleboards—is also a strong point, with many reviewers saying it made the activities more enjoyable and accessible. A common tip? Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the moments, especially since the wet landing can make traditional photography tricky. The onboard photographer service, which can be booked in advance, is a popular option for capturing the fun moments.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are positive, some mention that the wet landing can be physically demanding, especially if you’re not comfortable swimming or balancing. Also, those expecting to visit the famous enclosed cove or “hidden beach” should note that this tour does not include that feature unless paid for extra, so manage expectations if that’s a priority.

Overall Value

At $109 per person, including meals, drinks, water activities, and wildlife viewing, this tour offers excellent value. For travelers who want a full, active day with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure, it’s hard to beat. The combination of scenic cruising, wildlife, water fun, and delicious food makes it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends eager to explore Banderas Bay in style.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, is interested in marine wildlife, and enjoys social, lively atmospheres, this trip is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for those wanting to combine sightseeing with active water fun and a relaxed vibe. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more sedentary experience, the wet landing and some swimming may make this less suitable.

Travelers looking for an authentic, well-organized, and entertaining day in the Mexican coast will find this tour delivers on all counts. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who like good food and drinks and don’t mind a bit of physical activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour has been enjoyed by families, especially those with children who are comfortable swimming and participating in water activities. The crew is attentive, ensuring safety during water-based fun.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, and waterproof cases for electronics are recommended. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also smart, as you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, from December to April, humpback whales are often seen in these waters, making whale watching a possible highlight of the trip.

Does the tour include the famous enclosed cove beach?
No, this tour visits the main islands and Playa la Nopalera but does not include the enclosed cove unless you pay extra.

Are the water activities included?
Absolutely. Snorkels, kayaks, paddleboards, and water mattresses are all available for unlimited use during the trip.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts around 6 hours, with check-in starting early in the morning. Check availability for exact starting times.

Is food included?
Yes, a breakfast, Mexican fajitas lunch, and snacks are provided, along with unlimited premium drinks.

Is the trip suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not really. The wet landing involves swimming or stepping onto a smaller boat, which might be difficult for those with mobility challenges.

Can I buy photos taken during the trip?
Yes, professional photographers onboard capture action shots, which can be viewed and purchased afterward.

What’s the price point for this tour?
At $109 per person, it offers a solid value considering it includes meals, drinks, water activities, and wildlife viewing, making it a competitive option for a full-day adventure.

This La Cruz de Huanacaxtle: Full-Day Marietas Islands Boat Tour offers a lively, well-rounded experience perfect for active travelers eager to explore Mexico’s stunning coastline and marine life. From scenic cruises and wildlife sightings to water playgrounds and authentic Mexican cuisine, it’s a day packed with fun and relaxation. The knowledgeable guides and attentive crew ensure safety and enjoyment, making it a reliable choice for families, friends, or solo travelers seeking a memorable day on the water.

While not suited for those with mobility issues or seeking a quiet, laid-back experience, it excels at providing a vibrant, interactive day in Banderas Bay. Whether you’re looking to snorkel with sea turtles or dance under the sun with a cocktail in hand, this tour promises a memorable splash of Mexican adventure.

Note: For the best experience, consider bringing waterproof gear for photos and be prepared for the physical aspect of the wet landing. Book in advance to secure your spot and enjoy a flexible cancellation policy.