Review · CATAMARAN YACHT CHARTERS

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure

5.0 · 470 reviews 6 hours 30 minutes (approx.) From $135 Operated by Chica Locca Tours · Bookable on Viator
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Paradise comes with a party soundtrack. This Puerto Vallarta catamaran trip combines a boat ride across Banderas Bay, a private beach club at Playa Chica Locca, water sports, a waterfall visit, meals, and an open bar in one long day. I like the strong value of having food, drinks, snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards, port fees, and a guided waterfall walk included. I also like the freedom to make the day your own, from poolside lounging to an ATV ride through the jungle.

The main thing to understand is the mood. This is a lively beach-party trip, not a quiet sailing excursion. Music may be loud for much of the day, and the return cruise usually turns up the energy. A second consideration is timing: delays have occurred, and lunch can arrive later than expected, so I would carry a small snack if you are prone to getting hungry.

At $135 per person, the package can be a good deal if you use several inclusions. Couples, families, and groups can all enjoy it, but people seeking calm water, serious snorkeling, or a polished luxury yacht from start to finish should set their expectations carefully. The experience earns a 4.9 rating from 470 reviews, with 96 percent of people recommending it, but the party atmosphere and occasional operational hiccups are worth knowing before you book.

Key points at a glance

  • Playa Chica Locca is reached only by boat: The remote beach club gives you an appealing change from Puerto Vallarta’s busy waterfront.
  • The $135 price covers a lot: Breakfast, fruit, muffins, lunch, guacamole, blue corn chips, soft drinks, and brand-name alcoholic drinks are included.
  • The waterfall adds real adventure: You can walk with a guide to Quimixto Waterfalls or pay cash for an ATV ride.
  • Water activities cost nothing extra: Snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and other water toys are included.
  • The mood is social and energetic: Expect music, dancing, cocktails, and staff members who actively keep the group entertained.
  • Pack smart: Bring sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, and cash for an ATV or horseback ride. Do not bring alcohol, drugs, vaping devices, weapons, or liquids through the port.

Setting out from Puerto Mágico

The trip begins at Puerto Mágico, the cruise terminal and federal maritime port in Puerto Vallarta. You must choose your meeting point before completing the reservation. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, although paid shuttle arrangements may make the journey easier for some people coming from outside Puerto Vallarta.

Allow extra time for the port. You pass through security, and officials may search bags. The port has a strict no-drug policy that includes electronic cigarettes and vapes, so leave those items behind. Public parking and port entry fees are included, which removes two small costs that can otherwise sneak into a day at the marina.

Check-in itself is meant to be simple, but the meeting area can serve several tours. One useful tip is that the tour provides the required port passes, so do not buy separate passes unless staff specifically directs you to do so. A few people have experienced long waits before boarding, sometimes because another group or boat was delayed. I would avoid scheduling a tight dinner reservation or airport transfer after the cruise.

The catamaran ride to the beach takes roughly an hour based on the experience described by people on recent departures. Seating is comfortable, though a large group may not find enough seats together. The boat may not always be the same vessel, and the boat used for this trip may feel less luxurious than a larger yacht used on other Chica Locca excursions.

More Yacht Cruises with an Open Bar in Mexico

Breakfast, bay views, and the first drinks

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure - Breakfast, bay views, and the first drinks

Once aboard, the day gets moving with breakfast items such as fresh fruit, muffins, coffee, and juice. The open bar also begins on the boat, with water, soft drinks, mineral water, beer, wine, tequila, champagne, piña coladas, margaritas, and other drinks listed as available.

The menu is useful for different kinds of groups. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices can be requested when booking, and non-drinkers have plenty of alternatives. You never need to drink alcohol to fit in, although the staff does create a festive mood.

Keep an eye on the water as you cross Banderas Bay. Whale sightings are possible from December through April, while turtles, dolphins, manta rays, and seabirds may appear at other times. Wildlife is never guaranteed, so treat it as a bonus rather than a promised part of the trip.

Several crew members receive especially warm praise for their energy and care. Isaias, known as Papi Chulo, is often responsible for keeping people informed and entertained, sometimes in two languages. Alex, Dana, Luis, Guadalupe, Captain Noah, and Jared are also named as friendly and attentive members of the team. The exact crew changes, but the service style is clearly a major part of the experience.

Playa Chica Locca: comfort on a remote shore

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure - Playa Chica Locca: comfort on a remote shore

The main stop is Playa Chica Locca, a secluded beach club accessible only by boat. Its appeal comes from the mix of natural setting and resort comforts. You have soft sand, shaded lounge chairs, beach beds, an oceanfront infinity pool, and a swim-up bar overlooking Banderas Bay.

Fresh guacamole and blue corn chips are served after arrival. This is a welcome second bite after the morning food, especially if you plan to swim or walk to the waterfall. The beach club also has notably clean bathroom facilities, a small but valuable detail when you are spending several hours away from town.

You can spend the stop in several ways:

  • Swim in the ocean or infinity pool.
  • Use the kayaks and paddleboards.
  • Try the included snorkeling equipment.
  • Relax in shade with a drink.
  • Join the guided walk to Quimixto Waterfalls.
  • Pay cash for an ATV ride or horseback ride.

The water conditions matter. On a calm day, snorkeling and paddleboarding can be pleasant. On a rougher day, the water may be murky and rocky, which limits visibility and makes the beach less appealing for serious snorkeling. I would treat the water toys as optional fun, not as the reason to book the trip.

The pool can also be cool, and its condition may vary. One complaint raised concerns about worn tiles, sharp edges around the bar, peeling paint, and aging furniture. These are not details I would ignore. Check your surroundings, use care around pool and bar edges, and speak to staff immediately if anything looks unsafe.

Quimixto Waterfalls: choose your effort level

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure - Quimixto Waterfalls: choose your effort level

The waterfall portion gives the day more local character. A guided walk leads inland from the beach toward the Quimixto Waterfalls, passing through a small coastal community and jungle terrain. Dana has guided some walks, pointing out local birds and explaining parts of the area along the way.

The walk is roughly 1.5 miles each way, or about an hour each way according to the information provided by people who made the trip. The path can be steep, rough, and wet. Flip-flops are a poor choice. Wear shoes with a secure grip, and expect them to get dirty.

At the falls, you can swim in cool water that flows year-round. Life jackets are available for floating, and a small restaurant over the water sells drinks and coconuts. The cold pool is especially refreshing after the walk, though it may feel chilly when you first enter.

The waterfall walk takes time from the beach club. If you spend about two hours on the round trip, plus time at the falls, you will have less time for snorkeling, kayaking, the pool, and lunch. That tradeoff is important. I would choose the walk if you want scenery and a look at Quimixto beyond the beach club. If you mainly want a relaxed day by the pool, skip it.

The ATV option is useful for people who do not want the full hike. It costs extra and requires cash. One recent price reported was 500 pesos per person, but confirm the current cost before setting out. The ride may carry two passengers, with someone else driving. It can pass through water and jungle areas, but you still need to handle a short, steep path to reach the ATV pickup point.

Horseback rides may also be available for an additional cash fee, but the access route can be rough. Do not assume the horse option is ready at the beach itself.

Lunch and the all inclusive value

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure - Lunch and the all inclusive value

Lunch is a traditional fajita meal with chicken, beef, rice, beans, and tortillas. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if requested in advance. The food receives strong praise, but service timing is not always consistent. On some departures, lunch has been served around 2 p.m., which can feel late if breakfast was light.

That is why I would pack a small snack for the boat or beach, provided it meets port security rules. Fruit alone may not be enough for a morning activity, especially if you plan to hike or use the water toys.

The value of the package depends on how you spend the day. A restaurant meal, drinks, port fees, beach club access, snorkel rental, kayak rental, paddleboard rental, and a guided nature walk would each cost something separately. At $135, the price makes sense for someone who wants several of those pieces and plans to use the open bar.

It is less compelling if you do not drink, skip the water activities, avoid the waterfall, and spend most of the day sitting on the beach. Non-drinkers are still well served with coffee, juices, soda, water, and food, but the package is clearly designed around generous beverage service.

The ride home turns up the volume

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure - The ride home turns up the volume

The return trip is part of the attraction. Music, dancing, drinks, and crew-led entertainment continue as Puerto Vallarta comes back into view. If you want a quiet sunset sail, this is not the right product. There may be no truly quiet corner once the music starts, so consider that before booking with young children, older family members, or anyone sensitive to noise.

The boat ride home can also be one of the most fun sections for people who enjoy a social crowd. The crew keeps serving drinks, and the bay may offer another chance to spot dolphins, turtles, manta rays, seabirds, or seasonal whales.

A photography team takes candid and action photos during the day. Photo services are not included in the price. You can ask to see the pictures after the trip or purchase them through the retail shop, and a digital album may be shared within 24 hours.

Who should book this Puerto Vallarta cruise?

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure - Who should book this Puerto Vallarta cruise?

I would recommend it to you if you want several experiences in one day:

  • A boat trip with views across Banderas Bay.
  • A remote beach club with pool and shaded seating.
  • Included water sports.
  • A guided waterfall outing.
  • All-day drinks and two meals.
  • A social atmosphere with music and dancing.

It is especially good for couples, friend groups, and families with mixed interests. One family group included a 10-year-old, and everyone found something to enjoy. The staff also does a good job making non-drinkers feel welcome.

I would think twice if you want quiet, excellent snorkeling, or a small boutique sailing trip. The maximum group size is 120 people, and even if your departure feels smaller, this is not an intimate private charter. Seating can be limited for large parties, and the music may be constant.

Wear sunscreen and reapply it. Bring sturdy shoes for the waterfall, a swimsuit, a hat, and cash for optional rides. Towels are not listed among the included items, so I would not count on one being supplied. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure. Bad weather or failure to reach the minimum number of participants can lead to a rescheduled trip or full refund.

Should you book it?

Mega Catamarans ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure - Should you book it?

Book this tour if you want a full, active day with food, drinks, beach time, water toys, and a waterfall option bundled into one price. The crew service is the strongest reason to go, and names such as Papi Chulo, Alex, and Dana appear repeatedly in the positive experience of people who took part.

Do not book it expecting a peaceful sail or guaranteed clear snorkeling. Go prepared for loud music, a possible wait at the port, a late lunch, and extra cash for the ATV. With those points understood, this is a lively and well-priced way to see a remote part of the Puerto Vallarta coast.

FAQ

How long is the Mega Catamarans All Inclusive Remote Paradise Beach Adventure?

The experience lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.

What is included in the $135 price?

The price includes breakfast, fresh fruit, muffins, coffee, juices, guacamole, blue corn chips, a fajita lunch, soft drinks, water, coffee, and alcoholic beverages from the open bar. Snorkel equipment, kayaks, paddleboards, other water toys, the guided waterfall service, public parking, and port entry fees are also included.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The meeting point is at Puerto Mágico in Puerto Vallarta, and you must select your meeting place before completing the reservation.

Do I need cash?

Yes, bring cash if you want an ATV ride or horseback ride to the waterfall. Those options are extra and are not included in the tour price.

Can I visit the waterfall without paying extra?

Yes. A guided walk to the Quimixto Waterfalls is included. The walk can take about an hour each way and requires good walking shoes.

Are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals available?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, but you should advise the provider when booking.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the local start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before departure are not accepted for a refund. If poor weather or an insufficient number of participants causes cancellation, you will be offered another date or a full refund.

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