EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

Discover Puerto Vallarta´s charming Downtown and Oldtown districts with the help of your friendly, bilingual guide. You´ll ride in air conditioned comfort to the center of downtown where you´ll have a chance to stroll the length of our Malecon (seawall) to see our collection of sculptures by local and international artists.

You´ll visit the main square, where your guide will take you through the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and keep you entertained and informed along the way. Enjoy a stroll down the Cuale River Island's colorful garden pathway. Re-board the coach briefly to ride to our refreshment/restroom and shopping stop. Complimentary beverages are offered as well as free tequila tastings, as you shop or observe the local artists at work. Afterward, we'll make the short walk to Vallarta's newest attraction, Mosaic Park, which has become one of the most impressive collections of urban art, anywhere. The entire area shimmers and sparkles with Mexican themes, covering everything from the columns to the benches. We'll spend about 40 minutes there, before returning directly to the ship.

OVERVIEW

Once the private home of renowned film director John Huston, Las Caletas is now an exclusive tropical beach retreat accessible only by sea. Nestled in a secluded cove along the southern shores of Banderas Bay, this protected nature preserve is framed by lush jungle, golden sands, and turquoise waters. After a scenic catamaran ride showcasing Puerto Vallarta’s coastline, you’ll arrive at this hidden paradise where the day is yours to spend as you choose—relaxing on the beach or in a hammock, indulging in spa treatments (additional cost), snorkeling and kayaking in calm waters, or exploring jungle trails, orchid gardens, and the parrot center with bilingual eco-guides. Families will find special activities for all ages, including the Kid’s Adventure Park with ziplines and climbing walls, and the Teen Adventure Cove with thrilling obstacle courses, free falls, and daring swings. A delicious buffet lunch completes this extraordinary blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise by catamaran to Las Caletas, a secluded tropical hideaway once owned by John Huston.
• Relax on a golden-sand beach, in a hammock, or at the spa overlooking the bay.
• Snorkel, kayak, or join eco-guides for fun water and nature activities.
• Children enjoy the Kid’s Adventure Park while teens test their limits at the Teen Adventure Cove.
• Savor a delicious buffet lunch surrounded by spectacular scenery.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear your swimsuit, comfortable clothing, and walking shoes.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.
• Buffet lunch is included; spa services and some activities are available at an additional cost.

Board your catamaran and relax, as you cruise south along the beautiful tropical coastline of Banderas Bay. Dolphins and humpback whales are often sighted here during the winter months. You'll spend the morning in the tranquil cove of Majahuitas, it’s only accessible by sea and offers ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. After, enjoy lunch aboard your catamaran.

You'll continue on to the pristine paradise of Yelapa, an old fishing village that is only accessible by boat. Here you can hike through the jungle to the waterfall, swim in the cove's protected waters or just relax on the expansive beach. On your return cruise, enjoy the on board fiesta with an open bar, dancing, music and entertainment provided by the friendly crew.

Discover all the color, charm, and excitement of Puerto Vallarta when you board your air-conditioned coach and settle in for a relaxing sightseeing. Experience the ride along the main highway to the beautiful Old Town. Known for its varied architecture, sparkling beaches, and festive atmosphere, that welcomes you with an easy mix of historic sights and natural beauty. Enjoy the Malecón, a mile-long walkway along the expansive coastline of Banderas Bay. Keep an eye out for the famous Seahorse statue by artist Rafael Zamarripa. Continue past the Palacio Municipal and the main plaza with its cobblestone streets and red-tile roofs as you head to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe before continuing your drive toward the vibrant hotel strip.

From a distance, you can view the villa-dotted hillside enclave called Gringo Gulch, where many of the rich and famous have their homes. Take in the breathtaking view from Olas Altas, one of the most popular beaches and well known as the Zona Romantica and Conchas Chinas, famous for its dramatic vistas and architecture. Then we´re going to head to a traditional Mexican market for a complimentary margarita and free time to browse the Huichol art, artisanal candies, tequila, and silver handcrafts. If you like, you can stay in town longer and make your own way back to ship by taxi ride or local bus.

Embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of the Sierra Madre mountains on this 5 km guided hike to the spectacular Jorullo Point. After a scenic transfer to Canopy River Park, set out along forest trails that wind through lush subtropical terrain. As you climb, take in sweeping views of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and vibrant flora and fauna that make this region so unique. The highlight of your hike is a visit to the exclusive Jorullo Point glass observation deck, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree panoramic views from a platform suspended in the middle of the mountains—a truly breathtaking experience. Afterward, return to base camp, where you will have free time to relax, take photos, and sample local flavors, including a complimentary tequila tasting, before heading back to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Hike 5 km through the beautiful Sierra Madre mountains on scenic forest trails.
• Experience the thrill of standing on Jorullo Point, a glass platform with panoramic views.
• Connect with the region’s subtropical flora and fauna along the trail.
• Enjoy free time at base camp with opportunities for photos, refreshments, and tequila tasting.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.
• This hike involves uphill sections and uneven terrain—good physical condition is recommended.

This excursion combines the charm of both the old and new Mexico. Begin with a drive through the Marina Vallarta area and a stop at the small village’s local church. Continue to Hacienda Dona Engracia, one of the finest tequila factories in the area for a first-hand look at the manufacturing process of tequila and some free time to explore the grounds of this working hacienda. A short shopping stop will be made on the way into the center of Puerto Vallarta where you can walk along the popular Malecon, visit the Cathedral of our Lady of Guadalupe and see Old Town City Hall, while taking in fantastic views of the waterfront and the charm of the cobblestone streets. You may choose to stay in town on your own or return to your ship.

Would you like to enjoy a day of authentic Mexican fun? At Hacienda Dona Engracia, there’s a real Mexican Fiesta waiting for you, with colors, displays, contests and more. Upon arrival enjoy a guided tour of the hacienda and tequila factory, with free tequila samples. During lunch you’ll be entertained with music, displays of dancing horses, a traditional Mexican folkloric ballet and of course, typical Mexican food. After the party there will be time for some contests, prizes and fun.

Then you’ll head to the downtown area for a city tour and some shopping in the heart of Puerto Vallarta. Passing through the charming downtown area you’ll see the famous waterfront Malecon, the ever popular statues and the beautiful Our Lady of Guadalupe Cathedral before you head back to your ship. See you at the Mexican Fiesta!

Your journey begins as you board your air-conditioned transportation at the pier and head to downtown Puerto Vallarta for a walking tour that includes a brief visit to the popular Malecón boardwalk with statues by renowned Mexican artists, the zocalo, City Hall and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterwards, travel to a local tile factory where you'll get a fascinating introduction to the production of colorful Mexican tiles. See how they are formed, painted and fired. You'll also find plenty of shopping opportunities, as the main floor of the factory has myriad of vibrant ceramics to choose from.

We'll stop at a local plaza for some souvenir shopping before heading to the next venue on your journey: one of the finest tequila producers in the area. At this Hacienda, learn the craft used to turn the blue agave cactus into Mexico's powerful and legendary tequila. Sample the tequila and take a tour of the tequila making process. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional farm-to-table rancho lunch, including tacos with handmade corn tortillas and regional salsas. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore the grounds and complete your shopping.

OVERVIEW

Race through the wilds of Canopy River Park in a 4x4 ATV and then toast the adventure with a tequila tasting. After a briefing to ensure that you maximize the experience, you will hop into a 4-person Polaris RZR and take the wheel or ride as a passenger. Either way, it will be a nonstop thrill as you zip down the dirt trails that crisscross the rainforest that blankets the Sierra Madre Occidental, a volcanically formed mountain range. At one point, you will cross the world’s longest vehicular suspension bridge with nothing below but dense jungle and the winding Cuale River. Feel free to pause for photos of the extraordinary natural beauty. Once you catch your breath and return to the base camp, you can relive your ATV adventure while taking part in a tasting of local tequilas.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Zip through the mountains and rainforest in a 4 person 4X4 ATV built for rugged terrain.
• Drive across the world’s longest vehicular suspension bridge.
• Participate in a tequila-tasting class back at the base camp.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with closed-toes.

OVERVIEW

Spend hours luxuriating however you please at the Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta, an extraordinary resort overlooking the sea. It won’t take long to reach this 4-star slice of paradise, which will allow you all the more time to enjoy the generous amenities. As soon as you arrive, the concierge will present an overview of the property so you can maximize your time. Feel free to head straight to the beach and stretch out in a lounge chair. Beach umbrellas are also available if you would rather lie in the shade. If you prefer freshwater to saltwater, it will be comforting to know that the resort has four swimming pools, including an adults-only infinity pool on the rooftop with a bar serving drinks and sushi right there. This beach escape also includes a sumptuous buffet – one exclusively for adults, the other for families – and the use of single and double kayaks if you are feeling adventurous.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the waterfront Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta resort.
• Spend hours at the beach, swimming in the pools, kayaking and doing most anything else.
• Savor a traditional Mexican buffet lunch and enjoy the open bar.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy some swashbuckling fun, snorkeling, beach time and water sports. Join your friendly Captain and 'his pirates' aboard the pirate ship 'Marigalante' for a relaxing, fun day of adventure. Begin your day with a delightful a la carte breakfast menu and entertainment onboard with our fabulous pirate show with exhibitions of swordsmanship and acrobatics, all in a festive atmosphere. Watch the pirates walk the plank and jump into the ocean in front of your eyes, then you’ll stop at Majahuitas beach. Here, you can take a banana boat ride, kayak, snorkel, play volleyball or just relax and soak up the sun. Kids will enjoy the treasure hunt along with the buried pirate treasure chest. Board the pirate vessel for a delicious lunch and a fabulous pirate show with exhibitions of swordsmanship and acrobatics, all in a festive atmosphere. Watch the pirates walk the plank and jump into the ocean in front of your eyes! There are also contests and prizes to win. Relax as you enjoy the scenic coastal views along the way back to the pier.

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a connection with these truly remarkable creatures. You’ll have an opportunity to talk, touch, play and swim with gentle and exquisite bottlenose dolphins. Your swim experience begins with a brief presentation on dolphin characteristics, how to use hand signals and positive reinforcement to communicate with your dolphin and various safety guidelines.

Next, your group of no more than eight participants will head to the Dolphin Lagoon where you’ll wade into the shallow, clear waters to begin your exclusive dolphin experience. You'll meet and play with a dolphin for 30 minutes, getting to know each other through hugs, kisses and rubdowns. The duration of the program is approximately 60 minutes, including orientation. After your dolphin swim, enjoy complimentary lunch at the dolphin marina and some free time to purchase memories of your experience with the dolphins.