The Best Puerto Vallarta Boat Tours And How To Choose The Right One
Puerto Vallarta is one of those destinations where being on the water is part of the experience. Between Banderas Bay, Los Arcos, beach towns only accessible by boat, and seasonal whale sightings, boat tours are one of the best ways to see the region beyond the malecón.
If you’ll know anything about me, its I love being out on the water, and particularly, I love being on a boat. So if you’re ever here and want to invite me, I won’t say on. Just kidding. But for real, I love being out on the open water. It’s so calming.
Instead of listing generic options, this guide breaks down 14 specific boat tours you can actually book, including my FAVORITE tours at the end 🫢. You’re going to want to read this entire list. Each one serves a different purpose, so you can choose based on what kind of day you want on the water.
Want more PV tips, check out my Puerto Vallarta guide here. Its the first link on the page, you can buy it straight from that link, and enjoy the 50-page downloadable eBook so you’re prepared ahead of your trip.
Okay, let’s get started…
Whale Watching Tours (Seasonal)
From Puerto Vallarta/Nuevo Vallarta: Whale Watching Tour
Explore the bay from Nuevo Vallarta or PV and see the whales of the bay.
This guided whale-watching tour takes you into Banderas Bay during humpback whale migration season. The focus is on observing whales in their natural environment while learning about their behavior from experienced guides. Tours typically run from December through March.
Best for: winter travel, wildlife lovers, photographers
Whale Watching With Buffet and Drink
Enjoy the whales with food and drink, what’s better than that?
This whale-watching tour takes you into Banderas Bay to observe humpback whales during migration season. What sets this tour apart is that it includes a buffet meal onboard after the whale-watching portion, making it a great choice if you want a full experience on the water without planning food separately. The focus is on marine observation and a relaxed day at sea with good food included.
Best for: travelers who want whale watching plus a meal
Not ideal for: people who expected jet skiing or high-adrenaline water sports
Humpback Whale Research Adventure Tour
Get up-close-and-personal with the whales and learn more about their lives and journey.
This research-focused tour gives participants a deeper look into humpback whale behavior and conservation efforts. It’s more educational and immersive than standard whale watching trips.
Best for: science-minded travelers, repeat visitors
Luxury Yachts And Relaxed Cruises
Luxury Yacht With Snorkeling with Open Bar
Board a luxury yacht for a more luxurious experience and explore the bay in luxury. Invite me?
This tour blends luxury cruising with snorkeling stops in calm waters. Expect a slower pace, comfortable seating, and time to swim while enjoying views of the coastline.
Best for: couples, special occasions, relaxed travel days
Sunset Cruise With Snacks And Open Bar
I mean, what better way to spend the evening? My goodness.
A classic Puerto Vallarta experience, this sunset cruise offers coastal views at golden hour with drinks and light snacks included. It’s short, easy, and works well early in a trip.
Best for: first-time visitors, romantic evenings
Breakfast, Lunch, And Open Bar Cruise
Unlimited margs + a boat, sign me up!
This is a full-day cruise where meals and drinks are handled for you onboard. It’s a good option if you want a no-planning-required day on the water.
Best for: easy travel days, groups, bachelorette groups
List continues below…
Los Arcos, Snorkeling, And South Coast Tours
Los Arcos, Ánimas, And Quimixto Boat Tour
Below the waves, its busy… get a first-hand look-see at the underwater creatures of Vallarta…
This tour visits Los Arcos National Marine Park, followed by stops in Ánimas and Quimixto. It combines snorkeling, beach time, and visits to small coastal villages.
Best for: first-time visitors, mixed-activity days
Beach Boy Los Arcos, Ánimas, And Quimixto
Safety first!
This is a longer, more activity-packed version of the Los Arcos route, often including waterfall swimming in Quimixto depending on conditions.
Best for: active travelers, full-day outings
Boat And Snorkel Tour To The Five Islands Of Los Arcos
Snorkeling amongst the coral reefs and fish here is a breathtakingly beautiful way to enjoy Vallarta.
Focused specifically on snorkeling, this tour explores multiple areas within Los Arcos Marine Park, offering some of the clearest water and marine life in the bay.
Best for: snorkeling-focused travelers
South Coast Sailing, Snorkel, And Beach Tour
There’s no place I rather be.
This tour sails along the south coast of Puerto Vallarta, stopping for snorkeling and beach time away from the busier harbor areas.
Best for: relaxed nature experiences
Full-Day Catamaran And Destination Cruises
Mega Yacht Cruise To Yelapa
A mega yacht, say less, what time do you need me?
This cruise travels to Yelapa, a beach town only accessible by boat. Expect a long day with ocean cruising, beach time, and food onboard.
Best for: social travelers, destination days
Jet’s Naked Cruise
Yes, I got completely naked, and you can, too!
This clothing-optional boat experience sails from Puerto Vallarta to a secluded swim-and-snorkel beach, where you can relax, socialize, swim, and enjoy the sun without clothing if you choose. The vibe is body-positive and inclusive, and the tour is known for its welcoming, social atmosphere on both the water and at the destination beach. Don’t miss the special cave… ;)
Best for: body-positive travelers, social beach days, LGBTQ+ groups
Not ideal for: those who want a traditional sightseeing cruise or guided commentary
Special discount if you use my code: NICK G, at checkout! Get more information on other clothing optional activities in Puerto Vallarta here.
Specialty Cruises
Snorkeling Tour To The Marietas Islands
Breathtaking… A must-do experience.
This tour explores the protected Marietas Islands, known for rich marine life and dramatic scenery. Tours are regulated and can sell out quickly.
Best for: bucket-list experiences
Pirate Cruise With Dinner, Show, And Open Bar
Arggggh!
A themed cruise with live entertainment, dinner, and drinks. This is a lighter, entertainment-forward option rather than a sightseeing tour.
Best for: families, themed experiences, groups
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How To Choose The Right Boat Tour
Whale watching is best in winter (December through March), when humpback whales migrate through Banderas Bay. If you’re visiting outside of whale season, skip whale tours entirely and focus on snorkeling or coastal cruises instead.
Snorkeling tours are best year-round, especially those that visit Los Arcos, the south coast, or the Marietas Islands. Water clarity is generally good throughout the year, making snorkeling one of the most reliable boat experiences in Puerto Vallarta.
Sunset cruises work best early in your trip. They’re low effort, don’t require an early morning start, and are a great way to ease into vacation mode without committing to a full day on the water.
Full-day cruises, like Yelapa or catamaran tours, are better once you’re settled and know your energy level. These tours often last several hours and are more enjoyable when you’re already adjusted to the climate and pace of Puerto Vallarta.
One or two boat tours per trip is usually enough. Puerto Vallarta has many great options, but overbooking water activities can make your itinerary feel rushed instead of relaxing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Vallarta Boat Tours
What is the best boat tour in Puerto Vallarta?
The best boat tour depends on what you want. Whale watching is best in winter, Los Arcos snorkeling is ideal for first-timers, sunset cruises are great for relaxed travelers, and Yelapa or catamaran tours work well for full-day adventures.
Are Puerto Vallarta boat tours safe?
Yes. Reputable operators follow safety guidelines and provide life jackets and trained crew. Booking through platforms like GetYourGuide helps ensure you’re using vetted operators with verified reviews.
What should I bring on a boat tour?
Most tours recommend sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and cash for tips or extras. For snorkeling tours, water shoes can be helpful, especially at rocky beaches.
Do boat tours include food and drinks?
Some tours include snacks or meals and open bars, while others do not. Always check what’s included before booking so you know whether to eat beforehand or bring extra cash.
What is the best time of day for a boat tour?
Morning tours tend to be calmer and cooler, making them ideal for snorkeling and wildlife viewing. Afternoon tours are often more social and lively. Sunset cruises are best for views and atmosphere.
How far in advance should I book?
During high season, holidays, and Bear Week, boat tours can sell out several days in advance. Booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially for whale watching and Marietas Islands tours.
Can I do more than one boat tour?
Yes, but most travelers find that one or two tours per trip is enough. Choose different types of experiences if you book more than one, such as pairing a snorkeling tour with a sunset cruise.
Are boat tours good for non-swimmers?
Yes. Many tours allow you to stay on the boat while others swim. If snorkeling is a concern, look for tours that emphasize cruising, sightseeing, or sunset views instead.
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