Visiting Islas Marietas

We treated ourselves to a daylong excursion out to Marietas Islands (Islas Marietas). The seven hour adventure began early in the morning with an hour-long ride aboard Vallarta Adventure's catamaran out to the rocky, uninhabited islands.

The Marietas are about 22 miles off the coast of Nayarit, Mexico. (Nayarit is the state just north of Jalisco, where we have been staying for the past 11 days) Today's group adventure was excellent in so many ways: well planned, plenty of attention to detail, rigorous safety measures, good weather, friendly, personable, talented crew, and plenty of delicious food for breakfast and lunch (and open bar!)

With significant urging from Jacques Cousteau in the late 1960's, the Mexican government designated the area a marine sanctuary, protected from hunting and fishing. Because of this, we, today, were able to enjoy outstanding snorkeling and bird watching amongst the rocky crags of the islands.

Several members who brought scuba gear reported seeing eels, manta rays, and an octopus. After snorkeling through the caves and rocks, we enjoyed kayaking and swimming in the warm 85º waters.

What a memorable day this has been! I'm already looking forward to my next snorkeling opportunity.

Look at those blue-footed boobies!