Mexican Riviera Cruises: Excursions

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

Rising behind Mazatlan is the Sierra Madre range of mountains, which separates the coastal area of Mexico from the interior. Rich in mineral wealth and extremely rugged, these mountains have become the subject of spectacular legends. Your exploration will carry you from historic Mazatlan to the Durango Highway, stopping at a brickyard where adobe bricks are handmade and fired, much as they have been for several centuries. A short drive along the foothills of the Sierra Madre will take you into Concordia where you’ll visit the 220-year old church and enjoy a refreshing drink at a typical small restaurant. Continue to the village of Copala, once a thriving Spanish gold mining town founded in 1565, where you’ll take a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets. See Colonial houses, the jail and a spectacular church dating back to the early 18th century and enjoy a delightful lunch of Mexican food at a local restaurant. Visit a furniture factory and a potter’s home who produces roof tiles, jars, flowerpots and dishes typical of this region. Back at Mazatlan’s Golden Zone you'll have approximately 40 minutes of free time to browse and shop before the scenic drive back to your ship. Note: Guests should be able to board bus without assistance. Bring a hat, camera, and comfortable walking shoes. less

This exciting half-day excursion begins with a short walk to your four-person, manual transmission, open-air Jeep®, before you depart caravan-style to explore the scenic countryside of Puerto Vallarta. Your experienced guide will lead you up the Sierra Madre Mountains, passing through typical Mexican villages along the way. Make a short stop at Hacienda Dona Engracia, the only tequila factory in the area where you’ll receive a short briefing on the process of making tequila. Continue your adventure by passing fruit and tobacco plantations and taking in the spectacular natural beauty of the area. After your adventurous ride, enjoy a complimentary snack at a beautiful beach setting. Here, you’ll have time to swim, bask in the sun, play volleyball or simply relax before it’s time to get back in your Jeep® and drive back to your awaiting ship. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age. Driver must be at least 25 years of age and provide both a valid driver’s license and credit card. All vehicles must remain with the group throughout the tour. Bring your swimsuit, towel, comfortable shoes and appropriate clothes as you may get dusty or wet depending on the season. Any additional food or drinks ordered will be at your own expense. less

Enjoy some fun in the sun at Cabo’s newest, luxury beach club and resort. Your hostess will be on-hand to assist your entire stay and show you around the facilities. Although located right in the middle of all the action on Cabo San Lucas’ popular Medano Beach, you’ll spend your day away from the general public crowding the other surrounding beach clubs. This is your resort for the day! Relax at the umbrellas or cushioned lounge chair areas and soak up some sun. Jump in and play in the gentle waves in the buoyed off swimming area. Stroll down the sandy stretches of Medano Beach. Take in the fabulous views of your cruise ship, Cabo’s skyline and Land’s End (including the famous Arch), situated directly across the bay. You’ll also find two fresh water pools. Here, you can stretch out in a poolside lounger or jump in for a refreshing dip. Swim up to the bar or maybe even enjoy a soak in one of the hot tubs! Note: Participants are responsible to return back to the ship own their own, if they decide to stay longer. Guests have access to all resort facilities including gym, hammocks, lounge beds, umbrellas, etc. Towel service, round-trip transportation and lunch are included. Additional beverages and outside services such as jet skis, banana boat rides and hair braiding are available at extra charge. There is a pool for the kids. less

The perfect day to do everything or nothing starts on board the Catamaran in Banderas Bay. Enjoy a beach day full of activity or complete relaxation. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the colorful town of Puerto Vallarta, Los Arcos National Park and the cove of Mismaloya, where you’ll have great photo opportunities. First stop is at Colomitos Beach where you can practice your snorkeling and may be able to closely watch beautiful species of tropical and Pacific Ocean fish, sea horses, sea urchins and marine wildlife in general. You may choose to just spend a little while relaxing at the beach. The following destination will be Majahuitas, a white sandy beach with clear and calm waters, where you can again enjoy the sand and surf or if you prefer, do some kayaking or snorkeling. During your catamaran cruise, depending on the season, you might get to see some wildlife such as dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles or humpback whales. On the way back to shore, enjoy music and entertainment to put an end to your perfect day at Banderas Bay. Note: Continental breakfast and a light lunch are included in the price of this tour. less