Mexican Riviera Cruises: Excursions

Board your Zodiac, skippered by an experienced eco-guide. After a brief safety lecture and orientation, take an exhilarating ride to Land’s End, past Lover’s Beach, the sea lion colony and the famous arch. Your first snorkel site will be at Chileno Cove, approximately 20 minutes along the coast. After re-boarding your Zodiac, you’ll head over to Santa Maria Cove for your second snorkeling. The transparent waters at both coves team with colorful fish, including Moorish idols, puffers and Cortez angelfish. You’ll spend approximately 45 minutes at each site. After your snorkel experience, your Zodiac transports you back to the tender pier. Enjoy the incredible view heading back into the harbor with a view of your ship, Land's End and the coastline of Cabo. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. The snorkeling sites may be altered due to weather and water conditions. This tour is not for pregnant women or guests with knee, neck, back or heart problems, as the ride can be rough. A signed waiver is required. Snorkeling is from the boat and guests must climb small aluminum ladder to get back into boat. Wear your swim suit and bring a towel. Sunglasses and sun protection are suggested. All snorkel equipment, safety vest, instruction, supervision and bottled water/soft drinks are included. Wetsuits are not included. less

Adrenaline will be pulsing through your veins after experiencing this canopy adventure! Situated approximately one hour outside of Mazatlan, the sprawling La Vinata Los Osuna plantation, where blue agave is grown and processed into tequila, is home to this exhilarating tour. Once you step off of your motorcoach, you'll be transported into a world that will take your breath away. The fun begins with the rush of an off-road experience in a classic Swiss Army Pinzgauer 6 x 6 vehicle delivering you from the valley floor into the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountain range that surround the plantation. From here, the action really begins to take-off. You'll get a thorough briefing on the techniques and safety measures used during the canopy adventure by a certified staff member who will provide equipment of the highest quality. A series of 12 platforms with nine zip lines, a flex-walk bridge and nature trek await you. The course provides extraordinary views of the plantation's diverse flora and fauna while soaring above the valley floor. A rappel from the final platform located in an ancient Huanacaxtle tree will bring you safely back to earth among the vast rows of blue agave. Before returning to your ship, you'll have time to visit the Los Osuna, a tequila distillery. There you'll see how this popular liquor is produced and be able to taste it as well. The return to your ship will be along Mazatlan's magnificent oceanfront boulevard passing by the Golden Zone, where you may choose to stay on your own for some shopping before returning to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 9 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. Due to the nature of this tour, pregnant women or guests with a heart condition, knee pain or injury, spinal and/or neck problems or limited mobility should not participate. Please wear long pants, closed-toe shoes and bring sunscreen. Signature on liability waiver is required. There are two nature treks during the course of the tour, participants must walk approximately 1/2-mile (735 yards) over some uneven terrain, climb steps up to platforms and rappel 40 feet (12 meters) down to the ground from the final platform. less

Cruise by Cabo’s famed Lovers Beach, past the sea lion colony and the towering rock formations of Land’s End, then set sail for Chileno Bay, cruising along Cabo’s Gold Coast. The bay features a large reef, which is home to many species of fish. Snorkel among the tropical fish in the blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. The adventurous can swim from the boat to the beach in search of treasures buried in the sand. On the return voyage, an assortment of finger foods and drinks will be served. Relax as the sails are hoisted and enjoy the beauty of Los Cabos. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 240 lbs. Not for guests with heart conditions, respiratory problems or pregnant women. Instructions are available upon request and equipment is provided. A signed waiver is required. less

After a safety briefing, head for famed Lover’s Beach, past the sea lion colony and towering rock formations of Land’s End toward Santa Maria Cove. Anchor at a palm-studded tropical cove where the reefs are teeming with colorful tropical fish and you’ll have approximately 1 1/4 hours to snorkel in the tranquil waters alongside the boat. Snorkeling instructions are provided upon request. After your swim, you’ll be treated to your choice of soda, beer or a Mexican cocktail. Open bar is available throughout the cruise, after the snorkel portion of the tour. On the return trip, relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 240 lbs. This tour is not for guests with heart conditions, respiratory problems or pregnant women. A signed waiver is required. less

Begin your adventure by taking a deluxe drive to the Guanacaste flat lands while enjoying the beautiful passages surrounded by trees and cattle fields. Once at the operation base, you’ll have time to change and get ready to paddle after being briefed on safety procedures. Float down the Corobici River and enjoy its great scenery and wildlife. This classic floating trip is perfect for birdwatchers and nature lovers. As you raft along this tranquil river, you might spot one of the more than 300 species of birds from the nearby Palo Verde National Park. The more commonly seen birds are ospreys, kingfishers, cormorants, and blue, tiger and boat-billed herons. Other wildlife in the area includes otters, howler monkeys, white-faced monkeys, anteaters, iguanas and many other lizards. At the conclusion of your trip, a native-style lunch will be served. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age, weigh less than 270 lbs. and be in good health. Bring a towel, sunscreen and an extra set of clothes if desired; tour may get you wet. less

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, rubdowns and ultimately, an exciting belly ride. 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. Note: Participants must be at least 5 years of age and no less than 4 feet, 5 inches tall. Do not wear jewelry or sunscreen lotion as it may be harmful to the animals. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel. Lockers available free of charge. less

This unique dolphin experience allows small children, ages four to eight, to get closer to dolphins than they ever dreamed possible. The program starts with a poolside introduction to a family of dolphins. Children can touch and interact with them in a hands-on session led by an experienced dolphin trainer on a shallow shelf in a specially designed maternity pool. A special feature of the Dolphin Kids program is that the youngest members of the dolphin adventure family participate alongside their mothers in this very unique family experience. Everyone will receive a friendly dolphin kiss and have a chance to pet and hug the dolphins. Parents may accompany their children to the dolphin center by paying for an observer ticket, but will not participate in the water with the dolphins. Note: Participants must be between 4 and 8 years of age. This is a Dolphin Kids Encounter program. Parents must buy an observer ticket, but cannot participate in the water with the dolphins. Do not wear jewelry or sunscreen lotion as it may be harmful to the animals. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel. Lockers available free of charge. After your encounter, enjoy a complimentary lunch and some free time to purchase memories of your experience to share with your friends and family. less

Start with a panoramic drive to view of the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, situated outside the walled city. This monumental fort is considered to be the most outstanding feat of Spanish military engineering in the new world. After a quick drive through the narrow streets of the walled city, you’ll continue along the coastline to La Boquilla fisherman village. Embark on a leisurely canoe ride through the mangrove tunnels across the Swamp of the Virgin. Visit the mangroves at La Cienaga de Juan Polo, where a great diversity of birds such as Kingsfisher, White heron, Common Laura, Pink Spatula and Pelicans live. Relax as you enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna that encompasses this fascinating eco-system. Note: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring sunscreen and a hat. The last portion of this tour is a canoe ride only; guests do not get to paddle the canoe. less

These lovable rascals are comical, mischievous, playful and very friendly. Their inclination to engage in play and include humans in their games is what makes sea lion encounters so exhilarating. You’ll be standing waist-deep in the lagoon as you and the sea lion interact while doing various activities designed for maximum fun such as kisses, flipper shakes and even jumping over your head as you swim up to them. This is a unique and heartwarming experience which will never be forgotten. Afterwards you'll be offered a complimentary lunch and have the opportunity to purchase pictures or souvenirs of your encounter to share this incredible experience with family and loved ones. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and no less than 4' 5". Wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel. less

There is no better way to explore Baja’s desert and ocean beauty than from aboard your safe and fun Honda Big Red 4 x 4 Mini Jeep®. Along your ride, you’ll see cacti over 20 feet high, towering over the trail. Stops will be made along the way to inform you about the desert flora and fauna as well as at a lookout point over the Pacific Ocean. Take your camera as you’ll have many photo opportunities on this excursion. Your drive will take you to a seaside ranch along the mighty Pacific Ocean where you’ll receive instructions and equipment. Hop on your assigned vehicle and follow your guide for a glimpse into Baja’s rugged terrain. Your 4 x 4 Mini Jeep® will take you effortlessly over hilltops and through river washes. Upon returning to the ranch you’ll have a few minutes to explore the traditional desert adobe houses before returning to the pier. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age to operate vehicle. Maximum weight per person is 275 lbs. Due to the nature of this tour, pregnant women or guests with a heart condition, knee pain or injury, spinal and/or neck problems should not participate. Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes and bring sunscreen. Signature on liability waiver is required. less

The Marietas Islands have been classified as a National Wildlife Preserve due to the numerous species of birds, marine mammals and fish that live here. This tour will let you experience the ecological sights and sounds of this natural environment. From the pier, an eco-guide will escort you to your state-of-the-art catamaran where you’ll meet your crew and receive a brief orientation. Leaving the dock, begin the 1-1/2-hour trip across Banderas Bay to the Marietas Islands. En route, get acquainted with the area through interesting and historical commentary. Keep an eye out for wild dolphins and sea turtles, which thrive in these waters. During the winter months (December to March) humpback whales are also a common sight. If encountered, your boat will pause to observe these creatures. As you approach the islands, your crew will provide you with detailed instructions on both snorkeling and kayaking. You’ll be fitted with snorkeling equipment and a review sheet, which contains information on the types of fish and animals you may encounter. After a 10-minute guided bird-watching trip around the islands by boat to familiarize you with the water conditions and to see the various species, your boat will drop anchor and you’ll have approximately 1 1/2 hours to explore the waters by kayak and/or snorkel. Enjoy a deli-style lunch and open bar aboard the catamaran on the way back as you just sit back and enjoy the entertainment provided by your enthusiastic crew. Depending on weather conditions, you’ll make a beach stop on the return back to your ship. Note: Participants must be in good health. We recommend that you bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. less

Unlike other Puerto Vallarta adventures, this one combines it all. Your journey will start with an inflatable powerboat ride past Los Arcos Marine Reserve. Your first stop is Quimixto, a remote seaside village from where you’ll depart on a horseback ride (helmets are provided for your safety) through the tropical forest arriving at a breathtaking waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. Continue to the tranquil cove of La Bola with its beautiful clear waters for you to explore by snorkel. Your last stop is Pizota, where you'll enjoy a delicious lunch and complimentary drinks on this pristine beach and then relax in one of the hammocks. You can also explore its tropical waters by kayak. Look back one more time at this paradise as you board the powerboat for your return to Puerto Vallarta. Note: Participants must be at least 10 years of age, weigh less than 250 lbs. and be able to swim. As this adventure takes place in a remote area only accessible by boat, participants must be in good physical condition. It is not recommended for those with heart, back or respiratory problems, pregnant women or guests with walking difficulties. less

Your boat will pull up right at the pier where you and other participants will board. Wear your life jackets and get ready for the thrill of your life. As the boat motors out through the Cabo harbor and into the bay, you’ll be fitted with a harness and then one at a time, you’ll sit down on the back of the boat, it’s simple and easy… the boat does the rest! You’ll soar up to 600 feet depending on the wind and water conditions. Tandem is possible depending on the combined weight of the participants and wind speed at the moment. Take your camera up with you and create aerial memories to show your friends and prove that you really did it! Get a bird’s eye view of Land’s End. Return to your starting point dry and sitting down on the back of the boat. Actual flight time is approximately 10 minutes each.

Note: Participants must be at least 7 years of age and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (adult need not fly, but must buy a ride-along ticket). Required minimum weight should be at least 100 lbs. with a maximum combined weight of 550 lbs. Minimum and maximum weight may change as per Captain’s discretion based on wind conditions. This tour is not for pregnant women and those guests with neck or back problems, as boat ride can be rough at times. Bottled water and soft drinks are included. Life jackets must be worn at all times. Comfortable clothing and sun protection suggested. Due to safety regulations, guests under 7 years of age are not permitted on the boat. less

After a detailed safety orientation, follow your guide in convoy-style, on a drive through Puerto Vallarta and on your way to the off-roads. There is no better way to explore Mexico’s countryside than on your own semi-automatic, four-wheeled ATV. While skirting the edges of the Bay of Banderas, ride into the beautiful, yet dusty foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. You’ll have some free time to explore the grounds before you head back to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 18 years of age with a valid driver’s license and weigh no more than 350 lbs. Wear long pants and closed-toe, sturdy shoes. Not for pregnant women or guests with neck or back problems. Helmets are mandatory and provided, goggles are a must, and bandannas are optional. Snacks are available at your own expense at Hacienda Dona Engracia. less

Explore the essence of Mexico at a pace set to match your riding ability. On 21-gear, full-suspension bikes, this beautiful, yet dusty ride, passes fruit plantations and rustic towns with an enormous diversity of vegetation. Your experienced guide will make sure that you are properly outfitted, point out the sights and answer all your questions. During your ride the tour will be followed by a relief vehicle in radio contact with your knowledgeable guide at all times. Then you’ll head back to the hacienda to explore before you rejoin the transportation back to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age, weigh no more than 220 lbs. and a minimum height of 5 feet. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. Mandatory helmets are provided, along with elbow, knee and wrist protection. Snacks are available at your own expense at the Hacienda. less

Board a 24-foot Zodiac boat powered by twin 115HP engines with a maximum capacity of 15 passengers. This vessel is zippy and maneuverable but at the same time very safe and seaworthy. Your experienced Captain also serves as your tour guide. Head out in search of the migrating whales visiting the waters off Cabo. The Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean host numerous whale species each season including humpbacks, grays, as well as the more elusive blues whales and occasional pods of dolphin and orcas. Once a whale is spotted, your boat will get you there quickly and quietly without disturbing the whales. Keep those cameras handy, you’ll want to record your experience of a lifetime before you head back to the pier. There will be time for you to do some sightseeing as your boat cruises by Land’s End for a good view of the Arch, the sea lion colony and Lover’s Beach. Note: Participants must be at least 7 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. You must wear your life jacket at all times. Pregnant women and guests with back/neck injuries are not permitted on this tour. Bottled water and soft drinks are provided. Comfortable clothing and sun protection is suggested. A light jacket is recommended, there are no restrooms onboard. Shoes must be removed and stored in a storage locker on board your boat to keep your gear out of the way. Sightings are frequent, but not guaranteed. Please note that ride can be bumpy. This tour is only available on Mexican Riviera cruises, N. Star. This is a seasonal tour running from December 15 through March 31. less

Located along the shores of Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta provides the right conditions that create great diving adventures: good weather and a diversity of marine life, making it one of Mexico's top dive destinations that offers you both as beginner and certified scuba diver the opportunity to explore the mystery and wonders of the underwater world. Enjoy a comfortable ride out to the Marietas Islands, one of the best diving sites on Mexico’s Pacific coast which features a great variety of caves, reefs, and drop-offs, a haven for tropical and subtropical fish. The occasional turtle or manta ray may also be encountered. Lunch and domestic drinks will be served after the diving activities. Non-alcoholic beverages are available at any time. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age, must be certified divers and present their certification cards. Divers must have logged a dive within the last 12 months. Your Scuba equipment (including wetsuit) and professional supervision are included. less