A boat day in Puerto Vallarta can be calm, not crowded. This private snorkeling tour runs from the fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán to Yelapa, with stops at Majahuitas and Colimilla, then a few hours to eat, swim, and wander.

What I like most is the private setup. Your boat is dedicated to your group, and Captain Jordy makes the outing feel organized without feeling stiff, with cold bottled water and a cooler on board.

My other favorite part is the snorkeling style. At Majahuitas, you snorkel right from the boat (no beach access there), and the clear water makes it easy to spot fish and coral formations, then hop back in using the ladder.

One consideration: the best water time depends on conditions. The experience requires good weather, so if conditions turn, your plan may shift or be refunded.

Key highlights that matter

• Private boat time on Banderas Bay: scenic coastal views and jungle scenery from the water.
• Majahuitas snorkeling from the boat: crystal-clear water, easy entry, and no need to walk down to shore.
• Quiet beach break at Colimilla: short free time that usually beats the busier main-area stops.
• Real time in Yelapa (about 3 hours): lunch options at Juanito’s Restaurant plus swimming and town wandering.
• Comfort extras included: bottled water, cooler with ice, towels, and snorkeling gear.
• Captain Jordy’s hands-on approach: attentive, safety focused, and willing to help you make the most of the day.

Entering Boca de Tomatlán with Captain Jordy and a plan

Your day starts in Boca de Tomatlán, not on a distant pier full of tour chatter. You’ll meet at the Golondrinas Tour 2 Welcome Sign at the address listed for the start point, and you’ll be greeted by Captain Jordy and his staff once your booking is confirmed.

Parking is part of the convenience here. There’s a designated parking lot available, and the parking fee is included in the tour price. The practical win: you get to show up, meet your group, and get moving without that last-minute scramble.

Also, this is a private tour, so you’re not waiting for other groups to trickle in. In one recent outing, Captain Jordy handled a private pickup from the Los Muertos pier for his guests, which hints at how flexible he can be when possible. If you need something like that, it’s worth asking during coordination.

The south bay boat ride: views plus the right pace

Once you’re on board, you get a scenic ride along the southern part of Banderas Bay. This is the part that sets expectations: you’re not just traveling to snorkeling, you’re traveling through the scenery.

You’ll see coastal views, hidden beaches, and lush jungle scenery that you simply don’t get from land. And if you’re lucky with the timing and weather, you might spot wildlife. One review mentioned whale spotting plus the Los Arcos area, which makes sense for a boat route in this region when conditions line up.

On the comfort side, the boat is described as clean and well maintained, with shade from a Bimini top. Add a cooler of drinks and a Bluetooth sound system with 4 speakers, and it’s easy to settle into “let the bay do the talking” mode.

Majahuitas snorkeling from the boat: easy entry, clear water rewards

The first water stop is Majahuitas Beach, famous for its calm, clear bay. Here’s the key detail you should plan around: there’s no beach access at this stop. Instead, you snorkel directly from the boat.

For your body and your timing, that matters. You can spend less time handling gear on shore and more time in the water where the fish are. You’ll typically be in the water long enough to get comfortable, then move back to the boat when you want.

Majahuitas is known for excellent visibility. The goal is to look for colorful tropical fish and coral formations. The water clarity is the star, and one of the best practical tips is to keep your mask clear and steady, then scan slowly rather than chasing flashes of movement.

Getting back on board is handled with a ladder, which is a small detail that makes a big difference if you’re not into awkward step-offs. If you prefer a lower-stress snorkeling style, this stop is often a good fit because you’re not managing slippery rocks or beach steps.

Time here is about 30 minutes. That’s long enough for a couple of passes and getting your “I can actually see things” moment, but short enough that you don’t feel rushed by the rest of the itinerary.

Colimilla: the quiet beach break you can actually enjoy

After Majahuitas, you head to Colimilla, a secluded, quieter beach on the southern shores of the bay. This is your reset stop.

You get about 15 to 30 minutes of free time. In practice, that usually means: quick swim, grab some sun, rinse off mentally, then enjoy the break before Yelapa.

Because Colimilla is described as a hidden beach with fewer crowds than the main areas, it’s a good counterbalance to the snorkeling focus earlier in the day. If you burn through energy fast, this stop is where you refill.

Footwear helps here more than you might think. “Beach-friendly” sandals are fine, but bring something comfortable enough that you can walk around without hating it 10 minutes later. Light clothing works best because you’ll bounce between shade on the boat and sun on shore.

Yelapa arrival and lunch time: wander a boat-only village

Next comes the fun part, Yelapa. The vibe is laid back, and the big truth about the village is accessibility: it’s reachable by boat, which keeps the feel more local and less like an endless strip-mall version of paradise.

Your base is Juanito’s Restaurant. You’ll get freshly prepared local lunch time as part of the Yelapa portion. That said, the tour’s “not included” list says meals at restaurants are not included, and alcohol is also not included. So you should treat food as something you’ll likely pay for on site unless your specific booking confirmation states otherwise.

Either way, the real value is the 3 hours of free time. That window is long enough to do more than just eat and leave. You can:

• Walk the colorful town streets and get your bearings.
• Swim in the bay’s calm water.
• If you feel like it, hike toward a nearby waterfall option (not guaranteed to be perfect, but it’s an offered idea).
• Look into an ATV-style rideshare option if you want to see more without burning the day on walking.

One review also mentioned that Captain Jordy can help with dinner planning by doing a drop-off and then returning later to pick the group up. That tells you he’s not only thinking about “go, snorkel, return.” He’s thinking about how you want to spend your time once you’re there.

Return to Boca: end where you started, with a full-body satisfied feeling

After your Yelapa time, you board the boat again for the return to Boca de Tomatlán. The ride back is about 45 minutes, which is perfect for cooling down, drying off enough to feel human again, and planning your next stop in Puerto Vallarta.

This end point is back at the original meeting point, so you don’t need to worry about transport logistics after you’re tired and salty. You also have the advantage of being on the same parking setup you started with.

One small practical tip: change into a dry shirt if you can. The tour advises bringing an extra set of clothes, and it’s not just a comfort suggestion. Saltwater plus sun can make your last stretch feel longer than it needs to.

Price and value: why $95.31 can make sense for a private day

At $95.31 per person, this tour isn’t a bargain-basement deal. But value here comes from what you actually get.

You’re paying for:

• A private boat dedicated to your group.
• Snorkeling equipment plus towels (1 per guest).
• Bottled water and a cooler with ice on board.
• Fuel surcharge and landing and facility fees.
• The time allocation that matters: two water moments plus a meaningful Yelapa block.

If you’ve ever tried to cobble together a “snorkeling + Yelapa day” with public schedules, taxi rides, and crowded boats, you’ll understand why this private pricing can feel fair. You’re compressing a lot of annoying logistics into one coordinated outing.

The other value factor is the human one. Reviews highlight Captain Jordy as attentive and safety focused, and that you’re not just dropped at a spot with a flimsy plan. If you like help with timing, snorkeling comfort, and making sure you see the good areas, that attention is part of the cost.

Just remember the items that are not included. Gratuities for the captain and helpers are not included, and lunch or restaurant meals are listed as not included. Alcohol at restaurants is also not included. If you budget for those, the day stays smooth.

What to bring so the day runs smooth

The tour gives a solid packing list, and I agree with all of it because it matches the reality of a boat, two water sessions, and a few hours in town.

Bring:

• Comfortable footwear and light clothing.
• Swimsuit plus an extra set of clothes for after snorkeling.
• Sunscreen and/or a hat.
• A camera or smartphone with a waterproof case.
• Any medication you might need.
• Cash in USD or MXN. This helps for tips and spontaneous buys, since some small spots may only take cash.

If you’re snorkeling, treat your mask like it matters, because it does. Rinse it with fresh water after use if you can. And if you’re not an experienced swimmer, stick close to the boat and take it slow. The ladder makes it easier, but you still want to feel confident before you drift.

Who this snorkeling tour is best for

This private snorkeling day fits best if you want:

• A calmer, personal experience instead of a big-group shuffle.
• A snorkeling stop that’s easy to access from the boat.
• A real visit to Yelapa with time to wander, not just a quick photo stop.
• A captain who’s attentive and focused on safety.

It’s also a good match for couples and small groups because you’re essentially buying time on a private boat and using it well. The tour includes a minimum charge equivalent to three guests even for solo travelers or couples. That’s part of how the operator keeps the private experience practical, so it usually works out best when you’re booking with someone or comfortable paying for the privacy anyway.

If you’re traveling with service animals, service animals are allowed, and the meeting point is near public transportation, which can help if you don’t have a car.

Should you book this Boca de Tomatlán to Yelapa private snorkeling tour?

Yes, if your top priorities are private boat time, clear-water snorkeling at Majahuitas, and a genuine Yelapa visit with a few hours to enjoy the town. The mix of snorkeling plus free time hits a sweet spot that many short tours miss.

Skip it or ask more questions first if you’re hoping for beach access at every snorkeling stop, or if you want guaranteed included lunch pricing. Majahuitas has no beach access, and restaurant meals are listed as not included, so you’ll want your expectations lined up before you arrive.

If you like the idea of Captain Jordy steering you toward good moments, bringing cold drinks, and keeping the day organized, this one is a strong choice for a half-day plan that feels like an actual outing, not just a transfer with snorkel gear.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and where do I meet?

The tour starts at 10:30 am. You meet at C. de las Garzas 515, 48270 Boca de Tomatlán, Jal., Mexico, at the Golondrinas Tour 2 Welcome Sign.

How long is the snorkeling and Yelapa portion?

Plan on about 4 to 6 hours total. The schedule includes time in Boca before departure, a boat ride, about 30 minutes of snorkeling at Majahuitas, a short beach stop at Colimilla, about 3 hours in Yelapa, and a return ride to Boca.

Is lunch included when you reach Yelapa?

You’ll have time in Yelapa with your base at Juanito’s Restaurant. The tour details list lunch and meals at restaurants as not included, so you should expect to pay for your meal on site unless your booking confirmation says otherwise.

Do I have to get off the boat to snorkel at Majahuitas?

No. At Majahuitas, there is no beach access, and you snorkel directly from the boat.

What snorkeling gear is provided?

The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment and provides towels (1 per guest). Bottled water is also included.

Is parking included at Boca de Tomatlán?

Yes. There is a designated parking lot available for your convenience, and the parking fee is included in the tour price.

What if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.