Custom 46′ Boat in Puerto & Nuevo Vallarta

A Closer Look at the Custom 46′ Boat Tour in Puerto & Nuevo Vallarta

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water in Puerto Vallarta, this private 46-foot boat experience offers a flexible, personalized way to enjoy the bay. While I haven’t been on this exact tour myself, I’ve dug into plenty of reviews and details to give you an honest sense of what it’s about. Whether you’re into fishing, snorkeling, or just soaking up breathtaking scenery, this tour seems to hit a lot of the right notes.

What I really like about it? First, the private setting means you’re not stuck with strangers, which can make for a more relaxed, tailored experience. Second, the variety of activities—like catching your own fish and then enjoying fresh ceviche—adds a fun, interactive element. However, a potential snag is that the tour’s flexible duration (anywhere from 4 to 10 hours) might require some planning, especially if you’re tight on time or prefer a shorter trip.

If you’re someone who loves personalized adventures and appreciates incredible ocean views, this tour could suit you well. It’s particularly good for groups wanting a mix of activity and chill time, with the chance to see marine life and enjoy the scenery at your pace.

Key Points

• Private boat ensures a tailored experience without crowds
• Activities include fishing, snorkeling, or beach visits for varied fun
• Stunning views of Puerto Vallarta and Los Arcos from the water
• Includes fishing gear, snorkeling equipment, and bottled water, simplifying planning
• Flexible duration from 4 to 10 hours—ideal for different schedules
• Highly rated for friendly crew and personalized service

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a cozy, customizable way to explore Bahia de Banderas. The boat, a spacious 46-foot vessel, is suited for groups of up to 15 people, making it perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family. The price, around $860 for the entire group, covers a variety of activities, which means good value if you’re looking for a fun, all-in-one day on the water.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s main stops revolve around three exciting options: fishing, snorkeling, and beach visits. While the exact schedule isn’t rigid, the bay is known for its diverse marine life and scenic spots like Los Arcos, which you’ll likely see during your trip.

Fishing is a key highlight. The equipment is provided, so you can test your skills or simply enjoy the thrill of trying to hook a fish. A couple of reviews praised the crew’s ability to catch fish, with one commenter noting that the captain caught fish and made fresh ceviche for everyone to enjoy. It’s a genuine chance to connect with local marine life and even taste the fruits of your labor.

Snorkeling is another common activity, with gear included. Expect to snorkel around colorful coral formations and encounter marine species, though the reviews don’t specify which species you might see. If you love exploring underwater scenes, this part of the experience is likely to be a highlight.

Visiting beaches allows you to relax on pristine sands, ideal if you want a break from the boat or a scenic spot to unwind. The bay is lined with beaches, many of which are easily accessible from the boat.

The Experience with the Crew

Multiple reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness. “The staff were attentive, friendly, and overall amazing,” one reviewer shared, illustrating how the team makes guests feel welcomed. Another mentioned how the crew was accommodating and even dropped them off near their cruise ship, adding a level of convenience.

The boat itself is kept clean, and the flexibility to connect your phone via Bluetooth to play music enhances the vibe. Plus, the inclusion of bottled water and chopped fruit keeps everyone refreshed during the trip.

Marine Life and Scenery

A standout feature of this tour is the opportunity to see marine life. Reports of dolphins, whales, and other species have been made, with one review mentioning about six whales spotted during the day. The views of Puerto Vallarta from the water are consistently praised, offering great photo opportunities and a fresh perspective on the coastline.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts roughly 4 to 10 hours, so you can choose a shorter or longer experience depending on your schedule and preferences. The ability to tailor the trip makes it a good fit whether you’re after a quick half-day or an all-day adventure.

The Price and What You’re Getting

At $860 per group, with up to 15 people, you’re paying about $57 per person if you fill the boat. Considering the private nature, the variety of included gear, and the potential for memorable wildlife sightings, this seems like a solid deal for groups looking for a personalized day at sea.

While transportation to the boat isn’t included, the tour offers the convenience of a private experience, meaning you can plan your own arrival time. Towels aren’t provided, so bring your own if you want to dry off after snorkeling or swimming.

Human Touch: What Travelers Say

Many reviewers have emphasized how much fun they had. One said, “We saw dolphins and a whale, and it was amazing,” highlighting the marine wildlife aspect. Another loved that the captain made ceviche from the fish caught, turning a fishing trip into a culinary experience.

Some noted that this isn’t a traditional fishing charter—they weren’t expecting a full-on fishing expedition, but rather a relaxed, activity-rich day. If your main goal is fishing, it’s good to know that it’s more about the experience than hardcore angling.

Possible Downsides

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s duration can vary significantly, and if you opt for the shorter end, you might feel somewhat rushed. Also, tips aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to reward the crew for their service.

The tour doesn’t include transportation to the dock, so you’ll need to organize your own way there. And while towels aren’t included, bringing your own ensures you can dry off comfortably after snorkeling or swimming.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits groups of friends or families wanting a private, customizable day on the water. If you love the idea of fishing, wildlife sightings, and scenic views all in one, you’ll probably get a lot out of it. It’s also great for those who value personalized service and want to avoid crowded group tours. It might not be ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or expecting a traditional fishing charter, but if flexibility and marine adventure appeal to you, this is a solid pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel this tour for a full refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is flexible in that regard, and weather cancellations are handled by offering a different date or full refund.

Is transportation to the boat included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the dock. The tour’s near public transportation makes that easier for most travelers.

What is included in the price?
The price includes fishing gear, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, chopped fruit, and a whale watching certificate. The captain and crew are also part of the package.

Can I bring my own music?
Yes, the boat allows you to connect your phone via Bluetooth, so you can play your favorite tunes during the trip.

How long is the tour?
The duration ranges from approximately 4 to 10 hours, depending on what you and your group prefer.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour doesn’t specify particular age restrictions. It’s best suited for those comfortable on a boat for several hours.

Do I need to bring towels?
Towels are not provided, so bringing your own is recommended if you plan to snorkel or swim.

In The Sum Up

The private 46′ boat tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a relaxed, flexible way to explore Bahia de Banderas. Its standout features—like the opportunity to catch fish, see whales and dolphins, and enjoy stunning coastal views—make it a compelling option for groups seeking a personalized adventure. While it’s not a formal fishing trip and travel arrangements are on you, the experience’s intimacy and the crew’s friendliness are often praised.

If you’re after a day of varied activities, scenic beauty, and a taste of local marine life, this tour could be a great fit. Otherwise, if you prefer a more structured, shorter experience or need transport included, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those who want to craft their own maritime day, it’s worth considering.

Ready to set sail? This tour brings together the best of Puerto Vallarta’s waters—nature, activity, and relaxation—all in a private setting tailored to your group’s pace and preferences.