3 Hours of Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re considering a whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta, you’ve come to the right place. We haven’t done this particular trip ourselves, but we’ve gathered enough details to give you a straightforward rundown. This experience promises a chance to see gentle giants in their natural environment, set against the stunning backdrop of Puerto Vallarta’s bay. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking for a boat trip that combines wildlife spotting with scenic views, all in a manageable three-hour window.

We’re drawn to this tour’s accessibility and affordability, with a price point of just $55 per person and a booking window that averages around 35 days ahead. Plus, the inclusion of guided support, life vests, and bottled water makes it feel like a well-thought-out outing. The fact that the group size is small—limited to 18 travelers—means it’s likely a more intimate experience than some larger, crowded tours.

That said, there are some potential downsides. Reviews mention confusing directions and some logistical hiccups, like the need to purchase a port tax separately and a late check-in. Also, since the tour is inside the bay, you might encounter salt spray and limited shade on the boat, which is something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to saltwater or sun exposure. This tour seems best suited for those who want a reliable, reasonably priced whale-watching experience with friendly guides—perfect if you’re not looking for a luxury cruise but still want a chance to see whales.

If you’re in Puerto Vallarta and love wildlife or scenic boat rides, this tour might fit well into your itinerary. Just keep expectations realistic, especially regarding the potential for limited whale sightings, and you’ll likely return with some memorable moments.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $55 per person, this tour offers decent value for a whale-watching experience.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 18 travelers, which can make the experience more personal.
• Includes Essentials: Life vests and bottled water are provided, adding to comfort and safety.
• Mixed Reviews on Logistics: Directions and check-in can be confusing; arrive prepared.
• Whale Sightings Can Vary: Most reports are positive, with whales often spotted, but nothing guaranteed.
• Good for Scenic Views: The bay and nearby locations like Los Arcos provide lovely sights, even without whales.

What to Expect from the Tour

This three-hour trip starts with meeting at Los Peines, Isla Iguana in Puerto Vallarta. After checking in and receiving your life vest, you’ll board a boat that will take you into the bay, heading toward Nayarit in search of whales. The guide will keep watch for these magnificent creatures, and when spotted, you’ll be given space and time to observe them calmly.

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the chance to see mother whales with their calves, which many find truly special. The boat stays inside the protected bay, so the ocean conditions are generally manageable, but salt spray and wind are common, so dress accordingly.

Once the whales are located, the focus is on respectful viewing—giving the animals their space—and capturing some photos. The boat’s small size means you’re close enough to see whales up front, but it also means the ride can be a little exposed, especially if the weather isn’t perfect.

After some whale watching, the boat might visit nearby scenic spots like Los Arcos, a well-known rock formation that’s popular among visitors. Some reviews mention additional activities like hiking or enjoying a cooler beach, which could be part of the overall experience, although the core is whale spotting.

Finally, the boat will return to the starting point. Expect the whole activity to last around three hours, including some time on the water and brief stops.

The Guides and Experience

Based on reviews, guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly—“the couple running the adventure was very nice,” as one reviewer noted. Their expertise seems to be appreciated, especially when whales are seen close to the boat, such as the one that came within ten feet, creating a truly memorable moment.

One review mentions that the boat crew didn’t speak English, which might be a consideration if language barriers matter to you. However, most travelers seem to find the guides approachable and helpful. The inclusion of a whale guide is a nice touch, as it indicates some level of expertise in spotting and understanding whale behavior.

Practical Considerations: Price, Logistics, and What to Bring

At $55 per person, this tour is generally regarded as a good value for the money. It’s not a luxury experience—think small boat, short duration, basic amenities—but that’s part of its charm. You get to spend time on the water, with a decent chance of whale sightings, without breaking the bank.

You’ll need to account for a port tax of 39 pesos if you’re not arriving on a cruise ship, which is an important detail to remember. The check-in process has been noted as slightly confusing; arriving early and paying attention to directions can save some stress.

What should you bring? Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun, given the exposed nature of the boat. If you’re prone to salt spray, consider bringing a light jacket or waterproof cover. Also, wear comfortable clothing suited for being on the water. Hydration is key, so the bottled water provided is a nice bonus.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Pros:
– The chance to see whales, including mothers and calves, makes this a memorable trip.
– Guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
– The scenery inside the bay, like Los Arcos, adds extra visual appeal.
– It’s a budget-friendly option that offers a good overall experience.

Cons:
– Directions for meeting can be confusing; arrive early and prepared.
– Some travelers experienced delays or late check-ins.
– Salt spray and limited shade on the boat can be uncomfortable for sensitive travelers.
– The boat may be small and basic, so don’t expect luxury.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want an affordable whale watching trip with a high likelihood of seeing whales, especially if they’re okay with a simple boat ride. It’s ideal for those who enjoy wildlife encounters, scenic views, and are comfortable with small groups. If you’re traveling with children or looking for a leisurely, relaxed outing, this could also work, provided they can handle the boat environment.

Those who prefer a more luxurious, cushioned experience might want to explore other options, but for a straightforward adventure with a reasonable chance to see whales, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including boarding, whale watching, and returning.

What is included in the price?
You get a life vest, bottled water, and a whale guide. The boat ride itself is part of the experience.

Is there a port tax I need to pay?
Yes, if you’re not on a cruise, you’ll need to pay a port tax of 39 pesos.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are on each boat?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, making it more intimate than some larger tours.

Will I see whales on every trip?
While most reviews are positive about sightings, it’s not guaranteed. Whales are wild animals, and sightings depend on their presence during your trip.

Are guides bilingual?
Most guides are knowledgeable, but some reviews mention language barriers. It’s worth noting if English-speaking guides are important for you.

Is this suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, small groups and the chance to see whales make it a family-friendly option, provided kids are comfortable on a boat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a cost-effective, authentic whale watching experience in Puerto Vallarta, this tour offers a straightforward way to meet gentle giants in their natural habitat. The small group setting, friendly guides, and scenic stops make it a solid choice for travelers who value experience over luxury. Be prepared for some logistical quirks and the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings, but overall, many find it a worthwhile adventure.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, honest glimpse of whale season without spending a fortune or expecting a big, flashy cruise. It’s a good pick if you’re looking to add a memorable highlight to your Puerto Vallarta trip—just go with a sense of adventure and patience.