Mexican Riviera Cruises: Excursions

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

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

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

Discover the Mexican countryside on horseback. Arrive at Hacienda Dona Engracia where your guide will conduct a short orientation, then match each rider with a horse that suits his or her ability. Riding along the Mascota River, you’ll pass through quaint little villages, viewing local scenery and vegetation. Wear a swimsuit under your riding clothes because if conditions permit, you may enjoy a swim on horseback or relax at the hot springs. 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 in good physical condition. Wear long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. During certain times of the year, the river rises and forces the tour to follow the mountain trail, cancelling the swim. Snacks are available at your own expense at the Hacienda. less