Mexican Riviera Cruises: Excursions

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

For the snorkeling enthusiast, this tour combines two of the best areas in the emerald waters of Huatulco. From the pier area it is a 10-minute sail to La Entrega Beach, while a site briefing is given. There you’ll enjoy 45 minutes of snorkeling in the calm, translucent waters of the area and be amazed at the variety of marine life seen on the coral reef. Next is a 20-minute trip to Cacaluta Bay, which some locals call King's Beach because it was the favorite of King Juan Carlos I of Spain on his 1993 visit to Huatulco. Along the way, you’ll pass by the spectacular blowhole and Organo and Maguey Bays. Snorkel another 45 minutes from the boat in the passage between the island and beach, an outstanding pristine place with white coral and rocks. Note: Participants must be at least 16 years of age and in good physical condition. Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel and sunscreen. You’ll be required to sign a waiver release form in order to participate. Some light current might be present. Participants should be able to get in and out of the boat by ladder. Depending on weather, water clarity and sea conditions, the above itinerary may vary and/or the stop at Cacaluta could be changed to an alternate site. All dives will be from the boat with no beach snorkeling. There are no showers on the boat. less

Take a short drive to the Dolphin Center at the Nuevo Vallarta Marina. After a brief presentation, head down the dock to a 14,500-square-foot holding pen and as you stand waist-deep in the water, you’ll be introduced to the beautiful Pacific bottlenose dolphin in a hands-on, up-close encounter for approximately 15 minutes. They are as curious about you as you are about them. Take full advantage of this unique opportunity to pet them gently and you’ll even receive a dolphin kiss. During your encounter you’ll also learn ways to ensure their preservation and foster the well-being of these amazing creatures. After your activity with the dolphins, enjoy a complimentary lunch at the dolphin marina and free time to purchase souvenirs or photos to remind you and your family of this incredible experience. Note: Participants must be at least 1 year old. Infants 1 to 3 years of age can join at no charge in the arms of a participating adult. Children age 4 to 8 who are less than 4’ 5” in height may also participate in the arms of a participating adult, but they will be charged. 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

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

The Tarcoles River will enchant you with its pristine beauty as you embark on a river cruise along its serene waters. Home to an amazing array of life, flora and fauna, this river provides an essential balance of nature for all its inhabitants. As you cruise along, you may see crocodiles basking on the riverbanks or gliding in the water. You may also spot bird species such as herons, ducks, egrets, storks, kingfishers, spoonbills or Scarlet Macaw. Shop for souvenirs before you head over to La Hacienda Nosavar. Here, you’ll take a ride on a Jitney - a tractor-pulled wagon - through part of this 1,600-acre working ranch. Pass by wetlands and journey amongst the rainforest, and see the Brahman and Nellor cattle in their hilly pasture. Enjoy a snack while you relax in the pleasant, rustic-styled restaurant with its elegant timber roof. This is a fun-filled tour for the whole family! Note: At Jungle Crocodile Safari, guests must negotiate some steps to reach the boat, bus or tractor-pulled wagon. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with vertigo or back or neck injuries. Bring rain gear, insect repellent, a camera and/or binoculars, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Wildlife sightings, while common, are not guaranteed. Tour sequence might vary. A free bird guide will be provided at the beginning of the river cruise, which will allow participants to identify any feathered creatures seen along the way. less

Take a walking tour of historic Cartagena. First, stop for pictures at San Felipe Fortress, considered the largest Spanish fort in the New World. Next, visit the Old City and stroll down its beautiful Colonial streets with its breathtaking balconies and overflowing flowers. Walk through the main plaza and its adjacent streets. See San Pedro Square, Custom’s Square, Bolivar and also Santo Domingo’s Square. Finally, visit the modern city of Bocagrande and the shops at Pierino Gallo Plaza. Upon arrival, you’ll have some free time and refreshments while you browse for emeralds, handcrafts and leather goods. Note: This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. less