From Puerto Vallarta/Nuevo Vallarta: Whale Watching Cruise

If you’re dreaming of sharing space with gentle giants of the sea, this whale watching cruise from Puerto Vallarta might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a well-reviewed experience that offers a comfortable way to see humpbacks, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat, all while enjoying good food and drinks on a stylish catamaran.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the thrill of wildlife viewing with the comfort of a spacious vessel and the added bonus of onboard dining. The fact that marine biologists are onboard to share fascinating insights is a big plus—this isn’t just about spotting whales, it’s about understanding them better.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour takes place rain or shine, so you’ll want to be prepared for whatever weather the day brings. Also, it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, which might be inconvenient if you’re staying farther from the departure points.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, informative day on the water with plenty of opportunities to see whales and marine wildlife close-up. It’s a good pick for those who value comfort, good food, and an educational element during their marine adventures.

Key Points

• Comfortable spacious catamaran: Designed for relaxed viewing and onboard enjoyment.
• Expert guides and marine biologists: They share fascinating insights about whales, enhancing the experience.
• Incredible wildlife sightings: Expect to see humpback whales, dolphins, and possibly sea turtles.
• Included meals and drinks: Enjoy a breakfast and lunch with an international bar offering tropical cocktails.
• Good value for the price: Particularly considering the quality of the vessel, food, and guide experience.
• Weather considerations: Tour runs rain or shine, so prepare accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta and love the idea of seeing whales in their natural environment, this cruise hits a lot of the right notes. The 4-hour duration is just enough time to have a good wildlife encounter without feeling rushed or exhausted. You get to relax on a modern, spacious catamaran, which makes a difference in comfort, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or just enjoy a more open, airy feel.

The Itinerary and Departure Points

The tour departs from two convenient locations: the Paradise Village Public Pier and Puerto Vallarta. The flexibility in meeting points is great, especially if you’re staying close to one of these areas. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, which adds to the value—although some reviews note that the breakfast isn’t as elaborate as advertised, so don’t expect a full breakfast buffet. Still, the snacks, sweet breads, yogurt, and fruit are decent enough to start your day on the water.

What You’ll See and Experience

The star of the show is, of course, the humpback whales. During the review period, travelers raved about how many whales they saw, with some mentioning “tons” of sightings. The guides’ knowledge really comes through here—they’re able to pinpoint where whales are, which greatly increases your chances of seeing them breach, tail slap, or just surface close by.

The experience isn’t just about whales—dolphins are common along with sea turtles, making for a lively, engaging trip. Several reviewers mentioned dolphin sightings and sea turtles, adding to the fun and variety of wildlife.

Onboard Comfort and Food

The catamaran’s spacious design allows everyone to find a comfortable spot to watch the action and relax. The onboard chef prepares snacks and refreshments, with some reviewers mentioning the delicious snacks and drinks, including tropical cocktails from the international bar.

Jeffrey from Canada particularly appreciated the delicious drinks and noted the friendly staff created a great vibe. The lunch options included marlin tacos, vegetarian ceviche, and ham and cheese sandwiches. While some found the sandwiches a bit dry, overall, the food received positive remarks, especially given the value of the trip for the price.

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The Guides and Atmosphere

The presence of bilingual guides—who speak both English and Spanish—is very helpful for international travelers. The guides are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge, making the experience educational as well as entertaining.

Jeffrey also mentioned that the guides teach about the whales’ behaviors and that there was even a fun trivia contest at the end, which adds an engaging touch to the tour. The staff’s friendliness and helpfulness are consistently highlighted in reviews, making the trip feel welcoming and relaxed.

The Ethical Approach and Conservation

One aspect that stands out is the respectful approach to wildlife viewing. The guides are quick to cut engines if whales surface close to the boat, respecting their space—something that many travelers appreciate. Several reviews highlight how this tour is ethical, ensuring that the whales are not disturbed, which makes it suitable for those concerned about eco-responsibility.

Pricing and Value

At $108 per person, the tour offers a competitive price point, especially considering the included meals, drinks, and guide expertise. Some reviews mention that similar tours at local spots are over $200 USD, so this is a good deal in terms of value. The addition of meals and drinks on top of wildlife viewing makes it seem like a well-rounded package.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour is generally well-received, a few points are worth noting. The lunch might not be as elaborate as some might expect based on the description, with some travelers indicating it was more modest. Also, since the tour runs rain or shine, bring appropriate clothing—especially if you’re sensitive to weather changes.

It’s worth mentioning that the tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the departure point. If you’re staying farther out, this could add a little extra hassle or cost.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users because of the vessel’s design or access limitations, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is suited for travelers who want a relaxing yet exciting wildlife experience without breaking the bank. It’s great for those who appreciate comfort and onboard amenities, such as meals and drinks, along with the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides.

It’s also ideal if you’re interested in a sustainable, respectful wildlife experience, where the guides prioritize the whales’ well-being. The small group size and relaxed atmosphere make it suitable for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want to meet like-minded wildlife enthusiasts.

While families with small children could enjoy the trip, keep in mind that the tour involves ocean conditions and a boat ride that might not be suitable for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, typically in the morning, providing enough time for wildlife viewing and onboard relaxation.

Where does the cruise depart from?
You can choose between Paradise Village Public Pier and Puerto Vallarta as departure points, depending on your booking and location.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a bilingual guide, breakfast and lunch, and access to the international bar with tropical cocktails. Port fees (~42 pesos) are additional.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your transportation to the departure location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility to your planning.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card. Weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen are advisable, as the tour takes place rain or shine.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for children, families with older kids who enjoy wildlife and boat rides should find it enjoyable. Small children or those with mobility issues might find the boat ride challenging.

Are alcohol and drugs allowed?
No, alcohol and drugs are not permitted onboard.

Will I see whales?
Most reviews indicate high chances of whale sightings, with some travelers seeing tons of whales and dolphins. The guides’ expertise increases your likelihood of a good viewing experience.

What if I don’t see whales?
The experience is largely dependent on wildlife activity, which can vary. However, the guides are skilled at locating marine life, so chances are favorable.

Final Thoughts

This whale watching cruise from Puerto Vallarta strikes a nice balance between luxury, education, and wildlife encounters. The spacious catamaran, combined with tasty onboard meals and expert guides, makes it stand out as a top choice for marine lovers.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who value comfort and thoughtful stewardship of marine life. If you’re looking for a day filled with beautiful scenery, playful dolphins, and majestic whales—all with a good dose of learning and fun—this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

While it may not be perfect for everyone—particularly those seeking a full-on adventure or with mobility limitations—it offers a solid, enjoyable experience at a fair price point. It’s a chance to connect with nature, enjoy some tasty food, and make memories that will stay with you long after you return home.

Note: Always check the latest reviews and confirm details before booking, as operations and schedules may change.

You can check availability for your dates here: