A private yacht in Puerto Vallarta, for real. This private charter on ChicaFun 1 turns Bay of Banderas sightseeing into a flexible 4-hour day with all-inclusive food, drinks, and water toys. You get that laid-back crew energy fast, and it often starts with a friendly marina welcome like Alex from Chica Locca Tours.

What I like most is the way the trip stays active without feeling like work. You’ll have snorkel gear plus paddle boards, kayaks, and water gear ready when conditions are right, and you can even end up with fun bonus moments like fishing from the boat or whale watching during the cruise. One thing to weigh: the boat launch spot is not in Puerto Vallarta itself, so expect a drive that can add time before you hit the water.

Key things to know before you book ChicaFun 1

• All-inclusive drinks and snacks: from margaritas and beer to guacamole and chips.
• Water toys included: snorkel gear, paddle boards, kayaks, water tubes, and more.
• Custom route for your group: you choose where to go inside the Bay of Banderas.
• Big-photo, small-moment style day: caves, arches, beach time, and quick on-water fun.
• Meeting logistics matter: pickup is not included, and the boat area may require driving.

ChicaFun 1 private yacht, the all-day feel in a 4-hour window

This is built for groups, up to 15 people, and it stays focused on one goal: a smooth, fun day on the water without “now we wait” energy. The trip runs about 4 hours, so you get enough time for multiple stops, plus breaks for swimming and snorkeling.

The value is in how much is included for one set price. You are not just paying for the boat, you are also paying for the gear and the food and drink flow that keeps the mood easy. And because it is private, your group sets the pace, whether that means more time in the water or more beach time for hanging out.

Cruise the Bay of Banderas, then start choosing your own rhythm

Your day begins with a cruise along the Puerto Vallarta coastline and around the Bay of Banderas. The route is designed so you get big views early, then you can decide how you want the day to feel as you go.

You also customize the plan within the Bay of Banderas area. That flexibility matters because everyone’s “perfect day” is different. If your group wants to lean into snorkeling, you can shape the stops that way. If you want more chill, you can shift toward beach time and less gear-heavy segments.

Tip for your group: if you have mixed ages or different comfort levels with water activities, talk to the captain early. A smart captain can stagger times so everyone gets what they want without turning the day into a checklist.

Los Arcos National Park, cave-and-arch snorkeling with wildlife around you

One of the strongest stops is Los Arcos National Park, south of Puerto Vallarta. These are iconic sea rock formations, and the big win here is how much underwater life you can run into around the rocks. You do not just look at it, you explore it.

You’ll have a chance to swim and snorkel in what the area is known for. The day’s pacing usually works well here because you can use the water gear immediately and stay close to a natural structure that makes snorkeling interesting even when conditions shift.

Practical note: if your group likes photos, this stop tends to deliver. The rock arches and caves look dramatic from the boat, and they also create a sense of motion when you float through.

Yelapa’s white-sand mood, a good stop for snorkeling and simple beach time

Next is Yelapa, a coastal village known for white-sand beaches and clear blue water. This stop works when you want a blend of beach time and on-water fun. It’s a place where you can float around, snorkel if conditions are right, and still have a calm area to hang out.

Because this is a private charter, your time here can feel less rushed than a stop on a busier day tour. That matters when you have kids who want to swim longer, or when adults just want time to relax without a constant schedule.

Colomitos and the small-beach feeling in the south zone

Then you head toward Colomitos, described as the smallest beach in Mexico. The setting is part of the appeal: it sits in the south area surrounded by mountains of the Sierra Madre, and it is a smaller, more private-feeling shore.

This stop can be a great counterbalance if you want less crowded energy and more “hang out with your group” time. If your group loves scenic coves and wants a quieter beach moment, Colomitos fits that vibe.

A remote beach that takes effort, boat access or a 1.5-hour hike

The itinerary also includes a remote beach that is only accessible by boat or a hike from Boca de Tomatlán. This is the type of stop that feels special because it is not built for quick drop-in tourism.

Not everyone will want the hike option, but the boat-access idea keeps it open for more people. If you have hikers in your group, you might enjoy splitting time between those who want the walk and those who prefer to stay in the calmer beach rhythm.

Because the itinerary does not spell out exact timing for the hike portion, it’s smart to ask the captain what the plan will be for your specific day and your group mix. That way you can match the activity level to who is with you.

Playa Majahuitas and Las Caletas, two different beach moods

Playa Majahuitas is often considered one of the best beaches of Puerto Vallarta, and it fits well when you want clear water and a beautiful place to linger. It’s the kind of stop that tends to satisfy both swimmers and people who prefer to sit back with a drink and watch the water.

After that you reach Las Caletas, described as a magical private beach designed for relaxation. This is where the day can shift from active snorkeling energy into full vacation mode. If your group wants to end with calm, Las Caletas is a strong closer.

If you are planning your group itinerary, think about timing. Most people like to put the most energetic water time earlier, then let the later stops become slower and more social.

Drinks, snacks, and crew energy that keeps it fun

This charter is all-inclusive, including alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic options like water, coffee, juices, sodas, mineral water, plus margaritas, beer, wine, piña coladas, champagne, and more. You also get snacks such as fresh-made guacamole and blue corn chips, plus potato chips.

That mix matters because it covers both sides of the day. You can swim and snorkel, then cool down with snacks and drinks without leaving the boat or hunting for a place to eat.

The crew gets high marks for attention and energy. In particular, Alex is noted for friendly check-in at the marina, and Luis and the crew are described as phenomenal and comfortable with lively group energy. There is also a standout moment where a crew member, Joel, swam out to bring drinks on the ocean. That kind of service is not required for a charter to function, but it is exactly why people remember a day like this.

One more small win: there is even mention of fish lines in the water and fishing from the boat, with kids and adults getting involved. Whether you fish or not, the fact that the crew adds hands-on fun makes the whole day feel warmer.

What you actually get for water time, gear included and ready

You are not left to scramble for rentals. Snorkel gear comes included, along with paddle boards, kayaks, water mattresses, and water tubes. That setup lets your group split naturally. One person can stay in snorkel mode, another can do paddle boards or a kayak, and others can float on tubes.

This is a good format for mixed ages and mixed comfort levels. It also helps because water conditions can change. If a snorkel spot is not ideal at a given moment, you can switch to paddle boards or kayaks without ending the day early.

Quick tip: bring a small, easy-to-carry dry bag or waterproof pouch if you want your phone for beach shots. The charter provides the fun, but your camera habits are still your call.

Price and value for a group up to 15

At $2,490 per group (up to 15) for about 4 hours, this is priced like a true private experience rather than a per-person standard tour. For the cost, you are paying for the boat, crew, landing and facility fees, snorkeling and water gear, and all those food and drink items.

To judge value, think about what you would pay if you tried to piece it together yourself. Boat charter fees alone can be much higher, and once you add gear rentals, guided crew help, and all-inclusive drinks and snacks, this starts to look more reasonable for larger groups.

If you have a small group, the price can feel steep because you are still paying the group charter cost. But if you can fill seats with friends or family, you turn it into one of the better “vacation day” deals in the area.

Meeting point and getting to the marina, the part people should plan for

Here is the practical part: pickup is not included. The operator notes that you need to choose your meeting place before submitting your reservation, and they do offer options if you need help finding affordable luxury transportation to the meeting point, by calling Gil, the owner.

One important consideration from real experience on this kind of day: the boat location is not in Puerto Vallarta proper, and that can mean a 40-50 minute drive depending on where you start. If your day is already packed, this is one logistics detail you should factor into your schedule.

If you are using a rideshare or taxi, give yourself buffer time. You want everyone in your group checked in and ready before the crew line-up begins.

Who this yacht charter fits best (and who might not love it)

This trip is a great fit for:

• Groups up to 15 who want privacy and flexibility.
• People who want a mix of snorkeling and beach time without switching boats or hunting for rentals.
• Families and friend groups who enjoy a lively day with drinks and snacks onboard.
• Anyone who likes being active, but also likes having an easy pace when the water demands it.

It may not be the best match if:

• Your group cannot handle the added travel time to the boat area.
• You want a very structured, every-minute tour. This one is more about your group choosing where to go inside the Bay of Banderas.

The good news is that private format means you can shape the day around your group’s comfort level, as long as you communicate early.

Should you book ChicaFun 1?

Book it if you want a private, all-inclusive water day that mixes coastline views, famous south-zone beaches, and snorkeling with the comfort of food and drinks onboard. It is especially worth it when you can bring friends or family to spread the group cost.

Think twice if your group has tight timing for travel to the marina or if you prefer tours that start and end right inside Puerto Vallarta without any extra drive. If logistics are manageable for you, this is a strong choice for a memorable half-day on the water.

FAQ

How long is the Private Yacht Charter on ChicaFun 1?

The charter lasts about 4 hours.

What is the price for this tour?

The price is $2,490 per group, up to 15 people.

Is this a private tour or a shared one?

This is a private tour/activity, so only your group participates.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Alcoholic beverages are included, along with water, coffee, juices, sodas, mineral water, margaritas, beer, wine, piña coladas, champagne, and more.

Are snacks included?

Yes. You get fresh made guacamole and blue corn chips, plus potato chips.

What water activities and gear are included?

Included are snorkel gear, paddle boards, kayaks, water mattress, and water tubes.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Is there a meeting point requirement?

Yes. You must choose your meeting place before submitting your reservation.

Are gratuities included?

No. Gratuities are not included and are optional.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience starts, the amount paid is not refunded.