Marietas feels like a nature show with a waterslide twist. This Chica Locca boat tour pairs Isla Marietas marine reserve time with big-deck waterslides and an all-day open bar. You’ll cruise the North Shore of Bahía de Banderas, play in the water with provided gear, and keep eating and drinking while you’re out there.

My favorite part is the combination of guided activity time and real marine viewing. At Playa La Nopalera, you’re not just looking from the boat—you swim, snorkel, and kayak your way around volcanic rock and tropical wildlife with help from the crew. Add the possibility of humpback whales (most likely Dec–Apr, but you may see other sea life year-round), and it turns into a day that feels worth planning around.

One thing to think about before you book: the tour includes a wet landing to reach the island areas. If you’re not steady in moving water (or if conditions make snorkeling harder), you may find the shore time and water play more effort than expected.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Waterslide + water toys, nonstop: a boat setup built for play, not just sightseeing.
• Playa La Nopalera access by boat: a natural spot reached only from the water.
• Unlimited gear: snorkels, kayaks, paddleboards, water mattresses/swim toys—no need to re-rent anything.
• Open bar all day: water, coffee, juices, sodas plus mixed drinks like margaritas, piña coladas, beer, tequila, wine, champagne.
• Whale-watching bonus potential: you can spot humpbacks Dec–Apr, and you may get extra stops on the way.
• Crew-led help: water guides keep an eye on safety while you switch between swim modes.

Entering Isla Marietas: what this day feels like

You start the day on a boat that’s basically designed for a “stay out all day” mindset. There’s room to move around, areas to sit and relax, and enough water fun that the day doesn’t feel like a rushed checklist. The vibe is active without being chaotic, which matters when you’re mixing swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and just plain lounging.

You’re also entering a protected area—the kind of place where you’ll spend time around wildlife that’s used to the sea. That’s why the guides focus on how you handle your gear and how you move through the water. It’s not just about seeing the rocks and beaches; it’s about doing it in a way that keeps you safe and keeps the moment clean.

And since it’s an all-in-one outing, you don’t have to plan separate meals or pay for extra experiences once you’re on the water. That convenience is part of the value.

Meeting point and timing: how to avoid the first stress

Your start is from one of two options: Paradise Village Pier (Chica Locca Tours) or Carlos Co y usa (Chica Locca Tours). Meeting point can vary by the option you book, so I’d treat your confirmation info like the truth—even if you’ve visited the marina area before.

The tour is listed as 6 hours, and that time is tightly packed into a full day at sea. You’ll have breakfast and snacks while cruising, guided activity time at Marietas/Playa La Nopalera, and lunch plus more water play on the return.

Because the island time is limited (you’re dealing with tides/conditions and boat travel), being early at the pier helps. You’ll want your swimwear already sorted and a towel ready, so you can go straight into the water fun when they cue it.

Bahía de Banderas cruise: breakfast, snacks, and marine life chances

You get the “cruise portion” early, and it sets the tone. Before you’re wearing out your snorkel mask, you’ll be fed: breakfast includes fresh fruit, pastries, and a steady flow of drinks. Think coffee, juices, sodas, plus water. Then the bar service expands through the day into cocktails and beer.

On the water, you’ll also be doing marine life viewing while you cruise. This is where the whales can show up—especially from December to April, when humpback whales are commonly in these waters. Even outside that window, sea turtles and rays are possible, and you’ll still be tracking coastal scenery and wildlife as you head toward the reserve.

There’s also a snack moment: guacamole and blue-corn chips show up while you’re on the way. It sounds simple, but it helps you stay energized for the island swim and snorkeling later.

Practical tip: bring a dry layer for the cruise when you first leave the pier. Even in warm weather, sea air can feel cool.

Isla Marietas National Park and guided activity: how Playa La Nopalera works

This tour’s centerpiece is the time in/around Isla Marietas National Park and the guided visit toward Playa La Nopalera, a cove that’s famous for being boat-access only. The volcanic formations are a key part of why this place looks so different from typical beaches, and they’re also part of what attracts wildlife.

Once you’re set up with the guides, you’ll choose your level of water play:

• swim with guidance
• snorkel (the classic setup here)
• kayak
• paddleboard
• use flotation/water toys

The guides matter because they help you move in a way that feels safe and efficient. You’ll spend less time figuring out gear and more time actually enjoying what’s around you. That’s especially helpful if you’re switching between activities during the day.

One note about the wet landing: to reach the island/snorkel areas, you’ll need to handle entry from smaller craft and get back aboard afterward. Some people love it (it feels like an adventure), and others find it physically awkward—especially if you’re carrying a bag or handling fins/snorkel gear. If you’re on the fence, this is the part to watch closely in your own comfort zone.

The boat experience: waterslides, unlimited toys, and a real party pace

This is where the tour earns its playful reputation. The boat has waterslides, and it’s stocked like a floating water park. You can keep using equipment throughout the day—snorkels, kayaks, paddleboards, swim mattresses/toys—so you’re not stuck waiting for your single scheduled activity.

The drink setup is a big part of why the day feels like a full-on outing rather than a short excursion. Service includes everything from water, coffee, and juices to mixed drinks like margaritas and piña coladas, plus beer, tequila, wine, and champagne. You can keep it soft or go all-in—your call.

The crew’s energy is often what makes it work. In the onboard experience, you’ll feel that they’re attentive and quick with drinks and guidance. Some guides are even known by name—Saul comes up with a reputation for taking good care of the group, and Kano is noted for local food recommendations. That kind of familiarity helps when the day is moving fast and you want someone to make it feel easy.

If you get motion sick, take it seriously and plan accordingly. The itinerary includes boat travel and time in the water, so if you’re sensitive, you’ll want your own remedy and a seat that faces forward.

Lunch back at sea: fajitas and breathing room

After island time, you’ll head back to the boat for lunch. It’s Mexican fajitas with rice, beans, and tortillas, with options that include beef, chicken, or vegetarian. There’s also time for drinks and relaxing, which is a nice shift after water activities.

Food is generally described as tasty and well-organized, but not every meal hits the same for everyone. Some guests found breakfast a bit light on protein and said lunch could use more heat/flavor seasoning. Translation: if you’re picky about meals, eat breakfast like a starter, then trust your palate to add spice if you can find it onboard.

Still, the big win is that lunch is included and served in a way that keeps the day rolling. You’re not hunting for a meal after you’re tired from snorkeling and kayaking.

Snorkeling and sea conditions: when the plan goes smoothly vs. gets tricky

Marietas is well-known for snorkeling, but your actual experience depends on sea conditions. In rougher water, snorkeling can be less ideal because the boat has to adjust where it stops and how safely people can enter.

That said, the gear quality is repeatedly praised. So if you come prepared and you’re flexible about where you snorkel, you can still have a great time. If snorkeling is your #1 goal, I’d still book—but I’d go in with the understanding that the ocean controls some of the details.

A smart way to protect your day: treat snorkeling as one part of a broader plan. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and marine viewing from the boat can still deliver even when conditions reduce what you can see up close.

Photography: action shots without extra pressure

There’s a professional photographer onboard capturing candid and action moments throughout the day. Even if you don’t pre-book photos, you’re likely to get chances for pictures, including shoreline moments when possible.

This is worth thinking about if you’re worried about camera handling during the wet landing. With wet conditions and movement, a phone can be risky, and a standard camera may be hard to use. A waterproof camera case helps, but if you don’t have one, you may still end up with great photos taken by the crew.

Also, be aware that photos aren’t included in the base price. You’ll have the option to view and purchase.

Price and value: what you’re really paying for at $131

At $131 per person, you’re paying for an all-day package: boat transport, guided time in a protected marine area, unlimited water equipment, meals (breakfast and fajitas lunch), and a premium open bar service.

The value becomes clear when you price it out the normal way:

• Marietas tours are already a higher-cost category because of boat access and park logistics.
• Add unlimited gear (not just one snorkel) and guided activities, and it stops being a basic sightseeing trip.
• Then layer in included food and a full bar, and you’re not budgeting for drinks midday.

Where the value can wobble is if you’re only there for one thing—like snorkeling at the perfect spot. If snorkeling ends up limited by conditions, you’ll want to enjoy the rest of the day (kayak, paddleboard, marine life viewing, and the fun boat setup). When you do, the price feels fair.

In short: if you want an all-in party-meets-nature day with real included extras, this one can feel like strong value.

Who should book this Marietas boat tour?

This tour fits best if you want:

• a guided day in Isla Marietas with Playa La Nopalera access
• lots of active options (snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, swim)
• a boat experience with waterslides and water toys
• an all-day food and drink setup so you can focus on the water

It’s also a solid fit for couples and friend groups who like shared adventures and don’t want to micromanage logistics.

If you have mobility concerns, it’s not a good match. The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, and the wet landing element adds physical movement requirements.

If your dream day is quiet beach time with minimal effort, you might prefer a different style of Marietas visit. This one is built for motion.

Final call: should you book it?

I’d book this tour if you want a full, energetic day that blends marine reserve time with serious onboard fun and included extras. The waterslides, unlimited gear, and open bar make it feel like you’re buying into an experience, not just paying for transportation.

I’d think twice if you’re uncomfortable with wet landings or if you need consistent snorkeling regardless of ocean conditions. If you can stay flexible and enjoy multiple water activities, this tour is a very strong bet for Marietas.

If you’re the type who likes to be outside, play in the water, and keep the day moving, you’ll probably love it.

FAQ

How long is the Marietas Islands boat tour?

It runs for about 6 hours.

Where do we meet for the tour?

You meet at one of two Chica Locca Tours pier locations: Paradise Village Pier or Carlos Co y usa. The exact meeting point can vary based on the option you book.

What activities are included at Marietas/Playa La Nopalera?

You can swim, snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, and use the boat’s water equipment for water play, with a guide supervising.

Is the open bar included in the price?

Yes. The tour includes a brand-name open bar with options like water, coffee, juices, sodas, beer, wine, tequila, champagne, and cocktails such as margaritas and piña coladas.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear and a towel.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Are photos included?

No. Photos are not included, though a photographer is onboard and you can view and purchase photos.

FAQ

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.