For Chicago travelers counting down the days until the next warm-weather trip, the Marietas Islands are worth building an entire vacation around. After a direct flight into Puerto Vallarta, it's a short drive to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, where Rayando el Sol -- our Tanna 47ft luxury catamaran -- is waiting to take you and up to 16 guests out to one of Mexico's most protected marine parks. This isn't a shared tour boat with a cash bar and a bagged lunch. Your charter includes a private onboard chef preparing a four-course gourmet menu, an open bar with craft cocktails and fine wine, and all the gear you need -- paddleboards, snorkel equipment, and fishing rods -- to make the most of a day surrounded by the Marietas' dramatic rock formations and the famous Hidden Beach. Whether you're planning a milestone celebration or just need a real escape from the Midwest winter, this is a full sensory reset, not just a boat ride.