Published on Nov, 2024
We hired Eco Explorer out of the Puerto Vallarta Marina. First off, I read hundreds of review about going to Playa del Amor as I am a very weak swimmer. I booked mine through Viator and used Eco Explorer because they had so many positive rating from scared ppl like me.
Take bonnie and/or Dramamine!!!!! I am extremely prone to seasickness and took it.
We arrived at their office at the marina at 8:30 since we like to be early. We were fitted with fins. Charlie was a great host. Talking to us about the area, where he was from, etc.
Charlie is so knowledgeable about the area and the wildlife. Yellow footed boobies were diving for fish at our wake. It was so beautiful!!
The day we went, the ocean was like glass. However, when we arrived at the island that has lovers’ beach, the tide was too high. Charlie suggested we snorkel around. To tell you the truth, the boats made the waves a bit choppy, and I was scared. I told Charlie this and he legit towed me around, while pointing out magnificent sea life. We even saw an octopus. Then, because I started to feel sick in the water, I popped my head up, puked for a while and felt better. When I went back in, I was surrounded by fish!!!! Charlie towed me about again and I saw a second octopus… or maybe the same one. I saw so many beautiful fish. My husband is usually the one who tows me about, but I am glad I was with Charlie because he was so good at pointing out all the sea life. It is very clear that these guys love the ocean and know this bay very well. They really are experts.
The other guide, Ricardo, was so great at watching out for the other members of our group. My husband is a very strong swimmer and certified master diver, so he got to enjoy the activity.
We got back on the boat and saw blue footed boobies!!!! They are adorable! Mexico is such a wonderful place!
When it was time to swim to Playa del Amor, Charlie towed me in again. This is the tricky part. Y’all have to listen to the guides. When they say float and relax, listen. When they say kick, you gotta do it. All will be well if you listen to your guide. Know that you are wearing a life vest and a helmet and nothing will happen to you. However, know that this cave entrance is a challenging swim. Even my husband said he doubted he could have towed me in.
We had more than enough time to take photos, enjoy the view, and mess around. We did not feel rushed at all! On the way back, Charlie towed me again.
Back on the boat, they gave us some basic, but yummy, sandwiches.
On the way back, we saw dolphins!!! They were feeding and we would see them pop up. There were no babies jumping out of the water and playing, but a lot of adults popping up. Then, Capt. Erik pointed out whale that were slapping the water, blowing, and slapping their tails. We watched them from afar as it is not whale watching season and the guides wanted to stay away as not to disturb them. Everyone at the boat had more than enough time to watch the whales from a respectful distance. The way home was great and peaceful.
If I had to change something, it would be that I would practice swimming more before this trip. We will bring our 18 year old back here and only hire Eco Explorer.
Note: these guys ensure our safety and enjoyment! Please make sure you tip them!!!!
-Brian and Sherry
