REVIEW · PUERTO VALLARTA
Fishing and snorkel tour in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta
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Fish, then swim in the same trip. This Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta outing is built around a smooth boat day: you head out in comfortable, safe vessels, fish for a while, then switch to snorkeling and swimming with crew members who stay involved on deck and in the water.
I really like how the crew supports you at every step, from using the fishing gear to helping you feel confident during the water time. One possible drawback to plan for: the experience can include an onboard photographer, and a couple of past groups felt the photo setup and boat changes weren’t handled as clearly as they expected.
In This Review
- Key highlights to know before you go
- A private boat day that mixes fishing with snorkeling
- Where you fish in the bay, and what you should expect to catch
- Snorkeling time: gear included, crew stays involved
- Quick snorkeling prep tips (so your day feels smoother)
- The food and snacks: why the chef matters here
- Boat comfort and safety: good news, plus one thing to verify
- The crew you might meet: it’s more than just a captain
- Timing and meeting point: start simple at Paradise Village
- Price and value for a group up to 15 people
- Who this fishing and snorkel tour suits best
- Things to weigh before you book
- Should you book this Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta fishing plus snorkeling tour?
- FAQ
- How long is the fishing and snorkel tour?
- What does the tour cost for a group?
- Where does the tour start?
- Is transportation included?
- What snorkeling and fishing gear is provided?
- Are towels provided?
- Is this tour private?
- What happens if weather is poor?
- Do they offer English?
Key highlights to know before you go

- Private group of up to 15: you won’t be mixed into a large crowd tour.
- Fish-to-food focus: you’re not just fishing for sport; the day often turns into something you eat (like ceviche).
- Snorkeling gear included: masks and snorkels are part of the package.
- Crew-led and hands-on: captains and deckhands help with fishing, food, and water safety.
- Bay hunting for big targets: you may look for species ranging from Jack Crevalle and Tuna up toward trophy fish like Dorado, Sailfish, and Marlin.
- Expect boat-day flexibility: some groups report boat swaps or different on-board elements, so confirm details when you book.
A private boat day that mixes fishing with snorkeling

This isn’t a “sit on the pier and hope” type of outing. It’s designed as an active day on the water, where your crew runs the rhythm: get aboard, head out to the bay areas where fish are found, fish for a stretch, then shift gears to snorkeling and relaxing at scenic spots.
You’ll see how the day is paced when you’re actually on board. The crew’s job isn’t just to point you toward a fishing line. They’re involved in setup, in helping you reel in, and in keeping things safe when people are in the water. That matters because snorkeling + fishing + open-boat movement can feel like a lot if you’re not used to it.
And even if you’re not trying to become the next record-holder, you’ll still get value out of the day. A big part of the appeal is the “one trip, two worlds” format: you get time on the water aiming for fish, then you get time in the water to see what’s under the surface.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puerto Vallarta.
Where you fish in the bay, and what you should expect to catch

The tour is built around the local mix of species you might encounter in the bay. Depending on conditions, you could be looking for fish like Jack Crevalle, Bonito, and Tuna, with hopes for trophy types such as Dorado, Sailfish, and different species of Marlin.
Here’s the practical takeaway: this is not a guarantee of big-game. Fishing in the Pacific is weather- and season-dependent, and even the best day can mean smaller catches or fewer bites. What you can count on is the experience of trying—plus a crew that actively hunts for the right spots.
One key detail from the way the day is described: it’s designed so your catch plays a role in your onboard meal. That’s why some people love this tour even more than a pure fishing charter. You’re doing fishing, yes—but with a clear payoff later.
Also, pay attention to how you’re set up. Fishing gear is included, and multiple crew members are described as helpful and hands-on. If you’ve fished before, you’ll still likely appreciate the guidance on where to focus. If you haven’t, the crew support is a big deal.
Snorkeling time: gear included, crew stays involved

Snorkeling equipment is included, so you won’t need to track down a mask on your own. That’s one less thing to juggle, especially if you’re traveling with kids or you just want the day to feel easy.
The snorkeling portion is tied to the tour’s main “water time” goal: go from fishing to getting in the water and enjoying the bay. You’ll want to manage your expectations based on the reality of snorkeling. Visibility can vary. Currents can change. Some days you’ll see more life than others. But you’re doing this with a crew that supports you on board and during your visit, which helps you feel safer and more comfortable.
A few people also describe a very active feel to the water breaks—swimming, jumping off the boat, and generally using the ocean time instead of treating it like a short checkbox stop. If that’s your style, this format tends to work well.
Quick snorkeling prep tips (so your day feels smoother)
- Bring or wear a light set of swim clothes under your gear so you can change fast.
- If you have your own snorkel mask that fits perfectly, bring it, but the tour provides equipment.
- If you get motion sick easily, plan for it—boat days can include choppy stretches even when conditions are decent.
The food and snacks: why the chef matters here

The package includes bottled water, snorkeling equipment, fishing gear, captain and sailor, and snacks like chopped fruit. That’s the base.
But what turns the day into a “remember it for years” kind of experience is the way the crew often handles meals once there’s a catch. Several past groups highlight ceviche-style preparation and fresh flavors, including guacamole. On some departures, the chef work is a whole show in itself, from cutting and prepping ingredients to plating.
Specific crew members are mentioned by name—Francisco and Sebastian show up as chefs known for standout guacamole and ceviche preparation. Others mention a bartender who keeps drinks moving and deckhands who make sure the boat stays in sync during swimming and fishing.
Even if you don’t eat seafood, the day’s structure still tends to appeal because it’s social: you fish, then you eat, then you swim again. That cycle is part of what makes this tour feel like a vacation day rather than a chore.
Boat comfort and safety: good news, plus one thing to verify

The tour description emphasizes comfortable, safe boats and a crew that supports you on board and in the water. From the way the experience is talked about, that shows up as practical attention—people being helped with gear, fish handling, and keeping swimmers moving safely.
That said, one review flagged a real issue to watch for: boat swaps can happen. In at least one case, a group felt the boat they expected wasn’t the one they received, and they also felt timing and onboard arrangements didn’t match what they were promised. There are other reports where people were thrilled with the boat and crew setup, including how the crew managed roles like captain, chef, bartender, service staff, and a photographer.
So here’s your “smart traveler” move: when you book, confirm the exact boat name and whether any onboard extras (like a photographer) are included as part of the day. That way you’re not surprised when you reach the marina.
Also, remember that this is a boat day. Even on comfortable vessels, you’ll be on open water, moving between activities, and dealing with sun and salt. Bring sunscreen and basic sun protection.
The crew you might meet: it’s more than just a captain

This kind of tour lives or dies on crew teamwork. And the names you might hear (depending on the departure) show a clear division of responsibilities.
- Captains like Antelmo and Rigo are described as friendly and accommodating, including allowing a flexible feel to the timeline.
- Chefs Francisco and Sebastian are mentioned in connection with excellent guacamole and ceviche preparation.
- Bartender Kevin shows up as someone who’s constantly moving, including during water breaks.
- Other deckhands and service roles (names like Cesar, Ruben, and John appear) are described as keeping things running smoothly—fishing support, food timing, and generally staying ahead of needs.
- A photographer (Ed is named by one group) takes pictures in a more “natural moments” style rather than constantly making people pose—though the photo package upsell experience can still vary based on what you want.
What you can take from this: you’re not just booking a boat. You’re booking a crew culture. If you want a fun, family-friendly day where people keep things moving and don’t disappear once you’re offshore, this tour often delivers that.
Timing and meeting point: start simple at Paradise Village

You meet at Paradise Village Public Pier, Blvrd Nayarit, 63735 Nuevo Vallarta, Nay., Mexico. The trip ends back at the same meeting point.
That “back to the pier” structure matters for planning. It means you’re not dealing with complicated end-of-day logistics or long waits after you’re tired. You also avoid the stress of wondering how you’ll get yourself home once the fun runs out.
Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride to the pier. The meeting point is near public transportation, which can help if you’re not renting a car.
A practical suggestion: aim to arrive early enough to check in calmly and get settled. Boat days can move quickly once lines are handled and people are aboard.
Price and value for a group up to 15 people

Price is listed at $1,075 per group (up to 15 people), lasting about 6 hours.
Let’s talk value in real terms. If you fill the group (15 people), the math works out to roughly $72 per person. That’s often competitive when you factor in:
- private boat time,
- fishing gear,
- snorkeling equipment,
- captain and crew time,
- and the food/snacks/water that are part of the day.
If your group is smaller, the price per person rises. So this tour can be a standout value when you’re traveling with family or friends and you can actually fill the capacity.
Who should think about this price? People who want a private, flexible-feeling day and who care about more than just catching fish—people who want snorkeling, swimming, and a good meal experience in one outing.
Who this fishing and snorkel tour suits best
This is a solid fit if you want:
- a family-friendly boat day (kids and grandparents have both been mentioned as enjoying it),
- snorkeling and swimming time with equipment included,
- and a fishing experience that feels connected to the meal later in the day.
It can also suit experienced anglers, but the best expectation to set is this: it’s not only about fishing trophies. It’s about a boat outing where fishing is part of the day’s flow and the catch may become part of lunch.
The tour is private—only your group participates—which helps if you want less crowd energy and more control over how your day feels. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.
Things to weigh before you book
Here are the main “considerations” I’d use to decide if this tour matches your style:
- Boat details can vary by departure. One group reported a boat swap and felt timing and arrangements were handled poorly. Confirm boat name and what’s included for your exact date.
- Photography can be a factor. Some groups said the photos were natural and the photo package felt worth it; one group strongly disliked the way fish-holding photos were edited and also thought the price was high. If you don’t want photos, ask what the photographer does and how purchase works.
- Fishing isn’t guaranteed. You’re hunting for a mix of species. That’s part of the fun, but it’s still fishing—some days are better than others.
If you’re okay with that mix of uncertainty and adventure, you’ll likely enjoy the day more.
Should you book this Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta fishing plus snorkeling tour?
I’d book it if you want a private, crew-driven boat day that blends fishing, snorkeling, and a strong food element. The biggest strengths—based on what’s consistently praised—are the crew’s service, the way meals like ceviche/guacamole are handled, and the overall fun water time (swimming and boat jumps) beyond just “throw a line in.”
Skip it or at least confirm details closely if you’re the type who expects the exact boat, exact timing, and a zero-pressure approach to photos. Fishing tours are always a little “live with the sea,” but you should still be able to know what you’re getting before you arrive.
FAQ
How long is the fishing and snorkel tour?
It runs for about 6 hours.
What does the tour cost for a group?
The price is $1,075 per group, up to 15 people.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Paradise Village Public Pier, Blvrd Nayarit, 63735 Nuevo Vallarta, Nay., Mexico.
Is transportation included?
No. Transportation is not included.
What snorkeling and fishing gear is provided?
Snorkeling equipment and fishing gear are included, along with bottled water and snacks like chopped fruit.
Are towels provided?
No. Towels are not included.
Is this tour private?
Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates.
What happens if weather is poor?
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Do they offer English?
Yes, it’s offered in English, and the guide may be multi-lingual.









