Six hours on the water beats sitting still. This Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta trip combines comfort-first boat time with real bay fishing, then snorkeling gear and swimming breaks where the whole day feels easy for families. The one catch: it’s not a hardcore fishing-only charter. It’s a mixed boat day where you fish mainly to add to the experience, then snorkel and relax.

I also like how much support the crew provides: you’re guided on the boat and while you’re in the water, so first-timers aren’t left guessing. Another big plus is the food setup. When you catch fish, the crew often turns it into an onboard lunch moment (fresh ceviche and guacamole show up in the stories from past trips). One possible drawback to plan for: boats and onboard extras can vary by day, and a photographer may be present, which can feel awkward if you’d rather just enjoy the water.

Key things to know before you book

• Private group time (up to 15): it’s your group only, not a mixed crowd shuffle.
• Fishing + snorkeling in one outing: you get both without needing to plan separate tours.
• Gear included: snorkeling equipment and fishing gear are part of the package.
• Crew-led safety and in-water help: they’re there on the boat and once you’re swimming.
• Food is more than snacks: bottled water, chopped fruit, plus the very real chance of a fish-based lunch if you’re catching.
• Boats can differ: you may sail on different vessels depending on availability that day.

A private boat day out of Nuevo Vallarta: what 6 hours feels like

This is the kind of tour you book when you want a full slice of the Puerto Vallarta water day without turning it into a logistical puzzle. You start at the Paradise Village Public Pier in Nuevo Vallarta, then head out into the bay area to fish and swim. The timing is listed as about 6 hours, so it’s long enough to feel like a real outing but short enough to still enjoy the rest of your vacation day.

Because it’s a private tour/activity, you don’t have to worry about getting awkwardly grouped with strangers who have very different swim comfort levels or fishing styles. And because it’s offered in English (and sometimes by a multi-lingual guide), you can ask questions without it getting lost in translation.

The day is also clearly structured around changing activities: fishing for a while, then snorkeling, then more relaxing swim time. If your group includes mixed interests, that matters. You’re not stuck doing only one thing all day.

Meeting at Paradise Village Public Pier: getting there and getting on board

Your tour meets at Paradise Village Public Pier, Blvrd Nayarit, 63735 Nuevo Vallarta. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, so you’re not scrambling to arrange a ride at the end when you’re tired and sun-buzzy.

Transportation isn’t included, so I suggest you plan a taxi or rideshare from your hotel ahead of time. The pier is also listed as near public transportation, which is useful if that’s how you normally move around.

Two small planning points that save stress:

• Bring what you need for sun protection. Towels aren’t included, so don’t count on having one handed to you.
• Make sure your group understands you’ll be out on the water for several hours, with time spent snorkeling and swimming. If you’re bringing kids or anyone who gets cold easily, it’s smart to layer light protection (rash guard or a thin shirt) and pack sun lotion.

From the boat to the bay: fishing gear, safety, and what you’re actually targeting

The experience is set up around an onboard captain and sailor who support you during the day—on the boat, in the water, and throughout the visit. Fishing gear and bottled water come with the tour.

In terms of target species, you’re looking for a mix of common and trophy-style fish in the bay area, including:

• Jack crevalle, bonito, and tuna
• Dorado
• Sailfish
• Marlin (different species)

Now the real talk: saltwater fishing depends on timing and luck. What you can control is your attitude. This tour is best when you treat it as a chance to try fishing from a boat while also doing snorkeling and enjoying the day.

One practical consideration from past experiences: boats can change. You might board different vessels depending on availability. If you care about specific gear features (like how many people can reel at once), it’s worth double-checking what you’ll have on your specific boat when you confirm.

Snorkeling time in the PV area: what’s included and how to make it work

Snorkeling equipment is included, and the crew supports you in the water, which is key in Puerto Vallarta bay conditions where waves and boat positioning can change quickly.

For snorkeling, the biggest factor is fit and comfort:

• Wear sunscreen before you get in.
• Adjust your snorkel mask for a solid seal.
• If you feel unsure at first, start slow and keep your breathing steady.

The tour is clearly designed for a mixed comfort group. It’s not framed as a deep-water technical dive. You’re meant to have fun, see fish if conditions cooperate, and return for the next part of the day.

Also, expect a social rhythm. Between swims and boat stops, you’ll likely have a few moments where the crew is ready for you—whether it’s gear adjustments, getting you back onboard, or serving food.

The best part: fish-to-food moments and lunch onboard

Here’s where this tour can score big value beyond the basic package. The included items list bottled water and snacks chopped fruit, but past outings also describe a more substantial onboard lunch moment when fish are caught—especially fresh ceviche with guacamole.

If you’re booking with kids, this is worth noting. A lot of families choose this style of tour because it turns fishing into something you can talk about later. Even if you’re not a serious angler, catching a fish can become part of lunch, and that makes the effort feel worthwhile.

What I like about this setup for your expectations:

• If you catch fish, the day has a stronger payoff.
• If you don’t, you still have snorkeling, swimming time, and a full boat outing.

Just keep your mindset balanced. This is not promoted as a trip where you’re guaranteed trophy fish. The crew will search for species, but you’re still at the mercy of the ocean.

Remote beach anchoring and swim breaks: relaxing time that feels like a vacation

Another reason this tour tends to land well with groups is the structure after fishing. You can end up spending more time anchored near a quieter area where swimming and eating-drinking take over.

In past descriptions, guests mention:

• time at a remote beach area
• plenty of swimming breaks
• kids being allowed to fish along the way back (when appropriate and guided by the crew)

That’s a nice detail if you’re traveling with multiple ages. It means the day isn’t just about pulling on a line. It’s about sharing the water and keeping the energy good all afternoon.

If your group is prone to getting bored, this is the kind of itinerary that avoids the boring stretches. The day keeps moving: fish, snorkel, swim, food, repeat.

Price and value: what $1,075 per group really costs you

The price is $1,075.00 per group (up to 15 people). It’s listed as a private tour, so you’re paying for the boat time and crew for your group.

Here’s the simple value math:

• At full capacity (15 people), that’s roughly $72 per person for a full boat outing with snorkeling gear and fishing gear.
• If you have a smaller group, the per-person cost climbs fast, since it’s one group price.

So who gets the best value? A family group or a small group of friends who will actually fill most of the slots. If it’s just a couple of you, you might be better off comparing against other charter styles—especially if you care mainly about fishing and not snorkeling.

Also consider what’s not included:

• Transportation
• Tips
• Towels

Those are normal extras for Mexico boat tours, but they do affect the true total cost. If you already know you’ll take a taxi and bring towels from your hotel room, the price feels more manageable.

Who should book this fishing and snorkeling tour?

This tour is a strong match if:

• Your group wants both snorkeling and a chance to fish.
• You have beginners, kids, or mixed swim comfort levels and want crew support.
• You prefer a private setup with your own group only.
• You’re okay with a day that mixes relaxing beach time with active moments.

It’s not the best fit if:

• You want a fishing trip only, with a strong emphasis on staying focused on fishing the entire time.
• Your group is very picky about boat condition. Because boats can change, I’d confirm as much as you can about the vessel you’ll be on.

And if you hate photo pressure: there can be a photographer aboard on some outings. If you’d rather not have that social layer, know that it’s possible and decide in advance how you want to handle it.

Practical tips before you go: towels, swim comfort, and boat-day sanity

A smooth day at sea comes down to a few small choices.

1) Bring towels

Towels aren’t included, and you’ll want one for the post-swim dry-off.

2) Think sun first

Your day includes snorkeling and swimming time, so sun protection matters more than usual. Rash guards or a light shirt can help.

3) Pack light but smart

Bring water-resistant items if you have them. Keep phones protected for boat spray moments.

4) Ask about the boat you’ll board

Since different vessels may be used, ask if the boat is confirmed for your date. If your group cares about specific fishing setup, this reduces disappointment.

5) Be ready for a photo option

A photographer may join. If you’re okay with candid photos, that can be a fun souvenir. If you’re not, you may prefer to politely minimize interaction and focus on the water.

6) Bring a tips plan

Tips aren’t included, so have a realistic plan for your crew.

Should you book Mike’s Fishing & Tours for Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta?

I’d book this tour if you want a single private boat day that mixes snorkeling, swimming time, and a real shot at catching fish—without needing separate tour bookings. The value is strongest when your group size is closer to the maximum, because the per-person cost drops. And the crew support plus the chance for a fish-based lunch moment can turn it from just another excursion into a day you’ll actually remember.

Skip it or compare first if you’re booking purely for fishing performance, or if you’re very sensitive to boat-to-boat variation. In that case, confirm your exact vessel and manage your expectations about what kind of fishing day you’re buying.

If your goal is a fun, well-supported water outing around Puerto Vallarta with something for both snorkelers and fishers, this one fits.

FAQ

How long is the fishing and snorkel tour?

It’s about 6 hours (approx.).

Where does the tour start?

The start location is Paradise Village Public Pier, Blvrd Nayarit, 63735 Nuevo Vallarta, Nay., Mexico.

Does the tour end at the same meeting point?

Yes. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

What is the price?

It’s $1,075.00 per group (up to 15 people).

Is this a private tour?

Yes. Only your group will participate.

What’s included in the tour price?

Included items are bottled water, snorkeling equipment, captain and sailor, fishing gear, and snacks chopped fruit.

What is not included?

Transportation, towels, and tips are not included.

What languages is the tour offered in?

It’s offered in English, and it may be operated by a multi-lingual guide.

Do I need good weather?

Yes. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount paid will not be refunded.