Mexican Riviera - Are excursions worth the $$?

[PumpkinPatches]

My boyfriend and I are sailing to the Mexican Riviera cruise with HAL this September on a 12-night cruise

We're looking at excursions online, and they seem awful expensive!
I've heard that excursions are often rushed and not worth the money you paid for it..

We were considering a glass-bottom boat tour in Catalina Island, and a dolphin encounter in Cabo san Lucas.

Anyone been on these excursions, or has any advice?
I've cruised 2x already with HAL, but this is my first time considering an excursion.

Thanks! =)

[bongolite]

I am not sure if your ship is visiting Puerto Vallarta but we did an excellent Canopy Zipline & ATV Tour and the price was excellent! We didnt book it with the ship though but through a reputable online company. If you are going to Puerto Vallarta, dont miss this tour, its truly the thing to do!;-)

[LisaK]

if you are comfortable booking with a local tour operator and you find a reputable one, it is usually much cheaper than booking with the cruise line. There are a few exceptions - there are some tours that you can only book thru the cruise line, and if water travel is involved it is usually a good idea to book thru the cruise line because what if the boat you are on has a mechanical failure or something that causes you to be late for departure? you are out of luck if you are on your own.

[showcat]

I did the Cabo Dolphins it was worth every penny! Loved it!

[PumpkinPatches]

We booked the Horseback riding in Puerto Vallarta, and the Snorkeling in Chileno Bay in Cabo.. only cost us $128 each with HAL directly. Not bad!!