Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s west coast is a hotspot for beach lovers and sun seekers.

The pristine coastline is amplified by the lush Sierra Madre mountains that flow into the ocean. This meeting of land and sea creates a haven for all manner of sea life and the warm water of Banderas Bay completes the recipe.

Boat trips in Puerto Vallarta are designed to put you in touch with the gifts of nature around the coast but also offer endless hours of fun in the sun.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most invigorating outdoor activities in Puerto Vallarta.

What are the most popular boat tours in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is a bona fide ocean playground and there are several fantastic boat trips on offer. These are the most popular boat tours available from Puerto Vallarta:

Sunset boat trip and dinner show

Saddle up for an evening of entertainment, starting with a romantic sunset cruise. Sail through the Bay of Banderas and feast your eyes on the warm dusky hues over the horizon.

Back on dry land, you are welcomed onto the beach by dancers and drummers who let the evening festivities begin. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner with a high-energy show that delves into the mystic Aztec history.

All-inclusive snorkeling tour

Spend your day exploring the deep blue or relax on deck with a cocktail in hand with a luxury cruise in Puerto Vallarta. Cruises vary from basic snorkeling adventures to all-day experiences aboard a luxury yacht.

Most cruises include all your drinks and the use of snorkeling equipment while some offer extras like an on-board masseuse and stops at remote villages and waterfalls.

Private boat tour

Nothing spells luxury quite like a private boat tour in Puerto Vallarta. Book a private snorkeling cruise for up to 10 people and experience the beauty of Banderas Bay in comfort.

The boat stops off at Los Arcos National Marine Park where you will have your pick of reefs and caves to explore. You will also visit Las Animas Beach and Majahuitas cove where sea turtles and stingrays regularly visit.

Whale watching cruise

From December to March you can meet some special visitors off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. The abundant waters of the Pacific play host to humpback whales and dolphins who migrate past Mexico in the winter.

Let these massive mammals guide your tour as skippers set off in search of a sighting. Enjoy their graceful presence without disturbing them in their natural environment and be left in awe of their might and presence.

How much do boat tours in Puerto Vallarta cost?

There is a boat tour in Puerto Vallarta for every budget ranging from US$80 to US$180, depending on the size of the group, amenities included and length of your tour.

A sunset cruise with dinner and a show costs US$150 per person but there are less expensive options like a US$65 per person sunset sail with light snacks only.

A full-day cruising and snorkeling experience costs around US$130 per person and a shorter 3-hour experience costs around US$80 per person.

Whale watching costs around US$100 per person and includes drinks and snacks onboard.

An all-inclusive yacht experience costs anywhere from US$1800 upwards but this is for a group of 10 people. There are also options for 15 or 22 people.

Which places are seen with a boat tour in Puerto Vallarta?

Marietas Island

These tiny uninhabited islands sit just off the northern tip of Banderas Bay and have some fascinating secrets. The so-called “Hidden Beach” is the main attraction here and is in a truly mind-boggling location, in a giant open-air cave.

The Marietas Islands have stunning rock formations all around and make the perfect spot for a snorkeling adventure. Enjoy the rich biodiversity both on land and in the water and see the beauty of a place untouched by human development.

Yelapa

Yelapa is a sleepy fishing village on the southern side of the bay and it can only be reached by boat or on horseback through the forest.

Visit reefs on the way to the village and get off the boat to explore its charming setting. There are also waterfalls around the village for those looking to venture into the forest.

Sierra Madre mountains

This showstopping mountain range is the main focal point of Puerto Vallarta. They encircle the city and Banderas Bay and create a showstopping backdrop for your boat trip.

The Sierra Madres mountains are lush and green and quickly rise out of the ocean to heights of almost 3,000 meters. Where the rock meets the water you will also find dozens of caves and coves where marine life thrives, making this a phenomenal snorkeling and scuba diving location.

How long does a boat trip last?

Most boat trips in Puerto Vallarta are full-day adventures lasting around 8 hours. This is especially true for snorkeling tours and private yacht rentals. You will spend all day at sea exploring the reefs and enjoying the luxury of the boat.

There are shorter options with snorkeling cruises lasting between 3 and 5 hours. Whale-watching tours are shorter and last around 4 hours and a sunset cruise lasts around 3 hours or 5 hours with dinner and a show included.

There are many tour options, and you are guaranteed to find a suitable boat trip that fits your itinerary perfectly.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Puerto Vallarta has a large marina and most boat tours leave from there. Once you book your tour, your tour operator will give you specific instructions on the meeting location.

There is a second pickup point at the Nuevo Vallarta Marina and some operators offer that as an option too.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Puerto Vallarta?

You will have the best weather for a boat trip in Puerto Vallarta from April to July. During this time there is little rain and the weather is close to perfect.

If you are looking to do a whale-watching tour in Puerto Vallarta you will have to book between December and March as this is whale season on this stretch of the Pacific coast.

Which other water activities can be done in Puerto Vallarta?

Surfing lessons
Jet skiing
Parasailing
Scuba diving
Dolphin watching
Kayaking
Stand up paddleboarding

Travel tips

Bring a swimsuit and towel for snorkeling trips.
Wear lots of sunscreen and reapply often if you are in the water.
If you go on a whale watching trip you might want to bring a light jacket.
Wear sensible shoes if you take a trip that allows you to get off the boat.

Boat Tours in Puerto Vallarta