Every year, between 300 and 500 humpback whales pass by Puerto Vallarta as they migrate toward the warmer, tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean. Many female whales choose the Bay of Banderas to give birth and nurse their calves.

A whale-watching tour in Puerto Vallarta provides you with the unique opportunity to see these majestic oceanic animals up close. Watch as the whales breach and show their newly-born calves the ways of the water.

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

What are the best whale-watching tours in Puerto Vallarta?

Whale-watching cruise in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has so much more to offer than just its amazing beaches. The Bay of Banderas is a hotspot for pregnant humpback whales looking to give birth.

Join this half-day guided boat tour in Puerto Vallarta to learn more about these amazing creatures and see them in their natural habitat.

Itinerary

Get up early and make your way to Puerto Vallarta’s API Terminal or Nuevo Vallarta’s Paradise Village Public Dock. Board the whale-watching vessel and get to know the friendly crew before embarking on a seafaring adventure.

You’ll explore the Bay of Banderas and head out to sea, in search of the majestic humpback whales. When whales are sighted, they are followed at a safe distance. You’ll be able to get a great view of the whales without disturbing them.

You’ll enjoy the informative onboard commentary as well as an open bar and buffet lunch, full of Mexican specialties.

Small-group half-day whale-watching tour in Puerto Vallarta

Search for humpback whales off the Mexican coast on this half-day whale-watching expedition, leaving from Puerto Vallarta. The small-group tour ensures a more personal experience that is ideal for those looking to beat the crowds.

Itinerary

Board the fully-kitted vessel, especially suited for whale watching to begin your tour. Your skipper will spend some time in the Bay of Banderas and may head out into the Pacific Ocean, depending on where the whales are.

An onboard marine biologist provides commentary about humpback whales and other oceanic creatures you may spot along the way. You’ll learn about whale behavior, migratory patterns, lifespans and so much more.

You’ll be served a local lunch onboard the small vessel, and you’ll get to choose from a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.

Whale research adventure in Puerto Vallarta

Learn more about humpback whales than you would on other whale-watching tours. View whales at a respectful distance and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with participating in a tour that puts the whales first.

Itinerary

Before you board the whale-watching vessel, you’ll enjoy a short talk from a professional marine biologist, who will outline interesting aspects of whale behavior.

The marine biologist will accompany you on the tour, and you’ll be able to ask any questions you may have.

Listen to the whale’s awe-inspiring songs through a specialized hydrophone that is put in the water. You’ll gain a new appreciation for whale communication techniques.

This small group tour offers a personal experience and offers the ideal family activity for those visiting Puerto Vallarta in winter.

Private whale-watching tour in Puerto Vallarta

See humpback whales in their natural habitat alongside your travel companions. Enjoy a customizable and personalized experience as you explore the waters of the Pacific Ocean with an expert marine biologist.

Itinerary

Choose between a morning or afternoon tour and meet your tour guide at Marina Vallarta at the stipulated time. You’ll board the specialized whale-watching boat and start looking for humpback whales.

Once whales have been spotted, the boat will get quite close to them, allowing you to take incredible photos. Throughout the tour, you’ll receive fascinating commentary from the marine biologist regarding humpback whale behavior.

When you book a private tour, you’ll have the entire boat to yourselves and enjoy individualized attention from the onboard marine biologist. Lunch and non-alcoholic beverages are included.

How much do whale-watching tours in Puerto Vallarta cost?

The typical cost of a basic whale-watching tour in Puerto Vallarta is around US$100 per person for a group tour. This price is usually inclusive of lunch, drinks, onboard commentary and more.

For certain group tours, children pay significantly less than adults and it is possible to pay as little as US$30 per child.

If you’re interested in a more personalized experience, you could book a private whale-watching tour. These private tours usually cost between US$600 and US$800 and can typically accommodate around six guests.

What is included?

When you book a whale watching tour in Vallarta, port tax is not included and you’ll have to pay a small fee at the time of tour check-in.

What is included is informative onboard commentary, and most tour operators provide drinks and snacks for tour participants.

Where does it start?

Most tour operators ask you to meet at their tour offices or at other easy-to-find locations near Marina Vallarta. Some tours also offer departures from Nuevo Vallarta, at the Paradise Village Dock.

How long does it last?

Whale-watching tours in Puerto Vallarta have a typical duration of 4 hours, with some tours being slightly longer and others being slightly shorter.

This provides more than enough time to see a variety of whale activities and take in the magnificent views of the coastline.

When is the best time for a whale-watching tour in Puerto Vallarta?

Whale-watching season in Puerto Vallarta takes place between December and March, although you may spot humpback whales as early as November and as late as May.

While there are morning and afternoon trips available, the ocean is usually calmer in the morning.

Are there any combos available with whale-watching tours in Puerto Vallarta?

Whale watching, sightseeing and snorkeling tour in Puerto Vallarta

Discover the idyllic, secluded beaches of Puerto Vallarta onboard a private yacht. Sail past Los Arcos and Playa Las Gemelas as you keep a lookout for whales and dolphins. Snorkeling, kayaking and fishing equipment are provided.

Which other water activities can be done in Puerto Vallarta?

Travel tips

Whale-watching tours in Puerto Vallarta can fill up quickly, so book your preferred tour in advance to secure your spot.
Bring your camera with you to capture incredible photos of breaching whales.
Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes. Bring a jacket with you, even if it is a sunny day as the weather can change.

Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta