Luxury Puerto Vallarta Shared Sailing Tour: Sail, Swim & Dine

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Puerto Vallarta, the Luxury Puerto Vallarta Shared Sailing Tour offers a compelling option. Designed for travelers who want the comforts of a high-end sailing experience without the expense of a private charter, this tour promises gorgeous views, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere. We’ve looked into it thoroughly to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

What we love about this experience is how it blends scenic sailing with gourmet flavors. The fact that it’s a shared tour makes the experience feel intimate yet lively, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who enjoy meeting new friends in a beautiful setting. Another standout is the quality of food and drinks—the chef-crafted appetizers and premium cocktails get consistently high praise.

One potential consideration is the group size, which is limited to just 12 travelers, making it a more personal outing. However, if you’re someone who prefers very private experiences or has specific dietary or accessibility needs, a private tour might be more suitable. Also, since the tour relies on good weather, it’s worth checking the forecast or having a flexible attitude if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

This tour appears best suited for those who appreciate a relaxed, upscale vibe with plenty of opportunities for scenic viewing, swimming, and dining. If you’re after a memorable day on the water with a good balance of socializing and solitude, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Upscale shared experience: Small groups create a cozy, social atmosphere without sacrificing comfort.
• Beautiful stops: Unique viewpoints of Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, and possibly the iconic Malecon.
• Gourmet food & drinks: House-made appetizers, a chef-selected main course, and premium cocktails make for a decadent day.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops can vary based on weather, offering a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.
• Experienced crew: Knowledgeable staff ensure smooth sailing and attentive service.
• Great reviews: Consistently perfect ratings and glowing feedback about food, scenery, and crew friendliness.

What the Experience Looks Like

Picture yourself stepping onto Ada, a charming 45-foot classic sailboat, ready to take you on a 5-hour journey across Banderas Bay. The experience kicks off at the meeting point in Puerto Vallarta, where you’ll meet the crew and settle in with a welcome drink. The atmosphere is relaxed but attentive—the crew makes a point of ensuring everyone feels comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the water.

The Stops – Scenic Highlights & Unique Perspectives

The itinerary includes several stops that give you different angles on Puerto Vallarta and its surroundings. The first stop provides a view of the city’s hotels and beaches from a fresh perspective, highlighting the coastline from the water. Many reviews mention how memorable it is to see familiar sights like the bay and Bucerías from this angle—something you won’t forget.

Next, you’ll visit La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, a lively fishing town with a large bay and a hub for sailboats. This spot offers a relaxed vibe and a chance to observe local maritime life up close. If the weather permits, the boat might glide back towards Puerto Vallarta’s iconic Malecon, giving you a chance to see the arches and the church from the water, which adds a special element to the experience.

The Food & Drinks – Gourmet Bites on Board

One of the most-praised aspects of this tour is the food and beverages. You can expect three appetizers carefully selected and prepared fresh on board—think of light, tasty bites that complement the leisurely pace of sailing. For lunch, you’ll choose a main course in advance, ensuring everyone’s preferences are accommodated.

The drinks menu is impressive, with five premium cocktails per person, including wine and signature drinks, plus a variety of non-alcoholic options like fresh juices and soft drinks. The reviews rave about the quality and presentation of the food, with guests mentioning the appetizers and lunches as highlights of their day.

The Atmosphere & Social Vibe

The limited group size, capped at 12, fosters a friendly, intimate environment where conversation flows naturally. Many guests reflect on the warm, professional crew and the relaxed yet upscale setting. Several reviews mention how the staff go above and beyond, making sure everyone feels welcomed and cared for—whether it’s helping with swimming gear or providing educational tidbits about the bay.

The Experience’s Best Features

• Stunning Views: From the coastline to towns and possibly whales (if you’re lucky), the scenery is a big part of what makes this tour special. Guests consistently mention how beautiful the bay looks from the water, especially during calm, sunny weather.
• Excellent Food & Drinks: The food quality is repeatedly praised, with many stating the appetizers and main courses are more than just simple snacks—they elevate the experience.
• Attentive Crew: The crew’s professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge make the day memorable. Returning guests often highlight how much they value the crew’s hospitality.
• Flexible Stops & Weather Dependence: The itinerary can change depending on conditions, which keeps the experience dynamic and not overly rigid.
• Small Group Intimacy: Sharing the deck with a small number of fellow guests fosters easy conversation and a more personalized vibe.

What Could Be Improved

The main consideration is reliance on weather. Since the tour’s success depends heavily on good conditions, cloudy or rainy days could limit certain parts of the experience or lead to cancellations. Also, for travelers seeking complete privacy, this shared experience might feel a touch crowded—though the small group size helps mitigate that.

The Price & Value

At around $153.21 per person, this tour offers a premium experience. When you factor in the gourmet food, quality drinks, scenic stops, and attentive service, it appears to be a good value, especially considering the relaxed, intimate setting. Many reviews reflect satisfaction with the overall quality, with guests feeling they received a memorable, well-rounded day on the water.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing adventure suits those who appreciate a relaxing, high-quality experience with scenic views, tasty food, and a friendly crew. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic day, small groups of friends wanting a shared adventure, or solo travelers interested in socializing in a beautiful setting. It’s also well-suited for travelers who value good service and are willing to pay a bit more for gourmet bites and premium drinks.

If you love being on the water, enjoy good food and drinks, and want to experience Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective, this tour hits the mark. However, if your priority is privacy or specific dietary needs, or if weather conditions might be an issue, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is there a minimum number of travelers required for this tour?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of guests to operate, but if the weather is poor or the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour start won’t be refunded.

What should I bring on the tour?
While not explicitly specified, it’s a good idea to bring essentials like sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a light jacket or sweater in case it gets chilly.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, starting at 10:00 am, which gives plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying the onboard meals.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes snacks, a main course lunch, five premium drinks per person, non-alcoholic beverages, and bottled water. Private transportation and taxes aren’t included.

Is there any age restriction or family suitability?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed and scenic nature of the tour makes it suitable for most ages. Be mindful that moderate physical activity is required, and the experience involves being on a boat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, relaxed day exploring Puerto Vallarta’s waters, this shared sailing tour offers a lovely mix of scenery, gourmet fare, and friendly company. The small group setting creates a welcoming atmosphere, and the carefully curated stops ensure you get a well-rounded taste of the bay’s beauty.

It’s particularly ideal for those who value quality and comfort over sheer adventure, and who want to enjoy the sea with good food, wine, and company. While weather dependence is something to keep in mind, many guests have found this experience to be a highlight of their trip.

This tour seems like a great way to unwind, connect with beautiful surroundings, and indulge in some top-notch cuisine—all while sailing on a beautiful classic boat. If these elements appeal to you, it’s worth considering for your Puerto Vallarta visit.