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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This once sleepy fishing village became a popular resort after The Night of the Iguana was filmed here in 1964. Nestled on the 28-mile curve of Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta has steadfastly held onto its character. Red tile roofs and rows of balconies, spilling over with colorful bougainvillea, still line its cobblestone streets. A pleasure for both the eye and the camera.
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The Marieta Islands are located northwest of Puerto Vallarta. Comprised of four, large, distinct rock formations, this area has been classified as a National Wildlife Preserve due to the numerous species of birds, marine mammals and fish that live here. This tour will allow you to experience the ecological sights and sounds of this natural environment.
From the pier your eco-guide will escort you to a top-of-the-line motorized catamaran where you'll meet the crew and spend a few minutes being oriented to the boat and watching a lifejacket demonstration.
Leaving the dock, begin the 1.5 hour trip through the waters of Banderas Bay to the Marietas. En route, your Activity Director will acquaint you with the area through historical commentary and keep an eye out for dolphins or whales (seasonal) that thrive in these waters. If encountered, you'll pause to observe these creatures.
As you approach the islands, the crew will provide detailed instructions on both snorkeling and kayaking. You'll also be fitted with snorkeling equipment and a review sheet that contains information on the types of fish and animals you may encounter.
After a brief trip around the islands to acquaint you with the water conditions and to see the various species of birds, the boat will drop anchor and you'll have approximately 1.25 hours to explore the waters by kayak and/or snorkel.
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This exclusive tour will take you to experience sailing in the protected waters of Banderas Bay. Your tour begins with a short drive from the ship to Puerto Vallarta's main marina. Once aboard the sailboat, enjoy a continental breakfast while your experienced crew provides a safety briefing and an orientation on the marine life you may encounter.
Leaving the dock, the sail will be hoisted and you'll harness the wind for a day on the bay. Once at sea your course and itinerary will be set by the days conditions. You'll have the opportunity to learn the basic rules of sailing and may be offered a chance at the helm.
In the early afternoon your Captain will find a secluded cove for you to stop, drop anchor and enjoy a few minutes of sunning, swimming or snorkeling. Before leaving enjoy a deli lunch. Fruit snacks and beverages will be provided throughout the tour.
You'll then set sail again for more time at sea before returning to the marina for the short drive back to the ship.
Minimum age to participate is 12 years old. Guests should bring a towel and wear their swimsuits under their clothes as there are limited changing facilities on the sailboat. Guests who are susceptible to seasickness should take precautions before boarding the sailboat. Alcoholic beverages will not be served until after the snorkeling portion of the tour. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats are recommended. While efforts will be made to spot marine life, sightings cannot be guaranteed.
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Swim With A Dolphin: For those guests who want a more exciting dolphin experience, this tour is for you. A short drive will take you to Puerto Vallarta's private Dolphin Adventure Center. Upon arrival you'll be met by a trained specialist who will introduce you to the underwater world of dolphins through a short video presentation. Hear the complex sounds of the dolphin's communication by means of a live hydrophone hookup.
A quick shower is required before donning your floatation vest and entering the swimming area. With your specialist monitoring your group of no more than six swimmers from a dock above the pool, meet your two dolphin companions. You'll have approximately 30 minutes to swim, contact and interact with these friendly creatures. This is an experience not to be missed!
At the end of your swim, you'll leave the pool and have a few minutes to ask your specialist any questions you may have. You'll then dry off, change back into your clothes and board a Suburban for the return drive to your ship.
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The hills encircling Puerto Vallarta are cloaked in tropical deciduous forest and this exploration takes you there. Your guided hike begins at Rancho Sierra Madre and within minutes you will experience the scenery and diversity of the area.
Your eco-guides are well versed in the flora and fauna of the region and will answer your questions and point out the area’s highlights. The hike is highlighted with a stop at a secluded Volcanic Hot Water Spring, where you may take a soothing dip. After relaxing at the Hot Springs hike back to the ranch, where complimentary snacks and drinks will be available. Before the return drive to the cruise ship pier, explore the ranch grounds, where horse, cattle and ostriches are raised. .
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View sample shore and land excursions:
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- Basseterre, St. Kitts
- Belize City, Belize
- Bridgetown, Barbados
- Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
- Castries, St. Lucia
- Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
- Costa Maya, Mexico
- Cozumel, Mexico
- Ensenada, Mexico
- Georgetown, Grand Cayman
- Key West, Florida
- Labadee, Hispaniola
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- Mazatlan, Mexico
- Miami, Florida
- Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Nassau, Bahamas
- Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- Oranjestad, Aruba
- Philipsburg, St. Maarten
- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- St. Johns, Antigua
- Tortola, British Virgin Islands
- Willemstad, Curacao
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