Las Marietas Eco Discovery

Just offshore, inside Banderas Bay, rests a group of small, volcanic islands known as the Marietas Islands. These islands, made famous by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, provide the perfect environment for an entertaining eco-adventure. Experience wildlife above and below the water as you kayak, snorkel and explore the unique ecosystem with our informative and fun guides and crew.

Crystal Clear Waters - the Best in the Bay!

Don't miss out on the best snorkeling conditions we have had all year. With light rains this year, the waters around the Marietas Islands are as clear-as-can-be and the marine life is abundant. Our guides will take you snorkeling and introduce you to all the creatures that call Marietas home. The islands offer the best conditions in the bay; come see why Jacques Cousteau fell in love with the islands and started the movement to protect them.

Kayak, Snorkel and Explore

Once out at the islands, our bilingual eco-guides will get you set up for some amazing kayaking and snorkeling - even leading you on a guided trip. They create a fun, safe environment so you can focus on fun and exploring the rocky caverns and archways and truly experience the natural beauty of the Marietas Islands.

Enjoy an Up-Close Guided Panga Tour

Designated as a National Park in 2005 and an important refuge and nesting area for over 90 species of aquatic and sub-aquatic migratory and native birds, the island offer plenty to see above the sea. Our guides will take small groups for an up-close eco-tour - educating guests on the wildlife, formation of the islands and showing the area's unique features.

The Humpback Whale 

During the winter season you can swim, snorkel and kayak in the warm clear waters of the Marietas Islands, but this adventure is really all about the adrenalin rush of witnessing humpback whales and wild dolphins in their natural habitat. This is what you'll be telling all your friends about back home - the jaw-dropping sight of these magnificent giants soaring into the air just feet away from our boat with the seductive sound of their beautiful whale song. 

Our Flippered Friends

Whale season in Banderas Bay runs from mid-December to the end of March, but we're fortunate to see wild dolphins throughout the entire year. The best opportunity to see these playful and intelligent mammals is from our fully equipped luxury catamarans as we head towards the Marietas Islands. We invite them join us and swim alongside our boat so we can marvel at their grace and agility.

Entertainment on Board

Getting there and back is half the fun with Vallarta Adventures. Onboard out modern catamaran powerboats, you will enjoy clean restrooms, an open bar, full buffet lunch and friendly guides and crew. Not only will the staff attend to all your needs, making sure you always have a fresh cold beverage in-hand, but they will put on a spirited and entertaining performance on the way back to Vallarta - it is sure to put a smile on your face.

"Inspiring Change" by Giving Back

As one a few tour companies allowed to give tours of the islands, we feel a strong responsibility to help protect them - and you help by joining us. For each guest, we provide a portion of the proceeds to the Marietas National Park, providing additional funds to help protect and study the islands and make sure they remain a safe refuge for wildlife and sea life and that they are still as beautiful when your kids bring their kids to see them!